NewsNK Summer 2012

newsnk

Four-page pullout inside to guide you through the Olympic events

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Summer 2012

Olympic Torch Relay is our Moment to Shine Residents urged to take to the streets to celebrate the passage of the Olympic Flame through North Kesteven on June 27 North Kesteven has much to cheer about ahead of the London 2012 Games, with five residents poised to compete, a dozen more carrying the Olympic Torch and the athletics warm-up track originating in the District.

The Torch Relay passes through the District on June 27, exactly a month before the Games begin.

With so many reasons to feel personally connected to the world’s greatest festival of sport and culture, there is great cause to take to the streets in celebration.

Schools in Sleaford will close early on Wednesday, June 27 and the Council advises residents and businesses to make preparations to enjoy the festival of fun as the Olympic Flame passes through from 4pm.

It will then head up to Bracebridge Heath in a vehicle convoy, where again it can be seen being paraded towards Lincoln from around 5pm.

Community spirit will be championed in Sleaford with an afternoon carnival procession and in Bracebridge Heath with an evening celebration, both coordinated by artsNK.

In both locations local residents will have the thrill of carrying the Flame after being nominated as Torchbearers in honour of their charitable, personal or sporting endeavours.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “With the Olympic Torch Relay and 2012 Games building on the patriotic fervour of community Jubilee celebrations, I think we are well-placed in North Kesteven to really put the flags out and be proud of our District’s contributions.

“Many people may feel that these are very much the London Games but with our own residents competing in both Olympic and Paralympic competitions there is much to cheer and celebrate,” she said.

The economic boost represented by both national occasions is cause for good cheer in itself, with North Hykeham firm Running Imp taking on 30 extra staff to cope with a 40% surge in sales beyond £1m and Heckington’s Smith’s Construction securing a contract to lay the athletics warm-up track in the Olympic Park.

One of the Sleaford Torchbearers is NK Health Trainer Debbie Chessum

Communities fly flag for Queen’s Jubilee Jubilee jubilation swept through the District in a sea of red, white and blue.

Many of the District’s 100 Florishing Communities put the flags out for tea dances, street parties, carnival parades, concerts and beacon lighting; all in honour of the Queen’s 60 years on theThrone and community spirit. > See page 4 and www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Our Communities – pages 4 & 5

who is brimming with excitement and anticipation.

“The closer it gets to the event and the more I see the Relay on TV, the more excited and nervous I’m getting.

I’m increasingly struck by what an honour and privilege it is to have been nominated and then selected.

“I really hope that everyone who wants to is able to get out there on June 27 to line the streets of Sleaford and Bracebridge Heath or just to see the convoy whizz by as I expect it’ll be really spectacular,” she said.

Another is Joseph Hayat who won last year’s NK Community Champions Award for young achievers. He was nominated by the Council as an extremely positive role model. Ayesha Coupland from Ruskington – who contended the same award – will also be carrying the torch. Having overcome her own phobias she now helps other young people to grow in confidence and was put forward as an inspiration to others. > See the pullout guide on pages 7-10 detailing the Torch Relay route, local athletes competing in the Games and the District Council’s sport provision.

More than a dozenDistrict residents will be among 8,000 people carrying the Olympic Torch on a 8,000 mile journey around the country ahead of the London 2012 Games. Photo: LOCOG

International farming event will return for third successive year After breaking a tradition of not returning to a site twice in a row, the UK’s largest crop-growers’ event will also be back in North Kesteven in 2013 - for a third year running.

Attracting more than 25,000 visitors - including 100s from overseas - and 500 exhibitors, the Cereals showcase represents an enormous economic

boost to the District and promotes North Kesteven as a fertile field in which to plant a business.

Organises say the former airfield at Boothby Graffoe is perfect for traders and visitors and is well supported by local residents. This enthusiasm drew them back for two days this June and will attract them again next summer.

Our Economy – page 6

 01529 414155 / 01522 699699  info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE welcomed their confidence in North Kesteven. She said: “Events such as this bring millions of pounds into the local economy at every level.

Over the coming months we will do all we can to support organisers in making a positive decision to hopefully set down roots here.”

Our Homes – page 11

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Summer 2012 newsnk 1

Our Communities

newsnk is your newspaper 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 308116 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 or 01522 699699 if calling from a Lincoln number Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 or 01522 699650 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Lincolnshire County Council: 01522 552222 INFO-LINKS North Hykeham North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX INFO-LINKS Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ 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 Navenby Village Office 19 High Street, Navenby, Lincoln, LN5 0EN Osbournby Village Hall London Road, Osbournby, Sleaford, NG34 0DG Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HF 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

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inside Jubilee Jubilation Communities across the District put the flags out and lit beacons to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. Photo spread 4

Torch Relay Everything you need to know about where to be, who to cheer and how to get involved in the Torch Relay 8 & 9

Fledgling firms supported New business workshops at Bracebridge Heath are inspired by aviation heritage 6

Responsible recycling The ins and outs of what to put into each of your bins 12

Medal hopes Five NK athletes will carry the District’s medal hopes at the London Games 7

Wonderful Whisby Discover the delights of the District’s popular wildlife attraction and other activities taking place this summer 15 & 16

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North Kesteven’s great quality of life recognised by a second high ranking at the top of the league tables North Kesteven is officially one of the top rural districts to live, work and do business.

This follows its high ranking in an index comparing all local aurthorities, regardless of location.

The Halifax bank’s 2012 Rural Areas Quality of Life Survey of rural districts places North Kesteven 13th out of 119, on the basis of health, education, environment, work and housing.

This reaffirms the position of 36th best place in the UK to live, work and enjoy leisure time, out of all 405 local authority areas confirmed at the start of the year.

The ranking reflects the joint fourth-lowest CO2 emissions across the UK, favourable home size, quality and affordability, high

academic achievement at GCSE and a large proportion of the population regarding themselves as being in good health.

These factors are so strong that they outweigh poorer rankings for gross weekly earnings and employment, which are areas of priority action for NKDC. Sustainable job creation opportunities such as the renewable energy plant at Kirkby la Thorpe, increased workshop units and the provisions of the Sleaford Masterplan are further boosting North Kesteven’s attractiveness for business and residents.

North Kesteven’s high ranking is a strong reflection on the work of NKDC and its partners in delivering high-quality services that improve the lives of District residents.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, said: “Alongside North Kesteven’s high rating among all 405 Local Authority areas, the Rural Areas Quality of Life Survey gives another clear indication that quality of life in North Kesteven is among the best.

“Our towns and villages are vibrant, wellserved and set within beautiful countryside.

Further hallmarks of North Kesteven are our strong cultural heritage and sound community cohesion, which together combine to enhance our District even further.”

The District Council is committed to enhancing all aspects of life in North Kesteven and where it is not directly responsible for this it plays an active part in any partnerships, initiatives and ways to achieve this.

Lifesaving causes for new Chairman

Tubes’ new start

Two lifesaving organisations with the potential to touch the homes of everyone in North Kesteven will be supported by the District Council’s new chairman.

Councillor Ray Cucksey will not only fly the flag on behalf of the District but also the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance and LIVES First Responders.

“It has been very difficult to decide on just two charities from the many worthy causes which support the lives of District residents, but after long consideration I have chosen these, which both provide a vitally important service and rely solely on charitable donations to carry out their essential work,” he said.

Cllr Cucksey, pictured right with Cllr Ian Cartwright MBE, is a member for Branston, where he is deeply involved in local matters.

He will be supported during his year by his wife Barbara and new vice-chairman Cllr Terry Boston, a solicitor advocate who represents Ruskington on the Council.

Community groups, halls and schools across the District are making use of free lighting tubes.

By offering up its 1,000 fluorescent tubes for re-use, NKDC has not only saved adding to landfill but also saved the recipients the cost of replacements.

The tubes became free to a good home after the Council completed a programme of fitting lower-energy LED lights into lamps in the Sleaford offices, leading to savings of almost £10,000 and 64.7 tonnes of carbon emissions per year.

With help from Community Lincs and VCS North Kesteven, new homes have been found for all the redundant tubes with town and parish councils, voluntary and community groups, and local businesses all taking up the offer.

The Council’s sustainability team can be contacted to help with any issue relating to energy efficiency on 01529 414155 or sign up to a newsletter at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Cllr Cucksey said: “It’s a great honour and delight to be chairman of such a wellperforming council, which I believe to be one of the most excellent in the East Midlands.

“It’s an important role in a significant year and I look forward to meeting people and businesses from all over the District who make up our 100 Flourishing Communities and representing the Council and the District as I go.”

Soldiers and hospice share £3,400 pot Sally Tarry’s start Would-be record breakers helped to boost the coffers of the charities supported by both the new and former chairmen of the Council.

Although they missed out on breaking the record for the world’s biggest Superman dance, the 170 people who gathered in Sleaford did create a new record for passing sand between hands.

In the process they also raised £700 which was split between LIVES First Responders, one of Cllr Ray Cucksey’s adopted causes, and Cllr Ian Cartwright MBE’s charities,

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and St Barnabas Hospice for hospice at home in the District.

In total Cllr Cartwright raised around £3,400 for his two charities.

The total sum included the cheques for £800 he presented to each one, plus the proceeds from raffles run under his patronage which they had already banked. The ABF raised £1,118 at the civic dinner alone.

He said that he and his wife Elizabeth had greatly enjoyed their year, gaining fresh insight into the many businesses and community groups operating across the District.

The newest member of North Kesteven District Council, Cllr Sally Tarry has hit the ground running.

She was elected as the second member for Heckington Rural by 578 votes to 510 in a byelection, replacing Andrew Key who stepped down after serving the area for almost a year.

Turnout was 25.32%.

Already deeply involved in community matters as clerk to Great Hale and Helpringham parish councils, Cllr Tarry said she was really enjoying finding solutions to residents’ concerns.

News Focus

North Kesteven makes a smaller splash PM’s praise for NK’s lead during current drought and hosepipe ban on green energy generation Proud of its approach to sustainability, NKDC is fully committed to supporting water-saving efforts in this time of drought Although the hosepipe ban does not apply to local authorities and businesses, NKDC is setting an example by reducing its own water use and hopes householders will take similar action.

Despite the spring rain the hosepipe ban and drought restrictions will remain in force throughout the summer and within this edition of newsnk you can find helpful advice on conserving water resources – and saving money – drip-fed throughout.

The Council has been working with Anglian Water to map its water usage.

Its annual use is frugal at around 5,200m3, which means that leaks are highly unlikely.

To reduce water use further we have taken the following measures: > Fitted ‘freddie frog flush reducers’ to

toilets in the Sleaford offices. > Booked only one cleaning of the Sleaford office windows. > Supported our leisure contractor in installing water-saving aerated showers and taps, toilet cistern bags, urinal controls and smart meters; benchmarking and analysing water use as part of a “good housekeeping” approach to water use. > Reduced bin lorry cleaning to once a month, cleaning only headlights and number plates in between. > Told gardeners at sheltered housing schemes to water only as necessary with a can. > Promoted sports bodies’ advice on pitch maintenance during the water shortage. > Offered flush reducers to tenants

Forces covenant will build stronger community ties The District Council has signed up to a new partnership with the armed forces that will strengthen community relations further and boost funding opportunities.

The Armed Forces Community Covenant between local authorities, voluntary organisations, NHS and the Forces will help to resolve critical issues surrounding the availability of housing, school places and jobs.

The covenant will also enable bids to be made to a £30m Ministry of Defence fund to support local projects that strengthen ties and understanding between members of the armed forces and the communities where they live.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE welcomed it as a way of further strengthening the proud relationship between civil and forces communities.

“As a Council and as a community, we greatly appreciate the contribution made by our Armed Forces. We are accutely aware of the difficulties faced by personnel in accessing services and of the challenges of identifying and resourcing services to meet the needs of such ever-changing and evolving communities,” she said.

“Through this covenant we anticipate that all parties will be better placed to understand and meet these challenges for mutual benefit.”

It’s your vote - don’t lose it Voter registration forms are being delivered across North Kesteven.

This year’s canvass is a little earlier than usual because of elections on November 15 for a Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner. Next May there will be elections for Lincolnshire County Council and other polls can be called at short notice.

That’s why it’s important to return your form as soon as possible to ensure your continued registration and eligibility to vote.

You must register every year and it only takes seconds to do.

If there are no changes to the details listed, you can save the Council money by using the telephone or internet automated response service; otherwise changes need to be made

on the form and returned using the pre-paid envelope provided.

You can choose to opt out of the edited version of the register, which is the one that can be bought by anyone and used for direct marketing. To do this you must tick the opt-out box on the form or, if using the automated response, request that your name does not appear.

Armed forces serving abroad and those living outside the UK for more than six months will find details of special registration provisions at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk The revised electoral register will be published on October 16.

If you’ve not had a form by the end of June, call Electoral Services on 01529 308238.

in 400 sheltered housing scheme homes. > Promoted the availability of discounted water butts.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Member for sustainability, said: “We can all make small changes to reduce daily water use by at least 20 litres.

We won’t really notice this but it will collectively make a huge difference in making the little we have go further.

“Cutting the length of a shower by two minutes saves 16 litres and putting a flush reducer in a toilet cistern another five. It’s that simple.”

At home we use on average 145 litres of water a day and if everyone saved 20 litres each, every day equivalent to two buckets - that would save a lot of water for tomorrow.

See www.everyone-drop-20.co.uk

Prime Minister David Cameron has heralded the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant as a key factor in Britain being ‘at the forefront of the green energy revolution’.

In a speech to international energy ministers from 23 countries, the Prime Minster singled out Eco2’s £150m investment and stressed the importance of pro-active and dynamic councils such as NKDC in finding planning solutions to the need for a more diverse, cleaner mix of energy sources.

Through detailed discussion with Eco2, NKDC secured a project that not only makes positive contributions towards clean energy generation but also towards the economic and environmental sustainability of the District.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said, “For the Prime Minister to reference the Sleaford

project which we have all worked so hard to achieve and bring forward is very gratifying. The development of a co-operative relationship between Eco2 and the Council has been critical in making this development happen and securing the best deal for people locally.”

She especially praised the senior staff at NKDC for their careful and considered work ensuring broad community and economic benefits.

Dr Andrew Toft, Eco2’s director of projects said: “Schemes such as this do not make headway without constructive and co-operative engagement between a developer and a local authority; the success of this project owes a lot to the careful, considered and scrupulous support of those at North Kesteven District Council. Their positive response has been critical and they deserve recognition for this.”

Wildlife work Pipe schemes get go-ahead People with a passion for enhancing the environment can volunteer for a monthly working party at North Hykeham’s Millennium Green.

The WatchNK team who maintain the public open space are hoping to expand their volunteer group through a day of action on the second Thursday of every month, 10.30am to 3pm.

Volunteers can assist ranger Rich Livsey, pictured, and his team with tree pruning, grass cutting and general maintenance, survey the site and learn about the wildlife, flora and fauna on the green.

Dedicated volunteers already working on the green enjoy their work but ask dog walkers to keep animals on a lead, to use the dog bins provided and not to hang bags in the trees.

Details on volunteering from Hill Holt Wood on 01636 892836

Groundworks are underway in a field outside Sleaford to carve out the foundations of the strawburning renewable energy plant.

Once built, in addition to providing an income to farmers supplying the plant and work for around 80 people, a raft of broader community benefits includes free heat transfer to the revamped leisure centre, football and bowls clubs plus apprenticeships, a community fund, public art, allotments and enhanced footpaths.

Eco2 begun work on its £150m power generation plant at the beginning of May to meet an anticipated completion late in 2013.

As well as putting enough electricity into the national Grid to power 65,000 homes, free low carbon renewable heat will be transferred into Sleaford from the Boston Road plant as hot water, potentially saving each of five facilities thousands of pounds per year over the next 25 years.

The heat is the most significant of a package of seven community benefits undertaken voluntarily by Eco2.

Others include provision of up

to eight apprenticeships covering construction and generation, community funds, education, health and arts provision and a school allotments scheme.

The plant will create 80 jobs, fitting within the aims of the Sleaford Masterplan, the 25-year plan to transform Sleaford, including sustainable measures to retain and expand Sleaford’s employment base and enhance leisure amenities.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Member for sustainability, said: “In addition to all of the benefits associated with around £300,000 of fresh investment supporting our long-term plans to make the District a more sustainable place to live, there’s the generation of green electricity and transfer of free surplus heat, making a key contribution to the Council’s broader aspirations for the reduction of carbon emissions from public buildings.”

Under the planning agreement for the £150m-plus operation, road improvements have also been made at the A17 Kirkby la Thorpe junction.

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Our News Communities Focus

Jubilee jollity sets District ablaze The District’s warm, generous and jubilant response to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee shows that Community spirit is alive and well in North Kesteven

Armed Forces Day on July 1 Recycling centres remain Armed Forces Day will be another opportunity for getting the flags out and lining the streets in a cheery show of patriotic pride.

The event on Sunday, July 1, is for District residents to thank forces personnel for all they have done and continue to do in service of Queen and Country.

A parade moves through Sleaford, leaving Station Approach at 10.40am and finishing at Eastgate Green

by The National Centre for Craft & Design at 11.15am, where there will be stalls and entertainment through to 1pm. There will be a flypast at 11am.

Armed Forces Week also sees NKDC hosts an evening reception to honour and acknowledge the part

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played by our Armed Forces Veterans of all ages and their contribution to our community.

Ex-service personnel — including Volunteer and Regular Reserves — who haven’t yet received their Veterans Badge have come forward to have their contributions recognised at the event on June 29.

Children have been busy getting in to the spirit too, by colouring Lancaster aircraft and creating a homecoming meal using food from the 1940s rationing regime.

These two challenges were open for school years from Reception to Year 6 and the winners will receive £20 book tokens, goody bags, certificates and VIP reception entry.

The household recycling centres remain open at both Leadenham and Whisby.

Following a period of uncertainty in the spring, Lincolnshire County Council decided to keep them open, but with reduced operating hours.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Member for waste, said the continued operation of these two very popular and much-used sites was excellent news for North Kesteven residents and a decision we warmly welcome.

“Alongside the kerbside and bulky waste collections carried out by NKDC, this ensures that as a District we can continue to maintain our excellent record on recycling. Having been the first District in the country to

recycle more than 50% of household waste we are proud to remain one of the safest, healthiest and cleanest places to live in the UK,” he said.

Operating hours are now: > Whisby - 3.5 days: Thursday, Friday, and Monday 9am – 4pm; Saturday 9am – 12pm > Leadenham - 3 days: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9am – 4pm > Sleaford - 4 days: Friday to Monday, 9am – 4pm.

The District Council offers a paid-for service for the collection of bulky items such as sofas and electrical goods - three for £10, with concessions for claimants of some benefits. To arrange a doorstep collection call on 01529 414155

Imp’s Diamond sales sparkle The Queen’s Jubilee has been cause for celebration for lots of reasons, not least the 30 extra jobs created at one District firm which worked around the clock to satisfy patriotic fervour.

Demand was so high in the run up to the Jubilee that Running Imp expanded its enterprise at Whisby Way in North Hykeham, taking its staff up to 74 and opening a new extension at Jubilee House.

This was all to satisfy sales which soared beyond £1m with still a month to go to the big party weekend.

Running Imp has become a renowned retailer of medals and awards over 24 years, especially in the sporting sphere, but this has been the most sparkling of years – with Diamond Jubilee souvenir and party product sales topping those for the Golden Jubilee by 42%.

Buildings and vehicles are all wrapped in the Union Flag, the Queen has received her own series of the company’s souvenir gifts and The Princes Trust will benefit too with one pence from the sale of every Jubilee coin and medal going to the charity.

Ordinarily the company serves the sporting events market, and had been experiencing year-on-year growth for over a decade.

With branding of the Olympics so closely controlled, owner Chris Illsley says it’s hard to say what uplift that event has had on business too, but it will undoubtedly have a positive effect on flag, bunting and sporting awards sales.

Capture village character A digital photo competition is open to amateur photographers to capture the best of the District.

In celebration of 50 years of Lincolnshire’s Best Kept Villages & Small Towns Competition, this year’s challenge is to capture village or small town life as you see it.

The free competition is run by Community Lincs with sponsorship from The Rotary Club of Sleaford.

Winners receive vouchers and certificates.

Closing date is September 1, with details at www.communitylincs.com/ photo-competition/ or email tracy.ingram@communitylincs.com

Dunston’s can-do spirit inspires village hubs Villages with sparse amenities are resolved to restore community cohesion and spirit

Jean Ford and Diana Hammond serving tea at Dunston Hub

Community spirit is one of the most defining features of life in North Kesteven’s 100 Flourishing Communities.

This is especially clear in Dunston where a village project is a source of inspiration for others to build on.

The monthly Dunston Hub illustrates community spirit in its truest form; villagers creating an event which brings villagers with goods to sell, services to promote and skills to share together with others who have time to talk and news to spread.

Set up in response to diminishing services, it ties in with the arrival of the travelling Post Office, butchery and fishmonger and allows residents to bring anything they have for sale from plants and produce to pickles, preserves and provisions.

Diana Hammond, who set it up a year ago with Jean Ford, said it had proved hugely successful and inspired neighbouring Nocton and Metheringham to start their own monthly events as the idea spreads across the District.

“It’s a cross between drop-in, community shop and coffee morning, meeting all of those functions and much more beside,” said Diana.

In addition to the social benefits of increased community cohesion, the Hub also offers a small income stream for craftspeople and clubs and funds for local causes such as Sraises village hall tables.

Bill and Dot Franklin have seen village amenities decline through their 68 years in the village from two post

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Our Communities

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

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offices, three butchers, five pubs, a chippie and many others, but think the Dunston Hub revives community spirit and wellbeing. “It does help to get the community together, from the youngest to the oldest, and is always a lively afternoon,” said Mrs Franklin.

The Dunston Hub runs for two hours, 2 – 4pm on the second Thursday of the month; Nocton’s is 10am – noon on the second Wednesday; and Metheringham’s is on the fourth Thursday, 2.30 – 4.30pm.

First Contact is one of the groups taking advantage of the Dunston Hub to promote what it offers.

It helps people aged 60 and over to stay safe and independent in their own home by acting as a one-stop outlet for help and advice agencies.

As a single point of contact it covers topics such as home and fire safety, housing issues, adult social care, energy efficiency, falls prevention, healthy lifestyles, pensions, benefits, clubs and activity groups, caring for friends or relatives, domestic help and volunteering.

Local co-ordinator Kathy Lote says it’s heart-warming to see villages like Dunston dedicate time to running community clubs and activities such as the Hub to bring people together and reduce isolation.

First Contact leaflets are available District wide from GP surgeries, Info Links, Local Access Points and parish offices or call 01522 782172.

Or go to www.firstcontact.org.uk and click on’ Get Advice’.

Village SOS event North Kesteven’s communities are invited to a free event at the end of June to add an extra flourish to local initiatives such as community shops, broadband solutions and threatened transport.

Building on the Council’s own workshop events last autumn, the Big Lottery Fund’s Village SOS roadshow is rolling up, in partnership with the Community Lincs organisation.

It will be at the Showroom, Tritton Road, Lincoln, on June 27, 10am to 3.30pm, presenting a perfect opportunity to learn expert secrets, share experiences, discuss issues and seek inspiration for getting local projects off the ground.

Interactive workshops will cover topics such as business planning, governance, legal structures, achieving longevity and managing volunteers for emerging and established projects.

To book a place visit www.villagesos.org.uk or call 0845 434 9123. Details also at www.communitylincs.com/villagesos-roadshow-2012

New community initiatives team The Council has taken a fresh look at partnerships, bringing together a number of services and activities.

Under the Localism Act, communities are encouraged to take the lead on locally-based solutions and initiatives.

Building on this ethos, over the coming months members of NKDC’s Partnership Team will be out and about, talking to local councils, community groups and individuals about the initiatives and activities they would like to see in their area.

They will then offer support and advice on how these initiatives and activities can be put in place.

Contact the team on 01529 308267 or 01529 308257.

Lunchtime offer If you know someone aged 70 or over who would appreciate a free hot lunch in a North Hykeham School, see page 13 for details of a partnership initiative supported by NKDC to boost social cohesion.

Community Safety Partnership ‘It’s That Easy’ safety scheme rolled out Innovative workshops that support young people in making the right choices that keep both themselves and others safe are being extended.

The ‘It’s That Easy’ programme is a partnership between NKDC, the police, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service, Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership, Lincolnshire Co-op, the Safeguarding Children and Young People Board and voluntary services.

Piloted at the Sir William Roberston School in Welbourn and the NK School in North Hykeham, it will be rolled out further in early July to Sleaford’s Kesteven and Sleaford High School and St George’s academies and Carre’s Grammar School.

‘It’s That Easy’ supports 13 and 14 year olds in the responsible use of social media and the internet, road safety, being a responsible member of the community and the affect of alcohol on our decision-making processes.

As well as helping young people to do the right thing and make the right choices, the programme also shows,

through real-life events, the flip side; how easy it is to break the law when it comes to alcohol, social media use and road safety; how easy it is for pranks to turn to tragedy; and how easy it is to lose control.

The scheme has received very positive feedback from the young people it reaches, with two NK School students (pictured) appearing on BBC Lincolnshire to say how great it was.

Community Safety Partnership chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher said the scheme ensured young people stayed safe and made the right choices. “As some young people unfortunately find to their cost, there is a hard way and an easy way to learn about being responsible citizens. Fortunately, NKDC is working with partners so that more young people can learn the easy way.”

Effective and robust response to ASB Incidents of anti-social behaviour reduced in Sleaford following a co-ordinated operation.

The NK Anti-Social Behaviour Team, working closely with the police and Sleaford BID security officers issued formal warnings to 10 local individuals as a result of complaints of ASB around the town centre and in Boston Road.

Each one apologised for their actions and problems dissipated.

They know that if any of them come to police notice again they will be dealt with robustly and higher level written

warnings served and followed-up.

CSP chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher said: “Residents can be confident that teams will co-operate robustly and quickly so that members of the public can go about their business without being in fear of crime. It’s also important that parents have responsibility for their children, always knowing where they are and what they are doing.”

If you experience anti-social behaviour contact the NKDC ASB team on 01529 414155, the Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Football coaching for community teams The Community Safety Partnership is key funder to a project to set up football teams across the District.

The NKDC partnership with Carre’s Grammar School will train up to 18 adult volunteers to Level 1 coaching skills to develop teams,

initially in Heckington, Metheringham, Washingborough and Bilinghay, starting on June 30. The aim is for teams of both sexes to grow and develop locally and play against each other informally. Further details from Jade Warren on 01529 414155.

ACTIVE COMMUNITIES

Little Darters at Whisby Natural World Centre

CULTURAL HEALTHY COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIES Summer 2012 newsnk 5

Our Communities Economy

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

New workshops on aviation site are soaring success for fledgling firms Business line-up for new units weeks ahead of their completion

Deputy Council Leader Cllr Mike Gallagher and Corporate Director Karen Bradford with partners in the construction and letting of the Seven-O-Seven business units at Bracebridge Heath Initial interest in 14 new workshop units close to completion at Bracebridge Heath reinforces the level of confidence among businesses wanting to trade in North Kesteven.

The Council commissioned the Seven-O-Seven Industrial Units at Churchill Park alongside the A15 knowing that there was demand for affordable units to support fledgling firms in the north of the District.

This brings the number of units

offered by the Council up to 75 on seven sites, with total occupancy in excess of 90%.

These ones are arranged in two blocks of seven and are named after the experimental Avro 707 Series of delta-winged aircraft which was the last to be assembled there when it was RAF Bracebridge Heath. When complete the Avro 707C was towed to Waddington where it made its first flight in 1953.

The units are due to be complete

on July 1, by which time there may already be five pre-lets agreed as applications have already been made by car valeting, electrical wholesale and printing firms, with another two requests from a plumber and a MOT testing company .

The scheme provides 14 units of adaptable accommodation, totalling 15,000 sq ft, let on easy-in, easy-out terms. There are also four compounds for external storage. They are let by Hodgson Elkington LLP.

Pathway project connects communities for first time A festive community celebration marked the opening of the first pathway linking two District villages.

After many years of working to meet a long-held local aspiration, the Carlton le Moorland and Bassingham Pathway was opened in April, since when work has continued to install features along the mile-long route including seats, interpretation boards detailing the local wildlife and farming scene and an iconic ‘portrait bench’ which is common to all 79 similar schemes awarded Lottery funding.

The project has been steered by a voluntary community group set up in 2006 with the sole aim of providing an all-weather surface for cyclists, pedestrians and users of wheelchairs and mobility scooters who previously had to negotiate a busy, narrow rural road to get to the school, amenities, friends and family in either village.

Pathway Group chairman Stan Underwood said: “Everyone has taken to the Pathway so enthusiastically, and it has made the world of difference knowing you won’t be run in to the verge or hit by the fast traffic.

“We’re really one community split by this awful road but now we’re feeling increasingly re-connected.”

6 newsnk Summer 2012

One early success is an increase in children cycling to school.

Key funding came from sustainable transport charity Sustrans, with £20,000 from NKDC as well as awards from Links to Schools, the County Council, Lincolnshire Co-op and the Aggregates Levy as well as locally-raised funds.

Cllr Mike Gallagher, Executive Member with oversight of transport initiatives, said: “This is an excellent example of what volunteer groups can do when they apply themselves to finding a solution to a local concern.

We have seen at both of the Connect2 projects within the District how

increased safety generates increased walking and cycling between neighbouring communities, improving wellbeing and health and supporting a better environment by reducing the number of cars on the school run.”

The Carlton le Moorland and Bassingham Pathway is part of a national project from Sustrans which received £50million from the Big Lottery Fund in 2007. This fund is contributing to the two Connect2 schemes in North Kesteven, here and between Leasingham and Sleaford making a safer crossing across the A17, set for completion this autumn.

The community came out in force for the opening of the Carlton le Moorland and Bassingham Pathway link, the first path between the villages

newsnk visits businesses across North Kesteven to establish firm facts about the local employment scene More than 72 million eggs a week pass through a packing plant near North Scarle, 30 million of which are boxed up on site making it the world’s largest egg packing centre.

With 375 mostly local people employed at Noble Foods’ shell egg division HQ, contributing to a company-wide annual turnover of £600m, the privately-owned firm is one of NK’s biggest economic players.

Noble Foods is the world’s biggest egg business, accounting for 60% of the UK retail market, handling the output of 500 farms and supplying every major retailer but one – meaning that there’s a very good chance that the eggs you buy in supermarkets or corner shops come through North Scarle, featuring the code N1998 on the label.

With 340 different lines, the packing operation is fast and furious, running every day of the year including Christmas Day, handling all sorts of eggs from quail to duck and getting them on sale in four days or less.

Beyond the North Scarle operation, Noble has dessert-making, poultryrearing and milling operations and sells eggs in all states from shell-on, to liquid, dried, boiled and ready meals and supplies producers including Hellman’s, McDonalds, Aunt Bessies and its own brand Gü.

Charities are also well supported, with local causes invited to apply for match-funding and employees getting a 50% boost on their fundraising.

Much of the success of today has emerged from the ashes of a 2005 fire which destroyed a third of the operation and prompted a £6.6m rebuild programme.

From fragile eggs to farm machinery, businesses in North Kesteven cover the full spectrum.

Another business visit by Members saw how Burdens at North Kyme is prospering with a new contract to sell New Holland farm equipment.

Across four sites Burdens employs 40 people, 11 of them at North Kyme, including one apprenticeship per year which can be difficult to fill due to their specialised nature but most are retained as part of the loyal staff.

The North Kyme site is the most diverse with ground maintenance, agricultural, machine maintenance, hire service and sales.

Business support network pioneered

Five stars for most of NK’s food outlets

A new business support agency is helping start-ups and entrepreneurs to help boost the local economy.

NKDC, Lincoln City and both East and West Lindsey councils are partners with the private sector to provide one-to-one, face-to-face professional support for new firms.

The initiative, called LINBIS, recognises that local circumstances including economic deprivation, rural isolation and patchy broadband coverage means that digital-only is not always the only solution.

Anyone thinking of starting a business or any new business that has been trading for less than a year that needs help or advice can contact NKDC’s Economic Development Team in complete confidence that the advice they receive will be independent and of good quality.

A free initial consultation will help anyone thinking of starting a business make the right choices. All locallybased business support providers willing to meet accreditation criteria are welcome to join the advice network Call Harry Attrill, Business Support Officer, on 01529 308143 or email harry_attrill@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Shoppers and diners in North Kesteven are now better informed on the quality of food establishments in the area.

With adoption of the National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, replacing the District’s own local qualityassurance scheme, people can judge premises on the same criteria, regardless of where they are in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Under the new scheme around 600 of North Kesteven’s 1,104 food premises are top rated with five-stars; 264 have four stars and 165 have three.

All scores should be prominently posted in outlets dealing with food preparation and sales to increase consumers’ awareness of food hygiene through nationallycomparable ratings.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Member for environmental services and licensing, said these ratings built on the success of the Scores on the Doors scheme pioneered by NKDC which have given consumers increased confidence of standards.

All premises should display their rating prominently and openly tell customers how many stars they have.

North Kesteven is playing its own part in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games’ success, hosting the Torch Relay, sending the cream of athletic talent and laying the foundations of a running track. Discover how you can get get close to the action and how your District Council is building a sporting and cultural legacy

Kate Haywood Brant Broughton

Among our keenest medal hopes is Kate Haywood, 24, British record holder for 100m breaststroke.

Her career opened with a win at the European Junior Championships aged 14 – the same year she became the youngest-ever swimmer to represent England at the Commonwealth Games, where she took relay bronze. Now she anticipates retiring on an Olympic high.

After winning back-to-back titles at the European Juniors in 2003, she became BBC Young Sports Personality that year; the awards being the best night of her Brant Broughton parents’ lives as they met their sporting heroes.

Tonsillitis kept her from Athens in 2004 but the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games brought two finals and a medley relay silver.

She left 2008’s Beijing Games with frustrated results but went on to medals of all three colours and records in other World and European

Emily Taylor Heighington

Heighington’s Emily Taylor, 25, is in Team GB’as 10-woman squad, hoping to compete in the Women’s Rowing Pairs.

She is now training tirelessly to improve on an impressive tally of places in recent years, the latest being a World Cup bronze this spring.

Emily started rowing at Durham University and won her first GB vest in 2007, breaking into the Elite squad in February 2011 only five years after taking up the sport.

competitions in that year.

A hip injury forced Kate to sit out the 2009 season but three months after surgery she was back in the pool in January 2010, building herself up to exceed expectations and win a 50m breaststroke silver with a personal best time and contribute to a 4x100m medley relay gold.

This amazing comeback was capped at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, with two bronze and a silver medal, in the 50m and 100m breaststroke and 4x100m medley relay.

Achieving her long-term goal of qualifying for London 2012 in March just half a second outside her long-standing personal best, she feels better placed than ever to realise her ultimate aim.

Louth-born, Kate found her water wings with Louth Dolphins and greatly anticipates the home crowd’s support.

“I experienced a home games in Manchester and that was amazing, but the thought of swimming in a venue with 17,000 people cheering your name is just so incredible,” she said.

She was a bronze medallist at the National Championships in 2006, took bronze at the World U23 Championships in 2007 and 2008 with gold in 2009. There was also gold in the 2010 World University Rowing Chamionships; a World silver last year; European silver in 2008 and a series of fourth places.

She was a pupil at Robert Pattinson School in North Hykeham, swam at regional level and ran crosscountry for the county.

She is Lottery funded through UK Sport and has already won the admiration of Olympic medal great

Sophie Allen Welbourn

Sir Matthew Pinsent who said, ‘For someone to do what she’s done is already a massive achievement; if she’d missed out on London she’d certainly have been part of Rio 2016.”

Heckington

being in the squad and with athletes from other countries, will be an amazing experience,” said Tscherniawsky, who was born with spasticity in all four limbs.

He thanks his grandparents Denis and Molly Burrows for their unrelenting support and coach Jim Edwards who he met through the Lincolnshire Elite Athletics Programme, run by the Lincolnshire Sports Partnership.

Beyond the partnership’s support he also relies on his own fundraising, even packing bags in Sleaford’s

qualifying standard. To have made the team is not only a personal victory, but a vindication on all those who have supported her along the journey, especially through injury.

Andy Skinner

Kieran Tscherniawsky Seated discus thrower Kieran Tscherniawsky, 20, from Heckington capped his Junior World Champion win by becoming 2011’s Lincolnshire Disabled Sportsman of the Year.

This has sharpened his focus on Paralympic gold after achieving a personal best of almost 30 metres in the Senior World Championships.

A silver in the World Cup gives him a world-second ranking.

“I’m always eager to win, but competing is the main thing and just

Swimmer Sophie Allen, 20, joined Team GB by coming second to Kate Haywood in qualifiers.

Although from Fulbeck, Sophie is a former pupil of the William Roberstson High School at Welbourn.

This is her senior team debut.

Repeatedly surprising herself with her own performance, she came away from the World Cup with a silver, made massive strides with personal bests and emerged from Belgium with times of an Olympic

Skellingthorpe

Sainsbury’s to buy two new discuses as the store group is a major sponsor of the 2012 Paralympics. He’s also helped pupils from local schools to experience sport from his perspective.

Other Lincolnshire Olympians are: Swimmer Lizzie Simmonds; Georgie Twigg and Christa Cullen in hockey; Simon Terry in archery; and possibly Lincoln Ladies FC players Casey Stoney, Jess Clarke and Sophie Bradley.

In the Paralympics are: Sophie Wells in para-dressage; Rob Welbourn in para-swimming.

Andy Skinner may not know until weeks before the Paralympics start in late August whether he’s made the squad for sitting volleyball.

The 42-year-old from Skellingthorpe has been training full-time since March to achieve his goal, supported by the Lincolnshire Elite Athletes Programme.

With smaller courts, lower nets and scope to block on a serve, sitting volleyball is much the same as ordinary volleyball, except for increased speed.

He gained his first GB cap in 2009, three years after an above knee leg amputation following a motorbike accident 15 years earlier.

He’s represented Britain 40 times in a variety of disabled sports, coaches sitting volleyball nationally and inspires recent adult amputees.to come to terms with disability.

In 2009 he achieved ninth place in the European Championships and 16th at the Worlds in 2010.

Summer 2012 newsnk 7

Torch Relay will ignite and inspire Distri

This summer will be one like no other, offering a unique opportunity to get close to - a through North Kesteven. Here we bring you everything you need to know to get the m The Olympic Torch travels through North Kesteven on June 27, exactly one month before the opening of the London 2012 Games, making this a particularly momentous day on the Torch’s 70-day passage around the country.

It will enter the District at Heckington, travel along the A17, be carried through Sleaford and then travel onwards up the A15 to Bracebridge Heath where it will again be paraded by local people before heading in to Lincoln.

At both Sleaford and Bracebridge Heath local celebrations are being co-ordinated by the Council to ensure that everyone who wants to has chance to be a part of this historic event.

End of the Torch Relay Route, 4.30pm

Sleaford The torch will be carried along Boston Road, Southgate and Northgate, which will be closed for the official relay and a subsequent procession of colour and creativity.

All town schools will close at lunchtime as children from each one are actively involved in the event With a carnival atmosphere infusing the streets for both the Torch’s passage and the schools’ Olympic themed procession, this will be a memorable afternoon.

ArtsNK’s visual arts teams have been leading workshops to create large, processional sculptures for the parade. Dance and drama will also be used to convey the sports and themes of the Olympiad as 50 or so children from each of the eight participating schools swim, sail, row, cycle or

Sleaford Torch Relay

Lincoln Road

Wednesday, June 27 4pm - 5pm

End of procession 5pm

beam-balance and ribbon-twirl by.

Headed up by the popular Brasshoppers and Band of RAF College Cranwell, the parade will include stiltwalkers, samba musicians and displays of BMX and skating skills as the procession moves from Boston Road through to Millfield Terrace.

Along the route, there will be street entertainers, the Sleaford Concert and Sleaford Training bands, a potential flypast and the undoubted spectacle of the Torch convoy itself, which will see spectators showered with sponsors’ promotional goodies.

Throughout, the streets will be decorated with bunting and banners made through artsNK workshops and official London 2012 branding for a phenomenally festive flair lasting for more than an hour from around 4pm.

Northgate Start of procession 4.15pm

Start of the Torch Relay Route, 4pm

3.30pm - Road closures 4pm - Torch Relay begins in Boston Road, heading along Southgate, Northgate and Lincoln Road 4.15pm - Procession begins at Recreation Ground, following same route 4.30pm - Torch Relay ends at York Avenue 5pm - Procession finishes at Millfield Terrace All times are approximate and 5.30pm - Roads reopen subject to change

District residents’ moment to shine in honour of personal triumph and community service North Kesteven residents will be sharing in the excitement and build-up to the London 2012 Olympic Games when the Flame passes through the District on Wednesday June 27.

After being lit by the sun’s rays in Athens and then carried throughout Greece for eight days, the Torch will have been 40 days travelling through Britain when it reaches North Kesteven. Here, exactly one month before it is used to ignite passion at the London Games, it will illuminate the inspirational achievements of the District Torchbearers chosen to speed it on its way. The procession involves 8,000 bearers over 70 days, all detailed at www.london2012.com/olympictorchrelay In no particular order of their place on the Torch Relay here are the NK Torch bearers we are aware of; others may have been listed as living outside the District.

Each one will wear a white and gold uniform and walk or run around 300 metres at the heart of a spectacular convoy.

Sleaford Four people will carry the Torch through Sleaford Debbie Chessum, 39, is one of the NK Health Trainers, working across the District to improve the health and wellbeing of clients.

Her nominator said she is an inspiration, every year raising charitable funds by running marathons, coffee mornings or race nights. Latest initiatives include village hall fundraising and setting up a health club in Billingborough; always giving her time and talents for free with friendly goodwill.

Neil Woodmansey, 49, from Sleaford has 26 years service as a fire and rescue officer, including as leader of the UK Canine Rescue Team and work in global disaster zones. Awarded an MBE and listed in the Independent on Sunday’s list of 100 happy

8 newsnk Summer 2012

people, he also works with schools, charities and local football teams. He is described as ‘one of the nicest, most genuine individuals, fun to be around, compassionate and hardworking, he gives so much to the local community and helps others across the world.’

Suzanne Bolton, 47, from Sleaford, is a mother of three who finds time for others in the community, volunteering with the town’s Citizens Advice Bureau.

Building on an Open University course, she set up the CAB’s computer system and went on to a first class honours degree, now working as an IT project manager for the NHS whilst aspiring to a masters degree.

She shows resilience in rising from the prospect of benefit reliance to a life full of satisfaction and aspirations in three years.

Robert Mohan, 21, from Bourne, is a Lincolnshire Shot Putter who ‘threw’ for the GB Juniors Team and held the county shot put record at 17.70m, putting in the best performance at the County Championships last year. He is the Northern Indoor and Outdoor Champion and finished runner up at the England Championships last June. A focused athlete who trains hard and is an ambassador for the sport, he is regarded as an inspirational and excellent role model.

Bracebridge Six people will carry the Torch through Bracebridge Heath Charlotte Peach, 15, from Lincoln competes for Newark Athletics Club, runs for the county and is one of the top East Midlands U15 Girls.

She has ambitions to be in Team GB for the 2016 and 2020 Olympics and is always ready to help younger athletes. On top of training four times a week she excels academically.

Daniel Dring, 29, from Morton was nominated for his impressive energy and vitality through a period of personal difficulty and bereavement. He has completed two London marathons in under three hours and 40 minutes, raising over £8,000 for Clic Sargent. He was nominated as a ‘just reward for the selfless dedication, support and love he has shown to his family and friends’.

Laura Scott, 28, from Lincoln is a paramedic dedicated to helping the less fortunate in Kenya. Volunteering in 2009 moved her to raise £5,000 in a year and then oversee improvements to a clinic for a remote Kenyan community. She returned with RAF Cranwell personnel last year and plans another trip to another part of Kenya this year.

Courtney Limb, 14, from Lincoln, doesn’t let her Type 1 Diabetes stop her fulfilling her passion of all sports. She is now an elite player at Lincoln Ladies Centre of Excellence and believes that illness shouldn’t have to stop anyone enjoying sport. “If anything it helps,” she said. “Have dreams and aim high.”

Her dream is to play football for England.

Karen Mayor, 50, from Lincoln is a mother of twins who devotes herself to assisting

hundreds of others in need. She is a trustee and treasurer of Lincoln Community Larder, supports the Air Ambulance and Lincoln YMCA by raising more than £500 a year and is treasurer, committee member and fundraiser for Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline.

Rebecca Dunning, 16, from near Louth is a dedicated athlete training daily in swimming, shooting, running, fencing and horse riding.

Whilst competing in 2009 she broke her pelvis in five places, ruptured her bladder and had a collapsed lung but fought back to full strength to compete in pentathlons and be selected for the British Pool Talent Squad.

Elsewhere District residents are also carrying the Torch on other legs of the relay Amy-May Saunders, 17, from Heighington, will be in Grimsby on June 26. An inspiration and role model to all at the Witham Hill

ict residents ahead of Olympic Games

and for 12 or so District residents to touch - history as the Olympic Torch passes most out of Relay Day, Wednesday, June 27

Bracebridge Heath Canwick Avenue

London Road

With the Torch reaching Bracebridge Heath in the early evening, a different approach is being taken here which means that villagers and local residents get two events.

Not only will there be the Torch Relay along the A15 and Canwick Avenue, which will both be closed for the duration, but there’ll be an evening celebration too to really ignite Olympic enthusiasm and community spirit.

With it being impossible to delay re-opening of the roads or to have any road based additions to the Torch convoy itself, the parish and district councils have developed a community festival to make the most of the occasion.

This will take place from 7pm to 9.30pm in the woods alongside the A15 and in the recreation ground behind St John’s Hospital. But the Torch Relay itself is reason enough to come out and line the route for half an hour around 5pm.

End of the Torch Relay Route, 5.15pm

On the Way Woodland Walk 7-9.30pm

Bracebridge Heath

Torch Relay

On the Way Community Celebration 7-9.30pm

Free evening event to ignite village community’s Torch Relay Day flare

Wednesday, June 27

Start of the Torch Relay Route, 4.45pm

Rhubarb Theatre is devising family entertainment for On The Way

4.30pm - Road closures 4.45pm - Torch Relay begins in Sleaford Road, heading through to London Road and right along Canwick Avenue 5.15pm - Torch Relay ends at Canwick Avenue and roads re-open 7pm - Evening event begins at Woodland Walk alogside A15 and at the Recreation Ground, accessed via stone arch from A15 or Bath Road 9.30pm - Community Celebration closes

Joseph Hayat, 19, from Sleaford, will carry it in Saxilby, on June 28. He was nominated by NKDC’s Children’s Services Officer as an extremely positive role model. As a Youth Parliament member and Youth Cabinet representative he is devoted to lobbying on behalf of young people, raising the profile of important issues and encouraging them to stand up for their beliefs and get involved.

Jenni Jones, 17, from Sleaford carries the Torch in Melton Mowbray on July 3.

Regarded as ‘an amazing inspiration to all who meet her’, she took on family care after her mother’s diagnosis with an autonomic condition two years ago ‘without ever complaining or giving up’. She maintains her school and social life and raises funds for a Burmese orphanage and local hospital.

Henry Gregory, 13, from North Hykeham, carries the Torch in Lincoln on June 27. He has been trampolining since he was five, training up to five hours four days a week; winning many competitions, being British champion and competing internationally. A happy lad with a perpetual smile, he aims to compete in future Olympic Games.

Julie Hanks, 46, from Sleaford will carry the Torch in Lincoln on June 27. A dental hygienist, she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro to raise £5,000 for a dental charity. She co-founded Sleaford Striders Athletic Club juniors group and has run the Great North Run and three marathons, but says the 300m of Torch Relay will be the slowest she’s ever run to savour every minute.

Paul Timms, 46, from Billinghay, will run in Wrangle on June 27, before the Torch reaches North Kesteven.

He’s a pillar of the community, having served 11 years as a Military Policeman before fighting off cancer. He now teaches and referees Taekwondo, is a retained fire fighter in Billinghay and a foster carer. His nominator says, ‘Paul is a brilliant example of someone who has overcome adversity, remained selfless and is constantly giving of himself to help others.’

Paul McCarthy, 48, lives in Cranwell and will carry the Torch in Wrangle.

He has run several marathons and half marathons, raising funds for charities including Kidney Research, the Air Ambulance and RNIB. He also coaches at a local sports club for disabled and able bodied young people – encouraging everyone to stretch themselves to the best of their ability.

Louise Nelson, 21, from Lincoln, teaches kick-boxing in Quarrington whilst studying

her final year degree. She will carry to Torch in Lincoln on June 27. A former junior world champion at many levels and BBC regional Sports Personality of the Year aged 16; recurring back injury now keeps her away from competition.

Steffi Wilkinson, 12, from Sleaford, will carry the Torch in Wainfleet on June 27.

Having taken up athletics and cross-country in the last year, she turns out for Sleaford Striders whenever she can. She was given this accolade for her hard work and dedication across both track and cross country season.

Ayesha Coupland, 18, from Ruskington, will carry the Torch in Kings Lynn on July 4. She has overcome disability and phobias to take control of her own life and contribute to a funding panel for youth opportunities in NK and Lincoln. She volunteers in local youth centres and was runner up for the NKDC youth Community Champion 2011 to Joseph Hayat.

Glen Keeble, 42, from Sleaford, will carry the Torch at Saxilby, on June 28. Having lost his right arm and suffered serious injury in a motorbike accident aged 17, he underwent years of operations before regaining his mobility. He is an active governor at Kirkby la Thorpe School. Despite a series of uphill struggles. he has never given in, showing courage and determination every day.

the boarded up pub through a special photographic project.

Songs and performance have been devised by artists including Districtbased Rhubarb Theatre so that people are immersed in the community’s creativity as they walk through the woods between 7pm and 9.30pm.

These creative interventions, displays, performances, story telling sessions and art works form an open air gallery within woodland parallel to the Torch route. Access by timed ticket from the library, by emailing artsnk@leisureconnection.co.uk or calling 01529 410595. Access to the Olympic Gala on the recretation ground is freely available, 7 - 9.30pm.

Arts development officer Nick Jones said: “People want to celebrate this once in a lifetime opportunity and to be a part of something massive.”

Relay route road closure advice

Photos: Sleaford Standard, Lincolnshire Echo & NKDC

Gymnastics Club, coaching, choreographing and supporting gymnasts in competition, she was judged British Gymnastics Young Volunteer in 2011 and chosen to open a schools sports event in Lincoln on June 27.

The free On The Way evening event in Bracebridge Heath will celebrate the other aspect of the Olympic ambition – cultural development.

Inspired by last year’s SaFire events, it has the potential to inspire community groups to re-introduce their village gala as a lasting legacy.

Over recent weeks artsNK has worked with local groups to devise installations that promote their wares, such as gardeners who will plant up hanging baskets to suspend from trees, the WI who are creating an outdoor gallery of cakes and crafts, and the parish plan group hanging archive images of the village on trees.

Themes will celebrate the journeys made along the ancient Ermine Street and Viking Way footpath which intersect here, community cohesion and local characters who will populate When the Torch Relay passes through Sleaford and Bracebridge Heath, it will be necessary to close roads and restrict parking to ensure public safety.

In Sleaford, roads affected from around 3.30pm are: Boston Road, The

Hoplands, Milton Way, St Giles Avenue, Russell Crescent, Old Place, New Street, Carre Street, Albion Terrace, Southgate, Station Road, London Road, Handley Street, Jermyn Street, Watergate, Westgate, Eastgate, Northgate, Church Lane, Millfield Terrace, Clayberg Drive, Tennyson Avenue, The Drove, Lincoln Road, North Parade, Jubilee Grove, Northwood Drive, Claremont

Park, York Road, St Denys Avenue, Stokes Drive, Holdingham Roundabout.

In Bracebridge Heath restrictions will begin at around 4.30pm: A15 Sleaford Road, B1178 Tower Lane, White Lane, Bloxholme Lane, Sycamore Grove, The Crescent, Main Avenue, Dorothy Avenue, Davy’s Lane, A607 Grantham Road, Red Hall Farm Lane, Whitehall Crescent, Red Hall Drive, B1131 Canwick Avenue, Caistor Drive, Norfolk Crescent, Lichfield Road, Bath Road, Lincoln Road, B1188 Canwick Hill.

Roads will open when safe to do so and all times are subject to change. See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk for latest details.

Summer 2012 newsnk 9

World athletes will use District-made track Every Olympian preparing for the London 2012 field events will be warming up on a track conceived in North Kesteven Some of the world’s most highly prized feet will be sprinting, hurdling and hop, skip & jumping on a track built by Smith Construction of Heckington.

The award of the £1.6m contract for the Olympic Park warm-up site was made to the 33-year-old firm after it emerged as a leader in its own field through a series of prestigious installations across the country.

The principle engineering on site delivered an eight-lane 400m running track, long jump, triple jump and pole vault runways, high jump facilities, a water jump allied to the steeple chase, drainage and irrigation systems. The project took six months up to December, with landscaping finished in the spring.

The warm-up track is alongside the main stadium. It has been put through its paces at a number of trials events ahead of its use for both the Olympic

and Paralympic Games this summer, where Heckington’s own Kieran Tscherniawsky will get to use the specialist Paralympic throwing circles.

Smith Construction is a sports and civil engineering specialist employing 80 skilled and talented people, mostly from the Sleaford area. They are just one of hundreds of British firms involved in the Games’ success, with The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games LOCOG having placed 90% of its spend with

UK companies, 70% of which is with small or medium sized enterprises and two-thirds outside of London.

Smith Construction’s project development manager Jeanette Munton, said: “Although we treat each and every client as being equally important to us, it is undoubtedly a great honour and accolade to be selected for such a prestigious contract and we can’t wait to see it on TV being pounded by the world’s greatest athletes.”

Smith Construction’s track, bottom right, is at the heart of the action

months from October 8. Alternative facilities are being arranged to accommodate school and club use.

See September’s newsnk for details.

Cllr Susan Waring, whose Executive brief covers leisure services, said: “We were delighted with the positive and constructive feedback from all those who responded and are pleased to have improved on our plans so that more residents right across the District will be able to benefit from the changes made through our extensive refurbishment at Eastbanks.”

The Council is exploring options to source the additional £200,000 including Sport England’s Inspired Facilities Fund; Eco2’s Community Fund; the Amateur Swimming Association and borrowing.

NKDC operates a broad range of sporting facilities

NK Centre, North Hykeham: Swimming, racquet sports, football, climbing & fitness Sleaford Leisure Centre: Swimming, gym, aerobics & sports courses Northgate, Sleaford: Football, racquet sports, gymnastics, athletics & aerobics Harpers, Sleaford: Swimming, five-a-side football, squash, aerobics & gym See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk for detail of all NKDC-run leisure centres and activities

to can develop skills Up to 18 people weekly r fo s local teenager coach teams of strict Di ur fo in s kabout casual football kic communities. outs will mmunity Kickab Initially the NK Co gham, rin he et ington, M be based in Heck ving gi h, ug ro bo ashing Billinghay and W ething m so of both sexes, 13-16 year-olds ly.

Ju m ay nights fro fun to do on Frid

10 newsnk Summer 2012

Running alongside the Olympic and Paralympic Games, is a unique exhibition examining how design has empowered people, improved lives and transformed participation in sport.

From July 14 to September 30, buffering the full span of the Games, the National Centre for Craft & Design’s summer show looks at designs and technologies that have enabled us to work harder, look better, feel stronger and move faster.

Transformers charts the development of materials and technologies that have made today’s designs more user-friendly and efficient, explores the inventions employed on a daily basis to make life easier around the home and studies how design has helped integrate workers of all abilities.

It also examines the importance sport plays in empowering and improving lives, looks at styles and fashions, notes the significance of disability as a positive image in advertising and considers how digital technology, body augmentation and robotics improve and enable mankind.

Coupled with this, Mat Fraser, a passionate advocate for disabled people in the performing arts, will give a personal take on disability and aesthetics at the National Centre on September 15, detailed in page 14.

Silver Spirit fund award for Sleaford

NK Centre excels Revised pool plans make room for Splash, steam and sauna in Sleaford in Quest success Revised plans for the refurbished Sleaford Leisure Centre include scope for a sauna, steam room, splash zone, gym extension, better dance studio and a speedier turnaround.

This has all emerged from extensive consultation on the Council’s commitment to responding to users’ by finding a further £200,000 to boost the project spend to £2.85m.

There was a strong desire to keep the steam and sauna facilities as well as introducing a new children’s wet play area. Design options also allow for the gym and dance studio to be reconfigured and all of this can be achieved a month quicker than anticipated.

The centre will now close for 11

Transformers charts art’s part in disabled athlete’s sporting success

ep forward for Volunteers can st l 1 Coaching the free FA Leve Warren de training. Call Ja or email 55 41 41 on 01529 kesteven.gov.uk jade_warren@ntraining session st ahead of the fir on June 30.

North Kesteven’s NK Sports Centre has been ranked excellent in a number of areas and good overall.

The assessment came under the Quest Plus assurance scheme for facility management and development.

The NK Centre was the first local leisure amenity to undergo this audit.

Following appraisals and mystery visits, it was graded ‘excellent’ for business planning, continuous improvement, financial planning, sales, user retention and fitness suites.

Across the eight other criteria the NK Centre achieved a ‘good’ ranking.

Cllr Susan Waring, Executive Member for leisure, said this was excellent news and congratulated user groups, staff and management who all worked so hard to ensure high standards. She said: “This recognition also acknowledges and supports NKDC’s commitment to continuous improvement and development of the District’s leisure services as we strive to improve facilities and leisure access.”

1

1

Cash from a fund inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games has been awarded to two Sleaford groups.

The Sleaford U3A group will use £300 to develop their New Age Kurling Club, buying its own set of Kurling equipment to run friendly competitions over the summer.

The Sleaford Carers Group has £100 to support a woodland walk trip.

The money came through the Silver Spirit project at the Lincolnshire Sports Partnership, which gave awards of up to £300 to community groups and organisations whose members are mostly aged 50-plus to run Olympic and Paralympic inspired projects in the run-up to the Games.

A total of £10,000 has supported more than 3,000 people to take part in Olympic themed activities locally.

Olympic dance day for District schools More than 300 local young people were involved in a global recordbreaking attempt inspired by the Olympics.

The single Lincolnshire event as part of the Big Dance Schools Pledge involved the artsNK dance

development team guiding primary and secondary school dance teachers to rehearse the five-minute dance piece with their students.

Inspired by the Olympics, fittingly it was performed on the same day that the Olympic Torch arrived in the UK.

Grass-roots water saving for clubs Sports clubs, playing field associations and schools are being offered helpful advice on dealing with the consequences of the hosepipe ban which restricts pitch irrigation.

In order to help local sports organisations, NKDC has shared the advice of sports governing bodies to ensure the safety and performance of outdoor pitches is maintained during the water shortage.

As well as suggested immediate actions, there is also advice for longer-term preparations to guard against increasingly drier conditions.

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES Swimming in North Kesteven

CULTURAL COMMUNITIES HISTORICAL

To provide good quality housing to meet the diverse needs of communities in North Kesteven

Tenant satisfaction is high for ‘excellent’ eco homes in Sleaford

Everything’s rosy at Council’s new Eslaforde Gardens homes Council leader Clr Marion Brighton OBE and Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Board Member for housing, at Eslaforde Gardens with tenants Norman and Helen Quirke and Graham Anderson The Council’s newest cluster of sustainable homes has opened to an enthusiastic welcome from tenants.

All seven bungalows built at Eslaforde Gardens in Sleaford specifically for the over 55s are occupied, with residents giving them an ‘excellent’ rating in all areas.

They were built by Langwith Builders at a cost of around £610,000 financed jointly by the District Council and Government’s Homes & Communities Agency which are co-funding the construction of 46 homes in total at a cost of £6.2m.

The extension to Eslaforde Gardens brings the number of completed new homes to 35, with a further 11 set for completion in Martin this autumn.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said the Council remained determined to build more affordable homes to meet local need, which was made easier through a change in the funding regime for council housing.

“As with the other nine completed sites this is a fantastic development which not only meets the needs of the

new tenants but also offers something to the existing tenants in the way of the new communal courtyard garden.

I can see why the residents are so delighted with them as every aspect is so carefully thought out and crafted.

They really are exceptional,” she said.

As well as having solar water heating and air-source heat pumps, the homes are thoroughly insulated and finished off to higher sustainability standards that is required.

In a survey of tenant satisfaction, four of the seven responded, all of them giving excellent ratings to the 11 criteria covering room size, layout, security, parking, hearing and property condition. One of these was Graham Anderson who said he was satisfied with every aspect of his new home, especially the communal garden which made it easier to meet up with neighbours For Julie Marshall having access to a garden without the trouble of maintaining it is a great boon. “I’ve got a nice little patio with just a couple of borders and with the extra insulation

Awarded for collaborative working A close and collaborative working relationship between NKDC and one of its contractors has brought high-level industry praise.

Robert Woodhead Ltd received a commendation for the way it worked with the Council in constructing the five homes at Pinfold Lane, Ruskington, opened six months ago as part of the Council’s pioneering programme of building new homes to meet local need.

The development received a Highly Commended Award from the Chartered Institute of Building under the Committed to Collaborative Working category. The Newark firm was also Highly Commended for its commitment to health and safety at all of its sites.

Woodhead’s business development director Glenn Slater said: “It is clear that we could not have achieved this without an enlightened client like North Kesteven District Council. The Council’s approach to the project empowered our employees to perform to the best of their ability. Everyone enjoyed working with the Council.”

The project delivered five of the 35 homes already built by the Council under a £6.2m programme to build 46 new houses to meet local need.

Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said the authority’s pride as a pioneer of a new era in council house building was reflected through constructive partnerships with quality contractors such as Woodheads.

it’s easier to heat the house and keep warm,” she said.

For Norman and Helen Quirke, their bungalow allows them to settle down again after living on a houseboat. “We love all of the eco elements to the house and look forward to getting a bill to see just how efficient they are.

The house and gardens are beautiful and we’re really enjoying living here,” said Mrs Quirke.

Tenants of the older flats were closely involved from the outset, through design consultation, garden planning and taking a keen interest in the year-long build process.

Clive Wicks, the architect of the scheme said the finished result exceeded even his expectations, especially with the gardens. “Looking at the inside or outside you really wouldn’t think that these are council houses because of the design and build quality; they’re a credit to the care North Kesteven takes in accommodating its residents and an inspiration for private builders to aspire to,” he said.

Broadband registration With roll out of £57.2m of superfast Broadband for the county set to start later this year, the time is right for ensuring you don’t miss out.

NKDC is paying up to £600,000 into the funding pot over three years and we want to ensure all District homes, businesses and communities get their fair share of coverage.

While the plan is being drawn up of which areas are prime priorities, it’s essential that you maintain a demonstration of demand by registering at

www.onlincolnshire.org

Our Homes Our

Fund to restore empty homes for use New funding will be used to help the owners of 15 more empty properties bring them back into use to meet local need.

Over the past year NKDC has successfully supported owners in bringing 17 properties back in to use.

Not only is this better for the immediate neighbourhood and in easing the local housing waiting list, but it also brings benefits to owners worth around £5,000 a year per property in rental income and council tax savings.

The £120,000 has been made possible through a successful bid to the Homes & Communities Agency, to support the work of Empty Homes Officer Luke Taylor in bringing back to use the 684 properties owned by private individuals that have been empty for six months or more.

If your home is one of these, with the help of the Council, it can be brought up to lettable standard and given a new lease of life as someone’s rented home.

The project offers a comprehensive advice service on how different agencies can support the process.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing said: “Our ongoing commitment and success in bringing empty homes back into use is vital not only for the continued achievement of our affordable housing goals but also for the sustainability of local communities.”

To discuss the options, or if you live near an empty home and would like to report any concerns, call Luke Taylor on 01529 308297, luke_taylor@n-kesteven.gov.uk or www.lincsemptyhomes.org.uk

Funds boost will boost stock numbers More new homes will be built and others within Council ownership brought up to a higher standard through a new financing regime for council houses.

The self-financing approach replaces the housing subsidy regime which saw NKDC pay £4m net annually to the Government.

But now, having paid a one-off sum of £56.8m to Government, financed by borrowing, the Council is free to retain all rental income and invest it to the best advantage of its growing

housing stock of 3,800-plus homes.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing, said: “The Council is responding positively to the opportunities self-financing offers, which we believe will generate significant sums to achieve the NK Homes Standard by 2015, as well as maximise the number of new affordable homes we can build.

“The new approach means that in the long-term, both NKDC and our tenants will be better off and that has to be good for all residents.”

More affordable homes in Hykeham Work has begun on a £2 million housing project to help meet local housing demand.

New Linx Housing Trust, part of Waterloo Housing Group, is building 20 new affordable at Mendip Avenue, North Hykeham, all with rain water harvesting and solar panels to meet sustainability Code Level 3.

NKDC will be involved in identifying the families in need of the new accommodation from the District’s housing list. They will be available to rent and through shared ownership.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive

Member for housing, said they made a welcome contribution over and above the 35 homes the Council has built, the further 11 it has under construction and further expansion possible through funding changes.

“As a Council we are committed to expanding the provision of affordable homes. Having led the way in pioneering a new era of council house building we also work closely with social housing partners like Waterloo to secure long-term improvements in the lives of people on our housing waiting list,” he said.

Easier allocations for Homefinders A new allocations system for all social housing across North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey is close to going live.

Over the coming months, final tweaks will be made in readiness for the launch of Lincs Homefinder to broaden choice and ease the lettings process.

Councils and housing associations across the three areas will advertise all of the available properties which will make it easier to see what’s available across more than 800

square miles in Central Lincolnshire.

North Kesteven’s existing housing register applicants are advised that they need to tell the Council if they do not want their details sharing with the councils and Acis Housing.

Details of the new Lincs Homefinder Lettings Policy, explaining how applications will be processed, prioritised and how properties will be advertised and let are at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk.

Contact the Housing Needs Team on 01529 4141455 for further details.

Summer 2012 newsnk 11

Our Communities News Focus

Your Local Access Points A network of outlets across the District make it easier to access Council services closer to home.

The 12 community access points, which include Info-links offices in North Hykeham and Metheringham, the customer service centre at Sleaford and nine local access points in villages, offer a comprehensive range of forms, facilities and functions relating to District, county and parish council services.

Heckington’s has relocated, Navenby’s is on the move in July, opening hours revised here and there and a new money advice service is ntroduced at Metheringham.

Whilst so much can be done online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk NKDC appreciates that up to 30% of people do not use the internet and connectivity is variable, which is why it supports the access points to ensure full, fair and equitable access.

Here you can:

Addresses for all of the access points are printed on page 2 of this and all newsnk editions. Opening hours vary.

Info-Links, NK Centre, North Hykeham Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 9am-5pm; Friday, 9.30am-4.30pm, closed daily 1pm-1.45pm Info-Links, Metheringham High Street Monday, Thursday & Friday, 9am-1pm Billinghay, Church Street Monday, Tuesday & Friday, 9.15am-3pm Branston, Station Road Library Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10am-7pm; Saturday 10am-1pm Heckington, St Andrews Street Monday to Friday, 9am-2pm Navenby, High Street Tuesday to Friday, 9am-noon Osbournby, Village Hall Monday, 10am-3pm Skellingthorpe, Community Centre Monday to Thursday, 9.30am – 2pm Witham Office, Torgate Lane, Bassingham Monday to Thursday, 9.30am-noon Waddington, High Street Monday, 2.30pm-5.30pm; Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9.30am12.30pm Washingborough, Civic Office, Fen Road Monday to Friday, 9.30am-12.30pm

› View local planning applications › Get help with housing applications › Pick-up and drop-in forms › Pick up local information › Report problems like potholes, fly-tipping and faulty street lights › Report a missed bin collection and arrange bulky item clearance › Report anti-social behaviour › View the electoral roll › Make some payments (at both Info-links) › Get benefits advice (Metheringham only)

North Kesteven’s Youth Council wants other young people in the District to sign up and ‘like’ its new Facebook page.

By following, liking and contributing to the page, you can help spread the word and strengthen the Youth Council which exists to speak up for young people in North Kesteven.

Member Scott Wiseman said: “We’ve set up the page YouthNK to communicate with other young people who aren’t necessarily members of the Youth Council.”

The site provides news updates and forums for debate on pressing issues for the Youth Council to tackle this year. It is a hub to promote a positive image of young people, a place to find out useful information and get your voice heard.

Launched in January 2010, the Youth Council is a decision-making forum for young people of secondary school age up to 19. With 18 representatives from the District’s secondary schools as well as independent members it is an active force in the District, having produced a magazine, expressed views in a number of consultations, helped set up The Pod mobile playbus and really had an influence on decisions that affect young people.

Member Tom Scrupps, said: “The Facebook page helps build a more accurate picture of what young people would like to see in their community and District.”

NKDC’s Children’s Services Officer Jade Warren added: “NKDC has been working with the Youth Council for the last two years. This is the next step to reach a wider audience of young people in the District, who would like to have their say.”

Visit Facebook, search for ‘YouthNK’ and ‘like’ the page.

NK Children’s Services Officer Jade Warren with Scott Wiseman and Tom Scrupps

If in doubt, leave it out What would you do with a dead pheasant?

Surely you wouldn’t try to recycle it!

But that’s just what one resident has attempted recently

Image courtesy of Mary Ann Rogers

Youth Council faces up to it

The dead pheasant is among the more obscure items found when sorting through the 12,200 tonnes of dry recycling generated by North Kesteven residents annually.

There are also used syringes, needles, food and dirty food cartons put in the green-lidded recycling bins.

Such contamination of dry recycling means that the whole lot has to be scrapped, which undermines everyone else’s great work in recycling over 50% of their waste.

The Council invests heavily in detailing the ins and outs of what goes in – or should be kept out of – each bin.

This spring we attached a handy recycling guide and calendar to the bins and now we’ll be attaching advice notes whenever we find something in there that shouldn’t be.

Where items are repeatedly placed in the wrong bins, there is the potential that your bin won’t be emptied.

You sustain one of the best recycling rates in the country; please help us to maintain this by being extra careful of what goes into which bin.

And if in doubt leave it out, or call the Council to check it out.

12 newsnk Summer 2012

Green-lidded recycling bin: Bottles and tops, jars, cans and tins, empty aerosol cans, clean foil, newspaper, magazines and directories, paper and cardboard, unwanted mail, waxed drink cartons, yoghurt pots, ice cream and margarine tubs.

Please rinse all containers and bottles and remove tops.

Brown bin: Garden waste, grass, weeds and hedge cuttings, leaves, clean straw, flowers and plants, twigs and small branches, chopped up real Christmas trees Black bins: All other waste that can’t be either composted or recycled through other means, but should be recycled.

In the case of the pheasant it should have been put in the black bin or buried; syringes, sharps and needles should only be disposed of safely in boxes provided by GPs and collected arranged by NKDC; and food and dirty food cartons should be put in the black bin for landfill.

A full list can be downloaded at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk call free on 0800 174 499 or email waste@n-kesteven.gov.uk There are instructions online for disposing of unusual items

Smile, you’re beautiful as you are A poster campaign pioneered by District teeangers is being launched to restore faith in body image.

‘Smile, because you’re beautiful just the way you are,’ is the message chosen by the NK Youth Council to tackle issues around confidence and self-esteem.

A3-sized posters, featuring suggested sources of advice and

Here are the main items to consider

support for anyone affected by the campaign, will appear in schools, community centres and other public places used by young people.

The Smile initiative is the latest part of a long-running campaign celebrating difference, which is a key priority for the NKDC-supported Youth Council who feel that perceptions of body image are a major concern at present.

. . . e l i sm are se you becau ful just the i beaut u are o way y

Beau t the y is not fa in li ght ce, its a in

News Focus

Piecing the plan together Where would you put the 4,500 extra homes needed in and around Sleaford, over the next 20 years?

How should North Kesteven ease Lincoln’s burden and where should hundreds more homes be spread out amongst the villages?

If not in your backyard, then where?

These are key questions facing the people of North Kesteven this summer as consultation is opened on a major plan being pieced together to shape the places where you live, work, learn and shop.

A joint and co-ordinated vision for forward planning up to 2030 is being prepared for North Kesteven, Lincoln City and West Lindsey – which collectively make up the Central Lincolnshire policy area.

Planning policies have been drawn up to support vibrant, attractive, flourishing, prosperous and sustainable communities within Central Lincolnshire – and you can ensure it’s the right vision.

It’s already been identified that there is a need for 42,000 more homes and 210 hectares of employment land across the three districts to support an anticipated population growth of 86,000 by 2030.

Land is identified and policies put forward to deliver 18,000 homes and 140 hectares of employment land in the Lincoln area, some of which will be in the north of the North Kesteven District where it is proposed to build a so-called urban extension between Bracebridge Heath and Canwick, with another at Swanpool, east of Skellingthorpe.

In Sleaford there need to be 4,500 more homes and 20 hectares of employment land, much of which could be accommodated by the two suggested urban extensions to the town.

A proportion of a further 9,500 dwellings needed in rural settlements will be spread across North Kesteven and new shops, schools, health facilities, open spaces, flood defences and energy sources all need to be fitted into the jigsaw too, with areas of existing open space protected.

But where will it all go and how will the pieces fit together? How will this affect you, the landscape around you and the way you live your lives? How will it affect the next generation? Where will our children live, where will they work, how will they get around and how will they spend their leisure time?

To make sure the right balance is struck and that the pieces are placed in the right places to promote, protect and enhance our communities, you need to get involved now.

Formal consultation lasting around two months will begin in early July, but you can familiarise yourself with the emerging model now, by keeping a regular eye on the Joint Planning Unit’s work at www.central-lincs.org.uk where consultation plans are detailed.

This is a unique opportunity to be involved in placing the jigsaw pieces that will shape the communities in which you live.

084 9 308 s.org.uk 2 5 1 inc 3/0 9901 central-l 6 ire 2 2 015 ing@ s.org.uk llincolnsh n n a l c Talkp entral-lin m/centra g in .c co www acebook. talkplann / f . www witter.com .t www

mynk

Name: Doris Wallington Job title: Former magistrate, councillor & school governor, aged 95

Where do you live? I now live in Leasingham, but have lived in Aswarby and Ruskington.

How did you end up living there?

When we moved up from Ipswich in 1957 it was only to stay for three years and then we’d move on. I came to take a job as county home-help organiser for Kesteven County Council, a predecessor to both the district and county councils.

But Susan settled in at the high school, people were kind and we enjoyed it.

It came to be that we couldn’t think of anywhere we’d rather be and we all threw ourselves into the communities we were a part of.

Where would you recommend people to visit in the District? Oh, I think maybe if people haven’t been to Sleaford for a while, they should look again and see how it’s changing with the regeneration.

council and I say that because they are a principled lot and do whatever it is they say they will do. I appreciate the benefits service which must be a great boon to an awful lot of people. At a time when benefits are being cut or altered for so many, it must be reassuring to know there are people striving to ensure fair and equitable support for those most in need.

I also like the way NK operates and its ethos, which is illustrated in the way everything’s presented clearly and legibly and in the refuse service; I like it that the Council cares so much that the binmen take my bins from my door and that you only have to ring up to have bulky waste taken away. It’s a sharper organisation but still a very caring one.

What does North Kesteven mean to you? To me it’s about the people and their spirit. While it doesn’t have the most interesting of landscapes, I do think North Kesteven does have the most Which NKDC service do you appreciate interesting people and they care for their most? I sincerely believe NKDC is a good communities.

Doris embodies the spirit of Big Society at 96 When it comes to Big Society and contributing to the community you live in Doris Wallington could write the book.

Approaching her 96th birthday, she shows no sign of slowing down in her appetite for current affairs, her enthusiasm to be involved or her sharpwitted awareness of all around her.

Involved in voluntary public service – as district councillor, school governor and magistrate – for nearly 40 years until stepping down from St George’s Academy’s governing body last autumn, she still remains active locally.

“I suppose I like people and I’m always interested in them and trying to find ways to help them. That’s just a part of my nature,” she said. “I think to myself that if I’m still alive, I can still be involved. Although I may be 95 in body, I’m 35 in my mind.

“I believe that as you get older, the more you fight that, the fitter you stay.”

She joined the district council in 1980 for six years, retiring at 70; the

same time as quietly sidling off the magistrates’ bench ahead of her birthday so no-one could guess her age.

Ten years later, aged 75, husband Keith joined the Council for a decade – becoming chairman in 2002. He was followed on by his step-daughter, Doris’ daughter Cllr Susan Waring.

Cllr Waring serves on the Executive Board of the Council today and was chairman in only her second year, during which time Mrs Wallington flew the NK flag with fervour as her escort.

“I’m very proud of my time both on the Council and supporting Keith and Susan. I especially enjoyed being chairman of the environmental health committee as it was a positive service,” said Mrs Wallington.

“When I was on the Council there were no political groups and no leader; it was difficult to establish a momentum and continuity, which I think North Kesteven is very good at now.”

“I think it’s a much sharper and more effective council; with decisions

being taken and acted upon much more quickly. Officers are very efficient and the senior councillors obviously show great leadership and conviction.

I can see that from my time in local government as a worker and member.”

Her work as county home-help organiser involved arranging the sort of care now covered by social services, including going into homes to look after families during maternity. After retiring from what became social services, aged 60, she threw herself straight into voluntary work, initially as a school governor, magistrate and supporter of Age Concern Kesteven.

Mrs Wallington has been retired for more years now than she worked, but it’s clear that she’ll never be the retiring sort and certainly won’t allow herself to get old.

“I’ve never been the sort to stand back and criticise from the shadows and I have no intention of doing so. It has never occurred to me that I could sit back and not participate,” she said.

Are you aged over 70, living in North Hykeham and not getting out much these days?

Would you like to go back to school for a free lunch and to meet pupils?

There are events at the North Kesteven School and Sir Robert Pattinson academies in July and September, with transport available from home.

This is a free opportunity provided in partnership through North Kesteven District Council, the schools and Hykeham Lions Club.

If you are interested for yourself or someone you know call Sharon Bark at NKDC on 01529 308262

Summer 2012 newsnk 13

Our Communities What’s On

Transforming your take on art and design

Summer shows and workshops open up a wide range of new experiences, views and skills National Centre for Craft & Design

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford. Further details on 01529 308710 or www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

Main gallery Until July 1 Made in the Middle The Midland’s principal exhibition of contemporary craft, exploring makers’ lives and careers from across the region. A fabulous opportunity to see and buy some of the exquisite work produced by local makers.

July 14 – September 30 Transformers A celebration of the 2012 Paralympic Games looking at how design has transformed disability, reviewing the designs and technologies that have enabled people to work harder, look better, feel stronger and move faster.

More detail on page 10.

Roof Gallery Until June 24 Concrete Canvas An exhibition taking place outside the confines of gallery walls, focusing on the regenerative force of urban craft and design. The gallery is a launchpad to artworks dotted around the town, bringing colour, social interaction and life onto the streets of Sleaford. On June 23 the Concrete Canvas Caravan will be somewhere in Sleaford Town Centre, 10am to 4pm. Pop in and drop off your sound recordings, videos, photos, rubbings, small objects and drawings to create a lasting response to this unusual show.

Window Space Until July 1 Chi-Son Chang’s colourful glass work shows new techniques, ideas and unexpected outcome of experimentation.

July 14 to September 30 Owen Quinlan Objects and artefacts exploring the innate geological composition of materials.

June 30 – September 9 Re-Engage A look at artists, designers and makers who hand over part of the creative process to consumers, through the use of new technologies such as iPad applications, the internet and 3D printing. You can interact with some of the works on show and create your very own product or artwork. Pictured above.

Open Call to exhibit at NCCD The National Centre Presents… is a unique opportunity for artists or artist groups to work on a six-month project to prepare a four-week exhibition of new work to showcase in the Roof Gallery next January. Details from exhibitions@nationalcraftanddesign. org.uk

Terry O’Toole Theatre North Kesteven Centre, North Hykeham Booking on 01522 870251 or www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk Tuesdays from 7pm & Sundays at 3pm ACTion Join the inhouse friendly, vibrant amateur theatre company ACTion, for ages 11+ Sunday, September 30, 3pm auditions for Dick Turpin the Panto Every Tuesday, 7pm African drumming workshops with Gambian master drummer Njega Sohna; drums provided, no experience necessary. £6.50/ £3.50, age 14+

Sunday, July 1, 7pm TOTT Reading Group - ‘It’s Not About the Bike’ by Lance Armstrong.

Free event.

Sunday, July 8, 7pm TOTT open mic night in the café bar to showcase your talents or sit back and enjoy others’. Free.

Every Wednesday, 7pm Musical theatre dance class led by professional dance teachers, in the NK Centre Dance Studio. £2.50 per class; age 16+

June 22, 7pm; June 23, 3pm & 7pm; June 24, 6pm The talented students of Lyndsey Ellis School of Dance with their superb, high-energy, variety dance show featuring ballet, tap, jazz, breakdance/hip hop and musical theatre routines. A popular annual showcase. £7, £6.50 & £6.

Saturday June 16, 7.30pm The Band of RAF Waddington in Concert marks the Queen’s official birthday parade. £8.50 & £6.50

The professional programme resumes in late September. See the autumn newsnk for details or go to www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk

14 newsnk Summer 2012

ExChange Space Until June 24 Documenting the Lionheart Project Documentation of a Cultural Olympiad commission of three giant hand-crocheted lions which are touring the East Midlands in the run up to the Olympic Games.

June 30 to September 9 Battle of the Billboards Students from two local schools communicate a message or idea of their choice. See their exciting ideas and vote for your favourite!

Special events Mondays, July 9, August 13, September 10, 11am Join Design Factory and other artists and makers for coffee, cake and chat about all things creative. Free entry.

Every Friday & Saturday, 12pm Join gallery assistants for a half hour tour of the main gallery exhibition.

Meet at the Ground Floor reception desk. Free entry.

Saturday, June 16 At 1pm Chi-Son Chang discusses the techniques and inspiration behind his quirky glasswork. From 2.30pm Kate McBride & Anna Collette Hunt, discus their witty and quirky ceramics and the relationship of mentor and mentee. £4/ £3 each; £6/ £4 for both Thursday, June 21, 10am — 5pm A great chance to share an idea with the curatorial team or seek advice with regards to exhibiting your work.

Book for free 30-minute sessions.

Saturday, June 23, 10am — 4pm Join in the creation of an e-book to capture and document your experience of the Concrete Canvas show. Detailed above.

Monday, August 27, 12pm — 4pm A free family funday includes a jamboree of artists’ stalls, craft, dance and performance for all to join in, Boccia Olympics, tea and cake and more enjoyable experiences for young and old alike.

Saturday, September 15, 12.30pm — 1.30pm Actor, writer and musician, Mat Fraser is a passionate advocate for disabled people in the performing arts. His specially-designed garments by textile artist Freddie Robins are on display in the Transformers show and he brings a personal take on disability and aesthetics. £5/£4.

Workshops Saturday, July 14, 2pm — 4pm An Introduction to Mosaics, crafting your own coaster. Adults and young adults, £8.

Saturday, July 21, 10am — 4pm Design and make your very own tea cosy using wool felt, appliqué and hand stitched decoration. Adults, £25.

Fridays during summer holidays, 1pm — 4pm Learn how to create digital art using an iPad and develop skills in new media with artist Jason Wilsher-Mills.

Free entry, booking advised.

Thursday, July 26 & August 2, 10am — 3pm Work with Children’s BAFTA nominated filmmakers to make a unique short film using ‘try at home’ techniques and equipment. Filming and editing techniques to continue filmmaking at home. For 11-16 years, £5.

Thursday, August 9 & 16, 10am — 3pm Learn unique techniques to model clay for filmmaking and produce your own story to film using clay animation and photography. For 11-16 years, £5.

Thursday, August 23 & 30, 10am — 3pm Work with professional radio presenters and producers, learning interview techniques, and jungle production to record a show to be aired on Siren FM. For 11-16 years, £5.

Demonstrations Saturday, June 30, 1pm — 4pm Kelly McRobie creates sustainable accessories using a combination of hand dyed wool and leather skins, as pictured left. Free entry.

Saturday, August 4, 1pm — 4pm Robert Fogell, a trained Conservator working on classical and modern stone sculpture in public and private collections all over the country. Free Saturday, September 8, 1pm — 4pm Jeweller Alys Power combines reclaimed, reused, reinvented and recycled materials with found objects, silver and semi-precious stones to create unique accessories. Free entry First Tuesday of each month, 7pm — 9.30pm The café and workshop are brought to life for an evening of creativity, music, performance, poetry and drama. Free.

Sundays, July 8, August 5, September 2, 2pm Film Club, call in for screening details. Free entry.

Courses Wednesdays, June 27, August 1, August 29, September 26, 10.30am — 12pm Messy and creative fun for children and their carers. 0-5 years, £3.30.

Sundays, June 24, July 29, August 26, September 30, 10am — 12pm for 11-16 years; 1pm — 4pm for adults Sunday Craft Club, £5.

Holiday Activities Monday, August 20, 1pm — 4pm Design and make your own unique cushion with the Quilters Guild.

6 – 16 years, £5.

Wednesday, August 22, 1pm — 3pm Drop-in craft workshops where you can invent, design and build your own robot. Free for all.

Monday, September 3, 1pm — 4pm Recycle old toys and games into a wearable badge. For 6-10 years, £8.

Monday, July 30, 1pm — 4pm Design and frame your own poster.

11-16 years, £8.

Monday, August 6, 10am — 4pm Design and make your own felt mascot. 11-16 years, £8.

Design Challenge See www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk or the in-house Learning Zone for detail of a design challenge closing on September 3.

Booking & enquiries: 01529 308710 or www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

What’s On

Whisby is the wonder of the natural world A pound doesn’t buy much these days, but it does buy a full day out at one of the District’s most popular and muchawarded attractions, the Natural World Centre at Whisby

Once you have paid your pound for parking, the natural world is your oyster at Whisby.

In addition to accessible walks, lakes and woodland teeming with wildlife, there’s a first-class adventure play area, fitness trail, picnic space, exhibitions, giftshop and café all designed to aid interaction and enjoyment of your surroundings.

This is available to visitors throughout the day, every day, and all for free.

The Natural World Centre is at the heart of the Whisby Nature Park, where there’s something to enjoy in all weathers from a welcome warming cuppa to an alfresco lunch in the sunshine looking over Thorpe Lake; a well-stocked shop, rolling displays and workshops and a permanent exhibition about our changing world.

While the park is open daily until dusk, the building opens 10am to 5pm; the ideal launchpad for a whole day of fun in the park, exploring, enjoying, engaging and experiencing.

It’s especially popular with young families – mums using the website netmums judged it their favourite free place in Lincolnshire – and the retired who value the opportunities for birdwatching and gentle strolls. The fitness trail of exercise stations, weekly

health walks and easy cycle access also make Whisby a healthy choice.

Cycle lockers keep your bike safe and dry whilst you enjoy the park or a spot of lunch.

A newly launched brochure details a full programme of events, exhibitions and activities at Whisby and in the wider countryside, ranging from photography and willow-weaving courses to identifying all kinds of flora and fauna from bluebells and birds to bats.

Permanent features along the 6.5 miles of surfaced paths include bird hides and viewing stations, benches from which to watch the changing

seasons and the Little Darters’ Wildlife Adventure Area judged to be one of the best facilities of its kind complete with rope bridges, pontoon, nets, towers and an island to ease safe interaction with nature.

Many local craftspeople and Tastes of Lincolnshire providers feature in the shop and café and new business manager Theresa Hobbs is looking to broaden this offering further over coming months.

01522 688868 bmwhisby@leisureconnection.co.uk www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk twitter.com/whisbynaturep facebook.com/natural-world-centre

The Natural World Centre, Whisby Photographic Exhibition June 18 – July 15 Display of photographs submitted for a competition of images taken at and of the Nature Park.

Creature creations, July 20 – August 26 Display of children’s seed packet designs inspired by bug art expert Jane Crowther.

Tree on Tree, September 1 – 30 Elaine Thompson use the grain of English hardwoods to inspire her pyrography designs. Supported by demonstration and workshop.

The Big Draw, October 1 – 31 Workshops and events throughout the month linked to Big Draw, a national campaign to encourage and promote drawing, regardless of ability.

Christmas Craft Fair November 18 – January 6 The Centre’s annual Christmas Craft Fair supports local crafters, from delightful toys to delicate jewellery.

Crafty Critters Children’s Workshops All workshops £2.50 per child, booking advised.

Natural Dyeing, July 24 & August 17 Using plants as natural dyes to create your own beautifully dyed fabric.

Hazel Weaving, July 25 Weaving hazel to create your very own woven hurdle.

Grow Your Own Pet, August 1 & 22 Using recycled and natural products,

Thorpe on the Hill, 01522 688868 www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

Stepping Out on a Tale of Two Churches

Showtime for District tourism

A summer’s evening stroll takes in riverside pasture and picturesque villages

The relatively short Two Churches Walk spans 600 years, visiting both Aubourn and Haddington, passing a medieval dovecote, a 17th century Hall and discovering the tale behind the parish’s two churches.

An octagonal Clock Tower midway between the villages is all that remains from the 1970s demolition of the Victorian church of St Peter’s, which was built from some of the stone of a 1200s St Peter close to Aubourn Hall which became so small for the growing congregation that they had to sit on each other’s knees.

The congregation returned to the smaller church which was restored in 1933, leaving the villages with two churches of St Peter.

1 From the Stepping Out car park in Dovecote Lane, Haddington, turn right heading into Haddington village up to the junction with Bridge Road.

2 Turn right and follow Bridge Road over the River Witham. Immediately after the bridge take the footpath on the opposite side of the road

heading left across green pasture, keeping the hedgerow to your right.

Although not on this walk, a stile leads to Sibsey Wood, part of the Woodland Trust’s ‘Woods on your Doorstep’ project.

3 Remain on the path, following the hedgerow until you emerge into the grounds of the 17th century Aubourn Hall. Walk in front of the Hall and continue straight on towards the small church of St Peters.

4 Enter the churchyard and look for a footpath leading off to the left.

5 Follow this to the banks of the River Witham. Turning right, keep the river on your left. Look out for a way marker directing you right back over the bank and away from the river.

6 Follow this path towards the road, taking care to stay to the grassed footpath on the bank, not the rough fenced area to its left. Follow this to the main road.

7 Turn right here, heading back into Aubourn up to the one way system.

8 Take the right fork past the Royal

Oak and follow this out of Aubourn, seeing the tower of the Victorian church in front of you.

9 Turn right down Bridge Road, back over the river until you see a way marked path leading off to your left.

10 Either follow this over pasture and bridges to the rough grass marking the site of a medieval Grange and on to a way-marker pointing right towards the medieval dovecote; or remain on Bridge Road and retrace your steps to the car park.

make a friend of your own, sow their hair and watch it grow.

Bugs Galore, August 2 & 9 Find out fascinating facts about our native insects before creating a critter to take home with you.

Feed the Birds, August 6 & 21 Create a bird feeder from reycled cartons and identify and record the birds that use it.

Make Your Own Bird Mobile August 7 & 15 Using recycled items and nature’s resources, to make a mobile to hang at home.

Crafty Clay, August 16 Using clay and natural resources to make your own crazy, crafty critter.

Countryside Events Bat Detectors, July 13 Join WatchNK’s Countryside Rangers for a moonlit walk through Hill Holt Wood in search of native bats.

Shelter Building, August 30 Join bushcraft expert Alan Eley at Skellingthorpe Old Wood to learn how to build a shelter that’ll help you survive in the wild using only nature’s resources. Gloves recommended Hedgerow Forage, October 7 Join a Countryside Ranger to learn what’s edible in autumnal hedgerows on the Stepping Out walk around Bloxholm and Brauncewell.

The walk is 3.75 miles in length and has some stiles. The Royal Oak in Aubourn also allows its car park to be used as a Stepping Out car park.

Aubourn Hall is a private residence, please keep to the footpath through the grounds.

To find out more about this or any other of North Kesteven District Council’s many Stepping Out walks, contact Theresa Hobbs on 01522 688868 bmwhisby@leisureconnection.co.uk

NKDC is taking to the road this summer to showcase the District’s tourism appeal.

Having won an award at the Newark & Notts Show, there’ll be a presence at the Lincolnshire Show in June, Waddington International Airshow and Heckington Show in July and also input into displays at Duxford’s Jubilee Airshow and two autumn food and drink shows.

As well as the varied visitor attractions operated and promoted by the Council, there’ll be promotion of sustainability issues, wood carving

by Hill Holt Wood, children’s activities and competitions.

At Waddington, the stand will be located near Hangar 3.

The airshow is on June 30 and July 1, this year featuring the UK debut of the Republic of Korea Air Force’s Black Eagles Display Team as part of an unprecedented line-up of 18 national display teams.

This is the 18th year of the Waddington Airshow, which supports service and local charities.

Summer 2012 newsnk 15

NK Community Champion Awards Do you know someone who does good deeds or has made great strides in support of the environment, arts, sport or community?

> Community Spirit Personal service to the community through hard work, dedication and commitment. > Contribution to a better environment A group, school, club, business or individual whose actions have a positive impact on the environment, locally, in a broader way or globally. > Contribution to the arts Any group, school, club, business or individual whose actions have a positive impact on the cultural richness of the District. > Contribution to sport A group, school, club, business or individual whose actions have a positive impact on sports and physical activity locally.

The categories are detailed further at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk where a nomination form can be downloaded.

Alternatively use the form (right) and attach a follow-on sheet if required.

Young Achievers Award | Community Business of the Year | Community Spirit Award | Contribution to a Better Environment | Contribution to the Arts | Contribution to Sport

Category: Name of nominee: Address of nominee:

Tel (if known):

Referee (you): Address of referee (your address) :

Tel:

Reason for nomination (attach follow-on sheet if necessary):

All nominations must be made

by Monday, August 13 and sent to NKDC Community Champions, Communications Team, NKDC, PO Box 3, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, NG34 7EF.

The 2011Community Champions, selected from 100-plus nominations made by you, the residents of North Kesteven. This was a record number of nominations, all of whom appreciated the recognition

Return completed forms to: NK Community Champions, Communications Team, North Kesteven District Council, PO Box 3, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, NG34 7EF or email: Communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk before Monday August 13, 2012

newsnk

North Kesteven District Council knows that there are hundreds of Unsung Heroes working quietly, tirelessly and voluntarily all across the District and we want to celebrate their endeavours at a celebration event in September.

They may be someone who looks after an elderly or disadvantaged person for no reward; a dedicated charity fundraiser; someone who inspires others and encourages involvement in the arts, sports or for environmental enhancement; or somehow goes beyond the call of duty. We’re also looking to applaud businesses which give something back to their community.

To ensure they get the recognition they deserve, please nominate them for one (or more) of the six categories: > Young Achievers Award A young person aged 19 or under who has shown amazing bravery or excelled in any way, perhaps under adversity or through leadership. > Community Business of the Year A company or sole-trader whose business initiatives have made a difference to their local communities.

Your views are welcomed on newsnk The Council values your feedback on every aspect of its services, to ensure we are proving the best possible services. This survey asks your views on newsnk, the quarterly publication for all residents and businesses in North Kesteven. Please take a few moments to fill in this coupon and return it to the address on page 2 or complete it online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk In addition to printing and distributing almost 50,000 copies, at a cost of 16p each, we record it with Sleaford & District Talking Newspaper at no cost to ensure all residents can access to the information.

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