Newsnk winter 2015 final

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Check out the latest food hygiene ratings pages 8-9

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Winter 2015

NK Plan sets out vision for making a difference

Council calls for residents to shape its service plan up to 2019 The Council is setting out its plan for continuing to make a real difference for residents, businesses and communities in North Kesteven.

Whilst undertaking thorough consultation through to January on its three-year vision to ensure delivery of excellent services and robust responses to the main challenges facing the District, the Council is clear in its aspirations.

The NK Plan describes what the Council plans to do, how, and the resources to deliver it; simplifying its commitment to continued and expanded service delivery, into 15 focused ambitions surrounding: > Jobs growth and economic regeneration; > Increased supply and quality of housing; > Support for safe, cohesive, fit and active communities; > High quality, effective, efficient and customer-focused services.

These link to the Council’s four priorities:

Our Economy, Our Homes, Our Communities and Our Council.

The Plan has been shaped and sharpened in its focus through consultation with partners and will be further influenced by residents’ input to ensure clarity of purpose in relation to the Council’s vision for its 100 Flourishing Communities.

The conduct of 1,000 conversations over 100 days with residents, tenants, Members, businesses, young people and partners continues. > Find out more detail and contribute at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/cpconsultation Alongside the NK Plan, the Council is also preparing its budgets through to 2019, confident of achieving balanced books whilst developing new and improved service provision and continuing to invest in new homes, job creation and community resilience.

These will all be settled by the Full Membership of the Council in February.

The NK Plan captures the Council’s ambitions for 2016-19, simplifying extensive delivery plans into 15 ambitions linked to four priorities Our Economy: support business growth and jobs in NK; regenerate NK; drive investment in NK. Key activities for next year include: > Work with partners to drive forward regeneration projects in Sleaford and North Hykeham > Further develop Teal Park / LN6 > Support for the next phase of the International Bomber Command Memorial development.

Our Homes: adopt the local plan; increase the supply of housing in NK; maintain and improve housing in NK; provide high quality housing services across NK. Key activities for next year include: > Begin construction of at least 57 new Council houses > Re-model Sleaford’s Newfield Road estate > Complete the Local Plan by December 2016 > Progress key development sites in Sleaford and Witham St Hughs > Bring at least 20 empty homes back into use.

Our Communities: attractive, clean and sustainable NK; safe and inclusive NK; fit, active and vibrant NK; supportive NK; community NK. Key activities for next year include: > Launching the newly refurbished NK Sports Centre in North Hykeham as ONE NK > Launching our new 5 year Community Plan > Investing in the ongoing roll-out of high speed broadband.

Our Council: customer focused NK; high quality, value for money NK; open and accountable NK. Key activities for next year include: > Relocation of the Metheringham Refuse Depot > Roll-out of new strategies around customer access and ICT > Ongoing delivery of the Council’s transformation programme and sound financial strategy > Implement a strategy focused on staff skills.

Our Communities

pages 6 & 7

01529 414155

Wondrous walks in a Winter Wonderland Winter offers some of the most wonderful opportunities to see North Kesteven in all of its stripped-back beauty.

With countless countryside paths and urban routes criss-crossing the District, step out over the holidays to discover the District in a new light.

On Saturday January 2 get the New Year off to a brisk start with a stroll along Sleaford’s riverside (pictured) starting at 10.30am from Cogglesford Watermill. This is a free activity.

For more ideas of activities and family fun throughout the winter see pages 14 & 15.

Our Homes

pages 10 & 11 info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Our Economy

pages 12 & 13

inside

newsnk is your newspaper

Commanding Memorial Mass gathering of Bomber Command Veterans in District 4

Healthy eating Pull-out guide on food hygiene ratings to inform your dining out choices 8 & 9

Saddle up Elite cyclists say the new cycling facilities at ONE NK are among the best 5

Safe as Houses New initiative that raises the standards on private rented housing 10

Hugh’s on it Join in with TV Chef Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s Waste Not campaign 6

Sleaford speeds ahead Supersonic entrepreneur praises town’s manufacturing prowess 13

Neighbourly needs Emergency aid packages ready to rollout for the needy this winter 7

Christmas changes Dates and details of changes to holiday bin collections 16

To stand still would be to fall backwards – which none of us wants

The newspaper is edited by the Communications Team at North Kesteven District Council.

Each issue costs 6.3 pence to produce and print and 9.75 pence to deliver direct to your door.

Editorial Phone: 01529 308061 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/northkestevendc Twitter: @northkestevendc INFO-LINKS North Hykeham Temporarily relocated to the North Hykeham Town Offices, Fen Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8EY Billinghay Cottage & Parish Office The Old Vicarage Cottage, Church Street, Billinghay, Lincoln, LN4 4HN Branston Connect Branston Community Library, Station Road, Branston, LN4 1LH Heckington Parish Office St Andrew’s Street, Heckington, NG34 9RE Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ Navenby Village Office The Venue, Grantham Road, Navenby, LN5 0JJ Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office The Hammond Hall, Lincoln Road, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HQ Waddington Parish Council High Street, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9RF Washingborough Civic Office Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, LN4 1AB

This document is available in large print, Braille, audio, electronic formats such as CD, or in a different language.

Printed on Recycled Paper

2 newsnk Winter 2015

4 8&9

Council Leader Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE

“

One thing that is particularly key in our thoughts as a Council right now is the need to forecast and future-proof for population and economic growth.

And this is something were are working very hard on through the emerging Central Lincolnshire Local Plan.

We know that population growth is inevitable, especially in North Kesteven which for many years has been one of the fastest growing areas of the country, and we must plan for that.

Birth rates are rising and people are living longer. People increasingly wish to move here, drawn by the quality of life factors we all enjoy, increasing availability of work and for a more affordable retirement. On top of this, people wish to live independently for longer and in smaller family units.

All of this generates a need for more housing, which we must seek to accommodate in the most appropriate possible way, ensuring it is delivered in the right numbers, at the right time, in the right places and at the right pace.

These homes are not just bricks, mortar and profit for developers; they are places for our grandchildren and the people who run our schools, shops and healthcare to live.

Those people create vibrant communities and support thriving economies, keep our shops open, drive the demand which regenerates our towns and inspire the arts, leisure and culture we all enjoy.

Through the Central Lincolnshire Plan we

are not solely focussed on housing growth, but on the whole package of delivering work opportunities alongside, driving economic ambition, protecting heritage and landscape assets and ensuring developers contribute too, supporting improved infrastructure.

People question why we need more housing at all. I say that if people are to contribute positively to our communities, they have to live somewhere; and to have good strong communities and attractive places to live, we must plan ahead.

To stand still would be to fall backwards and lose the facilities and services we currently enjoy, which surely none of us wants.

Times are changing in Local Government and I am pleased that collectively all of the Lincolnshire authorities are making an approach to Central Government to release powers, funds and responsibilities to direct our own destinies closer to home.

Through such devolution, I truly believe that Lincolnshire will gain the freedoms and flexibility to flourish and prosper, in a way that it has not been able to before because of the ways control has been centralised on where and how economic, social, health and transport enhancements could take place.

We are in the early stages of building a convincing case to Government for certain aspects to be devolved and North Kesteven is

You can rely on this little bird to tell you Follow us on Twitter @northkestevendc @businessnk @nkcentre @discover_nk @talkplanning

You can also follow Council news and information at:

Online: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/northkestevendc Instagram: instagram.com/northkestevendc

playing an active part in that.

After almost 43 years on this Council, I remain convinced that local decision-making by people who know the local circumstances intimately is the most effective model.

This is why I think the creation of a Greater Lincolnshire authority, sitting over the existing county and district structure for some of the larger issues devolved down from Westminster, is the best model; with each council feeding into it whilst remaining intact for the day to day delivery of services they currently excel at locally.

The recent Made in Sleaford showcase was a real highlight for the Council.

We wanted to celebrate the amazing range of products created, designed and manufactured in Sleaford, to draw on Sleaford’s historic importance and to illustrate the pioneering zeal of its industry today.

People’s eyes were truly opened to what Sleaford has to offer, both now and in its potential for growth and economic impact.

Businesses, schools and residents fully engaged in this and I truly hope we can all maintain that momentum moving into the New Year when, collectively – as a community with a passion for improving Sleaford’s fortunes – we can all pull together and reach a consensus on the best ways to promote regeneration.”

Having your say on Council plans The NK Community Plan sets out the challenges and concerns facing the District and helps to inform the actions in the NK Plan.

It is important that residents have the opportunity to express their views, needs and local priorities in helping to create the plan alongside the PartnershipNK group of partners.

To be involved in creating the 2016 plan call 01529 414155 or email: partnership_nk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

You can inform the direction of the Council and how it sets its budgets.

Corporate priority consultation events: December 8 - North Hykeham Town Council, 7pm; December 9 - NKDC, Sleaford; 7pm.

Council Tax consultation events: January 25 – NKDC, Sleaford, 7pm; February 4 –Terry O’Toole Theatre, North Hykeham, 7pm.

Drop-in, call 01529 414155 or email: research@n-kesteven.gov.uk

News Focus

Talks underway for local power package Closer co-operation aims to deliver bold ambitions Councillors are to give detailed consideration to a proposed new way of delivering some key growth initiatives and driving further improvements for Greater Lincolnshire.

In response to a Government invitation for local areas to take on more responsibility for the way local fortunes are directed, in particular economic growth, all of Lincolnshire’s larger councils are looking towards closer co-operation.

They have made a joint bid to Government for devolved powers and funds and are currently considering how a new ‘combined authority’ – tasked with moving forward initiatives around growth, skills development, transport improvements, public protection, health and housing – would sit alongside the existing councils.

It would not seek to replace or duplicate existing arrangements, but to bring a range of opportunities for accelerating growth, prosperity and quality of life closer-to-home for local decision making and delivery.

Alongside North Kesteven, the partnership is made up of all the other nine district, county and unitary authorities stretching from the Humber to the Wash.

The discussions over governance arrangements and ongoing negotiations with Civil Servants are in anticipation of a decision by Government on whether to devolve a package of powers and funds to Lincolnshire to achieve a series of bold ambitions.

These would include: > Growth at a faster pace than anywhere else in the UK, increasing the area’s economic value by £8 billion, creating an additional 29,000 jobs and delivering 100,000 new homes – around a third of which are covered under the emerging Central Lincolnshire growth plans of NK, Lincoln and West Lindsey. > Redesigning local services for the administration of justice, health and social care, flood and water management and public safety. > Becoming a renewable energy and offshore wind capital of Europe. > Developing three defining economic sectors in agri-food, tourism and manufacturing & engineering. > Reviewing post-16 education and skills development. > Re-shaping further education provision to support transition from learning to work.

In advance of any decision on how a combined authority might operate, the ten council’s are each considering their stance on a joint committee – the Greater Lincolnshire Leadership Board – in readiness for taking on any new responsibilities.

North Kesteven’s Full Council will discuss this on December 17.

If successful, the Greater Lincolnshire partnership would most likely take charge in 2017 considering joint initiatives of strategic and overarching importance to the County as a whole.

Life expectancy in North Kesteven is higher than anywhere else in Lincolnshire.

Newly released figures show that a boy born between 2012 and 2014 can be expected to live to 81.5 years, on average, with a girl living to 83.9.

This is an increase of more than seven years for males and almost five years for females over the life expectancy for children born 20 years earlier, when NK children could expect the third highest longevity of life of all seven districts.

While life expectancy cannot be attributed or explained away by any particular circumstance, there are many quality of life factors within North Kesteven which undoubtedly contribute to increased physical and mental wellbeing.

The Council also works hard through its NK Wellbeing Service to support greater personal independence.

Hire bikes offer hop-on, hop-off ease for buzzing around Hykeham The Council has invested in a local version of London’s blue Boris Bikes – orange hire bikes.

Installed at the NK Centre as part of its refurbishment to ONE NK, the eight bikes are a further extension of the Council’s commitment to health, wellbeing and promoting sustainable travel options in and around North Hykeham.

They are part of Lincoln’s public bike hire scheme, operated by the County Council and set up with government funds to encourage sustainable travel.

The NK Centre station is one of five within North Hykeham, with a further one at Skellingthorpe (the most popular) and 13 more across the city.

Registered users can pick up and drop off the bikes at their convenience; maybe popping to the gym on them during their lunchbreak or parking up and heading to the shops or Witham Valley Country Park on them to avoid traffic congestion.

Cllr Lindsey Cawrey saddles up at the launch > Registration: £20 a year, giving hire rates of £1 per hour, £4 per day and first half hour free. > Pay-as-you-go: One hour £2, and no more than £5 for a full day. > To get started, call: 01522 370143 > Details: www.hirebikelincoln.co.uk

Superfast broadband stretches out

food hygiene ratings story

Three out of four food businesses in North Kesteven score the highest possible rating for food hygiene.

Of the 793 ratings issued by NKDC to businesses on the quality of their hygiene and food handling, 590 (75%) score a five and 737 (93%) score a four or a five.

In total 97.9% are rated three or above, which is the 10th best level of compliance across the country.

This reflects on the diligence of business owners and Council officers locally and can give consumers confidence in the standards of the food they buy and eat when dining out.

There has been a continual rise in levels of excellence as the Council works to encourage better practices among local food retailers, producers, caterers and establishments.

Every business should display their Food Hygiene Rating on a distinctive black and green sticker – and proudly so in most cases. If it cannot be seen you have a right to ask, or to vote with your feet if you don’t have confidence in what you can’t see. > When choosing where the eat, shop or dine out look up the ratings at www.food.gov.uk/ratings or pull out the centre pages of newsnk.

Low deprivation High longevity

More District homes will be connected to superfast Broadband speeds under plans being drafted to broaden an extensive investment in rural internet links.

NKDC is part of the Onlincolnshire partnership between local councils and BT which is on target to extend superfast broadband coverage to 89% of the county by the end of April, having already made the high-speed fibre technology available to more than 136,000 properties.

Beyond this, a second phase of work, extending coverage up to 95% by the end of 2017, is being planned.

Nocton looks set to do especially well

under the programme, with plans for an additional fibre broadband cabinet to be installed before April; meaning that most of the 210 households will be able to get much faster broadband speeds of more than 24Mbps.

Once improved Broadband is enabled locally, residents need to contact their internet service provider and upgrade to a superfast package.

The improvements have been made possible thanks to funding from Lincolnshire councils, BT, the Government and European Regional Development Fund.

For more on the project, visit: www.onlincolnshire.org

Taking exhilaration and exercise to new heights

North Kesteven remains one of the least deprived areas in the country.

Of all the 326 English local authority areas, NK sits in 266th position, which makes it the least deprived Lincolnshire district and in the lowest third of all English council areas based on the individual deprivation levels of its neighbourhoods.

This is consistent with the 2010 position of 270th on the table.

NK is the only one of the seven Lincolnshire districts to have none of its neighbourhoods classed within the most deprived 20%, while 48 of its 64 neighbourhoods are classed among the least deprived communities.

There are still significant challenges which the Council has identified and remains committed to redressing in terms of social isolation, financial pressures, digital inclusion and housing need.

Feel the thrill of flying with the new facilities delivered through Phase 3 of the £3.6m refurbishment of North Hykeham’s leisure centre.

ArtsNK’s Silk and Hoops Workshop with Aerial Dance Champion Orissa Kelly is at ONE NK on Saturday, January 23, 2 – 4pm.

Bin collection day changes

Refuse collection dates change for everyone over Christmas.

Please see back page for more details.

> For participants aged 12 through to adults, costing £20. > Details and booking with Amy Dalton on 01529 411197.

Winter 2015 newsnk 3

Memorial Spire

Broader vision spans the world

The 31.09m spire, which stands sentinel to the contribution of Bomber Command during the war years, is the first component of the £10m International Bomber Command Memorial Centre to be completed.

Ultimately around 70,000 names will feature on walls encircling the spire.

This first phase features the names of 26,296 aircrew; the losses from both 1 and 5 Groups of Bomber Command which were headquartered in Lincolnshire, to whom the memorial was initially set to be dedicated.

Over time the vision has broadened and will now include the names of people lost from bases across the UK and the world.

It is unique and distinct as a centre for remembrance, recognition and reconciliation in the way it reflects on the stories of everyone associated with Bomber Command, from all perspectives: aircrew, groundcrew, political, operational, official, local and at the sharp-end in Germany.

There will also be an interpretation and education centre, peace gardens and digital archive to complement the memorial – all set for completion in June 2017 subject to the outstanding £3.5m needed to fulfil the full vision.

When operational the centre will function as a facility for the whole community, attract around 80,000 visitors from around the world to North Kesteven, contribute around £2.25m to the economy and enhance the District’s broader aviation heritage attractions.

Making contact

For details, to make donations, contribute items or voluntary support to the archive project or participate in an exclusive monthly tour as the Centre continues to take shape, contact Director Nicky Barr.

Email: events@internationalbcc.co.uk Call: 01778 421420 Website: Internationalbcc.co.uk

44 newsnk newsnk Winter Winter 2015 2015

Schoolchildren lead the tributes

“Bomber Boys’ souls shone down” Bomber Command veterans gather in District at new memorial This fond reflection on the spirit of lost comrades was just one of the poignant remarks of the 312 Bomber Command veterans who gathered in the District for the unveiling of the new International Bomber Command Memorial.

The veterans and broader 2,600 guests including senior political, military and ambassadorial guests from 18 countries were bathed in glorious autumn sunshine for this momentous event – the largest and possibly the last such gathering of Bomber Command crew.

They ranged in age from 91 to 103 and travelled from across the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Malta, Holland, Andorra and Ireland; representing a fifth of the estimated 1,600 surviving ground and aircrew of a total 125,000 who served.

In North Kesteven they found the warmest of welcomes from a District which is immensely proud of its rich aviation heritage.

The event included a moving recreation of a crew’s experience based on IBCC archive material, poetry from Heighington schoolchildren, the premiere of a specially-composed anthem for Bomber Command by massed male voices and contributions

by RAF College Cranwell Band and celebrity musicians Jim Dooley and Charlotte Mellor.

Compere, broadcaster Dan Snow described the spire as a ‘beautiful memorial in a stunning setting’ and directly addressed the veterans with thanks ‘for your stalwart defence of our freedoms’.

The undoubted highlight was the fly-past tributes by a series of bombers past and present, associated with the Command squadrons, including the Dakota, Blenheim, Tornadoes, Hawks, and one of the Vulcan’s last flights.

The Avro Lancaster followed on later.

“

Under a beautiful blue sky, the Memorial looked superb in the morning sunlight, as did the surrounding tablets with the names of some 26,000 aircrew who did not survive the sortie they set off on.

That number included five of my own crew shot down over Belgium when I was not flying with them. One of them, the mid upper gunner had a six month old son when he was killed. That child, now 72, was with me on the day.

We have been meeting over the last 20 years or so and this was a further step in his desire to be closer to the father he never knew.

For myself the most moving and nostalgic part of the proceedings was the playlet by the drama students.

When the three males started to re-enact the simulated raid my mind went back to the days when I was doing the same thing, it was very real and I am sure that many of the veterans were on the same wavelength as me.

It was a day of nostalgia, so well organised by Nicky Barr and her team and blessed by good weather.

I look forward to visiting the Memorial and some quiet time there looking in detail at the tablets and names.”

Heighington primary pupils are becoming intimately involved with the emerging International Bomber Command Memorial Centre.

After composing and performing poems and laying flowers at the opening ceremony, 26 children from the village school were the first to place poppies on the walls of names for an annual commemoration.

Satisfying requests from all over the world for individual tributes, each child had a list of names to find on the walls and a supply of poppies.

Interested in the stories behind the names, they are learning more about those whose names they marked.

Half of the children involved have parents serving in the RAF locally.

Commanding gift

Reflections on the unveiling by District Councillor Sqn Ldr Geoffrey Whittle DFM, who flew on 16 missions for Bomber Command as an observer in Lancasters, based at from Ludford Magna, aged just 19.

IBCC Trust chairman Tony Worth, Cllr Ogden and David Harrison Officially commissioning the Spire, Earl Howe recalled Winston Churchill’s prescient words of 1940: ‘The fighters are our salvation but the bombers alone provide the means of victory.’

“And so it proved,” said Earl Howe, “Thanks to their victory, the victory of Bomber Command, we all enjoy our freedom.”

Tony Worth, Lincolnshire’s previous Lord Lieutenant who instigated the memorial plan in 2009, thanked all of the supporters and donors, volunteers, trustees, designers and builders for their dedication as well as the ‘enthusiastic support from planners and the community of North Kesteven’.

As one of the charities supported

by NKDC Chairman Cllr Gill Ogden during her civic year the Memorial has received an unexpected boost.

Having learned of the cause through her efforts, the F&PC Scotto Charitable Trust has donated £10,000 to The International Bomber Command Centre Memorial Trust.

F&PC Scotto trustee David Harrison said the charity had an emphasis on education and opportunities for young people and felt it was important to demonstrate to future generations the enormous sacrifice these gallant young airmen made. The Centre stood out as a national memorial and he hoped to help fulfil aims to ensure their memories lived on.

News Focus

In the saddle for new challenge

With ongoing support from NKDC the 2016 Lincoln Cycling Festival will build on the format of last summer’s National Championships.

This will include a Sportive for local riders to try out the professional circuit over a range of distances, an uphill dash, criterium, castle circuits, children’s and junior rides and new Grand Prix races for men and women.

The Festival will run from May 13 to 15 next year, centred on Uphill Lincoln.

Ian Emmerson, who was at the helm of the Grand Prix for most of its 60 years, praised NKDC for ‘embracing the whole cycling thing and trying to get more people, more active more often’.

As the country’s premier cycle race, the Lincoln Grand Prix has undoubted benefits on NK’s broader economy and the wellbeing and participation of District residents.

In the Sportive on May 14 local amateur riders can cover: > 30 miles: The distance for the Elite riders in the Criterium on May 13; > 63 miles: The distance for the women’s Lincoln Grand Prix (a new race for 2016): > 103 miles: the exact distance of the men’s Lincoln Grand Prix on May 15.

All routes will take in a lap of the Grand Prix circuit to experience the fearsome 1 in 6 cobbled climb of Michaelgate like the pros. > See the Lincoln Grand Prix website.

New cycle studio energises users Elite cyclists in the ONE NK Cycle Studio, from left to right: Russell Downing, Jon Mold, Hannah Walker, Kiera McVitty and Dean Downing. Photo: Phil Crow

Elite riders say ONE NK is ‘great’ Sports Centre refurb delivers facilities of a professional standard Elite cyclists have heaped praise on the ‘inspirational’ new facilities installed by NKDC within its ongoing £3.6m refurbishment of the NK Centre in North Hykeham.

Organisers of the 2016 Lincoln Festival of Cycling chose the innovative new Cycle Studio within the re-configured sports centre to officially launch the new event, which now includes more opportunities for amateur and professional participation.

After touring the facilities the five elite professional riders who helped to launch the new Festival and 61st Grand Prix each spoke highly of the support and encouragement

NKDC was offering cyclists through its investment in the state-of-the-art gym and cycle training facilities at the sports centre taking shape as ONE NK; as well as through its provision of new hire bikes for more leisurely use and aspiration to increase the network of cycleways locally.

The TRX equipment in the gym and virtual instructor facility within the range of cycle studio options were described as first-class and perfect to maintain winter training and inspire new starters.

“You’ve got great facilities here for people to come and train on and to build up for the Festival; they can

get out on the circuit and really enjoy the great scenery around here,” said Hannah Walker.

“People inspired by the riders they saw and the atmosphere they experienced at last year’s Nationals need to come and see these facilities and try it out.”

Fellow women’s elite cyclist Kiera McVitty felt that anyone should feel they could have a go. “It’s not about the bike, it’s about the legs and chipping away each week as you get fitter and fitter. Whether it’s five miles or 50 miles at the heart of cycling is riding together with friends or in a club and having fun,” she said.

District residents lead the way with their inspiring sporting excellence

Active users of the new cycle studio also raved about the new facilities.

With British cycling greats Mark Cavendish, Lizzie Armistead and Laura Trott bearing down on them from images captured at last summer’s National Road Race Cycling Championships local participants in an expanded range of exercise classes find themselves immersed at the heart of a peleton of top riders.

Coupled with the impressive new kit, they say the bold, striking photography inspires them on bikes which are unique to the area.

Malcolm Sanders (72) said the classes were “much better, with more space and much improved bikes” than before the refurbishment.

“It’s really energising and will be an undoubted success,” he said.

Cycling partner Paul Smith (59) from Thorpe on the Hill anticipates increasing his frequency in the studio. “With the lighting, the music and the pictures surrounding you, the environment is great. It’s a tremendous step forward,” he said.

Instructor Nicki Littlefair is most excited after 18 years leading various classes at the NK Centre. “This is brilliant and the response has been really positive. You can easily lose yourself and feel that you’re at the heart of it all,” she said.

Receiving their awards, from left: Katie Gilman-Abel, Rockstar Games, Bella Williams and Rob Hazelwood, volunteers on the NK Health Walks team.

Gwen Lacey was unable to attend. Photos: Chris Vaughan participation in sport and the District Council’s ongoing investment of £7m in refurbished sports facilities in Sleaford and North Hykeham, as well as its routine programme of active health engagement.

This includes the GP referral scheme operating through Carre’s Grammar School and the NK Health Walks initiative which both improve physical and mental health and wellbeing and were both awarded as winning success stories.

Don’t forget that NKDC will be celebrating the contribution made by coaches, volunteers and participants through its own NK Community Champion Awards 2016.

Nominations are welcome now to the address on page 2 or email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Winners: > Active 4 Health – Gwen Lacey, Sleaford: Building on a 12 week exercise referral, having used physical activity to reduce medication and increase overall wellbeing. > Active Workplace – Rockstar, North Hykeham: Encouraging employees to cycle to work, subsidising gym membership and co-ordinating sports activities. > Contribution to Physical Activity – NK Health Walks: A series of 16 social strolls operating across the District engaging hundreds of participants. > Young Sportswoman of the Year – Bella Williams, Digby: Selected for England in mountain running after showing great dedication and drive. > Young Sportsman of the Year – Rob Hazelwood, Thorpe on the Hill; a TeamGB waterskier successfully competing at world championship level. > Young Sports Volunteer of the Year – Katie Gilman-Abel, North Hykeham: regularly volunteering with two clubs, as a trampoline and swimming coach. > Lifetime Achievement – Lincoln Grand Prix organiser Ian Emmerson.

Runners-up: > Active Workplace – Carre’s Grammar School, Sleaford. > Volunteer of the Year – Patsy Shields, Sleaford. > Sports Club – Sleaford’s Barge & Bottle Netball Club. > Veteran Sportsperson – Bill Rayner, Leasingham. > Young Disabled Sports Person – Thomas Talbot, Metheringham. > Sportsman of the Year – Jack Harvey of Bassingham.

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The sporting excellence of District residents continues to shine as an instructive inspiration to others.

Six of this year’s 14 Lincolnshire Sports Awards were won by local people who have excelled in their sports or helped others to improve their fitness and find enjoyment in exercise.

A further six runners-up awards were made to individuals from North Kesteven.

Sportspeople, volunteers, coaches and clubs were recognised for their fantastic sporting achievements over the past year, including two of the people and a company recognised in NKDC’s own Community Champion Awards in September.

The extent and breadth of District sporting excellence reflects on the area’s high levels of active

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Winter 2015 newsnk 5

Our Community

To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities

Celebrating NK links Who would you nominate for a Blue Plaque?

‘Waste Not Want Not’ TV personality and chef Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall is leading a campaign to get us all to think more about the waste we create – directly and indirectly – through our shopping habits.

In short he’s trying to stop perfectly good food going to waste – from each of us throwing out food based on a misunderstanding of best before dates through to the mass wastage, caused through supermarket contracts and consumer prejudices against wonky carrots and the like.

The key thing he needs is for people sign up to his pledge to help force the UK’s supermarkets

to stop wasting millions of tonnes of food; and also to learn a little more of what we can do to love food and hate waste. > See: www.wastenotuk.com He also wants supermarkets to distribute wasted food that is still fit to eat to deserving causes such as food banks instead of putting it in the bin.

This is consistent with the work of NKDC’s own Sustainability team, whose excellent electronic newsletter currently includes links to various websites and the pledge form. > See below for how to subscribe to the quarterly newsletter. > www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Free festive fayre Going cold turkey Christmas needn’t cost the earth – especially if you win a free hamper.

A hamper full of Lincolnshire food and drink is being offered by the Council’s Sustainability Team as a prize for subscribers to its newsletter.

Success will significantly reduce the expense of Christmas shopping.

To enter, simply sign up for a newsletter jam-packed with advice on cost-effective, energy-efficient lifestyle options that cut bills, protect the environment and help you stay warm. > Email: sustainNK@n-kesteven.gov.uk > Call: 01529 414155.

Closes at noon on December 15.

Restricted to NK residents only.

The newsletter contains a great Countdown to Christmas to help you reduce waste this winter.

Full of tips and ideas to help you get ready for the festive period, for saving you money, as well as food planners and recipe ideas for using up leftovers, it’s an absolute Christmas cracker.

Every year millions of tonnes of good food is thrown away, especially around Christmas.

With more than two million turkeys and 74 million mince pies put straight in the bin it’s time to check you’re only buying what you need. > www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

LEDs a bright idea Recycle right

Using LED lights on your Christmas tree instead of conventional bulbs can save you money.

They use a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs, producing less carbon emissions. Lasting longer and being recyclable when they do stop working, makes them the perfect choice for seasonal decorations.

Please check what you can put in your green-lidded recycling bin.

Yes to: Non-shiny wrapping paper cards and gift tags, tins, glass and plastic bottles, cardboard packaging.

No to: Christmas trees; shiny foil wrapping; decorations and lights, electrical items, toys, batteries, books, DVDs, CDs, polystyrene packaging.

Sign up to receive the sustainNK newsletter direct to your email inbox four times a year.

With many free competitions to win green goodies, the latest in local and national sustainability news & initiatives and tips for being more sustainable in your day to day life, it can help save you money too.

Call: 01529 414155 or email:sustainNK@n-kesteven.gov.uk

6 newsnk Winter 2015

Do you know any celebrated individuals, historic events or notable discoveries with connections to the District, worthy of being marked through a local scheme of commemorative plaques.

In response to a Royal Society of Arts report criticising an apparent dearth of heritage in North Kesteven, partly because there is no distinct process of singling out historic associations, NKDC wants to make more of its local assets.

While the famous English Heritage Blue Plaques are distinct to London, other towns and cities have adopted their own schemes for singling out buildings or locations for their links to prominent individuals or events.

In the Blue Plaque’s 150th anniversary year next year, Council Leader Marion Brighton OBE wants to hear of associations to the District which could be celebrated, such as: > Pioneering plastic surgery at Rauceby Hospital; > Lawrence of Arabia author TE Lawrence’s time at Cranwell and visits to Sleaford’s outdoor lido;

> Famous pilot Wing Commander Guy Gibson’s residency in Navenby; > Jet engine inventor Frank Whittle’s time in Sleaford during his work; > The world’s biggest seed company Sharpe’s in Sleaford, referenced by Charles Darwin in Origin of Species; > Ewerby’s link with the film Out of Africa through Denys Finch Hatton; > Global pop song writing sensation Bernie Taupin’s birth at Anwick Plaques on buildings linked to a famous or important individual have a remarkable power to surprise and educate, appealing to all ages and backgrounds and could add to the attractions of the District which currently draw in excess of 2.2m day visitors into the District each year.

North Kesteven is already blessed with a rich heritage legacy ranging from the Iron Age through to a century of remarkable aviation history.

If you can suggest anywhere with an interesting link to an individual or pioneering past, drop us an email to communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk or write to newsnk at the Council, as detailed on page 2.

Welbourn village plan is supported Welbourn’s Neighbourhood Plan has become the first within North Kesteven to be endorsed by its community to give extra voice in planning matters and village development.

Building on a vote within the parish where 48.17% turned out to give it overwhelming backing by 236 votes in favour to 31 against (an 88.4% endorsement), the plan must now be formally adopted by the District Council.

From there it will become part of the planning policy relating to Welbourn against which future planning applications will be considered.

It was prepared by Welbourn Parish Council, in conjunction with villagers, setting out their vision for the future and planning policies.

It was inspected by an independent examiner in August and approved to go to a community referendum on November 19.

A number of communities are preparing Neighbourhood Plans. To discuss the concept call the Community Initiatives Team on 01529 414155.

Branston Library That’s so Kooth, say the NK Youth Branston Library is open again, having had the fastest turnaround of all the libraries brought into community operation through a service shake-up.

It is also the only one to retain the same hours, thanks to community support and the 24 volunteers who have helped to make that possible.

It closed for one week to allow the computers to be re-programmed and has remained as busy as ever.

Opening hours are: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am – 2pm; Fridays 1– 6pm and Saturdays 10am – 1pm.

More volunteers always welcomed; talk to Lesa Appleyard, at the library.

Greenwich Leisure Ltd is poised to run the 15 libraries retained by the county council and support to the 30 community hubs such as Branston’s.

CCTV on the road

CCTV is being fitted onto the Council’s refuse collection fleet.

Currently installed on the five newest 26 tonne freighters, the image recording system will be rolled out to the rest of the fleet in coming months.

The externally mounted system helps to promote health and safety for employees as much as for members of the public, will help investigation of accidents and near-misses and allow the Council to defend itself against spurious claims made against it.

The fleet of 26 tonne collection trucks are replaced every seven years.

The NK Youth Council recommends Kooth.com, a free, safe and anonymous online support forum for 11 – 25 year olds.

If you, or a young person you know, would benefit from online advice and support, recommend they go to Kooth.com today.

It is an award-winning counselling service covering a range of themes of particular interested and concern to young people – see advert below.

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KOOTH.COM is a FREE, ANONYMOUS, CONFIDENTIAL website where young people can go for help. > Drop-in chats > Booked 1:1 sessions > Themed message forums and lots more

87% of our users prefer online counselling so visit www.kooth.com

To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities

Community funds pot holds budget

Neighbourly warmth in coldest weather Volunteers to deliver shopping and shovel snow for those stranded without food

A significant sum remains available for community groups in Sleaford and North Kyme to apply for in support of local initiatives.

A fund worth £120,000 in total was put up by the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant to be split equally across the two parishes over three years.

Going into the latter half of its final year, £66,649 remains to be allocated.

Recent Awards were made to: > Sleaford Town Junior Football Club – Up to £2,000 for a pair of aluminium goals for use of the younger teams. > Sleaford Gymnastics Club – £700 to buy asymmetric bars > Sleaford Rugby Club – £2,101 for equipment for mini & junior sections > Sleaford Vintage Brass – £500 to buy additional music > 1st Quarrington Brownies – £600 to buy laptop and printer > 1st Quarrington Guides – £930 to buy camping equipment and shed > 1st Quarrington Rainbows – £550 to buy camera, laptop and printer > Sleaford Sqn ATC – £2,800 to buy climbing equipment > Sleaford Caring Trust (Evergreen) – £600 to buy new office equipment > Slea Paddlers – £955 for junior cagoules, paddles and helmets.

The fund is managed by the Sleaford REP Community Liaison Panel. Bids will next be considered on January 19 and April 5, 2016, with deadline for applications on December 28 and March 4.

There is a quick form for under £1,000 and more detail needed for larger sums of up to £20,000. > See www.sleafordrep.co.uk > Call NKDC’s Community Initiatives Team on 01529 414155 or email community_initiatives@n-kesteven.gov.uk

An initiative based on good oldfashioned neighbourliness is ready to deliver emergency food parcels and help to the most isolated and vulnerable people in our communities when it gets cold.

This winter, where people are unable to get out of their homes to replenish their supplies, they can call up and request a parcel of essential groceries to be delivered to their door.

The Winter Wellbeing volunteers will also collect prescriptions, clear snow and ice from paths and ensure vulnerable people have what they need.

Although co-ordinated by NKDC’s Community Initiatives Team, it is delivered by community volunteers and with support from Lincolnshire Co-operative stores locally.

The project runs on weekdays only, in partnership with Sleaford’s Riverside Church.

The main focus is on supporting those who have limited food in the house, no family support nearby and who can’t easily get to the shops themselves because of lying snow, persistent cold and limited mobility.

They simply need to call NKDC during working hours, request a delivery, explain their need and arrange to make a payment.

That request will be passed to a community volunteer who would pick up a parcel from the Co-op and take it to where it’s needed.

While there they may be able to help in other ways too and leave details of the longer-term NK Wellbeing Service which helps people to retain their domestic independence.

For a list of what’s in the pack, how to receive one and how to volunteer to deliver them, see the panels alongside.

Sheriff’s award

CAB’s cash boost

This year’s High Sheriff, Wellingore resident Gavin Mackay, wants to recognise neighbours who go the extra mile in service of their community.

Through the High Sheriff’s Award he seeks to celebrate those who have made a significant contribution to the wellbeing of Lincolnshire.

Service and voluntary organisations, charities and community groups are invited to nominate individuals for this special recognition.

No more than a dozen awards will be made next March, each assessed on their own merit, using a form that can be obtained via NKDC. Deadline is January 29, 2016.

For details and a form please contact Pauline Collett, NKDC’s Civic Officer on 01529 414155 or email pauline_collett@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Our Community

Each of the two Citizens Advice Bureaux supporting NK residents through financial and legal challenges is receiving extra support from the Council.

Over and above the £65,800 already given by NK to the Sleaford & District and Lincoln & District CABs a further £10,000 has been split between the two, with the same level of funding agreed for the year ahead.

The Council’s Executive Board was unanimous in its praise of the work carried out by both branches in support of NK residents.

They felt that in addition to the Council operating its own muchvalued money advice and budgeting services, it was essential for local communities to have access to an independent outlet of advice and support.

NKDC Community Initiatives Officer Anne-Marie Shepherd helps Sleaford Co-op store deputy manager Julie Smith prepare the packs

Receiving

The £15 parcel will contain toilet rolls, white bread, UHT milk, eggs, tinned beans and soup, fresh sausages, cheese, jam, potatoes, biscuits and tea or coffee.

Other packs are made up for vegetarian, gluten-free and diabetic needs.

Recipients of a food parcel can also request a pet pack; these are priced £4 each and contain tinned food for a cat or biscuits for a dog.

Requesting

In cold weather if you can’t get out, have limited food stocks and no friends or family to help, you may be well-placed for Winter Wellbeing.

Call NKDC on 01529 414155.

Your details will be taken, delivery arranged and payment requested by card over the phone.

Cheques and cash will be accepted on delivery.

There are triggers on severity of cold but no age or disability criteria.

Responding

The volunteer register is compiled by Sleaford’s Riverside Church. If you are able to collect a parcel from a local Co-op and drop it where it’s needed, within your community, on your drive to work or within the scope of your daily activity, call Jeremy Green at the Riverside Church on 07412 174763 or email jeremy.green@carres.lincs.sch.uk All suitable training, safety and safeguarding measures will be taken.

Support for when life changes – whatever the weather While the Winter Wellbeing service is poised to act in winter’s worst weather, the NK Wellbeing Service is ready to help all year round.

NK Wellbeing offers a programme of support specific to your needs and circumstances to help you to stay

independent in your home for as long as is comfortable and safe.

It is free for over-18s, in all sorts of situations such as childbirth, bereavement, hospital discharge or getting over a fall; able to offer support, advice, alarms, adaptations and similar.

For further details and to find out whether you or someone you know might qualify, call the NK Wellbeing Service today.

Phone: 01529 414155; email:

nkwellbeingservice@n-kesteven.gov.uk or

visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/wellbeing

Flooding advice

Clearing snow from a neighbour’s path is a considerate and sensible thing to do if you are able to.

But do start early while the snow is fresh; don’t use hot water which will form ice; and spread salt, sand or ash if you can to prevent ice re-forming.

The county council carries out precautionary gritting and salting on 2,000 miles of Lincolnshire’s major road routes and is responsible for the salt boxes within communities, but NKDC does not routinely clear paths or roads of snow.

If refuse collections and services are affected by snow or bad weather tune into local radio for information or see www.n-kesteven.gov.uk for updates.

It’s good practice during the winter months to get ready for flooding – just in case The Environment Agency Floodline can advise you if you live in an at-risk area and give advice on what to do in the event of a flood.

Call 0345 988 1188 or look online at www.gov.uk/prepare-for-a-flood The website can also give you guidance on preparing a flood plan, getting help during and after it and where to source useful products such as sandbag alternatives and flood gates Also see: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ lincolnshire-prepared If you’re in danger from flooding call 999.

To report flooding and get support, call Lincolnshire County Council on 01522 782070 during office hours or 01522 782082 at other times.

Winter 2015 newsnk 7

Dining out and eating in with confidence hygiene ratings to help you take your pick The menu whets your appetite, the price is right and the decor does it for you, but when it comes to choosing a restaurant, takeaway, shop or cafe, how can you be certain of the standards behind the scenes?

The Council inspects kitchens, assesses cleanliness and awards hygiene ratings to hundreds of food outlets in North Kesteven.

While the scores are not a guide to food quality, they do indicate standards of hygiene Latest ratings are always available online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings and via a smartphone app. They should be posted up at the premises to inform your dining out choices this Christmas and into 2016 – but do always check for updates in case the ratings have been re-assessed.

Good company, great food, crackers and all the trimmings are key ingredients for a meal out during the festive season. But what about the food hygiene rating?

Whatever your recipe for eating out this Christmas, make sure you choose one of the 776 eateries in North Kesteven with a rating of three or more.

This is more than ever as businesses improve their standards year on year.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates food businesses on their hygiene

standards, based on inspections carried out by NKDC. They are rated 0-5, with 5 being as good as it gets.

So, whether you’re planning a festive meal out or just grabbing a quick snack, don’t only consider the menu – make sure you check the hygiene rating too.

Look out for the green and black Food Hygiene Rating stickers displayed on windows and doors. And if you can’t see a sticker, then ask staff inside or check at www.food.gov.uk/ratings Look out for a rating of 3, 4 or 5.

Takeaways

5

Akash Indian, High St, Navenby Appetites, Southgate, Sleaford Angel’s Pizza, High St, Heckington China China, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath Chip Off The Old Block, High Street, Billinghay Chip Stop, Newark Rd, North Hykeham Dominos Pizza, Lincoln Rd, Sleaford Dragon House, Redwood Drive, Waddington Fine Foods Exchange, Exchange Road, North Hykeham Golden Phoenix, High St, Ruskington Heath Fish Bar, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath Hykeham Kebab House, Newark Road, North Hykeham Great Barrier Reef, Princess Margaret Av, Metheringham Herb & Spice, Main Road, Washingborough Jade Garden, Newark Road, North Hykeham Kedgeree Too, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Kelly’s Catch, High St, Metheringham Kyme Road Chippy, Heckington Mark’s Plaice, Station Road, Branston Maya Indian, Station Road, Heckington Mint Indian Takeaway, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath Navenby Chinese, High St, Navenby New Ko Sing, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Olde Reindeer Fish & Chip, High Street, Navenby On a Roll, Station Rd, North Hykeham Open Kitchen, Sycamore Dr, Sleaford Option 3 Pizza, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Peking Chef, Westgate, Sleaford Pizza Luna, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath Pizza Place, Main Road, Washingborough Queen St Fish & Chip Shop, Queen Street, Sleaford Subway, Southgate, Sleaford Subway, Holdingham, Sleaford Subway, Middle Ln, Thorpe on the Hill Sunny’s Plaice, Jermyn St, Sleaford Swallow Chinese, Queen St, Sleaford The Taj, Muntjac Way, Witham St Hughs Thai Jasmin, Redwood Drive, Waddington The Munchbox, Station Road, North Hykeham Top Wok, High Street, Metheringham Top Wok, Church Street, Ruskington Welbourne’s Fish & Chips, High Street, Ruskington

4

Branston Chinese, Station Road, Branston Chilli Hut, Station Road, Sleaford Dragon House, High St, Heckington Fish Bar, Bar Lane, Waddington Forum Chinese Takeaway, The Forum, North Hykeham

Golden Hay, Queen St, Billinghay Green Elachi, Pinfold Ln,Ruskington Kamble House, Eastgate, Sleaford Branston Chinese, Station Road, Branston Chilli Hut, Station Road, Sleaford Dragon House, High St, Heckington Fish Bar, Bar Lane, Waddington Forum Chinese Takeaway, The Forum, North Hykeham Golden Hay, Queen St, Billinghay Green Elachi, Pinfold Ln, Ruskington Kamble House, Eastgate, Sleaford Mamma Mia Pizza, Muntjac Way, Witham St Hughs Mowgli Indian Takeaway, High Street, Metheringham Pizza Plus, High St, Metheringham Scoffers, Lincoln Road, Sleaford The Supreme, Linden Av, Branston Valentino’s Redwood Dr, Waddington

3

High Farm Fish Bar, Park Lane, Washingborough Kites, Bar Lane, Waddington Palki, Bar Lane, Waddington Pizza Delight, Market Place, Sleaford Pizza Roma, Church Street, Ruskington USA Chicken, Southgate, Sleaford

Spring Chinese Takeaway, Park Lane, Washingborough

Lucky Star, Westgate, Sleaford Mario’s Pizza & Grill, Southgate, Sleaford

Restaurants & cafes

2

1

5

Black Swan, Hillside, Beckingham Blanchards, Boston Road, Sleaford Brewsters, Newark Road, South Hykeham Burger King, Holdingham, Sleaford Burger King, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln Cafe Corner, Weaver Road, North Hykeham Cafe Plus, Redwood Dr, Waddington Coffee Range, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Crazee Bongos Ltd, Sellwood Court, Sleaford Industrial Estate Daisy Made, Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Doddington Hall, Doddington Elite Fish Bar, High St, Ruskington Elite Fish & Chips, Grantham Road, Sleaford Emily’s Bakehouse, Millstream Square, Sleaford Fenlake Cafe, Fen Lane, Metheringham

Fillets Fish & Chip Restaurant Lincoln Road, Sleaford Frankie & Benny’s, Lincolnfields, South Hykeham Four Seasons Garden Centre, London Road, Silk Willoughby Fun Farm, Stephenson Road, North Hykeham Garwick Cafe, Boston Road, Heckington Grandma’s Kitchen, High Street, Heckington Greek Taverna, Market Pl, Sleaford Holly Tree Farm, Fen Road, Washingborough Hill Holt Wood, Norton Disney India Garden, Market Place, Sleaford Italian Connection 2, Market Place, Sleaford La Royale, Newark Road, North Rauceby Lina’s Cafe & Restaurant, Lincoln Road, Sleaford Lincoln Golf Centre, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Jade Dragon House, Station Road, Sleaford Jayne’s Pantry, Kesteven Street, Sleaford Jocasta’s, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Lakeside Cafe, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor Little Italy Pizza Co, Mill Ct, Sleaford Market Square Cafe & Restaurant, Market Place, Sleaford McDonalds, Lincoln Rd, Holdingham McDonalds, Newark Road, South Hykeham Metheringham Airfield Heritage, Martin Moor Mrs H’s Cafe, Hykeham Green, Lincoln Road National Centre for Craft & Design, Carre Street, Sleaford North Kesteven Sports Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Old Coach House Motel, Church Lane, North Kyme Pennells Garden Centre, Newark Road, South Hykeham Ruskington Garden Centre, Newton Lane, Ruskington Silver Spoon, Southgate, Sleaford Simply Divine Coffee House, Newark Road, North Hykeham Tea in the Park, Boston Rd, Sleaford The Barns Tea Shop, Heckington Fen The Cake Hole, Bristol Arcade, Sleaford The Cottage Tea Rooms, High Street, Navenby The Curio Cafe, Money’s Yard, Sleaford The Boathouse Cafe, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor The Fish King Restaurant, The Forum, North Hykeham The Food Boutique, High Street, Brant Broughton The Garden Tea Rooms, Moor Lane, North Hykeham

So what do these scores on the doors actually mean to the man in the street looking in?

Scan this code to download the handy phone app for use whenever you want to check hygiene ratings on the move.

Or go to www.food.gov.uk/ratings and follow the links from there.

8 newsnk Winter 2015

There are six food hygiene ratings from 0-5 5 shows ‘very good’ compliance with legal requirements and all businesses should be able to achieve this irrespective of their size as it needs no more than full compliance with food hygiene laws; 4 means ‘good’; 3 is ‘generally satisfactory’; 2 means that ‘some improvement is needed’ ; 1 suggests that ‘major improvement is necessary’; 0 shows that ‘urgent improvement is necessary’.

All ratings are published online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings and through the Council website www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

The Griddle, East Road, Sleaford The Homestead, Canwick Avenue, Bracebridge Heath The Natural World Centre, Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Sarga Indian Restaurant, Newark Road, North Hykeham Sentry Cafe, Bar Lane, Waddington The Ocean Restaurant, Newark Road, North Hykeham The Old Butchers Ltd, Victoria Street, Billinghay The Pantry Cafe, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath The Pottery Painting Cafe, Westgate, Sleaford Tiamo, Market Place, Sleaford Garwick Cafe, Boston Road, Heckington Time2Eat, Main Road, Anwick Total Fitness, Kingsley Road, off Whisby Road, North Hykeham URS Cafe, Roman Way, South Hykeham

4

Abbey Parks Farm, Parks Farm, East Heckington Bluebells, Potterhanworth Branston Cabs & Coffee Shop, High Street, Heighington Branston Cafe, Rectory Lane, Branston Coffee Culture, The Forum, North Hykeham Cogglesford Mill Cottage Restaurant, East Road, Sleaford Costa Coffee, The Riverside, Sleaford Darmon’s Funhouse, Station Road, Sleaford El Toro, Southgate, Sleaford Little Chef, Middle Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Millers Bar & Brasserie, Mill Court, Carre Street, Sleaford Serendipitea, Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington Sleaford Kitchen, Boston Road, Sleaford Sylv’s Coffee Shop & Cafe, Church Street, Heckington The Agra, Enterprise Park, Sleaford The Coffee Pot, High Street, Ruskington Thai Sabai, Millstream Square, Southgate The Sentry Post, Sleaford Road, Waddington (A15) Quackers, East Banks, Sleaford

3

Carter Plot Picnic Site, Boston Road, East Heckington, A17 Sweet Vienna, Riverside Shopping Centre, Southgate, Sleaford The Mill House Tea Rooms, Hale Road, Heckington Tiamo Pizza, The Forum, North Hykeham

Jade Palace, Church Street, Ruskington

2

Contact North Kesteven District Council if you have any concerns about food premises in the area.

Telephone: 01529 414155

1

Cheerio Cafe, Newark Road, North Rauceby Little Chef, Holdingham, Sleaford Macy’s Brasserie, High St, Navenby The Kitchen, Sleaford Road, Nocton Heath

Pubs & Clubs

5

Branston Hall Hotel, Lincoln Road, Branston Canwick Park Golf Club, Washingborough Road, Lincoln Crown Lodge, Chapel Hill Ferry Boat Inn, High Street, Washingborough Finch Hatton Arms, Main Street, Ewerby Horse & Jockey, High Street, Waddington Hunters Leap, Oak Hill, Washingborough Ibis Hotel, Whisby Road, North Hykeham A46 Kings Head, High Street, Navenby Lincoln Green, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Marquis of Granby, Northgate, Sleaford Mill Lodge, Canwick Road, Canwick Musicians Arms, Main Street, Dorrington Orchard Caravan Park, Witham Bank, Chapel Hill Packhorse Inn, Northgate, Sleaford Pottergate Golf Club, Moor Lane, Branston Pride of Lincoln, Whisby Road, Lincoln Red Lion, Church Street, Digby Red Lion, Newton, Sleaford Royal Oak Inn, Royal Oak Lane, Aubourn Sleaford Golf Club, Willoughby Road, Greylees Ship Inn, High Street, Billinghay Solo Club, Market Street, Sleaford South Kyme Golf Club, South Kyme The Bell Inn, Far Lane, Coleby The Beer and Bean, Southgate, Sleaford The Black Bull, Rectory Road, Ruskington The Bentley Hotel, Newark Road, South Hykeham The Bustard Inn, Main Street, South Rauceby The Butcher & Beast, High Street, Heighington The Carre Arms Hotel, Mareham Lane, Sleaford The Chequers, Cross Street, Potterhanworth The Five Bells, High Street, Bassingham The Gamekeeper, Newark Road, South Hykeham The George Hotel, High Street, Leadenham The Generous Briton, High Street, Brant Broughton The Green Man, Main Street, Norton Disney The Horseshoes Inn, London Road, Silk Willoughby The Jolly Scotchman, Holdingham, Sleaford The Londesborough Arms, Middle Street, Metheringham

The Loudor, Newark Road, North Hykeham The Lincoln Green, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham The Mallards Hotel, Eastgate, Sleaford The Pack Horse, Sleaford Road, Beckingham The Plough Inn, High Street Skellingthorpe The Plough Inn, High Street, Walcott The Plough Inn, High St, Swinderby The Queens Head, Church Lane, Kirkby la Thorpe The Railway Inn, Station Road, Thorpe on the Hill The Red Lion, Middle St, Dunston The Lincolnshire Poacher Inn, High Street, Metheringham The Royal Oak, Tattershall Bridge The Stones Arms, High Street, Skellingthorpe The Strugglers Inn, High St, Eagle The Tally Ho Inn, Aswarby, Sleaford The Thorold Arms, High Street, Harmston The White Hart, High Street, Metheringham Three Kings Inn, Salters Way, Threekingham Washingborough Hall Hotel, Church Lane, Washingborough White Hart, Church Street, Carlton le Moorland White Hart Inn, High Street, North Scarle

4 Brant Road Social Club, Brant Road, Waddington Centurion, Newark Road, North Hykeham Fox & Hounds, Newark Road, North Hykeham Golden Cross, Church Street, Billinghay Halfway Farm Motel, Newark Road, Swinderby Heckington Squash Club, High Street, Heckington Hykeham Sailing Club, Newark Road, North Hykeham Joiners Arms, High Street, Welbourn Lion & Royal, High Street, Navenby Marquis of Granby, Westgate, Sleaford Plough Inn, Church Lane, North Kyme Red Lion, High Street, Wellingore The Barge & Bottle, Carre Street, Sleaford The Bugle Horn, Lincoln Road, Bassingham The Bull, London Road, Bracebridge Heath The Bull & Dog, Southgate, Sleaford The Courthouse Club, Market Place, Sleaford The Duke of Wellington, Lincoln Road, Leasingham The Oak, High Street, Martin The Plough, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham The Red Lion, High Street, Ruskington The Royal Oak, Brookside, Scopwick The Shoulder of Mutton, Church Street, Ruskington The Tempest, High Street, Coleby The Turks Head, High Street, Heighington The Venue, Market Place, Sleaford The Whichcote Arms, London Road, Osbournby

The White Horse, Boston Road, Sleaford Three Horseshoes, High Street, Waddington Waggon & Horses, Rectory Lane/High Street, Branston Wheatsheaf Inn, Grantham Road, Waddington

3

Coach & Horses, Tattershall Road, Billinghay Harrows Inn, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Kings Arms, Church Road, Martin Dales Marquis of Granby, High Street, Wellingore The Dovecote, Newark Road, Swinderby The Hume Arms, High Street, South Kyme The Plough Inn, Main St, Wilsford The Star & Garter, Princes Street, Metheringham

Nags Head, High Street, Heckington Rose & Crown, Watergate, Sleaford

Manufacturers

2

5

Scores on the doors

147 are rated 39 are rated 9 are rated 8 are rated 0 are rated

Curtis of Lincoln, Southgate, Sleaford J A Andrews & Sons Ltd, High Street, Metheringham J & J Southern (Bakery), High Street, Ruskington Wetherills Butchers, Southgate, Sleaford

Odling Brothers, High Street, Navenby

4

3 2

Abbey Parks Produce, East Heckington Boston Sausage, Boston Road, East Heckington Cooplands, The Forum, North Hykeham Curtis of Lincoln Ltd, The Forum, North Hykeham G Simpson Butchers Ltd, London Road, Silk Willoughby Gary Simpson Butchers, Newark Road, South Hykeham Gary Simpson Butchers, Cameron Street, Heckington Greggs, Southgate, Sleaford Hambleton Farms Ltd, Hall Yard, Doddington Hicksons, High Street, Bassingham J H Brown, Bristol Arcade, Sleaford K Anderson Butchers, High Street, Heighington K Anderson Butchers, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor McGees Butchers, Newark Road, North Hykeham Munchbox, Newark Road, North Hykeham North End Butchers, Moor Lane, Leasingham Picks Butchers Ltd, Main Street, Dorrington RJ & SA Wilcox, Fen Road, Ruskington

793 ratings issued 590 are rated

Shrub & Grub, Swaton Road, Helpringham Triple D, Whisby Way, North Hykeham The Ticklebelly Lane Bakery, High Street, North Scarle Ward Butchers, Church Street, Ruskington, Welbourne’s Bakery, High Street, Navenby Welbourne’s Bakery, High Street, Ruskington

5 4 3 2 1 0

Bellamy’s Butchers, Jaguar Drive, North Hykeham Southern & Thorpe (Butcher), High Street, Ruskington

Because of limited space, here we bring you only selected ratings. We have chosen the categories of business we believe are the most critical when choosing somewhere to dine out and shop - where good hygiene standards are the most critical to wide-scale public health.

Other categories cover retailers, supermarkets, caterers, mobile caterers, care premises, schools, colleges, canteens, food packers and guest houses.

A business can appeal and seek a re-inspection, so please look for any updates to the scores printed here.

All the latest ratings can be found online at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk or www.food.gov.uk/ratings Updates are uploaded every fortnight.

Businesses are encouraged to display their ratings, but are not required to.

They can appeal and seek a re-inspection and, as such, the ratings published here cannot be relied upon long-term.

But they were valid as of Monday, November 30, 2015.

Winter 2015 newsnk 9

New voters get involved Raising private rental standards

School pupils learn about local democracy

Making private rentals warmer and better to live in and easier to let

The next generation of voters has been grilling politicians and flexing their democratic muscles as part of the Council’s initiatives to promote electoral participation.

In addition to the popular Local Democracy Week events across the District for Years 8 & 9, new this year there was a successful Question Time event for the District’s sixth form students.

Are you a tenant or a landlord of a private rental, uncertain of your rights or powers?

A new Council initiative seeks to boost energy efficiency and standards within the District’s private-rental sector and help you to make the most of your home.

Working for the mutual benefit of both tenants and landlords, Safe as Houses seeks to raise the standard of private rented homes to achieve warmer, healthier homes which are both easier to let and better to live in.

This will be done through engagement, education and ultimately enforcement, if necessary. > Landlords will be guided through changes in legislation on the need to ensure their properties are energy efficient, safe and structurally sound. > Tenants will be made aware of their rights to see certificates and surveys on the condition of their homes, to have their deposit protected and repairs carried out and requirements placed on landlords.

The initiative has been set up by the Council in response to data showing NK’s private sector housing is in a worse condition that the national average, having deteriorated in the five years up to 2014 and also to get ahead of changes in the law on minimum standards for energy efficiency of rented homes and requirements on landlords.

Mock elections and committee challenges More than 100 pupils from all of the District’s secondary schools developed an insight and better understanding of the workings of the democratic process by participating in activities.

These covered mock elections where they launched policy manifestos, fought campaigns, challenged councillors as members of resident lobby groups and the press and operated polling stations as elections officers. They also got involved in a mock Planning Committee meeting, making difficult planning decisions for the area.

It was all geared towards understanding the importance of a fair vote, what electoral issues are significant to them and the complexities and realities of judging environmental considerations against governmental and financial constraints.

Students put panel through their paces

Tenants As a private tenant you can expect certain standards relating to the warmth and general condition of your home.

If you think your landlord is falling short of these you should notify the Safe as Houses team to guide and advise you and potentially take the matter up with your landlord on your behalf.

You should feel protected in your rights to raise these issues.

Older students tested the responses of a panel of experts, posing questions that mattered to them.

These included subjects as varied as housing availability, drugs, refugees and compulsory voting to renewable energy, university fees and apprenticeships – all generating lively discussion and debate.

The 50 students from the NK School, Sir William Robertson Academy, Sir Robert Pattinson Academy and Kesteven and Sleaford High School Selective Academy challenged Lincoln MP Karl McCartney, NKDC Chief Executive Ian Fytche, District Councillors Lindsey Cawrey & Chris Goldson, Mark Housley County Public Protection officer, Steve Donagain , CEO Designate of Hill Holt Wood and Martin Connor Head Teacher of North Kesteven School, all pictured below.

The event hosted and compered by Melvyn Prior from BBC Lincolnshire was universally regarded as a success, highlighting the enthusiasm and engagement among 16 and 17 year olds who are only a year or two away from being able to vote – but able to register in readiness now.

As a landlord there are expectations and legal requirements on you.

We can advise you of these, including supplying and fitting smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, protecting the tenants’ deposit, ensuring the property is well maintained and insulated and sorting utility problems.

Where a property is unsafe and you do not repair it, the Council has powers to make you deal with serious health and safety hazards.

The team was at Sleaford Christmas Market and will be at North Hykeham’s Nativity on the Green on December 9. Call them on 01529 414155 Email: safeashouses@n-kestven.gov.uk Website: www.n-kestven.gov.uk/safeashouses

Cut energy costs Bulk buying oil

There are huge savings to be made on home energy bills through the Lincolnshire Energy Switch.

You can sign up now to be a part of the next chance to save.

Over the last few years hundreds of District residents have found cheaper prices on their electricity and gas bills through the Council-backed Lincolnshire Energy Switch, saving around £220 on average each year.

It operates by people signing up an interest to negotiate better deals through their combined buying power.

The next round runs to February 1, so get on board and register now.

Find out more and register yourself and others At: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/switch Call: 0800 048 8439 Or ask for help on 01529 414155

Landlords

If you use heating oil, have you considered joining a bulk oil buying scheme?

Like the energy switch it uses the power of combined purchasing to negotiate cheaper fuel prices. For further information visit the website: www.communitylincs.com

Warm and well

Residents are reminded of a scheme of help and support to keep warm and heat their homes in an emergency.

Responders to Warmth is geared towards people with a chronic, acute or long term illness or disability and low income, and also for people on a low income with responsibility for children.

There are eligibility criteria for help with things like boiler breakdown, heating repairs, emergency radiators, insulation and heated electric throws, thermal socks and hot water bottles.

Responders to Warmth gives essential, practical advice and assistance to people on low incomes who struggle to heat their homes.

For details: > Call on 0845 606 4566 > Visit www.responderstowarmth.org Eligibility criteria apply.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Energy savers xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Draught proofing is one of the xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx most cost effective ways of making xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx an initial hit on improved energy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx efficiency and comfort. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx DON’T LOSE IT xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx For detailed advice call the Energy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Saving Trust on 0300 123 1234 There will be Police & Crime xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx or email energy-advice@est.org.uk Commissioner elections in May xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Installing loft or cavity wall 2016 and possibly others; if you xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx insulation could save you hundreds of want to have a say, you must make xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pounds a year. sure you’re registered to vote. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx These and many other suggestions xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx and promotions are in the SustainNK If you are aged 16 or 17, or xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx newsletter. See page 6. you have recently moved, it is xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx especially important to register to xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx make sure you don’t lose your vote. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx discover the magic of superfast broadband this winter xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx www.gov.uk/register-to-vote xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx or call the NKDC Elections Team on xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx .org 01529 414155 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

YOUR VOTE

MATTERS;

10 newsnk Winter 2015

To promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven

Moving forward on new homes

Our Homes

Hardship help with home costs

Raising up and razing to the ground in vision to meet housing need

Universal Credit brings change

The Council is maintaining its fund to help people meet the costs of their housing, despite government cuts in the sum it has dedicated to the fund.

While the Government cut back its contribution to the Discretionary Housing Payments fund by £7,388 for the current year and a £38,000 overspend is predicted on the £100,000 fund because of demand, NKDC is honouring its commitment and bearing the additional costs.

As it monitors the impacts of Universal Credit, the Council is maintaining its determination to support those in greatest need and assist them through their transition period.

The payments are intended to assist customers who need additional help with housing costs, with each case assessed against guidelines on its own merits.

In carrying the scheme forward the Council has built in conditions for recipients to seek money advice or advice on down sizing to a more affordable property.

In the last year NKDC awarded 411 DHP grants at a cost of £106,464 from 561 applications, giving an average award of £259 – almost half of it in cases classed as a consequence of welfare reform.

To enquire: call 01522 873382 or email: nkbenefits@lincoln.gov.uk

Initial work has begun on the Council’s biggest ever capital investment project – the £9m regeneration of its Newfield Road housing estate in Sleaford.

The 80-year-old terraces of council accommodation are in much need of the bold programme of refurbishment, enlargement, restructuring and insulation, with the street set for reconfiguration too to make it more attractive and safer for residents.

Spanning two and half years, the scheme involves demolition of six of the 70 properties to make way for a further 18 new houses to be built at the rear, within the extensive gardens of the older homes which tenants are happy to have cut down in size.

As a first stage whilst the main contract is being appointed, on December 7, Robert Woodhead Ltd begun stripping away asbestos materials in ready for demolition to begin early in the New Year.

Because two of the houses to come down are adjoining others which are being retained, these will be taken down by hand, brick by brick.

The others will be coming out in a block to allow for road widening and provision of a play park.

Residents, around half of whom have already moved out temporarily to allow for the work to take place, were overwhelmingly in favour of the work, saying it could not come soon enough.

Universal Credit is now a reality for benefits claimants in North Kesteven, bringing with it a big shift in the need to manage money.

To support claimants through the change, NKDC is offering help, advice and guidance under its UCan initiative set up by its shared revenues and benefits service.

So if you are experiencing the switch to Universal Credit, remember we can help!

Universal Credit is for working age people who have low incomes or no income, to help them with basic living expenses and housing costs.

It aims to simplify the system by combing six current benefits, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, incomebased Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) and income-based Employment Support Allowance (ESA), into one and introducing changes which will make work pay.

It also changes the way benefits are claimed and paid – now being paid monthly and mainly online.

This brings a need for claimants to take responsibility for budgeting and paying all bills, including rent, in a way that is typical for people in work.

Initially it will only be new claimants of Job Seekers Allowance who are moved onto Universal Credit, with others likely to start transferring later in 2016.

Enforcers on TV

Aspects of the Council’s housing enforcement duties will be further showcased on the BBC programme Housing Enforcers in the New Year.

Having proved to be a popular show, the producers returned to North Kesteven to film more cases and studies of the varied, detailed and vital work of NKDC’s team in correcting faults within private sector rentals.

In January and February two stories will be followed through in the new series.

Empties support

Organisations with experience of bringing empty homes back into use can apply for a slice of a £1m grand fund.

Property industry charity Landaid is inviting bids in support of increased accommodation for young people, to provide affordable, safe, decent homes for people in housing need.

While NKDC is not eligible for the cash, it continues in its determination to support and encourage owners to re-use empty housing stock and take referrals from the public. > Details at www.landaid.org

Tenants, council officers, Cllr Stewart Ogden and contractors mark the initial enabling work at Newfield Road, Sleaford getting underway

Bungalows are a better use of space Making better use of little-used parking spaces, two bungalows have become much-needed homes.

Under its ongoing commitment to build 500 new Council properties over a decade to meet housing need in North Kesteven, NKDC delivered these on a small wedge of land at Woodside Avenue in Sleaford.

Innovative design allowed for two well-proportioned two-bedroomed houses to fit onto the site, fulfilling the Council’s high standards of build

Homelessness gets the cold shoulder

The Council has a range of support measures for anyone facing the prospect of homelessness or rough sleeping.

Through its duties to support anyone who is, or is at the risk of being, homeless, services are available 24/7, every day of year.

Advice, information and assistance is available via the main NKDC offices in Sleaford, during office hours on 01529 414155 or on the emergency out of hours number 01529 308308.

The level of support given is guided by individual circumstances from finding accommodation to general advice.

The Council’s priority is to prevent homelessness occurring in the first place, through its early intervention work which is freely available to all, regardless of tenure, income or age .

But if it’s to late and you think someone is sleeping rough or know a particular spot for rough sleeping, you can also call Framework on 0800 066 5365 to raise awareness and broaden opportunities for support.

quality and insulation to keep heating costs low.

They have been allocated to people with a local connection.

Local Plan latest

The feedback of hundreds of residents to the vision for planning the area’s for growth over the next 20 years is being assessed.

Following extensive engagement through six weeks of consultation over the Further Draft Local Plan for Central Lincolnshire through to 2036, all of the comments are being collated and considered for any further changes.

There will then be another period for response in the spring before the revised plan is examined by a Government Planning Inspector next summer - with the aim of being adopted by the end of 2016.

It will then form the baseline for considering all planning applications in North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey - directing the scale, location and scope of new homes, jobs, schools, shops and facilities up to 2036.

For full details as the plan emerges see: www.central-lincs.org.uk There is a drop-in event at Bracebridge Heath Methodist Church on December 10, 3.30pm – 7pm to discuss the proposals for land at Canwick Heath

Get online > You can get free computer access in most libraries, council offices, Navenby Local Access Point, and children centres Talk to Lincs2Advice on 0300 303 8789 or look up free access at www.lincs2advice.org.uk Get a Bank Account > Lincolnshire Credit Union can help set up suitable accounts which help to prioritise rent and bill payments.

Call: 01522 873550 or email: enquiries@lincscreditunion.org.uk Better Budgeting > The Council’s Money Advice Service (01529 414155), Sleaford or Lincoln Citizens Advice Bureau (03444 111 444) Sleaford Newlife Church or the Credit Union can all help. > Email: NKBenefits@lincoln.gov.uk for more information and advice > Call: 01522 873382 for Welfare Advice > Visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ universalcredit for budgeting help. > www.lincscreditunion.org.uk > www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ sleafordcab > www.lincolncab.org.uk > www.gov.uk/universal-credit

Winter 2015 newsnk 11

Our Economy

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

Funds to restore historic shops

Big brand names seek to locate onto refurbished Riverside precinct

Funding grants are available to support the restoration of historic shop fronts in Sleaford.

Through a partnership between NKDC, Sleaford Town Council and Historic England there is a total of £300,000 to match fund against shop owners’ contributions for repairs and re-instatement of historic features.

With the town centre conservation area on Historic England’s At Risk Register a key aim of the scheme is to improve the historic environment.

Bids are welcome now.

There is an upper limit of £25,000 per property with 60% funding for repairs and 80% for reinstatement of historic features.

If anyone has any historic photos of shopfronts we would love to see them as they may help to guide the work.

To learn more about the scheme and how to propose a scheme, call NKDC’s conservation officer Marianna Porter on 01529 414155 or Valeria Passetti on 0115 950 5150; or email: vie@conceptionarchitects.com

National retailers are showing a keen interest in being a part of Sleaford’s regeneration following the approval of a £500,000 makeover of a town centre precinct.

The Riverside Shopping Centre will be overhauled and extended on the back of owner Lincolnshire Co-operative Society’s enthusiasm to breathe extra vitality into the pedestrianised area off Southgate.

The work will be carried out in two phases, with agent James Butcher saying the intention is to begin the initial £250,000 phase as soon as possible now that the NKDC has approved the plans.

With 17 retail and office units plus first-floor flats, the plan is to inject fresh impetus by opening up the central courtyard and removing the bandstand, display unit and colonnades fronting the shops along the southern side, to give a more modern contemporary environment for shoppers.

Phase two will involve extension of the western block to create a large anchor unit to attract a strong retailer, helping to draw customers in from Southgate and Sainsburys behind.

“Discussions are at an advanced stage with a national retailer interested in taking this and another unit in the centre, which would be great for shoppers and the existing retailers alike,” said Mr Butcher.

Pleased to be making progress, the

Low-cost parking

Work is close to completion on a new temporary long stay car park for Sleaford.

On previously derelict land south of the railway station, off Grantham Road, a new car park is being laid out which will offer 88 standard and six disabled spaces, open from 8am to 6pm with a barrier allowing exit only outside of those hours.

It is mainly intended for shop and office workers, freeing up more central places for shoppers and short-stay users.

It fits in with the aims of the Sleaford Masterplan to reduce the dominance of cars by providing a low-cost, long-stay option without the hassle of crossing the railway line.

Air show blow

The loss of the RAF Waddington International Air Show will have a cost of around £12m to the District’s Economy.

Through a review of all its air show commitments the RAF concluded it could no longer support an event at RAF Waddington because of ‘significant security concerns and operational risks’.

This follows a year of cancellation in 2015 as a result of extensive £35m runway improvements.

Through direct and indirect spending and contracts for District companies, it was estimated that the air show contributed around £12m to the fortunes of North Kesteven businesses, attracting around 140,000 visitors over the two days.

12 newsnk Winter 2015

Business growth fund Seed funding for six areas of rural enterprise Small enterprises in the farming, forestry and tourism sectors will be eligible for support through a £1.53m pot of business funding.

In association with South Kesteven and Lincolnshire County Council, NKDC has successfully bid to draw money into the area to help business development through to 2020.

As an external source of funding in support of rural businesses and communities, it enables increased outputs for no additional cost to the Council.

The Rural Development Programme for England seeks to improve agriculture, the environment and rural life, with LEADER funding a key way of delivering these aims.

Grants can be accessed by businesses, farmers, foresters and those involved in tourism, heritage and community initiatives.

For more information, email: LincsLEADER@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Six priorities

There are six national priorities for LEADER: > Increase farm productivity > Support micro & small businesses and farm diversification > Boost rural tourism > Provide rural services > Provide cultural and heritage activities (where this promotes growth in the tourism economy) > Increase forestry productivity With funding applications having to contribute to one or more of these, they will be considered by a panel on private, public and community interests, including NK councillors.

All such funded activities must also make a contribution to growing the rural economy, by creating new jobs, growing businesses, improving productivity and efficiency, increasing tourism visitors or providing new services.

Units take shape Jobs in store Three expanding businesses are already queuing up for space at NKDC’s newest workshop units three months before being ready.

Their enthusiasm underlines the District Council’s commitment to satisfy an identified demand for workspace in the LN6 growth area of North Hykeham to support growing enterprises.

Construction of Blackwood Court at Teal Park is moving on at pace, with Lindum set to have the development due for completion in mid February.

Blackwood Court will have 19 individual units, ranging from 500 sqft to 2,000 sqft, a stone’s throw from key businesses, making them very versatile.

Marketing is well underway by Hodgson Elkington, the Council’s agents for its 102 units spread across the District, with three businesses ready to occupy them as soon as the development is finished.

Taking shape at Teal Park

International retailer Lidl has plans for a two-storey supermarket on the site of the former Ocean Chinese Restaurant in North Hykeham.

The proposal to demolish the restaurant, and three surrounding homes off Newark Road, would create a 3,867 sqm food store and around 113 parking spaces.

It would also widen a section of Newark Road to create a turning lane and generate 40 new jobs.

The company say that it would not have an adverse impact on the health of existing centres and would cater for local needs.

It has yet to be considered for planning consent.

Co-op’s Senior Estates and Property Manager Liz Welbourn said: “We’re confident that our development will attract other new enterprises to this area, providing an extra boost to retailing in the town.

The Riverside refurbishment is welcomed by the District Council as one of a number of developing projects to rejuvenate Sleaford as a shopping destination, not least the emerging plan for Heart of Sleaford based around Bristol Arcade and the Corn Exchange and the new initiative to pump around £600,000 into refurbished heritage shop fronts.

Co-op continues

Broader Co-op investment has given a village shopping centre a new lease of life and delivered jobs in North Hykeham.

Washingborough shopping precinct received a £750,000 make-over, as the food store and pharmacy were renovated and extended to expand their range and services and the wider area much improved.

Heat-reclamation also reduces energy use and carbon outputs.

Opening a new £600,000 neighbourhood store at Severus Crescent, North Hykeham the chain created 19 new jobs. South Hykeham Primary School pupils helped open it.

The Community Education Centre at Lincoln College Do you want to improve your computer skills?

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Enrol now to improve and update your skills.

Secure position Seven new jobs have been secured through a £1 million expansion of a growing security firm.

Lincoln Security’s bigger premises at Whisby Way allows for trade and domestic sales counters.

While the Lincoln High Street branch continues, administration, finance and engineering – including an innovative new lock – now sit in the newly renovated 12,000 sq ft building.

The Community Education Centre

01522 876258

communityeducationcentre@lincolncollege.ac.uk * FREE for those learners who are in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or employed with a household income of less than £16,190 Fee Remission may be available for those in receipt of other benefits.

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

Our Economy

Town’s historic legacy of world-class manufacturing and trade continues to grow

Speed-chaser Noble says Sleaford has ‘right idea’ on manufacturing

Sleaford’s own sausage sizzles

Sleaford butcher Stephen Harrison has been enjoying the taste of success with his new distinctly local sausage.

Since being invited to devise a new creation for the Made in Sleaford Festival, together with wife Anne they have enjoyed a loyal following and put it into more regular production than they ever anticipated.

A twist on the perennially popular Lincolnshire Sausage, made with their homemade brown sauce – in honour of their Brown’s Butchers shop in Bristol Arcade – it has been a hit; not least with town mayor Garry Titmus.

“I think the Sleaford Sausage is fantastic, with a great depth of flavour and a hint of spiciness. It stands out and is very worthy of its named its success,” he said.

Renewed pride and fired-up enthusiasm for the town’s diverse products are lasting legacies of the town’s inaugural showcase of local manufacturing excellence Made in Sleaford.

There is increased engagement in the scale of Sleaford’s industrial output and historic importance and traders have adopted the Made in Sleaford badge as a marque of distinction and excellence to apply to their products.

Entrepreneur Richard Noble spoke highly of the range and quality of local enterprises, one of which is key to his 1,000 mph land speed record attempt, and said events like this were ‘crucial’ in attracting the next generation of scientists and engineers to restore the country’s fortunes and pioneering zeal.

The two-day Made in Sleaford event was organised by NKDC to showcase the excellence in what is created, conceived and crafted within the town – some of it to world-class status; to reconnect the town’s people with its output; and inspire students to aspire.

Having attracted up to 5,000 people and cemented successful business networking and education outreach, there is potential to develop the initiative further.

Mint, Maltings, movies & machines Historically Sleaford has been at the forefront of industrial development.

Over the years it has been home to: > A significant Iron Age Mint; > Europe’s largest floor maltings; > The world’s largest seed company; > The UK’s largest steam threshing enterprise; > A global ginger beer manufacturer which took America by storm; and > A seed-breeding visionary whose genius was cited by Charles Darwin in his The Origin of Species.

Through Made in Sleaford townsfolk found that significant products are still made in Sleaford: > Agricultural machines which hold world-records; > Aero-engines used by James Bond > Violins hailed among the very best; > BMW engine development; > Topflight cricket awnings; and > Films catching celebrity attention.

Chicks, cakes, iconic caravans, crafts and carbon-neutral energy also featured strongly in Made in Sleaford.

Making will lift us from debt black hole

Speed pioneer Richard Noble said such a celebration of all things crafted, conceived, designed and produced within a mile radius was exemplar in engaging the public in the quality and range of British manufacturing.

“It’s absolutely crucial that we have events such as this. It is so important that we celebrate manufacture and innovation to inspire and enthuse. By getting everyone together in the manner of Made in Sleaford, we can highlight the importance of all the industry, big and small, not only to local communities but also for the nation’s standing globally.

“We have an enormous problem in this country, owing £15bn, and I believe the only way to get out of that hole is through manufacturing and export. We also have a crisis in terms of the availability of scientists and engineers, with not enough coming through the schools and universities to satisfy demand. The Bloodhound project seeks to not only set a new world land speed record but also to inspire and engage future generations of engineers.

“SHD is an essential part of our project. They got involved at a very early stage and have been indispensable. It was a brave and bold thing for them.

As with the Bloodhound SSC team, they show how a small team of people can achieve something absolutely fantastic if you really set your mind to it.

“You guys in Sleaford have really got the right idea because we have got to get manufacturing going and to get the kids interested in it,” he said.

Proud to be a part of long heritage of skills excellence

A key inspiration behind Made in Sleaford – as a distinct new brand as much as a mindset and a celebration – was SHD Composites.

In only four years the global reputation for their composite materials was so strong that Noble handpicked them to be integral to his Bloodhound supersonic car project.

From Sleaford’s Enterprise Park SHD is supplying the specialist composites for the panels, nosecone, driver’s seat, wheel arches and other facets of Bloodhound; using bespoke resins devised, developed and preimpregnated into the material locally.

SHD was one of the earliest sponsors of Bloodhound SSC, with its logo (and potentially a Made in Sleaford badge) now on the car forever, for a global audience of 2.2bn people to see.

Noble spoke highly of what SHD owners Steve & Helen Doughty and their 50 staff were doing in order to inspire increased take-up of science and engineering professions and increase the UK manufacturing capacity in order to boost exports and dent the national deficit.

They are pictured with him above, and NKDC Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE. Helen said: “It’s been great to be a part of Made in Sleaford, as much as it is to be involved in Bloodhound.

We bring customers from all over the world to Sleaford; they often say ‘why Sleaford,’ but when they get here they get it and understand why we located here’.

“Sleaford has a long, rich and proud heritage of industry, innovation, and engineering excellence and we are delighted to be just a small part of that developing picture.

“Made in Sleaford has really focused our minds on the historic importance of the town from the Iron Age through today, and I hope it has inspired our students to feel that they too can be a part of the ongoing story.”

Winter 2015 newsnk 13

What’s On

Furniture fashioned from a myriad materials Viking artefacts, newspaper cubes, abstraction and 3D printing chart craft and creativity over the centuries The National Centre for Craft & Design

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford

On February 16, Gareth Neal will engage artists, academics and educators in professional development, including a conversation with Dr Mark Evans, Reader in Industrial Design at Loughborough Design School.

December 12 to February 28 Furniture: Methods of Making NCCD’s first furniture showcase since 2008 examines modern-day issues of recycling, waste, economics, architecture, beauty, value and sustainability through the best of British craftsmanship.

The ten designers Sebastian Cox, Jim Partridge, Liz Walmsley, Edward Teasdale, David Gates, Gareth Neal, Jay Watson, Ben Huggins, Nicola Henshaw and Studio Swine

span traditional wood carving, pioneer modern techniques and challenge social and economic issues.

Up to Sunday, January 10 Ruth Singer: Narrative Threads in the Roof Gallery Exploring how we respond to and interact with textiles in our daily lives and how our emotions, histories, personal stories and memories can be woven into textiles.

Including new site-specific work created alongside NCCD visitors.

On Saturday, December 12, 11am – 12.30pm, Ruth gives a free talk and exhibition tour.

Tuesdays, December 15 & January 5, 10am to 12pm Ruth leads friendly, informal classes to discover a calming new hobby. For ages 16+, Free.

Materials provided. Book.

Alongside the furniture itself, eight specially commissioned films shine a light on the artists’ studios, demonstrate their unique use of conventional hand crafting alongside modern technology and capture the artists’ ways of working, thinking, planning and construction as well as the environments they create in.

From Saturday, January 16 Made in the East Midlands

Terry O’Toole Theatre Saturday, December 12, 12pm & 3pm I’ve Seen Santa A festive treat based on David Bedford’s children’s book. For ages 3+. Tickets: £7.50, £27 for family of four.

Throughout, free Activity Zone creativity for visitors to learn about 3D concrete printing and design, invent, model and create your very own masterpiece inspired by such world class artists - to display in an over-sized dolls house.

Alongside Methods of Making, NCCD showcases selected Design-Nation members working within British furniture design, including Angus Ross and Simon Yates.

A month-long selling exhibition of 22 of the region’s most talented designer makers and high quality craft to take home for keeps. Ceramics, Jewellery, glassware and textiles.

Symbiosis – a group exhibition of emerging contemporary jewellers.

Kathryn Parsons – artist and visual story-teller using porcelain plants and sugar shoes.

Craft classes Tuesday, February 9, March 8, April 12 & May 10 Wood-working with Mark Clarke, 6.30pm – 9pm Over four sessions have a go at making your own wooden helix sculpture and useful objects for your home. Adults, £100. Basic materials provided. Book.

Silversmithing with Andrew Poole, 6pm – 9pm From basic project learn skills through to personal design.

Adults, £80. Basic materials provided, precious metals available to buy. Book.

Thursday & Friday, December 17 & 18, 7pm; Saturday 19, 2.30pm & 7pm A Christmas Carol ACTion Community Theatre’s family show features Victorian street stalls and your favourite carols. For ages 5+.

Tickets: £8.50, £7.50 & £6; £26 for a family of four.

Wednesday, Feb 10, 7.30pm artsNK Youth Dance Show A celebration of young people dancing, with top youth dance groups kNacKer’d, redXco and Jumpstart. Tickets: £3 & £2.

Thursday, February 11, 6pm & 7.15pm Primary Schools’ Dance A celebration of dance on themes of transition to secondary school, including talented Dance students from NK School. Tickets: £3 & £2.

Clubs First Saturday of month, 10am – 3pm (In Jan, on 9th) Life Drawing Led by local artist Phil Bowman, using a variety of models, these sessions are suitable for beginners and practised artists alike. Basic materials and easels provided. Adults, £25. Book.

Second Sunday of each month, 10am – 4pm Printers Inc. Explore printing techniques to develop new work for

Sunday, December 20, 3pm RAF Waddington Band Seasonal music and carols, with the Waddington Military

Friday, February 12, 7.30pm Peter Knight’s Gigspanner in Concert Steeleye Span fiddler and

01522 870251

vocalist leads a fusion of world music, classical, African, folk-rock and Cuban sounds to leave you spellbound.

Tickets: £12, £10 & £5.

Thursday, March 3, 7.30pm The Best Thing Through masked mime, Vamos Theatre rolls back to Children’s Theatre Saturday, February 20, 1pm Viking Workshop!

Genuine Viking artefacts 1,000 years old help to tell how the Vikings fought and what they wore. An exciting hour-long workshop where you join a Viking shield wall. For ages 7+.

Saturday, February 20, 3pm Freya ~ A Viking Saga!

www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk Saturday, February 13, Monday 15, Wednesday 17 and through to Saturday 20 3D Printing Workshops Explore the possibilities of 3D printing for all ages and experiences. Learn new skills and have a go yourself. Free.

Saturdays, February 20, March 19 & April 16, 10am – 3pm Towards Abstraction Try something new in painting with Phil Bowman, looking at landscapes, still life and figure.

Basic materials and easels provided. Adults, £25. Book.

Tuesday, Feb’ 16, 11am – 4pm Gareth Neal talk An insightful talk, Q&A session and conversation with Dr Mark Evans, Reader in Industrial Design at Loughborough Design School. £20.

Saturday, March 19, 11am Meet artist Anton Alvarez Alvarez will enlighten audiences and inspire budding machine makers; talking about his exhibition, Autonomous Manufacturing System. Free.

Thursday, February 18, 1pm – 4pm Methods of Making artist Jay Watson shows how to make a cube seat entirely from newspaper. Once you’ve learned the skills, the possibilities are endless.

For ages 8+, £15.

Feltmaking with Laura Mabbutt, 6pm – 8:30pm Introduction to wet feltmaking; flat felt pictures to seamless hollow forms such as a bag.

For ages 12+ and adults, £60.

Basic materials included. Book.

North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham

Wives Choir. In NK School hall Tickets: £8.50, £7.50; £28 for 4.

14 newsnk Winter 2015

Jay Watson gives a one-off practical making session on February 18 using paper crafting to make a stool.

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1966 in their wordless world for a funny, heart-breaking, Go ‘a-roving’ through the Viking world with this family puppet show full of boisterous Gods, dunderheaded Giants and the music of the fjords.

For ages 4+.

Saturday, March 19, 3pm Frogs and Snails and Teddy Bear Tales Inventive puppetry, original music and gentle humour in

exhibitions and projects. Fees apply, all welcome. For details, email harriottbrand@yahoo.co.uk First Monday, 10am – 2pm Sewing Club Emma Ronald, supports a social group of local sewers, all working on their own projects, with advice, guidance, tea and chat. For all abilities, bring your own machine. £10 per session, £36 for four. Book.

First Tuesday, 6.30pm – 9pm Hub Writers Unplugged

A potent and lively mix of local musicians and writers. Free.

Every Tuesday, 10am – 12pm Tots Tuesday Explore the exhibitions and ever-changing activity zone without worrying about noise and mess. Free.

Every Tuesday, 4pm – 5pm, 4pm – 6pm on first Tuesdays Young Creative Minds For ages 12 to 25 to create artwork and events by working with other artists. Free.

www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk bitter-sweet story of mistaken morals and broken hearts, 45s and beehives, where sexual revolution proves a hard and rocky path to tread.

For ages 12+.

Being mime, this production is equally accessible to both hearing and deaf audiences.

Tickets: £10, £8 & £5. readiness for bear’s birthday.

Bring your favourite teddy to share the performance. No extra charge for bears!

For ages 3+.

All Children’s Theatre Tickets: £6; family of four £20.

Bring all the family! The shows are very relaxed and the whole family is welcome, with no charge for under 2s.

If you are you passionate about the performing arts, why not become a TOTT Ambassador?

You will help spread the word about the venue’s fantastic programme of music, dance, drama and children’s theatre within your community.

The Terry O’Toole wants adults and young people from all walks of life, to get involved – the only requirement is an interest in the theatre and a willingness to promote the programme locally.

In return, you will be get free tickets to some shows and be invited to tea with the theatre team four times a year to chat about the programme. > Call on 01522 870251 or > email: TerryOTooleTheatre@litc.org.uk

What’s On

Sitting pretty on Nettles art

Youth dance

ArtsNK’s Youth Dance Programme provides scope to develop dance technique and performance skills.

Classes at ONE NK, the sports centre in North Hykeham, on a dropin basis in term time only.

Aerial Dance Fitness; Tuesdays 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 11 – 16, £6.

Balance Children’s Creative Dance; Mondays 5pm to 6pm, ages 7–11, £2.50 per session.

Freefall Creative Contemporary Dance Classes; Mondays 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 12 – 13, £3 per session.

Descend Creative Contemporary Dance Classes; Thursdays 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 14 – 19, £3.

E-Xodus Street Dance Classes; Wednesday, 4pm to 5pm, ages 10 –16, £2.50 per session.

Call Emma Terzza on 07884 990592 or see www.artsnk.org

Hands-on visits Saturdays and Sundays, December 12, 13, 19 & 20, 10am to 4pm Enjoy mince pies and mulled wine and help Santa find his reindeer at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre.

Sunday, December 13, 10am to 4pm Celebrate Christmas the Victorian way at Navigation House and Cogglesford Watermill with prizes, fun and festive fayre. Create your own decoration to trim your own tree.

Saturday, January 2, 10.30am An invigorating riverside walk leaving from Cogglesford Watermill.

Sunday, March 13 Discover Lincolnshire Day. Activities and give aways at Cogglesford, Cranwell and Navigation House, including free wholemeal flour, plum bread and drinks.

Friday to Sunday, April 1 to 3 Events and uniform exhibition at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre marking the college’s centenary.

A new mosaic seating area is being created as a further enhancement to The Nettles, a much loved public arts space in Sleaford.

Set to be installed by the community arts group MosArt in the spring, the seat will add to the carvings, mosaics, willow sculpture, seating and wildlife habitats which make the riverside space so distinct.

Drawing all of the elements together is a new accessible pathway and interpretation board initiated by the Nettles Volunteer Group with funding from WREN, a supporter of community, environment and heritage projects.

Emerging fine artist Hannah Edward has beautifully illustrated some of the artworks and wildlife that can be found at The Nettles, which is a tranquil natural space close to Sleaford Leisure Centre, maintained and enhanced by The Nettles Volunteer Group with the support of artsNK

A reminder of what it is you love about NK can be close by you all year through a new 2016 calendar.

Following a terrific response to a call for photos capturing ‘What you love about NK’, the public chose their favourites to be used on a calendar for 2016, including this snowy scene of the cyclepath at Washingborough by Andrew Sowerby.

The delightful calendars are available now from Cogglesford Watermill, Navigation House and Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre and will make a perfect gift to send for Christmas.

Next year’s photography competition, asks you to capture ‘My Favourite Place in NK’. Deadline is Friday July 6, 2016.

Visit www.heartoflincs.com to download an entry form; email discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 308207.

Urban Art trail designs inspired by Sleaford heritage

Up-dated vintage Improvements at the The Lincolnshire Vintage Vehicle Society at Whisby Road, North Hykeham have been unveiled.

They provide for on site archive storage, better toilets, enlarged reception and ultimately more vehicle restoration.

Full details and opening dates at www.lvvs.org.uk

The designs for a new urban art trail through Sleaford linking existing pieces of public art have been drawn up.

Working with artsNK, artist David Mackie has developed a series of artworks to be positioned in pavements and walls around Sleaford for the ‘When in Sleaford Project’.

They celebrate the distinct character and diversity of Sleaford.

Markers cast in bronze will map-out pathways around the town and inform residents and visitors about existing public artworks; encouraging people to pause and think about the views, artworks and places they identify.

The trail is planned to be installed

Whisby Nature Park & Natural World Centre

in Sleaford by summer 2016 and although it is chiefly funded through a grant from the Renewable Energy Plant, there is scope for sponsorship support or grant funding – details from Lucy Lumb at artsNK, based at NCCD. Working with school pupils, local groups and residents, Mackie explored the town’s fascinating history to generate ideas and drew upon the drawings, prints and imagery produced in creative public sessions.

These are the basis of the designs which explore themes of archaeology, history, geography, architecture and natural history, as well as taking inspiration from existing public

Thorpe on the Hill

Natural World Centre events Saturday, December 5 to Saturday 12 Christmas Lunches – three courses, Book on 01522 688868.

Saturday, December 5 Santa will be making a special visit to the Natural World Centre. Book.

Sunday 13 December, 10am – 4pm Festive fun for all the family! Live entertainment, local crafters and artists market, mini food fayre, scenes from the ACTion Terry O’Toole Christmas show & much more.

Saturday, December 26 Enjoy a Boxing Day brunch after a stroll through the beautiful nature park.

Given the time it takes to fully deliver newsnk to 50,000 properties we regret that some of the events listed may have passed by the time you received your copy, for which we apologise.

The early dates were promoted in the last edition.

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artworks in the town.

He has also been working closely with pupils at the William Alvey School on Project 72, to create a special artwork to commemorate the 72 young men from the school who died in the First World War. These designs are being finalised.

Visit www.artsnk.org for details about the When in Sleaford project.

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust events Saturday, December 12, 10am – 12.30pm Wildlife Watch & Explorers: For Junior members of the Wildlife Trust and RSPB, fun outdoors for ages 5-10. £2. Book on 01522 696926.

Wednesday, January 6, 10am – 11am Nature Tots: Seasonal activities for the Under 5s, venturing outside to see what nature holds for us today. £3. Book on 01522 696926.

Saturday, January 9, 10am – 12.30pm Wildlife Watch – as December 12 Saturday, January 16, 10am – 1pm Junior Wardens: Practical hands

on tasks and activities for 10 – 16 year olds who want to get involved in Nature Conservation and Wildlife Projects. £2. Book on 01522 696926 Wednesday, February 3, 10am – 11am Nature Tots – as January 6 Saturday, February 6, 10am – 1pm Junior Wardens – as January 16 Saturday, February 13, 10am – 12.30pm Wildlife Watch – as December 12 Wednesday, March 2, 10am – 11am Nature Tots – as January 6 Saturday, March 5, 10am – 1pm Junior Wardens – as January 16 Saturday, March 12, 10am – 12.30pm Wildlife Watch – as December 12

Parking at Whisby is just £1 for a whole day through the winter.

The Park’s winter opening hours are 6am – 6pm, with the centre open 10am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am – 4.30pm at weekends.

Winter 2015 newsnk 15

Christmas New Year Refuse / Recycling Collections 2015 / 2016 Collection days will change for everyone in the run up to Christmas.

In the week between Christmas and New Year they remain as usual, except for Friday customers.

To make sure you know when to put your bins out, please refer to this collection calendar: Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday, December 21

Saturday, December 19

Tuesday, December 22

Monday, December 21

Wednesday, December 23

Tuesday, December 22

Thursday, December 24

Wednesday, December 23

Friday, December 25

Thursday, December 24

Monday, December 28

No change

Tuesday, December 29

No change

Wednesday, December 30

No change

Thursday, December 31

No change

Friday, January 1

Saturday, January 2

Bins out early

Please ensure that your bins are out by 7.30am on collection day as collection times may vary. We will not return for bins not presented in time.

Side waste

We will take waste left at the side of your bins for your first collection of the black and green-lidded bins after Christmas Day.

If in doubt

look up ‘find-my-bin-collection’ at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk or call on 01529 414155.

Normal collections

Normal collections resume on January 4, 2016. For garden waste collections refer to your calendar.

Christmas trees

Can be chopped up and placed in the brown bin for garden waste collection if you have one; otherwise take to your nearest household waste recycling centre at Sleaford, Leadenham, Whisby or Lincoln.

Garden waste collections

During December and January, Garden Waste collections drop down to a four-weekly cycle. Customers will find details in the calendar on the reverse of their subscription letter.

Sign-up to the Garden Waste service

From February 1 you can sign up to the Garden Waste Collection Service.

Being cheaper, easier, cleaner and quicker than taking hedge trimmings and garden waste to a household recycling centre, the service continues to represent great value for money.

Apart from December and January when collections are fourweekly, subscribers will have their brown bins emptied every other week.

The alternatives are to compost at home, take the materials to a HRC in Sleaford, Leadenham, North Hykeham or Lincoln, or arrange for a licenced handler to collect them.

From February 1 you can sign up to the Garden Waste Collection Service online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk or from March 1 you can also call on 01529 414155.

Bank Holiday collections

From the spring you will no longer receive collection calendars unless there is a change in the established arrangements.

Collection days are anticipated to remain the same, on an alternate weekly cycle, with Garden Waste collected as advised at the time of sign-up.

Where there is a change because of Christmas and New Year holidays these will be advised through newsnk, social media, local media and the Council’s website.

At other times there is a consistent pattern where collections due on a Bank Holiday Monday are brought forward to the preceding Saturday and Good Friday collections are unchanged.

Unsure about which bin to put something into? Check at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/recyclingguide