Issue 21 spring 2016 by Molly's Guide

ISSUE 21 • SPRING 2016

for parents & carers

www.mollysguide.co.uk

Have an with Wild Woodcraft

Don’t miss out Keep up-to-date with our

WHAT’S ON

with Lincolnshire Media

at Doddington Hall

with Dinky Dolphins

Fun-ﬁlled family fun this

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

We take

2-4

year olds

A purpose-built local authority school serving the families of Birchwood and surrounding areas. Well-equipped inside and out with a fully enclosed spacious outdoor area. All children are welcome, their abilities, gender, cultural and ethnic background are celebrated.

• 15 free hours per week of part-time education

• Morning, afternoon or full-day places

• Before & after school care and a lunch club

Also options to buy additional sessions For more information please call

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01522 684335 pp

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KINGSDOWN ROAD, LINCOLN LN6 0FB ay

Email: enquiries@kingsdownnuseryschool.co.uk

www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk

The summer term is in full swing, half term is around the corner and the six week break is on the horizon - and this edition of Molly’s Guide is packed with ideas to help you and your family make the most of the time off and (ﬁngers crossed) the good weather.

County School Awards

Whether you’re looking for things to do around Lincolnshire or ideas for days out further aﬁeld, we’ve got plenty of inspiration to help you ﬁll the long days ahead. Our new writer, travel journalist Kathryn Dainty, gives us a tour of some of her favourite hot spots for family adventures, including the beautiful Dovedale in the Peak District and Lincolnshire’s own Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve.

Dinky Dolphins

Lincoln Drill Hall

Willows

Wild Woodcraft

This edition, we also take a look at Whisby Nature Reserve’s new play area and see what’s on offer at Leicestershire’s Twycross Zoo. Among the highlights on this summer’s calendar is the arrival of the stunning sculpture Poppies: Wave at Lincoln Castle. The arrival of the installation, which comes fresh from the Tower of London, will put Lincoln on the national stage and it offers up the perfect opportunity for families to see this historic piece of art on home turf. Be sure to catch the sculpture between Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, September 4. Here at Molly’s we love this time of year as we wait with excitement and anticipation to see what the summer months will bring. We hope you have a great time…

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

E: info@mollysguide.co.uk

Design: Dandelion Design Print: www.buxtonpress.com Photography: www.stuartwildephotography.com Cover image: Anna Omelchenko. Shutterstock.com

TERMS & CONDITIONS ©2016 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

Desperate Dad

The Great Outdoors... Without wanting to horrendously jinx things – I’ve a sneaking feeling that summer might be on its way. Don’t panic! I’ve seen the signs and know them very well. Grass stained polo shirts and muddied short trousers in the washing basket tell me two little boys have been enjoying after school park sessions with mummy again. And the merest hint of a blue sky sends them charging out the back door and onto the trampoline quicker than you can yell ‘don’t bounce on your brother!’ It’s so refreshing to ﬁnally turn them loose and let them make the most of the sun on their faces again after another long, drawn-out, and seemingly endless winter. 4

Spring 2016

They’ve been dying to get out there. Particularly my footie mad eldest, who’s been champing at the bit for me to cut the grass and prepare his own mini football pitch. But this year, my youngest is having just as much fun too. He’s holding his own and now more capable to keep up with his energy draining big brother, giving as good as he gets and relishing the fresh air in his lungs. When not at school they’re lathered up with sun cream by 9:30am - called in for bath time at 4:30pm - a full shift complete, with a picnic lunch and snacks on the lawn to boot. They fall in to bed, tanned and exhausted just after 7pm, with the promise of a repeat performance tomorrow ringing in their ears. This is the way all British summers should be, is it not? And certainly how I remember most of mine growing up in the 80s and into the early 90s.

Life in the 21st century is a technological challenge for parents of young children. iPads and Smart Boards are now part of the curriculum and so they should be. It’s a sign of the times and we need to keep up, but as a father of two incredibly active boys, I want to make sure I keep them that way. The easy option is to sit them in front of a games console and let them entertain themselves for an hour or two. It’s incredibly tempting and it does happen from time-to-time. They get a weekly ﬁx on their visits to the grandparents’. It’s their Xbox and Wii time after a traditional slap up Sunday lunch, lovingly prepared by Nana. My stepfather is a gaming guru with all the latest consoles and board games on offer to keep them entertained of an afternoon. Throughout the wet weather months it’s an invaluable release for them and an enjoyable end to their increasingly demanding schedules, a chance for them to unwind and prepare for the week ahead. But when Mr Sun’s got his hat on, you’ll ﬁnd them eager to don their own and embrace the great outdoors, in a bid to soak up as much of him as possible. This healthy balance of outdoors versus indoors I see as my job to police, to ensure my boys do not totally succumb to the lure of the Smartphone in years to come.

So as we all prepare to light our first barbecues of the year, let’s hope too that we spark the flames of yet another enduring British summer. Flames I’m sure I’ll find hard to quench as my dynamic duo welcome the long lost sunshine back into their wondrous lives once more.

Professional tuition in maths & English create individual tutoring programmes, using proven Kip McGrath methods.

Barry Wood is an ex journalist now working for the NHS in Lincolnshire. A father of two boys and husband to one Portuguese wife, he blogs regularly as Desperate Dad.

�Maths �Reading Call today �English �Spelling for a FREE �Comprehension assessment

Read more adventures at barrylwood.wordpress.com Facebook: Desperate Dad Twitter: @Dad_Desperate

01522 533885

LINCOLN NORTH 157-159 Burton Road Lincoln LN1 3LW

kipmcgrath.co.uk

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NEWS

Family Life

Three’s the magic number but four’s a happy riot When my eldest child, Lottie, was three, I suggested to my husband we should try for another baby. He wasn’t keen. He had some valid reasons, which I respected, at ﬁrst...

He sighed and said: “Okay, if you really want to know – I have to say three, four tops”.

Then I disregarded his feelings, largely due to the deafening tick-tock of my biological clock. I persisted. I got nowhere. After almost a year of begging, cajoling and seducing I was no further on in my quest to expand our family.

I let go of the idea of having any more children.

So, I put him on the spot. I asked him, if one was the equivalent of ‘not a chance in hell’ and 10 was ‘yes, take me to bed and lose me forever’, where would he say his feelings about another baby were on the sliding scale? “Five”, was his answer. Bang in the middle, otherwise known as sitting on the fence. I pushed him for a more committed response. It didn’t go my way.

I debated if I had time to leave him and find a new husband before my eggs dried up (I was 39). In the end I decided I should probably count my blessings and appreciate the little family I had. When I say I ‘let go’ of that notion, imagine chopping of your leg from the knee down and you will come close to understanding how difficult that was. I hobbled around, emotionally-speaking, for a while but I survived. I started to put my energy into my career and social activities. As for family life, we enjoyed some lovely holidays, from caravanning in Cornwall to a cruise around the Med (during which I lost half-a-stone thanks to chronic seasickness – but that’s a tale for another time). My husband and I found we had time to go out for lunch together in the week when our daughter was at school, we watched movies in the evening and enjoyed spending time with friends. The pressures of adjusting from being a self-indulgent childless couple to becoming selfless parents started to ease. The Second Baby issue began to fade. In fact, I pretty much put it to bed. Which is precisely when I fell pregnant. My husband had changed his mind – sort of. Basically, he had shifted along that sliding scale from a three to a six. Then, just like that, I wasn’t pregnant anymore. I lost two babies in the space of a year. The second miscarriage was pretty awful. The experience left me

Spring 2016

scared to try again and the realisation I had become a statistic – a woman over 40, with a 25 per cent chance of carrying a baby to full-term - hit me hard. So, I gave up. I had to, for my own sanity. But Mother Nature wasn’t finished yet. At the age of 42, I found myself with a bun in the oven that I was convinced would never rise. I spent the early part of the pregnancy swinging from elation to paranoia. It was an anxious time, while I waited to hit the safety zone of 12 weeks. As things progressed, my fears eased, yet still I didn’t buy anything for my growing baby. I was on tenterhooks half the time. How many kicks had I felt that day? Was that twinge in my side normal? What if my placenta stopped working? The nursery wasn’t painted until two weeks before my due date and the pram was held in storage until I knew all was well. When my son Louie was born, almost three years ago, I looked at his chubby face, his tiny fingers and his big blue eyes and I whispered a little ‘thank-you’ to the powers that be for small miracles. I finally had the second baby I had yearned for and my daughter had a sibling, someone to play with, talk to and to share childhood memories with. It hasn’t quite turned out how I expected but I’m not sure life generally does. (Well, not MY life, anyhow). There’s an eight-year age-gap between the two of them, which makes days out interesting. One of my offspring is usually dragged along to something that is totally age-inappropriate – mostly my daughter, who has found herself in the toddler zone at a soft play centre more times than she’d like. And she has had to adjust from being an only child for the first eight years of her life to being a big sister. It’s been good for her to think about someone else, consider their needs before her own and to have to share my attention. She felt a degree of jealousy when I brought Louie home from the hospital (as you’d expect) but now she looks out for her little brother without thinking. She catches him at the bottom of the slide, entertains him when he is getting bored of sitting in the shopping trolley and barks ‘CAR’ if he decides to make a bolt for freedom from the grasp of my hand on the school run. There are also times when she makes the age-gap work to her advantage. From persuading her brother he really doesn’t want to eat the last biscuit, to getting him to hand over his brand new toys for her to inspect Newspaper columnist Sam Curtis, 46, lives in Lincoln, in a house that’s not as clean or tidy as she’d like with her husband Leigh and their two children, Lottie, 10, and Louie, 2.

(not necessarily using her ‘kind’ voice – more a ‘give that to me NOW’ approach), she has learned being the big sister has its perks. There’s the heart-warming moments - the cuddles when one of them is hurt, the giggles that follow a loud fart and occasionally, they will play a game both ﬁnd equally engaging (Playdough is always a hit). Plus, they each have an ally, someone who looks out for them and as they grow older, they will have someone to share the burden of an aged parent with (I just hope they choose a nice retirement home for me). Don’t get me wrong – The Waltons it is not (there’s not enough of us for starters). My children argue and torment each other. Screaming and tantrums occur on a weekly, if not daily basis – and not just from the kids. There’s twice as much laundry and double the mess to tidy. Two school runs, two sacks at Christmas for Father Christmas to ﬁll and double the amount of Wotsits ordered from the online shop. And they gang up on me, whether they are pestering for an ice cream or running amok at bedtime – it’s hard staying one step ahead of two children who are working to achieve a common goal – to wind up Mummy. None of this was part of my masterplan when I was badgering my husband for Baby Number Two. Yes, having more than one child isn’t quite how I imagined but I thank my lucky stars every day (okay, most days) for small miracles. And before you ask, no, there are no plans for Baby Number Three. I’m perfectly happy with my riotous lot. You can follow Sam on: Twitter: @sammanfa Instagram: sammanfa1 Facebook: samcurtisEcho www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

Sands

Lincoln Sands Memorial Garden

Family support at a Baby Remembrance Day Lincoln Sands together with the Lincoln County Hospital Chaplaincy & Bereavement Service are proud to be hosting a Baby Remembrance Day on Saturday 18th June 2016 at the Lincoln County Hospital Chapel from 1pm to 4pm. Sands is the stillbirth and neonatal death charity. We operate throughout the UK, supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby, working to improve the care bereaved parents receive, and promoting research to reduce the loss of babies’ lives. Sands was founded in 1978 by a small group of bereaved parents devastated by the death of their babies, and by the total lack of acknowledgement and understanding of the signiﬁcance and impact of their loss. Although the UK’s stillbirth rate has fallen slightly in recent years, it remains unacceptably high. In 2013, over 5700 babies died just before, during or soon after birth. That’s over 100 babies every week. In the UK:* • one in every 216 births was a stillbirth

• one in every 370 babies died within the first 4 weeks of life *Data from the Office for National Statistics, 2015 Research in The Lancet medical journal showed the UK has a poor stillbirth record compared with similar high-income nations: whereas other countries have reduced their stillbirth rates significantly in recent years, in the UK rates have barely changed in 15 years. Sands has a long-standing history of providing support to anyone affected by the loss of a baby, and of working with health professionals to improve the care offered to bereaved families. We are also committed to ensuring that fewer parents have to experience the tragedy of their baby dying, through funding research into stillbirth causes and prevention.

UK Sands has over 100 local groups offering support to parents, both emotional and practical. Lincoln Sands provides this in different ways. We can offer one to one support with specially trained Befrienders, telephone and email contact and the opportunity to meet and talk to other bereaved parents at support meetings. This special day will allow us all to acknowledge how deep and profound the loss of a child can be and offer support, encouragement, hope and to improve the quality of bereavement care for parents.

For further info: T: 01522 693398 E: lincolnsandssupport@googlemail.com

www.uk-sands.org

www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

Sturton By Stow Guinea Pig & Rabbit Rescue Images: Eric Isselee. Shutterstock.com

Local rescue centre needs your help A rescue centre that takes in unwanted and neglected guinea pigs and rabbits is appealing for help in a range of different ways. Sturton By Stow Guinea Pig and Rabbit Rescue was set up 10 years ago and currently has 60 rabbits and more than 110 guinea pigs in its care. The animals arrive for various reasons.

If people would prefer to donate food rather than money, they can buy food at the following places (mentioning the rescue centre on purchase)

People either can’t – or don’t want – to keep them anymore. Some arrive as a result of severe neglect or cruelty and the rescue centre often get requests from other sanctuaries to take animals in.

• Burgess Farm Shop, Station Rd, Waddington T: 01522 723251 • Franks Animal Feeds, Broadholme, near Saxilby T: 01522 703551

A recent visit from Radio Lincolnshire raised the proﬁle of the rescue centre, but also resulted in a surge in requests from people with rabbits and guinea pigs they can no longer care for.

• Geoffs Animal Feeds. Misterton, near Gainsborough T: 07578 738292 • Pets at Home, Carlton Centre, Lincoln T: 01522 520801. Please mark FAO Dawn Wilson, mentioning the rescue as above.

It costs the rescue centre more than £700 per month to care for the animals, many of which have on-going health problems, due to breeding or neglect. Some hutches really need updating and the majority of rabbits and guinea pigs that come into its care need neutering and vaccinating.

Even a small amount of cash would really make a difference. Donations can be made in the following ways:

The centre is facing the heartbreaking decision of being unable to take in any more rescue animals and is already turning guinea pigs and rabbits away because funds are running low.

Online banking: Name: Rescue Bank; Account no: 02651862; Sort code: 77-16-01; Ref: Guinea Pigs

People can help by offering donations of cash, food or volunteering in a number of ways, such as driving to collect food; pick up animals etc; anyone who can spare time or materials to build and repair hutches.

Paypal: Sturtonbystowguineapigrescue@gmail.com

On behalf of all the animals in our care, thank you in advance for your help. For more info call Sam and Ali T: 07902 432821 M: 07745 326798 10

Spring 2016

EDUCATION

St Peter and St Paul Academy

Continually striving to make a difference St Peter and St Paul’s Catholic Voluntary Academy welcomes students between 11-18 years from diverse backgrounds. 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. We are a highly successful academy renowned for our friendly and warm community where we encourage all our students to grow and to make the most of their individual ability. Our ethos promotes respect for the differences amongst the students, recognising that everyone learns differently and that making mistakes and taking risks are part of learning. 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 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 students are our ambassadors: friendly, hardworking and conﬁdent young people. They learn alongside an enthusiastic, professional team of staff who encourage and challenge them to be the best they can be. Examination results are important but at St Peter and St Paul we develop equally important aspects of life: fun, creativity, caring for others, well-being and spirituality; qualities that will remain with our students for the whole of their lives.

“We want our students to have life and have it to the full.” At St Peter and St Paul all students are encouraged to proﬁt from the wide range of extra-curricular activities offered- whatever their talents and abilities, they will have the opportunities to succeed. It is our role to help develop our students’ talent and celebrate all aspects of their achievement. You will ﬁnd our academy friendly and inviting with a distinctly warm atmosphere and learning environment. We welcome visits to the Academy at any time so please feel free to make an appointment to come and see us at work.

St Peter & St Paul Catholic Voluntary Academy Pro Petro Paulo Patria

Join us for our OPEN MORNINGS Tuesday 28th June and Friday 1st July from 9.30am-12noon

OPEN EVENING Wednesday 21st September 6pm-8.30pm Please ring the Academy for an appointment

Western Avenue • Lincoln • LN6 7SX

01522 871400

sspp@sspp.lincs.sch.uk www.sspp.lincs.sch.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Lincolnshire Media Education Awards

Nominations open for county school awards School staff from across Lincolnshire are being urged to nominate star pupils for the Lincolnshire Media Education Awards. There are 21 categories in the annual contest, which is organised by the Lincolnshire Echo newspaper, including Sports & games award, writing award and Crafts & creativity award. And teachers have the opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of their colleagues – in the Teacher of the Year and Teaching Assistant of the Year categories. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in July. The awards are sponsored by Lincolnshire County Council. Patricia Bradwell, executive councillor for children’s services, said: “With some of the best schools in the country, these awards showcase just a small proportion of the students who are excelling in all areas – not just in the classroom, but in voluntary work in

the community, sports activities and making a difference to their environment. “They are a ﬁtting way to recognise and reward the excellence of our children and young people in the county.” Lincolnshire Echo editor Charles Walker said: “For the ﬁrst two years, the standard of entries in the Lincolnshire Media Education Awards were truly exceptional. “In both 2014 and 2015 the judges were amazed at the incredible stories of academic excellence and creativity. “This was true of staff, students and pupils. “So I’m certain we will be faced with more tough decisions this year in deciding who to honour with awards and commendations.”

For more details visit www.lincolnshireecho.co.uk/educationawards You can nominate right away by emailing sarah.carter@lincolnshiremedia.co.uk to request an application pack – or enter online at www.lincolnshireecho.co.uk/educationawards 12

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MAIN: 2015 Teacher of the Year Primary School award sponsored by Bishop Grosseteste University and presented by Dr Nick Gee (Teacher Development) at BGU . Pictured winner Laura McDonald from Hillcrest Early Years Academy , Gainsborough with some of the pupils who nominated her. RIGHT: 2015 Environmental Champion Award Secondary School Sponsored by Siemens . Quality / EHS Manager at Siemens Ady Pick presented the award to Thomas Vance, Molly-Ann Burnett, Natasha Parkin and Naomi Phillips from North Kesteven School.

Primary School Categories: Sports & Games Award - Looks to recognise achievement and enjoyment shown within sports and games. Writing Award - Looks to recognise achievements and development of a pupil’s writing capabilities. Crafts & Creativity Award - Looks to recognise achievements and enjoyment shown within arts and crafts. (Please send through examples of work as supporting evidence - email: education awards@lincolnshiremedia.co.uk) Young Performer Award - Looks to recognise the achievement of a student who has excelled within the world of performing arts in either drama, music or dance. Contribution to school life award - Looks to recognise pupils who take on extra responsibilities and plays an active part in the school.

Achieving Through Adversity Award - Recognises pupils who have accomplished remarkable things, displaying qualities such as courage, ambition and determination when having to overcome significant obstacles. (Only open to nomination from special schools, or those schools with a special needs element). Magna Carta Judges Award - The Magna Carta judges award will be presented to one student who judges feel goes above and beyond whether that be at school or in a social environment. You may feel they should be nominated across multiple categories, or they are someone who constantly excels and deserves some recognition. If you know a student who deserves some praise and they don’t fit one of the categories then please enter them into the Judges Award. Teaching Assistant of the Year 2016 - This award will go to the teaching assistant who raises the aspirations of pupils and helps them reach new heights. They will actively engage with others in supporting pupils’ learning and development, including teachers, parents and other professionals (Open for teachers/and or students to nominate) Teacher of the Year 2016 - This award will recognise a teacher who inspires and engages students to fulfil their potential and makes an exceptional contribution to the life of their school. (Open for teachers/and or students to nominate) Student of the Year 2016* - The student of the year will be selected from all of the category winners and will be chosen by the judges. (Not open for nominations)

Secondary School Categories Literacy Award - Looks to recognise achievement in literature with students demonstrating exciting and compelling ways within their writing.

Arts Award - Looks to not only recognise achievement in art, but also in leadership, courage, determination and an ability to match effort in arts with effort in the classroom. (Please send through examples of work as supporting evidence - email: educationawards @lincolnshiremedia.co.uk)

Sportsperson of the Year Award - Looks to recognise achievement in sport but also leadership, courage, determination and an ability to match effort in sport with effort in the classroom.

Young Performer Award - Looks to recognise the achievement of a student who has excelled within the world of performing arts in either drama, music or dance. Science & Engineering Award - To recognise achievements of students working on projects or assignments including coursework in a science or engineering related subject. Community Champion - To recognise voluntary work within the school or community. Judges will be looking for the impact and beneﬁts of community work and initiative shown by the individual.

Magna Carta Judges Award - The Magna Carta judges award will be presented to one student who judges feel goes above and beyond whether that be at school or in a social environment. You may feel they should be nominated across multiple categories, or they are someone who constantly excels and deserves some recognition. If you know a student who deserves some praise and they don’t ﬁt one of the categories then please enter them into the Judges Award. Teaching Assistant of the Year 2016 - This award will go to the teaching assistant who raises the aspirations of pupils and helps them reach new heights. They will actively engage with others in supporting pupils’ learning and development, including teachers, parents and other professionals. (Open for teachers/and or students to nominate) Teacher of the Year 2016 - This award will recognise a teacher who inspires and engages students to fulﬁl their potential and makes an exceptional contribution to the life of their school. (Open for teachers/and or students to nominate) Student of the Year 2016* - The student of the year will be selected from all of the category winners and will be chosen by the judges. (Not open for nominations) www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Exploring great reading ideas...

Book reviews

Bookseller Deborah Holland from Waterstones in High Street, Lincoln, recommends four titles to get stuck into this spring…

The Girl of Ink & Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave Chicken House Ltd (9781910002742)

Loved this debut tale of adventure set on an Island where Isabella, a cartographers daughter, and her community is forbidden to leave or cross the forgotten territories. When her best friend disappears, the Governor’s daughter, and a girl she knows is killed mysteriously, Isabella sets off on journey of wonder and discovery. The skills she has learnt from her father, following the stars and her bravery lets this beautifully written story unfold. Page illustrations and cover are stunning also. This would appeal to anyone 10 years onwards who loves great storytelling. I do. It’s just brilliant.

My Brother is a Superhero by David Solomons Nosy Crow Ltd (9780857634795)

The Queen’s Handbag by Steve Antony

Can you imagine being comic mad, completely into superheroes and while you nipped to the loo to do what a boy’s got to do, some alien bestows superpowers to your older brother who hasn’t even read one? Annoying might be an understatement but this is what happened to Luke. Brilliantly funny debut book which has gone onto win the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2016. Perfect for any child aged 8 to 12 years. However my daughter (7), my nephew (11), my colleague (26) and myself (39) thought it was hilarious so you be the judge. The eagerly awaited sequel - My Gym Teacher is an Alien Overlord is due out this July

Hachette Childrens’ Group (9781444925548)

I am a huge fan of Steve Antony particularly ‘The Queen’s Hat ‘and its brilliant sequel ‘The Queen’s Handbag’. In the ﬁrst book her majesty takes us around the sights of London chasing her hat. In this new book a swan grabs her handbag and the Queen goes in hot pursuit taking us around the UK. The Queen drives an Aston Martin, rides on a motorbike and even ﬂies with the Red Arrows! The illustrations are excellent with some having hidden details. These books are a hit at my house, storytime sessions at work and perfect to link in with topic work at school.

The Bear and the Piano by David Litchﬁeld Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd (9781847807182)

A young bear comes across something unusual in the woods. It makes an awful sound but he keeps returning to it. Curiosity and patience gives way to talent. A father and daughter hear the bear playing music in the woods and he travels to the Big Apple where fame and fortune follows but what about home? Stunning illustrations and a touching tale of friendship and belonging. Inspired by a song from the band - The White Stripes. Winning the Best Illustrated Book Category in the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2016 I can’t wait to see the next book from David Litchﬁeld.

Waterstones holds weekly Sunday storytimes throughout the year and has a programme of summer holiday activities too. 14

Spring 2016

To ﬁnd out more: T: 01522 540011 297a High Street, Lincoln, LN2 1AF Twitter: @waterstoneslinc Facebook: Waterstones

Funded nursery places for 2-4 year olds...

EDUCATION

Kingsdown Nursery

Do you have a 2, 3 or 4 year old? If so, do you know that the Government is providing funding for some 2 year olds, and all 3 and 4 year olds to attend Kingsdown Nursery for 15 hours a week? Young children can have great fun playing with or alongside other children, exploring paint, water, clay and playing outside in a safe, well-equipped play area. As well as the benefits for the children, having a part time nursery place at Kingsdown, can give parents and carers a welcome break from the demands of a busy toddler or young child. It can give you extra time to go shopping, do some housework, look after the baby, take a college course, do extra hours at work or just have a cup of coffee in peace and quiet, and drink it while it’s still hot! Most children attend Kingsdown for 5 mornings a week, or 5 afternoons, some do 2 ½ or 3 days a week. Coming regularly helps children develop friendships and positive relationships with staff and other children. Some children attend 5 days a week, with parents buying additional places. We also run a before and after school club if you need care outside of traditional school hours. Families who are not eligible for the Government 2 year funding often use their Child Benefit to buy one or two sessions a week to help their child develop their social skills ready for starting school. At Kingsdown we offer a wonderful engaging environment, both indoors and outdoors. Children have access to top quality resources and fully qualified staff, both teachers and Early Years Practitioners. We teach children to share, take turns, learn about letters and numbers, paint, write and draw, ride, climb, explore and investigate. Throughout the year, Kingsdown provides many opportunities for children to experience nature in all its forms. We have a bird’s nesting box with a camera in and currently there are 8 eggs waiting to be hatched. Children eagerly watch the laptop to see if the eggs have hatched yet. Kingsdown

is fortunate to be near Birchwood Nature Park and we regularly take groups of children for walks there, to look for mini-beasts and to study the changing seasons. All children have weekly music lessons with Pete the Music Man. Pete brings his Double Bass and Guitar and enough musical instruments for all children to have a go! We also have Stuart from Meet the Beasts in with his exotic pets, snakes, lizards, spiders, insects and snails. Children can wear their own clothes but many wear our uniform of red or blue polo shirt and sweatshirt. Children invariably join in with messy activities at nursery and if they have their Kingsdown uniform on, they are hard wearing and will stand up to the demands of a busy day at nursery!

For more information and a look round, please call in or T: 01522 684335 E: enquiries@kingsdownnuseryschool.co.uk www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Sir William Robertson Academy

Come and ﬁnd out how your child can ASPIRE to a brighter future… Choosing a secondary school is one of the most important Situated in a unique rural location, SWRA provides a safe decisions you will have to make for you and your child. The decision making process will be eased by gathering as much information about possible schools in advance of the October deadline. With this in mind, we would like to extend an invitation to parents/carers and your child to come and tour the Academy where you will see ﬁrst-hand the excellent behaviour of our pupils and the high-calibre learning taking place in the classrooms. Sir William Robertson Academy is delighted as being judged as ‘Good’ in all areas of the school following its Ofsted

inspection in June 2015. The school has been recognised as being one of the ‘Top 100 non-selective state-funded schools in England’ in a recent letter from a letter from Nick Gibb MP – Minister of State for Schools (February 2016). The Academy is a highly successful 11-18 school with a ﬂourishing and rapidly expanding Sixth Form. The school fosters an aspirational ethos in which every child is expected to achieve the very best they can in all that they do.

and idyllic learning environment with small class sizes and superb pastoral care and support. The Academy is easily accessible from Newark, Grantham, Sleaford, Lincoln, the A46 and surrounding villages – with school buses serving each of these areas. Our pupils are well supported through an engaging and dynamic academic curriculum that is tailored to the needs of the individual. The school is well resourced, with wonderful outdoor facilities for a wide range of sporting activities. We offer a full and active programme of musical and performing arts from our purpose built studios. Come and ﬁnd out how your child can ASPIRE to a brighter future by booking a personal tour on 01400 272422 or join us at our Summer Open Evening on Thursday 30th June 2016 or our Open Week 12th – 14th September 2016 with an additional Open Evening on 14th September. To ﬁnd out more please visit: www.swracademy.org T: 01400 272422

Spring 2016

If your child is due to start secondary school in September 2017 or 2018 we invite you to attend one of our Open Events so you can see how we can help your child ASPIRE to a brighter future.

SUMMER OPEN EVENING Thursday 30th June 2016 6.00pm - 8.30pm

OPEN MORNINGS 12th - 14th September 9.15am - 11.15am

SEPTEMBER OPEN EVENING

Driven by the aim to

ASPIRE

Wednesday 14th September 6.00pm - 8.30pm

‘One of the Top 100 non-selective state-funded schools in England’ Nick Gibb MP – Minister of State for Schools (February 2016) 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

The Newton Academy

The Science Club for Girls The Newton Academy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Science Club for Girls was set up by the University of Lincoln in June 2014 to take girls on a 3-year scientiďŹ c voyage of discovery.

Girls at the end of their Primary education (Year 6) from across Lincolnshire are invited to enrol in the Academy and...

turday Club! a S r u o join

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 Workshops and engineers. are delivered

ENROLLMENT OPENS 1st April 2016

by staff and students at the University of Lincoln, with help from girls from the Lincoln U TC and with support from local science-based industry.

For further information and details of how to enrol on the Programme, visit our blog: newton.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk Email: newton@lincoln.ac.uk YouTube: Newton Academy Science Club for Girls

EDUCATION

Newton Academy

Newton Academy – the Science Club for Girls A new academy aimed at encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science and technology has been launched in Lincoln. The Newton Academy – the Science Club for girls – was set up by the University of Lincoln in 2014 to take girls on a 3-year scientiﬁc voyage of discovery. Since then over eighty Year 6 girls from across Lincolnshire have enrolled and have attended our 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 Programme has included the Robotics Big Launch; Spud Science; The Chemistry Christmas Cracker; The Engineering EGGstravaganza!; Pharmacy Phacts; 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 problemsolving 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 www.newton.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk YouTube: Newton Academy the Science Club for Girls www.mollysguide.co.uk

SPORT & HEALTH

Dinky Dolphins

Take the plunge with Dinky Dolphins... Swimming is an important life skill and something most of us learn to do while growing up - on Saturday afternoons in some generic leisure centre or other.

But an increasing number of 21st century parents are starting to swim their kids young, very young in some cases - from just a few weeks old believe it or not. Baby and toddler swimming lessons involve fun, high energy, aquatic activities for youngsters, and new Lincoln-based swim school ‘Dinky Dolphins’ offers mums and dads the chance to introduce their little ones to the water for the first time. To the uninitiated, it may all just look like a lot of happy splashing. However former teacher and mum-of-two Clare Gregory (34), says babies and mums and dads too, get much more out of their pool time sessions than may be first apparent. Clare retrained as a swimming instructor last year and now runs Dinky Dolphins sessions for children aged from birth to five years, at a handful of locations across Lincoln and Newark. “I’ve always been passionate about swimming as it was something I did from a young age myself,” said Clare. “It helps to develop their coordination, balance and build their core strength. “It’s great for physical and mental health too and not just for baby, as mums and dads can get out and meet like minded parents.” Clare said the structure of Dinky Dolphins lessons help prepare little ones for certain environments they’ll experience later in life, whilst also positively channeling some of that boundless toddler energy that we often bear the brunt of from time-to-time. “You never know, they may turn out to be an Olympic swimmer! But the reward for me is seeing parents

Spring 2016

bonding with their children and watching their conﬁdence grow in the water,” added Clare. “Babies are used to being surrounded by water for nine months don’t forget, so for them the feeling is normal and another great reason to start them swimming as soon as you can.” Alongside Clare, Dinky Dolphins sessions are led by two other experienced baby swimming teachers and tailored to the relevant age groups, involving crucial aspects of pool safety to help youngsters feel at ease in the water from the word go. Toddlers don’t use armbands and underwater activities are introduced gradually to help reduce the fear of water that some older children often experience. Songs and games are combined with lessons on how to hold on to the side and climb in and out of the pool safely, to give an all round experience for parents and their offspring. “Our lessons help to develop babies’ learning and social skills and they can swim with us before the receive any of their immunisations,” added Clare. “They’re accompanied by an adult at all times, along with a qualiﬁed instructor and we only swim in pools that are 32 degrees which means everyone is nice and comfortable. “Swimming offers “I like to think we make a difference to people’s lives as well as equipping as many children as possible with a vital lifesaving skill.

huge developmental beneﬁts for baby as well as precious bonding time for parents.”

“We’re not a huge corporate wheel where babies are just a number - each and every swimmer matters to us. “We understand the demands that life can throw at us all, and like to work with families to make those demands a little bit easier.” Dinky Dolphins sessions run at pools in St Francis School in Lincoln, Nocton and Burton villages, and Beckingham, near Newark.

For more information contact Clare T: 07494 857419 E: dinkydolphins@icloud.com Facebook: dinkydolphins Twitter: @dinkydolphins www.dinkydolphins.co.uk

www.mollysguide.co.uk

SPORT & HEALTH

Colourimetry – our exciting new service...

Clearview Opticians

T: 01522 542121 E: enquiries@clearviewopticians.co.uk www.clearviewopticians.co.uk

We are pleased to announce we can now offer a colourimetry assessment for visual stress and tinted spectacle lenses to assist with this.

What is Visual Stress?

What are the symptoms?

Visual Stress refers to reading difﬁculties, light sensitivity and headaches from exposure to disturbing visual patterns. It can be responsible for print distortion and rapid fatigue when reading. The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. The symptoms can occur despite normal vision. Alternative names may be used to describe this condition including, Meares-Irlen Syndrome, Irlen Syndrome and ScotopicSensitivity Syndrome.

• Movement/blurring of print

The prevalence of visual stress has been reported as occurring in 5–20% of the population, many of which suffer unknowingly or may be misdiagnosed. In people with dyslexia this is thought to be higher at around 35-40%.

• Letters changing shape or size, fading or becoming darker • Patterns appearing, sometimes describes as “worms” or “rivers” running through print • Illusions of colour – blobs of colour on the page or colours surrounding letters or words • Rapid tiring • Headache or eyestrain Signs • Moving closer to or away from page • Becoming restless • Using ﬁnger as a marker • Skipping words and lines • Rubbing eyes and blinking excessively • Low self-esteem • Lack of concentration/disruptive behaviour

Pilot, Fire Fighter, Train Driver, Police Ofﬁcer... Every child dreams of what they’ll do one day. Up to 1 in 5 children have an eye condition they do not know about which could stop them achieving those dreams.

A FREE SIGHT TEST

may give your child the ability to see clearly, learn effectively and fulﬁl their career aspirations.

169 Burton Road, Lincoln LN1 3LW WE HAVE FREE CAR PARKING 22

01522 542121

www.clearviewopticians.co.uk

Spring 2016

Symptoms of visual stress are not always immediately obvious. Many individuals who suffer with this condition believe the discomfort they feel when reading or the distortions they experience on the page are “normal” and experienced by everyone. That is until someone presents them with an appropriate colour and they realise that reading can become more comfortable and even enjoyable. During colourimetry we can find the specific colour to benefit you. We tailor the 3 parameters of colour, hue, saturation and brightness while the eyes are colour adapted. This will give a final colour which is extremely precise to each individual’s needs. The colour will be different for each person and the precision coming from a choice of over 100,000 colour combinations now available. In its most effective form this prescription will be delivered as Cerium Precision Tinted Lenses. If you would like to book a colourimetry assessment please contact Annabelle at the practice.

SPORT & HEALTH Image: Pavel L Photo and Video. Shutterstock.com

Hayfever

Top Tips for easing the symptoms of hayfever The weather is finally getting better and parents across Lincolnshire are breathing a collective sigh of relief as it becomes easier to leave the four walls of home and head outdoors to blow away winter’s cobwebs. But park picnics, woodland walks and games on the grass can be ruined by one very common seasonal ailment – hayfever. The condition often affects children from as young as seven – while older children and teenagers are more susceptible to the allergy than adults. It can have an impact on a child at school and while it is typically thought of as a summer problem, the hay fever season starts much earlier in the year – during Spring. So people are advised to look out for symptoms between March and October. Doctor Sunil Hindocha, chief clinical officer at Lincolnshire West Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Hay fever symptoms, including itchy eyes and a running nose, can be distressing for children, who may find the symptoms harder to manage and won’t always realise they can ask for help. “Sometimes hay fever can be confused with a virus. The way to tell the difference is by how long the symptoms last. If it is a virus, they should only last a week or two. “It is important that hay fever is diagnosed so it can be treated and your child can take steps to avoid it. If your child only has symptoms in July and August on a very sunny day, it is almost certainly hay fever. “But we must be wary of first-generation antihistamines and the side-effects they can have on children. Children have a greater risk of side effects from these, particularly drowsiness and impaired thinking.”

So how can you ease your child’s symptoms? Dr Hindocha gave Molly’s guide his top tips: • Keep windows closed at night so pollen doesn’t enter the house. • Buy your child a pair of wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen entering their eyes. • Smear petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or another pollen blocker around the inside of your child’s nose to trap pollen and stop it being inhaled. • Wash your child’s hair, face and hands when they come back indoors and, if you can, change their clothes. • Don’t let them play in fields or large areas of grassland. • Use air filters to try and reduce pollen that’s floating around the house. • Keep car windows shut when driving. www.mollysguide.co.uk

SPORT & HEALTH

LCHS NHS Trust

New 0-19 service being launched across Lincolnshire Children and their families in Lincolnshire will be supported by a new integrated 0-19 service from May.

This new model from Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) will see health visiting and school nursing staff working together in nine teams across the county to provide a seamless service. It is based on a nationally led model already being delivered elsewhere in the country which ensures patient safety and strengthens the focus on health promotion and the National Healthy Child Programme.

MAIN: the 0-19 Steering Group who received the Outstanding Patient Involvement award at our Celebrating Success Awards in 2015. They did the consultation work and models for the service.

Steph Heathcote Senior Clinical Programme Manager at LCHS said: “We have spent a lot of time consulting with families. We had 1200 completed surveys carried out in clinics, supermarkets, high streets, and through liaising with GPs, children’s centres and schools. As a direct response from feedback from families this new model will offer increased continuity of care for families and where possible they will see the same person throughout, meaning they will only tell their story once.

BELOW: LCHS Chief Executive Andrew Morgan thanking staff for their hard work in launching the new service.

“Integrating school nurses and health visitors into nine teams makes care for the child more streamlined and joined up, with families receiving more consistent care from the same person. We are strengthening our links with GPs and schools.” The development of the nine teams has been happening in the background for the past year with local families and staff contributing to the design and introduction of new ways of working. Services within each team will be tailored according to the speciﬁc needs of an area and delivered from a variety of venues within the community. Steph added: “We are making sure that the right people are in the right place by putting staff where there is the most need. This will mean a better service for families in Lincolnshire.”

For more information about the health visiting and school nursing service please visit our dedicated website: www.lincolnshirehealthyfamilies.nhs.uk 24

Spring 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

Lincolnshire hospice to host Star Wars inspired fundraiser

St Barnabas Hospice

Lightsabers at the ready as Lincoln prepares for Star Wars themed sponsored event. Sci-fi enthusiasts from across Lincolnshire are being encouraged to sign up to a sponsored walk being held in Lincoln this summer. Local independent charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice are hosting Star Walks: Lincoln Awakens, a Star Wars themed 10k walk on Saturday 17th September. Participants will start the 10k walk at Yarborough Leisure Centre where they will be greeted by favourites from the film and warm up with Jedi training. There will also be free food after the walk with guests treated to Han Solo Halloumi baps or a Padmé pork bap courtesy of Meltworks, local Lincolnshire outdoor caterers. Becky Otter, Event Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said: “We are really excited to be bringing this fabulous new event to Lincoln, which will provide our community with a chance to celebrate their love for Star Wars and their passion for raising money. Whether you choose to walk for the Light Side or the Dark Side the evening is set to be a fun family evening out. Participants will follow the path through the Lincoln galactic journey where film favourites will be cheering them on. There will even by a musical surprise half way!” Star Walks: Lincoln Awakens is the 10th annual Moonlight Walk the charity has hosted which was last year themed One Night in a Onesie.

The route will see participants leave Yarborough Leisure Centre and head to Lincoln Cathedral before making there way along the High Street and on to Yarborough Road to return to the leisure centre. Becky said: “Star Walks is an exciting opportunity for us to offer something new to our loyal supporters and this year we are hoping to see more than 1,000 people join us in crossing the ﬁnish line. Whether you choose to take on this intergalactic adventure for fun or to support the hospice, you’ll need all the power of the Force!” To take part, participants must be at least eight years old, and anyone aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult. Adults can take advantage of the early bird price of just £12 and children are charged a ﬂat rate fee of £7. Participants can also buy an early bird family ticket (two adults and two children) for just £30. The early bird price is valid until 30th June 2016. Every registered participant will receive a free Star Walks branded bag. Register at: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/starwalks

For more information please contact Becky Otter, Events Manager T: 01522 559 516 E: becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

LINCOLN AWAKENS

17TH SEPTEMBER 2016, 6PM We are searching for brave Jedi knights to complete a 10k walk across the Lincoln galaxy and help defeat the dark side. YARBOROUGH LEISURE CENTRE, RISEHOLME ROAD, LN1 3SP

www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/starwalks

Registered Charity No. 1053814

www.mollysguide.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Lincoln Drill Hall

Explore the arts and have fun at Lincoln Drill hall this summer! Lincoln Drill Hall is a great place to introduce children to the arts. The venue hosts a year round programme of live shows, theatre groups, workshops and creative sessions speciﬁcally aimed at younger audiences – from tiny tots to teenagers – plus events the whole family can enjoy together. On Wednesday 1 June (10.30am – 12noon) it’s time to dust of those dancing shoes for Diddy Disco, the venue’s hip club for under 7s. The resident DJ plays a bit of everything, from rock & roll to disco to the latest pop hits, mixing it up to make it fun for children and mums & dads alike - and face-painting is available too. The Doodle Dance Show (Saturday 4 June, 2pm) is a unique interactive show for children aged 3+ and their families. Join award-winning

performers Anna Williams and Tom Roden as they get the whole family dancing, doodling and thinking up stories in a 50 minute show that’s packed with unexpected adventures. Wear your best socks because your feet will need to be freed as you prepare to turn a huge piece of paper into a lively world of imagination. For very young audiences (0-3 years) Toddler’s Room (Wednesday 8 June, with performances at 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 1pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm, 3pm, 3.30pm) is a beautiful piece of mini dance theatre from Norway. Set inside a white dome, the children and their carers will immediately become involved in a play without words where gorgeous sculptural objects, sounds and beautiful costumes stimulate all ﬁve senses for a truly magical experience.

Finally on Wednesday 17 August, the Drill Hall in association with Lincoln Castle presents Danny, The Champion of the World by open-air theatre company Illyria. This adaptation of Roald Dahl’s heart-warming classic is packed with fun, intrigue, courageous trickery....and a lot of pheasants! Illyria, which previously brought ‘George’s Marvellous Medicine” and ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’ to the Castle, once again offers great family storytelling in this intelligent and highly entertaining production. This show is suitable for ages 5+ so bring along your picnics and all the family for an enchanting evening of theatre as the sun sets.

For further information about these events and activities pick up the Drill Hall’s Spring brochure or visit www.lincolndrillhall.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Out and About

Get your family out and about this spring... Well, the weather is getting better (it is, IT IS!) and here at Molly’s Guide we have put together some of our favourite places to get out and about with the family. Absolutely no apology for it being quite outdoorsy, because without sounding too much like everyone’s mum, we need to make the most of summer while it’s here... MAIN: Dovedale BELOW: Jubilee Park

So ﬁrst up is a hop, skip and jump over the stepping stones into beautiful Dovedale. Follow the twists and turns of the river to discover rocky outcrops and mysterious caves. Great for scrambling about and getting little toes wet paddling with an ice cream in Milldale village at the end. For a couple of quid to park the car it is top of the list for screen-free fun for all ages in the great outdoors. There is so much to see and do in the Peak District it is worth making a weekend of it. Molly’s Guide likes The Izaak Walton Hotel for its fantastic location and scenery or go under canvas it at one of the many campsites in the area. Alternatively pitch camp closer to home at Jubilee Park in Woodhall Spa and cool off in its outdoor pools.

Watch classic Jaws (12A), at the teeny tiny Kinema in the Woods, followed by a midnight swim back at the park (Friday, June 10, 9pm). Would you dare to dip after THAT? Family-friendly ﬁlms available every week for those of a more nervous disposition and outdoor screenings of classics such as Back to the Future and Brief Encounter. Whisper it very quietly but the sun may not co-operate every single day so it is best to have a couple of non-weather dependent plans up your sleeve: Nottingham is perched on sandstone so riddled with caves it is a wonder it is still standing. Head underground to discover King David’s legendary dungeon and Mortimer’s Hole as part of a tour of the city’s famous castle or visit the City Of Caves, a complex of over 500 caves dating back to the

Gibraltar Point

Spring 2016

Sherwood Pines

Harry Potter Tour

Dark Ages, accessed rather oddly via a shopping centre. A word of warning: the castle caves have over 300 steep steps, so bear in mind tired legs – yours or theirs! On the very rare day (wishful thinking will work this year) it is lashing it down so hard that a positive attitude and pac-amac just won’t cut it, you need something out of this world to keep everyone entertained. The National Space Centre is home to the UK’s largest planetarium, a 3d simulator, interactive galleries, and the iconic 42metre-high Rocket Tower. To boldly go etc. without having to get wet or cold – fantastic. Remember to upgrade to an annual pass free online. With those out of the way, normal service can resume: Clumber Park is a beautiful expanse of parkland, heath, woods and lake covering more than 3,800 acres just off the A1. The fantastic woodland playground has stuff that young teens will get kick out of as well as usual under 10 crowds. Pack a picnic and tick off some of the National Trust’s ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 and ¾’. Make use of that NT membership and get free parking. Take advantage of ﬂat-as-apancake terrain the East Midlands has to offer. The Grantham to

Nottingham canal path is safe 33-mile stretch for a family bike ride through the picturesque Vale of Belvoir. Alternatively for daredevils, saddle up to weave round tree roots at Sherwood Pines. The colour-coded cycle routes let you know whether it is a leisure jaunt or a flying by the seat of your pants affair. To really get away from the crowds, drive a mile or so south of Skegness to the wide-open vastness of Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve. Take a short hike over marshland from the new £1million visitors centre and emerge from a giant sand dune to the huge expanse of windswept beach. The flat hard sand is perfect for beach cricket. Let off steam and be as noisy as you like without fear of disturbing anything but the gulls. PS a scream at the wild waves can be quite therapeutic for adults as well... so I have heard. Ok, this is rather further afield and a little on the pricey side but as a special treat the Harry Potter Studios near Watford is hard to beat. From the first steps into the breathtaking Great Hall to riding a broomstick through JK Rowling’s imaginary world via green screen technology and seeing how the creatures were created by the special effects team this is a magical day for any Potterhead. Arrive early and leave late to squeeze in everything. It really is worth it.

Kathryn Dainty is a journalist and travel writer, originally from Lincolnshire but now living in exile in Manchester.

DOVEDALE: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ilam-parkdovedale-and-the-white-peak www.izaakwaltonhotel.com Ilam, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, DE6 2AZ WOODHALL SPA: www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk £5/£4 all day, family ticket £16 Stixwould Rd, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QH 01526 353478 www.thekinemainthewoods.co.uk £6.50/£5.50, family £22.40 Coronation Rd, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QD 01526 352166 NOTTINGHAM CAVES: www.cityofcaves.com Upper Level, Broadmarsh Shopping Centre, Nottingham NG1 7LS 0115 988 1955 £7.95/£5.95/Family ticket £23.50 NATIONAL SPACE CENTRE: www.spacecentre.co.uk £14/£11 Under 5s free Exploration Drive, Leicester LE4 5NS 0116 261 0261 CLUMBER PARK: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 3AZ £7 parking/NT members free SHERWOOD PINES: www.forestry.gov.uk/sherwoodpines Edwinstowe, Mansﬁeld NG21 9JL 01623 825411 GIBRALTAR POINT: www.lincstrust.org.uk/gibraltar-point Gibraltar Rd, Skegness PE24 4SU 01754 898057 WARNER BROS STUDIOS HARRY POTTER TOUR: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk £35/£27/£107 family ticket, 4 & under free Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden WD25 7LR 0345 084 0900

Often found fafﬁng about on Twitter, follow her at: @kathryndainty www.mollysguide.co.uk

Wrestling with the situation ©��

Those muscleclad all American wrestlers have nothing on me.

��

These days I’m regularly jumped by two young hoodlums, who pin me to the ground and sit on my head while pummelling my back. I’m afraid I lost my heavyweight title months ago – to a tag team duo with more energy than the Duracell Bunny on Pro Plus and Red Bull. If it’s not football training, tennis lessons, swimming or running from room-to-room howling like a Native American Sioux, it’s airborne elbows off the couch and razor-like knees in the thigh. My two ‘little boys’ are now ‘proper’ little boys, whatever that may mean, and I am now a ‘proper’ old man – I know you know what I mean...

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Read more at www.mollysguide.co.uk

...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 2016

www.woodsidewildlife.com

on page 63

Telephone: 01522 754280 Newball, Near Langworth, Lincoln LN3 5DQ

Twycross Zoo hosts unforgettable birthday parties

DAYS OUT

Twycross Zoo

Getting up close to the zoo’s pets and rare animals makes for a very special birthday. From animal encounters to games in soft play, there is something for every birthday boy or girl at Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire. Little ones can run wild in the zoo’s special birthday party areas, meet some of the zoo’s cuddly pets, or even go on a guided tour. A ﬂexible offer allows parents to pick and choose from various options to make their child’s birthday party a day to remember. Young animal lovers will never forget pets visiting their party in the zoo’s birthday den. Three different pets from rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rats and snakes will join in the celebrations, under the watchful eye of the zoo’s keepers and provide an unforgettable experience for everyone. Those who prefer a fun celebration full of classic games can play giant Jenga and pass the parcel, as well as enjoying a special visit from a costumed character. The zoo also hosts birthday parties in its jungle-themed soft play area, which invites children to burn off some of their energy in the ball pits and slides. Children can also get a deeper insight into the inner workings of the zoo on a guided tour; share a tasty birthday cake in the shape of a butterﬂy, monkey or elephant with their friends; or take home a party bag full of great gifts suited to the children’s age. Each party guest is given a lunch box, complete with an animal mask, so great fun is guaranteed at any birthday party at Twycross Zoo. Sharon Leeson, Director of Marketing says, “We have two lovely venues here at Twycross Zoo where children can have fun and celebrate their birthday in a unique way. Our staff take pride in making sure that all the party-goers have a great time and return home with some very special memories to treasure. By holding a child’s birthday party here at the Zoo, parents are also giving their child and their friends a fantastic opportunity to learn about the animal world.”

Aside from celebrating with friends, young visitors to the zoo can go spotting many of Twycross Zoo’s animal babies and youngsters. One of the most famous ones is bonobo Ndeko, who will celebrate his ﬁrst birthday at the end of July. Only a year older is the elephant Esha and Storm, one of the gibbons who have only recently moved to the new Gibbon Forest, joins the ranks of the three year olds. Other young birthday boys and girls among the zoo’s animals include gorilla Lope (4), giraffe Setanta (5) and orangutan Molly (6).

Twycross Zoo is open to the public from 10am-6pm. For more info, prices & to book a unique birthday party T: 0844 474 1777 www.twycrosszoo.org www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Willows Restaurant & Garden Centre

Wonderful Willows.... A family friendly gem Come and enjoy a browse around Willows Restaurant and Garden Centre, where you can get advice and inspiration on how to get the best out of your garden, our deli with delicious locally produced food and independent boutiques, where you can ﬁnd lovely things for your home and your wardrobe.

The popular restaurant serves delicious breakfasts, great coffee, a large range of homemade lunches, afternoon teas and a very popular Sunday Carvery. There is an outdoor play area outside the restaurant, with a large terraced area. Delicious Willingham Fayre Ice creams and milkshakes with marshmallows are a great excuse for a visit with the children, whilst Mum and Dad can enjoy a drink and relax. The Lifestyle store is the heart of the garden centre. Stocking high end, contemporary home and giftware, it creates a unique sense of style to the high impact entrance of The Willows. Independently owned, design led brands such as LSA glassware, Maxwell and William’s crockery, Joma jewellery and Lilyﬂame candles to name a few best sellers. With complimentary gift wrap, Lifestyle at Willows is unrivalled in the Lincolnshire area. Odlings This multi-award winning butcher on site offers unrivalled freshness. From the best in fresh butchery, from tasty ﬁllet steak to home-made sausages, everything you could want for a sizzling BBQ or succulent dinner. Loyal, repeat visits are guaranteed! Blossoms Hair & Beauty is a modern, friendly salon offering professional treatments to men, women and children at competitive prices, with a reputation for friendliness and professionalism. Our staff’s passion is for transforming the way people look and feel about themselves and our talent and enthusiasm continue to inspire as the salon is now expanding with a new beauty room and a fantastic range of ladies lingerie and skin care products

Spring 2016

Willow’s little gem, Catkins Boutique, houses accessories (bags, belts, jewellery) and stylish clothing in Italian linen, himalayan cashmere and silk blends. Catkins is perfect for gifts and updating your wardrobe in one location. Quality brands such as Miss Sugar (Italy), Lindy Bop, Bewitched, Miss Shorthair have a regional niche market and fashion following on site.

Treehouse Fruit & Veg is a family business providing quality fresh fruit and vegetables. They started by introducing a veg box delivery service, as well as a small range of Lincolnshire deli produce including Maud Foster Flour from the Boston Windmill, and fresh free range eggs. In March, they moved into a bigger unit within the Garden Centre and introduced a brand new deli range. From local fresh bread, jams and chutneys and a wide variety of world foods, they have every meal covered! They even have a frozen range of fruit and vegetables, where you can take as much or as little as you like!

A wonderful FREE family, fun-ﬁlled event

You are invited to th

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Photo fun!

Take selﬁes us ing the huge e Mad Hatter’s selﬁe frame Come and see th , be thrilled

gigantic ciaankaned storytelling by the magic in Wonderland the tale of Alice Try your p hand tea cu painting

SAMPLE SPECIALITY TEAS at our tea tasting sessions

Come & try our un ique A tailored specially fo fternoon Tea, r children! We look forward to seeing you

GAINSBOROUGH ROAD, GLENTHAM, LN8 2EG

T: 01673 372101

www.thewillowsglentham.co.uk

this Half-Term!

Open 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm Follow us:

See our money saving voucher on page 61

www.mollysguide.co.uk

n u f y l i m a f FREE s e s r o H y b s at Bran Spring 2016

SAVE STAMPS, SAVE HORSES!

Could you help us to save horses by saving stamps? Collecting used postage stamps and sending them to ‘Stamp Appeal, Bransby Horses, Bransby, Lincoln, LN1 2PH’ will allow us to raise much needed funds to help care for hundreds of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

Simply cut off the corner with the stamp on to help stamp out cruelty. Why not get your whole school involved and send them all together!

ADOPTION DAYS

May

June

Come along to our adoption days NERO to ﬁnd out more about some of our 14th May 11.30am-2.30pm most popular residents! Kids will love our special adoption treasure TWIGGY hunts, quizzes and craft activities. Why not bring a picnic or visit our delicious Feedroom Café? We have excellent facilities including the café, a gift shop and play park. Bransby Horses is a great day out for the whole family! Admission is free, donations are always welcomed.

22nd May 11.30am-2.30pm

DOMINO

LARGO

18th June 11.30am-2.30pm

TIZZY & MUNCHKIN

26th June 11.30am-2.30pm

28th May 11.30am-2.30pm

If you haven’t yet adopted a Bransby Horses Adoption Star, visit www.bransbyhorses.co.uk or call us on 01427 788464 to adopt now!

Don’t forget, admission at Bransby Horses is completely FREE so you can enjoy a day out with your family without worrying about the cost. We hope to see you very soon!

For fun activities and competitions, join our Junior Club FREE today by phoning 01427 788464!

Please visit our website www.bransbyhorses.co.uk as we regularly add events throughout the year BRANSBY, LINCOLNSHIRE LN1 2PH

01427 788464 Charity No: 1075601

Bransby Horses Rescue and Welfare @BransbyHorses Bransbyhorses

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE 11AM - 4PM Craft stalls Kids crafts

Shopping

Second hand rug and tack sale

Education zone

Kids zone

Bric a brac

Charity stands

Falconry

Food court

Face painting

Demonstratio

Donations welcomed on entry. All funds raised go towards our welfare work and help us care, rehabilitate and rehome the horses, ponies and donkeys we have rescued. Bransby Horses, Bransby, Lincoln, LN1 2PH | www.bransbyhorses.co.uk | 01427 788464 Bransby Horses - Rescue and Welfare

@BransbyHorses

BransbyHorses

Bransby Horses is a registered Charity No: 1075601. Company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England and Wales No: 3711676

DAYS OUT

Discover NK

Explore a new history trail... North Kesteven District Council has introduced a new history trail exploring the fascinating heritage of Sleaford’s Riverside. North Kesteven District Council offers something for visitors of all ages at its popular visitor attractions.

explore • discover • experience

Riverside Discovery Trail Explore Sleaford’s riverside & discover a working watermill, art exhibitions, time capsules and much more!

With a FREE leaﬂet you can discover many points of interest about Sleaford’s historic riverside. From the origins of Sleaford Leisure Centre which was once an outdoor lido known as Bristol Baths to appreciating the imposing architecture of Lafford Terrace which was once the most impressive terrace of domestic housing in Sleaford. With the easy to use map and directions and intriguing historical facts, this self-guided trail is the ideal way to experience the Sleaford of days gone by. The trail will take approximately 1 hour, but don’t forget to take some time to explore the many charming places along the way including Cogglesford Watermill and Navigation House. You can pick up your free trail at Navigation House or Cogglesford Watermill, open 7 days a week, 12 to 4pm.

You can pick up your trail at Cogglesford Watermill, Navigation House in Sleaford or Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, North Rauceby for £1 – a prize for all completed trails.

For more info: www.heartoﬂincs.com 01529 308102 36

Spring 2016

heartoﬂincs

@discover_nk

For more information contact the NKDC Tourism Team T: 01529 308207 E: discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

DAYS OUT

Taste the delights at Daisy Made...

Daisy Made Ice Cream

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.

have a scoop alongside 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.

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 and while away the day. Whichever you choose to do, you’re bound to have a good time!

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

For further information: T: 01522 693757 www.daisymadeicecream.co.uk

• Farm-themed Crazy Daisy Golf with NEW ‘Poppy the Pig’ golf hole • Children’s play area, JumiCars & bouncy castle • Meet our animals in the paddock FREE PARKING FREE ENTRY

Daisy Made Ice Cream is a family run business in Skellingthorpe, on the outskirts of Lincoln city, providing a fun day out for children and adults alike. There is a wide range of home made, real dairy ice cream ﬂavours on offer, all made on the farm using milk from the dairy cows. There is also a seated cafe, with cakes, hot drinks and various sandwiches, paninis and snacks on offer. There’s plenty of entertainment with a childrens play area, animals to meet, a 12 hole farm themed crazy golf course, daisy diggers. Also featuring a drive through, for grabbing an ice cream in a hurry,

Daisy Made has something to offer for everyone!

Try our real dairy ice cream made fresh using milk from our own dairy cows.

Try the ‘Lazy Daisy Drive Thru’

to grab an ice cream on the move! Seated Café serving hot drinks, cakes and snacks

Tel:

01522

693757

Open: 10am-6pm 7 days a week

Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln LN6 5SA

www.daisymadeicecream.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

Something for everyone

SHOPEAT&RELAX Queen’s Celebrations

Father’s Day Tractor Event Sun 19th June

Sat 11 June th

Big Food Event with Wimbledon Games & Prosecco Bar Sat 9th July ONLY 50P for 2 hours and £1 for 4 hours FREE on a Sunday

01427 810706

To ﬁnd out more about our events, please go to our website

www.marshallsyard.co.uk/events /MarshallsYard

@MarshallsYard

@marshallsyard.gains

Marshall’s Yard, Beaumont Street Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 2NA 38

Spring 2016

Don’t miss our

Free Family Events held throughout the summer - for more info visit our website

DAYS OUT

Rand Farm Park

Spring fun at Rand Farm Park...

There is always something new and exciting happening at Rand Farm Park and this Half Term is no exception.

NEW FOR RAND FARM PARK, LINCOLNSHIRE AND BEYOND.....

‘Skyrider’

Hopefully the weather will be warm and sunny ensuring Skyrider will be open to all those who want to have a try...

All weather attraction for the whole family

Water Wars will be reinstalled again for the season with lots of water play throughout the day. Kangaroo Bouncers will also provide hours of fun for all members of the family whatever the weather and Archery will be open if it isn’t too windy. In addition, new for the week will be four new rideon Tractors to take the place of the ever popular “quads” to keep younger visitors amused whilst waiting for the Tractor Ride around the ﬁelds. Obviously animals are central to a visit to a farm and there are regular opportunities to look, touch, feed and cuddle a wide variety of farm animals and pets at various different times throughout the day. For something a little different and following Lamb Bottle Feeding, there are also lots of Goat Kids, hungry for a drink… Sheep racing will also start in time for the May Half Term holidays which usually provides a few laughs for the last scheduled activitiy of the day...So why not come along and join in the fun? The additional attraction at the start of Half Term will be a visit from Peppa Pig on Bank Holiday Sunday, 29 May 2016, who will be appearing at intervals between 11am-4pm.

THE NEW OUTDOOR ACTIVITY WITH A DIFFERENCE You can run, climb, slide and then... ‘SKYRIDE’ ‘Kangaroo Bouncers’, Water Wars, Archery and all the usual attractions.

PLUS

For a great day out for visitors of all ages Open every day 10am-5pm

Adults & children £9.95 each Under 2s go FREE Senior Citizens £7.25

Tel: 01673 858904 (only 8 miles east of Lincoln on the A158)

Email: kay@randfarmpark.com For further information: T: 01673 858904 www.randfarmpark.com

www.randfarmpark.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Lincoln Fashion Week

Three generations: Mum/Grandma Toni Moss, daughter Harriet Kissane and Harriet’s daughter Kitty (7 months)

Fashionistas hit the Lincoln runway... Lincoln fashionistas will be out to turn heads this Summer, after discovering the season’s hottest new trends at a dazzling style extravaganza. We’re celebrating Lincoln Fashion Week (May 16 to 21) and five fabulous catwalk shows, designed to throw the spotlight on the latest looks for tots to teens and adults of all ages. Forget Paris! Lincoln independents and national name stores are using this brand new event to showcase everything from cool casual gear to essential workwear and show-stopping special occasion outfits. Sixty-five handpicked Lincolnshire models will be hitting the catwalks, working the latest fashions and revealing how fabulous garments, complemented by professional hairstyling and make-up, can work real magic! 40

Spring 2016

From jumpsuits to playsuits through to denim essentials, workwear, weekend must-haves and edgy menwear, this week-long spectacle offers something for everyone. Shoppers are invited to dip into four free fantastic fashion shows throughout the week. Debenhams is getting the ball rolling, with its own “pop-up” catwalk show on Monday, May 16. Check out the latest looks from the store’s own collections, plus Dorothy Perkins, Vis a Vis, Gere, Burton, JD Sports and Trespass, between 11am and 4pm. On Tuesday, May 17, it is the turn of House of Fraser. Its “pop-up” show can be seen from

10.30am to 5pm. Watch out for the best from BIBA, Wallis, Mint Velvet, Phase Eight, Therapy London and French Connection. Readers who are in the Uphill area on Wednesday, May 18, can catch the action at the County Assembly Rooms, between 12 noon and 4pm. This fashion event will feature Debenhams, Historic Lincolnshire, New Look, St Barnabas Hospice, Next, Oska and Vis a Vis. On Thursday, the Waterside Shopping Centre will host its “pop-up” event from 10.30am to 3.30pm, with a helping hand from Lincoln College and styles from New Look, Roman, Next, Vis a Vis, Ego, Chantal, Boots, M&S, Gere, Topman and Topshop. The ultimate show-stopping Fashion Week Grand Finale takes place at St Swithin’s Church in St Swithin’s Square on Friday, May 20, at 7pm. Readers can buy tickets costing £10 online at: visitlincoln.com/fashion or on the door.

Support for Lincoln Fashion Week has been provided by the creative team made-up of Designer and Creative Director Murray Kirkham, Stylist Charlotte Lamb and Nail Stylist Nikki Drury, Talking Heads, Toni & Guy, Save the Date Events and Salon 2. ABOVE: Rich Ferry at Gere Menswear and BELOW: Lorraine Vickery of Vis a Vis – who are both taking part in the week’s fashion events

Fashion-lovers, who snapped-up tickets earlier this month, are already excitedly looking forward to a red carpet event, showcasing the best of Lincoln’s High Street brands including: The Best of British, sleepwear and lingerie, occasion and evening wear, wedding party wear, holiday shop fashions, festival fashions and outdoor and active wear. This glitzy event will be compered by BBC Radio Lincolnshire presenter Scott Dalton. Ticketholders can look forward to a glass of bubbly, an opening performance by Streetbeat, and a free goody bag containing discount vouchers. On Saturday, May 21, the Waterside Shopping Centre will be hosting a range of unique fashion stalls and product demonstrations and offering competitions and custom tote bag printing, between 11am and 4pm. Lincoln Fashion Week has been organised by Lincoln BIG with key sponsors Waterside Shopping and St Mark’s and great support from Next and Debenhams. www.mollysguide.co.uk

MEDIEVAL MEDIEVAL ARCHERY ARCHERY WEEKEND WEEKEND at Tattershall Castle

Saturday 28th- Monday 30th May 11am-4pm

See if you can hit the target using a longbow Taking residence all weekend the Wolfshead Bowmen re-enact Medieval life with Have-a-Go Archery (£2 for six arrows) Includes talks on weapons and armour as well as a fantastic archery display each day.

11-12pm: Have a Go Archery for the public

A great day out Spring... this Spring...

• • • • • • •

Indoor Play Barn Outdoor play areas Tractor & trailer rides Keith’s Krazy Karts Farmyard crazy golf Woodland walk Select Lincolnshire award winning Tea Room • Gift Shop

Come & play whatever th e weather!

12-1pm: Combat demonstration & arming the knight 2pm: Archery display 3-4pm: Have a Go Archery Tel: 01526 342543 Find us on the A153 between Sleaford and Skegness, 30mins from Lincoln. Sat Nav: LN4 4LR

• Birthday parties • School trips welcome

01652 678822

South Kelsey, Market Rasen, Lincs LN7 6PR

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tattershall-castle

Spring 2016

www.hallfarmpark.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Explore something new...

Natural World Centre

Explore Whisby Nature Park like never before with the Natural World Centre’s NEW Otter’s Reach Indoor Adventure offering an all-weather experience as well as interactive play, engaging and educating children about the natural environment. Otter’s Reach Indoor Adventure offers stimulating play for youngsters 3 years and over with a height restriction of 1.3m and shows the development of Whisby Nature Reserve From its origins as a quarrying site to the beautiful sanctuary it is today. Accompanying this amazing creation is Otter’s Cafe, offering hot and cold drinks and snacks enabling visitors to extend their stay. Sample fresh ﬁlled deli sandwiches or our tempting range of cakes – there’s plenty to choose from! If you fancy something a little more substantial, the Boardwalk Bistro has an appetising menu available everyday as well as scrumptious specials not forgetting our Little Darters children’s menu. If the weather is warm, stay for the day and try our selection of ice creams available from Little Darters Kiosk open during weekends and school holidays* - just next to Little Darters Wildlife Adventure Area it’s the perfect place to enjoy a treat and watch little ones play.

Watch out for more exciting developments to Little Darters Wildlife Adventure Area! The adventure area will soon feature a mini assault course with balance ropes and a new lookout tower. Otter’s Reach Indoor Adventure and Little Darters Wildlife Area are both open every day from 10am to 4.30pm. *Weather dependant. Please check before visiting.

For further information: T: 01522 688868 www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

What’s new to the Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park...

OTTER’S REACH INDOOR ADVENTURE AND OTTER’S CAFE! Experience Whisby Nature Park like never before with fun interactive play for little ones aged 3 years and above*

*Height restriction 1.3m

Open every day 10am-4.30pm Otter’s Cafe: 11am-3pm

DON’T FORGET... Little Darters Wildlife Adventure Area too! Open every day 10am-5pm. Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, LN6 9BW

T: 01522 688868

E: whisby@1life.co.uk

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Doddington Hall

Discover more at Doddington Hall and Gardens... The Gardens at Doddington Hall near Lincoln take on a whole new lush and ‘frothy’ personality in May, one which appeals to children and adults alike. There is plenty to explore and discover.

After the spectacular pageant of spring bulbs which began in early February (Snowdrops and Crocus Thomasianus), March and April brought drifts of Lent Lilies and heritage Daffodils plus Aconites and Snake Head Fritillaries. May bring irises to the Walled West Garden, and the celebrated Iris Week later in the month when they are at their best, but the Wild Gardens bring clouds of Cow Parsley through which to meander… For younger visitors, this is a chance to follow these paths, which seem secret and unexplored to the young inquisitive mind. The Temple of the Winds is waiting to be discovered; if you stand on it you can look at the parkland and the gardens and up into the tall trees. Which is the tallest? Which is the greenest? Perhaps the children can decide!

Spring 2016

The ancient Sweet Chestnut trees next to the Croquet Lawn hold a lot of wonder for the younger visitor. Gnarled and knotted, they twist and turn, full of wonder and intrigue…they are hundreds of years old and hold lots of secrets, for sure.

Photo: Val Corbett

A turf maze is also waiting to be solved – one child can stand in the middle whilst the other works out how to reach them and vice versa – who will be the quickest? Benches overlook the maze for adults to enjoy the Gardens whilst keeping an eye on the children. But before you leave the Gardens, did you spot something really extraordinary? A maple tree along the meandering paths holds a special surprise which children can chance upon! Will they know what it is? It is of course a ‘dinosaur’s egg’! Have you got lots of energy? A Nature Trail (approximately one mile) starts from just beyond the Temple of the Winds and follows a circular route back to the Ha Ha at the end of the Yew avenue. It’s a pleasant and interesting walk through woodlands, open parkland and a wetland meadow from where the clay was dug to make the bricks to build Doddington Hall. Look out for birds and wildlife! If you’re feeling really energetic, families can walk up to the pyramid, which was built in 2014. You can see it from the Ha Ha – it’s in the distance and really small but younger visitors love to have their photo taken in the doorway and it’s a brilliant chance to learn about perspectives. After all that fun, you can re-fuel with a drink and a snack in one of Doddington’s two cafes in the Farm Shop and the Giant Bicycle Store.

Iris Week at Doddington Hall runs from Sunday 29 May to Sunday 5 June and is a chance for visitors to enjoy Doddington’s famous irises (Gardens open daily). It includes an Eye-Spy Trail for children which will take you through the grounds around the Hall. Will you be able to spot all the seasonal ﬂowers? Don’t forget to spot all the veg in the Kitchen Garden as well! Perhaps they will give our younger visitors some cookery ideas. Admission applies. Normal opening days are Wednesdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays.

Doddington Hall. Doddington LN6 4RU

T: 01522 694308

www.doddingtonhall.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Rushmoor Country Park

Fun for the whole family Young or old, happy or grouchy - you will ﬁnd something to make you smile at Rushmoor Country Park... Lamb feeding, pony rides and bird demos are all included in your entry. Feed the goats and ponies or enjoy a walk round Rachael’s gardens – there maybe tadpoles and frogs in the pond. For further information: T: 01507 327184 E: info@rushmoorpark.co.uk www.rushmoorpark.co.uk

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….

So much fun for everyone at Rushmoor Country Park We have something to make everyone smile this Spring Bird handling & interactive ﬂying demos during the day – so if you have wondered what it is like to hold a hawk or an owl, today is the day to ﬁnd out…

Come and meet our baby lambs, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, ponies and more...

OLIDAY H K N Mon G BA 30th SPRIN LAMBS May THE ny legs? NGE OF CHALLEany lambs? How ma win How m

to em up Count th le prize. tt li a

Don’t forget...

• Tea room • Childrens parti es • Free parking • Schools welcom e

FATHER’SSuDndAayY Today is Dad’s Day!

19th June

Treat him to FREE entry to the park and a FREE bacon bun if you arrive before 2pm.

Fun for all the family... Louth Road, North Cockerington, Louth LN11 7DY

www.rushmoorpark.co.uk 46

Spring 2016

T: 01507 327184

E: info@rushmoorpark.co.uk

DAYS OUT

All inclusive fun at Jubilee Park...

Jubilee Park What’s in Jubilee Park for you?

Woodhall Spa’s Jubilee Park has more attractions than ever for a family day out and prides itself on being all inclusive for visitors of all ages and abilities.

• Open air heated swimming and paddling pools

The open air heated swimming pool programme has extra hours and sessions this year, from extra early adult only morning swims and half price offers for seniors on Tuesdays to fun sessions with inﬂatables, aquacise and swimming lessons. Carers go free at any time and the facility has a poolside hoist and easy access steps. With an average water temperature of 86oF- 29oC and heated changing rooms, it’s a perfect way to have fun and stay ﬁt, whatever the weather.

• Lovely pleasure gardens for picnics or just relaxing

The charitable trust than runs the community park has continued to replant and improve the pleasure gardens and the iconic bandstand will be refurbished in time for a special Royal picnic in the park on 12th June to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. This is just one of a variety of special events, which include increasingly popular midnight swims and open air cinema, planned for this summer. Timetables and full details can be downloaded from the website. The park is entirely self-sufﬁcient with no public funding. Anyone can become a supporter or volunteer- handy packs listing everything you can do to help- from sponsorship to ways you can support without spending money- are available at the park or on the website.

• Fully equipped children’s play park

• Croquet • Tennis • Outdoor table tennis • Bowls • Pitch and put/crazy golf • Caravan and camp site • Near Viking Way and Water Railway cross county cycle and walking routes • Easy access to Woodhall Spa’s famous woods, shops and restaurants For further information: T: 01526 353478 www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk

Discover Woodhall Spa’s best kept secret

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR 2016 STAY

• Heated outdoor swimming pool • Children’s Play Park • Games Hut • Tennis & Cricket • Croquet & Bowls • Cafe & Picnic areas

Camping & caravaning site

gs a

llo

we d

set amongst beautiful woods Toilet & shower block, laundry and washing up facilities, disabled wet room, baby change and wash area available. For more information or to book:

01526 353478

Stixwould Road, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QH

www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

Woodland Trust Nature Detectives

Photo: Tattershall Carrs by Katherine Jaiteh WTML

Best places to see bluebells across the East Midlands with the Woodland Trust Visiting a bluebell wood is one of the UK’s great seasonal highlights and the Woodland Trust has lots for you to visit for free across the East Midlands this spring. When bluebells ﬁrst appear can vary depending on early spring temperatures, so when you see your ﬁrst bluebells you can record them on the Trust’s Big Bluebell Watch survey to help track their arrival across the country. 48

Spring 2016

Some of the best East Midlands bluebell woods to visit... Tattershall Carrs, Tattershall, Lincolnshire Tattershall Carrs forms the last remaining remnants of ancient, wet, alder-dominated woodland that once ringed the margins of the Fens. It also boasts a fascinating history – the wood was part of RAF Woodhall Spa during the Second World War, and was home to the famous 617 ‘Dambusters’ squadron.

Oldmoor Wood, Strelley, Nottingham A mere ﬁve miles from Nottingham city centre, Oldmoor lies in a surprisingly rural area. Within the wood is a small circular pond with beautiful old yews standing on its central island. A network of tracks form easy circular walks through the wood.

Bow Wood, nr Matlock Bath, Derbyshire A good example of the semi-natural oak and birch woodland that once cloaked this area. The Wickey Tor offers stunning views towards the north east across the valley. Well used by local people walking the Shining Cliffs complex of paths.

Everdon Stubbs, Daventry, Northamptonshire Ancient woodland with a mix of common and sessile oak, lowland birch, sweet chestnut and sycamore. Bluebells and rare wild daffodils provide colour in spring. It is believed part of a prehistoric burial site remains on the site’s northern boundary.

Burrough’s Wood, Ratby, Leicestershire Burroughs Wood encompasses two large sites, one with ancient origins, the other a newer woodland. A well-used site, particularly along the public and permissive bridleways. Getting around is easy, with gentle and undulating slopes.

An enchanting carpet of native bluebells is a great indicator of ancient woodland, which is one of our rarest and most irreplaceable habitats, covering just 2% of the country’s landmass. It’s hugely important to look after the ﬂora and fauna within, so the charity is asking visitors to bluebell woods to stick to marked trails and avoid trampling bluebells so they can be preserved in both the short and long term. This year the Trust is launching a new Nature Detectives Family Trail app for use at 24 of its sites, including Everdon Stubbs in Daventry, Northamptonshire, Tattershall Carrs in Lincolnshire and Burrough’s Wood in Ratby, Leicestershire. The augmented reality app brings two woodland fairies, Blue and Belle, to life as they lead families on a fun, magical trail through the woods. There are challenges and activities to complete at marker points in each wood, to stop Foot the Giant trampling on the precious bluebells. The free Nature Detectives Family Trail app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

All about bluebells... Bluebells can be found, usually, between midApril and late May, when the ﬂowers can make the most of light reaching the forest ﬂoor before the full woodland canopy casts its shade.

They can provide a valuable, early source of nectar for bees, hoverﬂies, butterﬂies and other insects. Occasionally you will spot white bluebells in amongst the violet - this is caused by a genetic mutation

HALF OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION OF BLUEBELLS ARE HERE IN THE UK. Bluebells are an ancient woodland indicator – meaning that they commonly appear in areas that have been wooded since 1600AD, and reply upon the unique conditions this habitat can provide. Trampling is not the only threat that bluebells face: There is a fear that nonnative Spanish bluebells are cross-breeding with our English bluebells. Learn how to tell the difference on our website. Since 1998 it has been illegal for anyone to collect pick native bluebells from the wild for sale.

To download the app and ﬁnd a list of participating woods: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/familytrail www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

Wild Woodcraft

What a wild adventure! I have a passion for education and inspiring our future generations to follow their dreams and fulﬁl their potential. I too have been inspired to learn new skills, take myself out of my comfort zone and embark upon a new venture alongside Matthew Chapman. Together it is our desire to enable children and adults to experience the outdoors through a Wild Woodcraft experience. For the last six years I have been fortunate to teach at Tealby School, an innovative forward thinking village primary with an inspirational head unafraid to lead her staff into new inventive ways of teaching.

My first experience of the forest was assisting Matthew with a group of children back in the summer of 2015. I couldn’t believe was it! Seeing children amazed at the working together Matthew Chapman learning and to achieve difficult came along as a enthusiasm tasks including the parent helper and which took preparation, cooking it soon became and eating of a place.” clear that he rabbit astounded had amazing me. Watching the lighting of knowledge and expertise a fire with a primitive bow in the area of bush craft, drill and seeing the children survival and primitive skills. model this to light their own fires took education Matthew pinpoints the time and learning into a new when he developed an dimension. interest in wildlife and the outdoors to when he was Matthew and I are now a young boy aged seven. working together as Wild At this time he watched a Woodcraft to offer schools weasel and a rat fight to the the opportunity to experience death, (the weasel won!) The high quality outdoor learning. passion for the outdoors was We are offering experience born! days to other schools to enable more children to Matthew was encouraged participate in this invaluable and supported to obtain experience. It is our belief the required qualifications that woodcraft is suitable necessary to become a for all ages and abilities of Forest School leader and children and adults. has since attended courses We offer school trips, both in primitive skills with a single day experiences and nationally leading expert, also tailor made residential Will Lord. From this point on courses. During these the school’s Forest School experiences participants experience was intensified Four years ago, Tealby School embarked upon a journey into Forest School with all children experiencing learning outdoors “I in local woodlands.

“It not only creates enthusiasm and enjoyment but also promotes social interactions, team work and problem solving skills. 50

Spring 2016

and taken to another level with Matthew at the helm because he had developed a scheme of outdoor learning for children from Reception to Year 6 and beyond that was ﬁrmly rooted in skills development.

can choose from a range of activities to suit the needs or curricular objectives of the group. Activities include; fire lighting with various tinders and ignitions or the bow drill method, knife safety and carving, shelter making, foraging, cooking (with or without pots), preparing rabbit or fish using stone age tools, cordage making ,water collection and purification, and games involving sensory awareness and tracking skills. During school holidays we are offering a range of experience days which follow a daily theme. For example, using tools to complete a project such as making a boomerang or spear, fire lighting, cooking, arts and crafts, shelter building, games and a whole variety of other activities.

For those seeking a bigger adventure we offer camp outs in a beautiful private woodland. During these camps the children work on woodcraft projects for example carving stone age spears from animal bones, making bow and arrows, creating shelters that can be slept in and a whole host of other adventurous activities that challenge the mind and allow the survival mechanisms to kick in. Private parties for birthdays and other occasions can also be booked offering an exciting tailor made party experience in a beautiful outdoor setting. There are even experiences for adults who wish to challenge themselves and work colleagues to work in teams to survive a Wild Woodcraft corporate primitive team building day!

Maria Charles has been a primary school teacher for 13 years. For any additional information: Facebook: Wild Woodcraft www.wildwoodcraft.net www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

We are very excited that The Lincolnshire Show 2016 will soon be here…

Ruddocks of Lincoln

…and our preparations are already underway! Despite last year’s show being a great success, with families flooding into the showground and smiles all round, this year we hope will be even bigger and better. The pressure is definitely on, as we are keeping our fingers crossed for some nice warm weather too! On the 22nd and 23rd of June we hope that you will be joining us at the Lincolnshire Showground, stand 1 The Mews, for both a fun and educational day out! Catering for a younger audience, the show will be packed with food, farming and animal stands for the children to learn something new at and, most importantly, celebrate their hometown – all things Lincolnshire! The Lincolnshire Show is definitely worth a day, or two, out of school as the local produce and traditional farm machinery, along with all of the animals on show, mean that there is plenty to experience and actively learn about. It’s even school trip worthy we think! Here at the Ruddocks stand we will be launching our new season autumn workshop brochures and there may just be a few summer holiday activities in there too for our juniors to get involved with. Amongst plenty of two-day only special offers and an exciting prize draw, we will also be running various demonstrations throughout the day, including that of Pilot Pens. Parents and guardians, do not despair. As you can see, there is plenty for you to get involved with and enjoy on the day too – it’s not just about the children you know! Sit watching a breath-taking performance with a nice cold beverage, or browse the 600 trade stands that will be there on the day – Ruddocks are just one of many.

Like the children, we think that you too should be celebrating everything good about Lincolnshire so pop by on either (or both) of the days to browse our local souvenirs and gift ideas. Tickets for the show are available to purchase now via www.lincolnshireshow. co.uk/tickets or, alternatively, can be bought on the day. You will be pleased to hear that under 5s get in for free, and there are cheaper tickets for families, children (5-16 years) and young adults (17-22 years) too. All that’s left to say is, get your friends and family together and be sure to keep these dates in your diary free! We look forward to seeing you in June.

For our full range of products and art/craft workshops, visit our website www.ruddocksoﬂincoln.co.uk or pop in-store, Monday to Sunday.

For further information: T: 01522 528285 www.ruddocksoﬂincoln.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

A beautiful beginning to ballet and dance...

Passion 2 Dance

Providing dance classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre and Acro Dance and we welcome students of all abilities and ages â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starting as young as 18 months old with our Mummy & Me Classes. We treat each child individually and whether they just want to have fun or focus on exams, we can help them achieve their goal. We understand that the social aspect of dance lessons is just as important as the technique! Our teachers are accredited and qualiďŹ ed with governing dance bodies including BBO and IDTA and dancers are able to take graded exams but we offer other opportunities to gain recognition for their hard work and dedication. We have more than 35 classes per week which are provided at convenient times, both mornings and afternoons in the week and Saturday mornings. Throughout the year and during summer school holidays Passion2Dance run special events and workshops. Their May holiday workshop is themed

Alice in Wonderland and a Mad Hatters Tea Party. These events incorporate musical theatre and different dance styles and offer a good chance to make new friends. For further information T: 01522 691292 www.passion2dance.co.uk

Childrens Dance Classes Ballet, Tap, Street Jazz, Musical Theatre and Acro Dance with some classes starting from 18months Enchanting & Stylish Childrens Themed Birthday Parties Holiday Workshops and Special Events Onsite Boutique Cafe/Lounge Free Onsite Car Park

Get Little Feet Inspired...

Passion 2 Dance Studios 6 Farrier Road Lincoln LN6 3RU 01522 691 292 info@passion2dance.co.uk www.passion2dance.co.uk Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/passion2dance.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

Image: Monkey Business Images. Shutterstock.com

WHAT’S ON

Family fun & events

Find out What’s On near you... Saturday 21st May Kids Craft Fair and Fun Day at Washinborough Community Centre A craft fair and fun day exclusively for kids! Following the success of the craft and gift fair in November we will be holding another event which promises to be bigger and better than last year! We have a whole range of different craft workshops running for children (and adults!) of all ages to get involved in. We will also be holding a baby room this year with lots of activities, gifts and services for you to explore with the younger ones. Hopefully we will have the weather on our side for the day as we will have a bouncy castle, a soft play area as well as many other outdoor activities! Washingborough Community Centre, Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, Lincolnshire,LN4 1AB 56

Spring 2016

Sat 21st-Sun 22nd May

A Pocketful of Grimms at The Terry O Toole Theatre Let the magical Storyteller whisk you away to a land of fables to explore some of the most famous Grimm fairy tales ever told, brought to glorious life in a rich mix of physical theatre, clowning, puppetry, music and much more. From the winners of the Primary Times Children’s Choice Award 2014 and Three Weeks Editors’ Choice Award at Edinburgh Fringe 2015. Age Guide: 5+ years. Tickets: £6 / Family Ticket £20 The Terry O Toole Theatre, North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX T: 01522 883311 www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk

Wild Art Weekend at Belton House Join us as and create works of art out of natural materials. Be inspired by Belton’s woodland and create your own work of art from nature. Meet the play team in the playground to get started. Booking Not Needed. Time 12noon-3pm. General admission prices apply. Belton House, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG32 2LS T: 01476 566116 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/events

Don’t miss out... For full details on all What’s On and Events in your area visit www.mollysguide.co.uk

Saturday 28th-Sunday 29th May

Monday 30th May

Spring Craft Fair at Gainsborough Old Hall

Sheep Shearing Day at Hardys Animal Farm

Back by popular demand is our huge Spring Craft Fair with colourful stalls and demonstrations from the best hand picked crafts people in the country. Each day will have different crafters joining us inside the hall and lining the gardens where you can enjoy afternoon tea at our cafe. A great way to see the magniﬁcent building and buy all your gifts and home ware for the amazing price of just £1. Gainsborough Old Hall, Parnell Street, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire www.gainsborougholdhall.com

Saturday 28th-Monday 30th May

Medieval Archery Weekend at Tattershall Castle Test your skills with a longbow over the weekend with the Wolfshead Bowmen. Come & see if you can hit the target using a longbow. Taking residence all weekend the Wolfshead Bowmen re-enact medieval life with have-a-go archery. Includes talks on weapons & armour as well as a fantastic archery display. Dogs on leads welcome. 11am-4pm. General admission prices apply. Tattershall Castle, Sleaford Rd, Tattershall, LN4 4LR T: 01526 342543 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

The farm comes alive this time of year with the annual sheep shearing day. Hardys Animal Farm, Anchor Lane, Ingoldmells, Skegness, PE25 1LZ T: 01754 872267 www.hardysanimalfarm.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June Food Through Time at The Collection Food through time family fun day. Join us for a family fun day inspired by food throughout history. Visit the Roman food stall and make your own edible dormouse, as well as other £1 activities available through the day. The Collection, Danes Terrace, Lincoln, LN2 1LP T: 01522 782040 E: thecollection@lincolnshire.gov.uk For full details on all What’s On and Events in your area visit www.mollysguide.co.uk

Saturday 28th-Friday 3rd June

Poppy Trail at Hartsholme Country Park Join us to celebrate the arrival of the wave of poppies to Lincoln!! Explore Hartsholme Country Park by taking part in a poppy themed trail. Solve the puzzles & complete the challenges to ﬁnally claim your sweet treat! Cost £2.50 per child, booking essential. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 12pm-3pm at the Visitor Centre Hartsholme Country Park, Skellingthorpe Road, Lincoln, LN6 0EY T: 01522 873735 E: hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Sunday 29th May

Meet Peppa Pig at Rand Farm Park Oink. Oink! Everyone’s favourite pig, Peppa is visiting Rand Farm Park for the start of the May half term. See her at intervals throughout the day. No extra charge, all included in entry fee! Book farm admission online and SAVE! Rand Farm Park, Rand, Market Rasen, LN8 5NJ T: 01673 858904 www.randfarmpark.com/online-tickets

See our

FREE CHILD voucher on page 65

www.mollysguide.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Family fun & events

Wednesday 1st June The Minecraft Story Mode Spectacular Take the children on a journey with Jesse and his friends through the 5 episodes of the games. As well as the children creating unique short scenes and performances, there will be challenges, games and activities as well as a minecraft themed lunch and disco. At the end of the day parents are invited back to watch a showcase of the children’s performance. Limited spaces available, so book in advance. Please note whilst Minecraft Story Mode the game is for players aged 12, the content of the day is suitable for ages 5+. Cost £20 for the day. Food & drink is provided. T: 07958 045 243 / 01522 802295 E: hello@backgardendramacompany.co.uk Facebook: Waddington Village Hall, Lincoln

Sweet Nostalgia at The Museum of Lincolnshire Life

Image: MaszaS. Shutterstock.com

Camping out for nature! RSPB’s Big Wild Sleepout: 29th31st July 2016 Grown-ups and children alike are in for a treat over the upcoming summer holidays as the RSPB will once again be urging nature lovers to spend a night under the stars for its annual Big Wild Sleepout. The charity is challenging children and their families across the UK to go on a miniadventure, get wild and discover what goes bump in the night with the amazing nocturnal wildlife on their doorstep. Happy campers across the country will be encouraged to sleep out in their own gardens or outdoor spaces to get close to nature & discover which creatures they share their homes with.