Mollys Guide Winter 2017 by Visit Lincoln

ISSUE 29 â&#x20AC;¢ WINTER 2017

www.mollysguide.co.uk

for parents & carers

FESTIVE FUN ON THE

with Christmas Panto and Theatre Shows

In the community with

Lincoln City Football Club

The Big Garden

with the RSPB

Christmas at the

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Fabulous festive days out this

We take

2-4

year olds

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

• 15 or 30 hours per week of education and care

• Morning, afternoon or full-day places

• Before & after school care and a lunch club

• Also options to buy additional sessions Do

PLA

n’t

For more information please call

CE S

lay

-a

01522 684335 pp

N OAVAIL A W

tod

BLE

KINGSDOWN ROAD, LINCOLN LN6 0FB ay

Email: enquiries@kingsdownnuseryschool.co.uk

www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk

Welcome to the winter edition of Molly’s Guide – which means Christmas is just around the corner!

Festive fun

It’s a magical time of year and across Lincoln you’ll be spoilt for choice with family events, activities and workshops – plus the chance to meet Santa before the big day. Hop onto VisitLincoln.com/Christmas to see everything that’s taking place. The crowning glory is Lincoln’s Christmas Market (7-10 December), and there’s lots more to make your Christmas magical: Save the date for the Lincoln ‘Christmas Lights Switch On’ (17 November at 5pm) and head to City Square for a family wonderland with children’s rides, singing princesses, a big screen and food and drink. See Santa’s reindeer at St Marks Shopping Centre (23 November) before they start the Reindeer Parade. Carry paper lanterns down Steep Hill and onto the light show on City Square (14 December 5pm). Thousands of Santas will be dashing around the Cathedral Quarter for the annual ‘Santa Fun Run’ (17 December). Look out for the new Festive Theatre Live too! (30 November). Don’t forget to look at the free car parking offers across the city and late night shopping times too – it’s all on VisitLincoln.com/Christmas.

Lincoln Cathedral

LCFC

Lincoln Drill Hall

A very merry Christmas and happy New Year from the Visit Lincoln and Molly’s Guide team.

Rand Farm Park

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

E: info@mollysguide.co.uk

Design: Dandelion Design Print: www.buxtonpress.com Photography: www.stuartwildephotography.com Cover image: gorillaimages/Shutterstock.com

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

www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

Desperate Dad

remember the magic... I can still vividly remember the restless frustration of a Christmas Eve sleep. Going to bed full of excitement, expecting to shut my eyes and instantly fall asleep, but ending up lying there wide-awake for what seemed like an eternity. It was probably only just two or three hours, but to a spellbound, Santa-awed seven-year-old, it felt like a lifetime. I’m sure that’s how my boys will feel again quite soon when they leap into bed on 24 December – we’re bound to be whipping up a frenzy over the next few weeks. The magic starts in earnest in the last week of November, during our annual tree-up day. Decorations are dusted off and lofted down in the usual dramatic fashion, and we’ve all fallen out and stormed off to respective bedrooms by 10:30am, to reconvene for a conciliatory mince pie and a grin 15 minutes later. The advent calendars come next, along with a half-hundredweight of chocolate every morning before breakfast - we’ll open more doors than Loyd Grossman. 4

Winter 2017

December in general is a yuletide extravaganza these days, with Christmas markets, stage performances, panto trips and parties galore. We also have rehearsals at home for the upcoming eagerly anticipated school production. There’ll be lots of preparatory singing and line learning going on, to make certain the shepherds and wise men complete their timeless annual duties.

An ‘old friend’ has returned again this Christmas and has wedged itself ﬁrmly on the festive lists of both my boys, who are just about as infatuated as me. Star Wars Episode VIII is hitting cinemas everywhere and it’s brought back many memories of a happy childhood, and Christmases past surrounded by ﬁgurines and vehicles as far as the eye could see.

All this festive “There weren’t many He’ll be excitement years that Santa didn’t bringing only fuels my own Christmas bestow any Star Wars movie reminiscing, paraphernalia on me, tickets, Lightsabers, but there’s and these days it seems sticker something else much the same.” books, burning in the chocolates background and fancy dress costumes this year, which is taking - all Star Wars related me back to a galaxy far, – I’m half expecting the far away. Millennium Falcon to be A force to be reckoned delivered on the drive with that shines as bright when we wake up on today, as it did for me Christmas morning. more than 30 years ago.

have you s�n

our new

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

Keep up to date with local events, news and stories

www.mollysguide.co.uk

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

So with all this galactic excitement, a restless Christmas Eve night is sure to be had by all again this year, as we look forward to another few days ﬁlled with magical moments. Frosty mornings, sharing gifts, mince pies, Christmas trees, songs, family movies and slap-up meals are the memories I’ll be lying awake with. It’s what it’s all about after all, and what Christmas really means to me this year, next year, and for many more to come. www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

Festive fun

No Santa-cam, no spy baubles and no Elf on the Shelf here, thank you!

Move over Elf on the Shelf, there’s a new, more technologically advanced way for Santa to keep his eye on boys and girls – Santa cam. Let’s take a second to remind ourselves of the Elf on the Shelf phenomena before we get to the latest trend. I ‘invested’ in an elf a few years ago, when my daughter was nine and my son had just turned one.

Friends had been talking about their elf’s exploits for several Christmases before I took the decision to recruit one, all the way from the North Pole (Amazon.co.uk, ahem). The ornate scroll of authenticity that arrived with our elf informed my children he (or she) would stay until Christmas Eve and his job was to report back everything he saw to the big guy with the red suit and beard. There was a spy in our midst. We named him Bob. The ﬁrst year, it was fun having a cheeky character in the house during the festive season. My nine-year-old was excited to be ﬁnally playing host to an elf, like so many of her school friends. She would race downstairs every morning to see what he had been up to during the night (these festive elves come alive when everyone else sleeps and then freeze as soon as the family stirs). Bob was often discovered raiding our tin of Quality Street, eating a mince pie, drinking Baileys hot chocolate, or partying with Barbie and Ken. He led a pretty toxic existence, yet never gained an ounce in weight, or suffered a hangover. By the third week of December, Bob was too lethargic to move, his eyes were glazed and the potency of his presence as a deterrent against bad behaviour for my eldest child had dwindled to zero.

Newspaper columnist Sam Curtis, 47, lives in Lincoln, with her husband Leigh and their two children, Lottie, 12, and Louie, 4 You can follow Sam on: Twitter: @sammanfa Instagram: sammanfa1 Facebook: SamCurtisWrites 6

Winter 2017

Bob went back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve with a beer belly and a ﬂea in his ear for being utterly useless at his job. He returned the next year but was even more ineffectual. My daughter just didn’t like the idea of being watched, it really started to bother her – she felt like she couldn’t put a foot wrong, not even a little wobble. It’s worth noting, the thought of being on the Naughty List used to breed anxiety in my daughter like a tarantula affects someone with arachnophobia. Not being in Santa’s good books (and the inevitable consequence of that – no gifts) terriﬁed her.

These days she is more terrified of her mobile phone battery dying in the middle of sending a Snapchat ‘streak’ but she is probably also at that awkward age where her belief in Father Christmas is waning (which is ridiculous because we all know he is real). So, while some children may find having a direct link to the North Pole via a mischievous elf a bit of fun, when Bob came to visit, my daughter found it stressful and ironically, her behaviour suffered as result. And now, there’s Santa-cam, via which Father Christmas can keep tabs on children across the globe. Parents are snapping up the dummy cameras, which flash just like a real CCTV device. And Santa-cam isn’t the only surveillance camerathemed item on the market this year – parents can also choose from a spy-camera-bauble kit and a spy-camera necklace (to be worn by parents). Yes, folks, Santa’s using technology to spy on kids and I hate the idea. I’m all in favour of bringing the magic of Christmas to life for children but this isn’t about magic. This is about using Santa as the biggest stick and carrot in the parenting book. Imagine being six and your parents tell you they have installed a temporary camera which beams a live feed directly to Santa. Who wants to be scrutinised for 24 hours a day by the one person you are supposed to be trying to impress – Father Christmas? Imagine the pressure of having to be on your best behaviour from now until Christmas Eve and if you slip up, there’s no hiding place. No bluffing it, no saying “it wasn’t me”, believing Santa’s got it all there, on videotape.

Christmas Day arrived and she woke up to a stack of gifts. That night, she realised Santa had kept her on the nice list all along and there was no more vomiting.

No, using a spy elf, or a dud surveillance camera to make kids behave so they get the gifts they are hoping for just doesn’t sit well.

The sickness turned out to be festive-induced anxiety and I was partly to blame with all my talk of “you must be a good girl, Santa’s watching”.

It smacks a little, OK, a lot, of manipulation.

Since then, I have made a conscious effort to keep the way I discipline my children consistent all year round and just leave the man in red completely out of it.

I make a massive effort to avoid using Santa or his lists as an incentive, or a threat for that matter. You will not hear me say: “Santa’s watching you” in the run-up to Christmas, yet I know how powerful those three words are. I know at this time of year, it is very easy to manage children’s behaviour using Santa as a carrot. I have done the same thing in the not-so-distant past. You see, I learned the hard way about the perils of using Santa’s Naughty or Nice List. When my daughter was ﬁve years old, with two weeks to go before Christmas Day, she had a temper tantrum in a shop. I vaguely remember telling her she would end up on Santa’s Naughty List if she carried on. When she had calmed down, she was convinced she had upset Saint Nick and consequently was sick every night for the remaining 13 nights in the run-up to Christmas Day.

Besides, if I were to say to my children ‘Santa won’t bring you any gifts if you’re naughty’ it would prove to be a pretty empty threat. Even if they smear jam on the walls, throw a fork at the ﬂatscreen TV or trim the cat’s whiskers, that guy from the North Pole is still going to rock up in the middle of the night (around midnight usually, after he and Mrs Claus have swigged half a bottle of port) and plonk a sackful of presents under the tree. So, as we enter the silly season, it will be life as normal here when it comes to keeping my children’s behaviour in check. No cameras, no spy baubles and no elves. Sorry, Bob. You’ll have to glug someone else’s Baileys this year. www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Lincoln Cathedral

christmas at the old deanery

Join us for this fun-packed free family event at Lincoln Cathedral with a rare glimpse inside the historic Old Deanery on Eastgate within the Cathedral grounds, soon to be transformed into the new Visitor Centre as part of the Lincoln Cathedral Connected project.

CHRISTMAS MARKET FAMILY EVENT Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December 10am-4.30pm

Be transported back to the Medieval Deanery that once stood here with medieval-themed demonstrations and activities throughout the event. These include medieval musicians de Mowbray’s Musicke, the Cathedral’s Illuminator Toni Watts, Derek Tindell with his magniﬁcent Birds of Prey and Janet Reade of Forgotten Fare. Using google technology to bring the long lost buildings back to life, you can experience an amazing virtual tour of both the Medieval Works Chantry and Medieval Deanery. Take a peek into the Cathedral’s medieval past with some of the locally discovered artefacts out on display. Don’t miss this ﬁnal opportunity to see the Old Deanery before the great reveal in 2020 and see brand new plans for the exhibition spaces displaying some of the Cathedral’s treasures never before on public display, the interactive Discovery Zone and Learning Centre.

Sparkly Stars & Happy Holly Wreaths

Design and make your own beautiful collage star or holly wreath using card cut-outs, coloured paper and sparkly shapes.

Gorgeous Gingerbread

Decorate gingerbread biscuits with icing, sweets & silver balls. Create your own Christmas masterpiece to eat or wrap up & take home for later.

Storytime Children’s Corner

Listen to stories with a Christmas theme around the tree, sing songs and make a simple decoration to take home. Story times: 10.30am, 11.30 am, 1.30pm & 2.30pm

Winter 2017

TOMORROW’S ACHIEVERS Saturdays, January to April 2018 Lincoln Cathedral is delighted to host a range of outstanding workshops for gifted and talented children aged 10+. This is an unmissable opportunity for your gifted and talented young people to participate in exciting, challenging and unique workshops. Workshop participants will get the opportunity to visit the magniﬁcent Lincoln Cathedral. All the sessions take place on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm and are led by highly experienced and entertaining tutors. There are also two sessions dedicated to helping parents and carers of gifted & talented children on Friday 1st December and Friday 26th January. Everything you need to know including how to book, dates, location and applying for a grant are on a link from this page: https://lincolncathedral.com/ education-learning/tomorrows-achievers/ Places are limited and will get booked up quickly! Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity for gifted children to experience something really special in the historic city of Lincoln.

Cathedral Family Backpacks Lots of very young children and their families have enjoyed trying out our ‘Animal Adventure’ backpacks. Next you will be able to test out the ‘Work, Work, Work’ packs – all about who works to keep the Cathedral standing today (ideal for ages 6 – 11 years). The packs are free to borrow whilst in the Cathedral and on return you will receive a sticker and a treat.

TEACHERS FREE CPD DAY How to become a *Heritage School 1st February 2018

This invaluable training will give you the chance to explore the history of the area using maps and aerial photographs from our archives. We offer you the choice of a half/ whole day or twilight session from 4.30pm. We can provide cover costs of £130 per day. We will show you how to trace changes in the historic landscape and give you a step by step guide on how to carry out a local history study using census data, trade directories and free websites. You’ll be able to research a street near your school and ﬁnd out who lived there and what life was like. It’s easy once you know how! *Historic England is the public body that looks after England’s historic environment. We champion and protect

For further info: E: education@lincolncathedral.com

historic places, helping people understand, value and care for them. “Our Heritage Schools programme aims to help school children develop an understanding of their local heritage and its significance. The programme has been running since September 2012 in eight regions across England, and since April 2015 the opportunity is being offered to all state schools, both primary and secondary” Kate Argyle, Historic England This is also a chance to find out more about the exciting future for school visit opportunities at Lincoln Cathedral and learn how you can be involved in its development To book your place, or find out more please contact Education@lincolncathedral.com

www.lincolncathedral.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Kingsdown Nursery

30 fr� hours available at kingsdown nursery school... 30 Funded Hours for eligible 3 and 4 year olds. 15 Funded Hours for eligible 2 year old and all 3 and 4 year old. Sessions are available to buy, morning, afternoons or full days for nonfunded 2 year olds or as a top up to the 15 hours funded for 3 and 4 year olds. Do you have a 2, 3 or 4 year old? If so, do you know that the Government is providing funding for some 2 year olds, and all 3 and 4 year olds to attend Kingsdown Nursery for 15 hours or 30 hours a week? Young children can have great fun playing with or alongside other children, exploring paint, water, clay and playing outside in a safe, well-equipped play area. As well as the beneﬁts for the children, having a nursery place at Kingsdown, can give parents and carers a welcome break from the demands of a busy toddler or young child. It can give you extra time to go shopping, do some housework, look after the baby, take a college course, do extra hours at work or just have a cup of coffee in peace and quiet, and drink it while it’s still hot! Most children attend Kingsdown for 5 mornings or 5 afternoons. We also offer full days from 8.45 – 3.25 p.m. There is a breakfast and after school club if you need a longer day. Coming regularly helps children develop friendships and positive relationships with staff and other children. Families who are not eligible for the Government 2 year funding often buy one or two sessions a week to help their child develop their social skills ready for starting in our 3-4 year old nursery class.

At Kingsdown we offer a wonderful engaging environment, both indoors and outdoors. Children have access to top quality resources and fully qualiﬁed staff, both teachers and Early Years Practitioners. We teach children to share, take turns, learn about letters and numbers, paint, write and draw, ride, climb, explore and investigate. Throughout the year, Kingsdown provides many opportunities for children to experience nature in all its forms. Each spring, we have a bird’s nesting box with a camera in and children eagerly watch the laptop to see if eggs have hatched yet. Kingsdown is fortunate to be near Birchwood Nature Park and we regularly take groups of children for walks there, to look for mini-beasts and to study the changing seasons. All children have weekly music lessons with Pete the Music Man. Pete brings his Double Bass and Guitar and enough musical instruments for all children to have a go! We also have Stuart from Meet the Beasts in with his exotic pets, snakes, lizards, spiders, insects and snails. Children can wear their own clothes but many wear our uniform of red, blue or purple polo shirt and sweatshirt. Children invariably join in with messy activities at nursery and if they have their Kingsdown uniform on, they are hard wearing and will stand up to the demands of a busy day at nursery!

For more information and a look round, please call in or T: 01522 684335 E: enquiries@kingsdownnuseryschool.co.uk Facebook: Kingsdown Nursery School www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk 10

Winter 2017

EDUCATION

count the wildlife that’s counting on you...

RSPB House sparrows on seed feeder Ben Hall

In 2017, over 8,000 people in Lincolnshire joined nearly half-a-million people across the UK in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. This year we are calling on your help again, to count the wildlife in your garden for the 39th RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. Between 27 - 29 January 2018, you just need to sit down for an hour with a cup of tea and a slice of cake, and watch and record the birds that visit your garden or local green space.

trends of different species. For example, despite making the top 3, since 1979 house sparrows have declined nationally by 57%, starlings by 79%, and blackbirds by 27%.

With your help last year, we learnt that house sparrows, starlings and blackbirds are the most seen garden birds in Lincolnshire. By collecting this data year-on-year we can monitor the long-term

It isn’t all bad news though! The average number of robins seen visiting gardens was at its highest level since 1986, helping it climb from number ten to number nine in Lincolnshire.

Male great spotted woodpecker

As well as counting birds, we want to know about some of the other wildlife you’ve seen throughout the year, so look out for badgers, foxes, grey squirrels, red squirrels, muntjacs deer, roe deer, frogs & toads. All of the data you send in from your Big Garden Birdwatch is really important for building a picture of wildlife in gardens throughout the UK, including Lincolnshire.

Robin on feeders Chris Gomersall

Great tit on homemade feeder

Nigel Blake

David Tipling

Get ready: make your own fat balls and cakes STEP 1 You’ll need fat, such as lard or suet, which will set hard when cool. At room temperature it should be soft enough to stir with other ingredients. STEP 2 Pop the fat in a bowl and add a mixture of seeds, nuts, mealworms and other birdfriendly goodies. Stir.

Blue tit and great tit on coconut feeder Chris Gomersall

STEP 3 Roll the mixture into balls, and place into suitable bird feeders: ones made from a wire mesh which allows hungry birds to peck at the fat are ideal.

STEP 4 Alternatively, stuff the mixture into holes in trees, or make a hole in the base of a yogurt pot and thread string through it. Tie a knot inside the yogurt pot to keep the string in place. Fill the pot with the mixture and hang from a tree or bird table!

For your free Big Garden Birdwatch pack, which includes a bird identiﬁcation chart, plus RSPB shop voucher and advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 70030 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch Registration for Big Garden Birdwatch 2018 opens 13th December 2017. www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

Lincoln Minster School

mindfulness key in supporting happy and focused pupils... Victoria Whitworth, Deputy Head of Lincoln Minster Pre Preparatory School on the importance of mindfulness in school... The development of the emotional wellbeing of each individual child is of vital importance at Lincoln Minster School. Having a happy child, who is focussed, enthusiastic and keen to learn is becoming even more essential at a time when academic excellence is being emphasised and expectations placed on children are high. Meditation is recognised as an important life skill, encouraging the development of emotional intelligence. Current research has determined that meditation increases resilience to stress, boosts self-conﬁdence, enhances performance and focus, reduces anxiety, encourages good behaviour and improves overall attainment.

Winter 2017

We have adopted a variety of strategies from nursery to Year 3. For example, in nursery, sensory stones have been introduced with expressive words being used to describe how they look and feel. Year 3 pupils have listened to guided meditation whereby they can use their imagination to create relaxing imagery in their minds. We have noticed an improvement in pupils’ responses to situations and their focus during lesson time. Whether a child is able to calm themselves through practising breathing techniques or their descriptive language and imaginative capacity have improved as a result of ﬁrst hand sensory experiences, it is clear that there are many beneﬁts of incorporating a mindful approach into everyday school life.

boosting your child’s emotional we�being through creative workshops... ‘Braver, stronger & more resourceful’, that’s how children feel when they attend creative school workshops created by Magic Minds. Magic Minds is the new addition to the Supporting Minds family founded 3 years ago in Lincoln by Jenine Butroid. The new contracts they have with schools allow them to deliver awareness workshops with a craft element. Themes include; anxiety, grief & loss, selfesteem, emotions & self-care. They’re also able to offer affordable 1:1 counselling for their pupils.

EDUCATION

Magic Minds “Several of our children were being failed by the ‘Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services’ so we decided that our school would provide these services.” “Not only does it assist those children in need of support but it also makes a difference to the classroom environment as a whole, one notably the levels of anxiety associated with the transition to secondary school.” “The workshops have very much been written in as a toolkit to provide the children with strategies and to make them braver, more resourceful, less anxious and believe in themselves.”

Jenine, a psychotherapist and trained nurse says: “The aim of SM has always been to provide affordable counselling to adults and couples; now, under the Magic Minds brand we are helping pupils across the county boost their self-belief and emotional wellbeing.”

Anna-Jo Keenan, 35, recently attended a ‘Grief and loss’ workshop at Supporting Minds, she said: “Shayla, my ﬁve-year-old daughter lost her Grandma last year and has lots of questions about where she is. When we left, I asked Shayla if she enjoyed the workshop. She said, “Can we do this all the time Mummy, I love it!”

A spokesperson from the award winning Spilsby Primary Academy says: “Our children’s welfare is extremely important to us so we are working in collaboration with experts, trainers and counsellors at Supporting Minds.”

In the car, Shayla was quiet, usually, I’m faced with a journey of twenty questions at a million miles an hour! I asked if she was okay. She said, “Yes, I’m just thinking about the workshop.” Her questions had all been answered that day.”

“Braver, stronger and more resourceful minds.” We offer emotional well-being workshops looking after young minds at school and home by trained psychotherapists with a fun, crafty, learning element. Call or email us today about the needs of your children & pupils.

T: 01522 274151

E: info@supportingminds.com

www.supportingminds.com

Magic Minds

20 CARLTON MEWS, THE CARLTON CENTRE, LINCOLN, LN2 4FJ www.mollysguide.co.uk

HEALTH & SPORT

Lincoln City Football Club

imps in the co�unity... Here at Lincoln City Football Club we are very proud to have a strong community aspect to the organisation and over the past few years have supported a wide range of groups.

This work is delivered by Imps in the Community, a registered charity whose mission it is: “To create and provide opportunities that inspires individuals and communities to improve their physical, social or mental wellbeing through active participation” Within the community we are delivering a wide range of programmes that support schools, families, businesses and other organisations. It is important to us that we work with the local community to provide positive experiences and showcase that Lincoln City FC is not just about playing football. Throughout this article we will showcase some of these programmes and how you can get involved.

footba� holiday club

Our Football Holiday Clubs have been part of our programme since we began back in 1994 and continue to be a very popular programme. The day consists of Football based activities from 9am to 4pm during the school holidays and for the amazing price of just £15 per day. Furthermore we have recently become Ofsted Registered which shows our ongoing determination to provide a safe environment for all children attending. The club is for boys and girls aged 4 to 11. The details of our next holiday club are:

Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st December 2017 at Lincoln City Football Club

HOW TO BOOK? Visit www.lcfcset.co.uk/football-holiday-club or call 01522 563792 WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU HERE WHERE EACH ATTENDEE WILL RECEIVE A GIFT. 14

Winter 2017

girls footba�... Are there any girls out there that want to get involved in playing football? Do you want to take part in girls only sessions? Then why not come and join us here at Lincoln City Football Club on a Tuesday evening. This year we have introduced our Girls Development Centre as we want to encourage girls to get involved and potentially try the sport for the ﬁrst time or have some extra training. This is part of our ever expanding Women and Girls programme where we have a wide range of sessions that includes Walking Football and Soccercise (mums this could be for you), informal football so you can meet likeminded people and socialise at the same time all as part

of the Lincoln City family. It is important to us that we cater for all different types of participants so hopefully we have something for you. For more information on any of these opportunities then please contact us on football@lcfcset.co.uk

get onside Our Get Onside programme is designed to provide sport and physical activity sessions across Lincoln for children aged 2 to 13. This programme is funded by Children in Need and will continue until January 2020. The sessions are to enable sport and physical activity to be accessed in local areas with the outcomes being: • Children to have fun • Children to learn new skills both physically and socially • Children to take part in positive activities As you can see we have a wide range of sessions available and we hope that you will join us during the week. For more information email: getonside@lcfcset.co.uk If you would like more information on any of our programmes then please do not hesitate to contact us: T: 01522 563792 E: enquiries@lcfcset.co.uk www.lcfcset.com Twitter: @lcfcset Facebook: LCFC Imps in the Community www.mollysguide.co.uk

COLOURIMETRY

HEALTH & SPORT

Clearview Opticians

Does your child suffer with dyslexia or visual stress? Do they have other reading difﬁculties? WHAT IS VISUAL STRESS? Visual Stress refers to reading difﬁculties, light sensitivity and headaches from exposure to disturbing visual patterns. It can be responsible for print distortion and rapid fatigue when reading. The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. The symptoms can occur despite normal vision. Alternative names may be used to describe this condition including, Meares-Irlen Syndrome, Irlen Syndrome and Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome. The prevalence of visual stress has been reported as occurring in 5–20% of the population, many of which suffer unknowingly or may be misdiagnosed. In people with dyslexia this is thought to be higher at around 35-40%.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? • Movement/blurring of print • Letters changing shape or size, fading or becoming darker • Patterns appearing, sometimes describes as “worms” or “rivers” running through print • Illusions of colour – blobs of colour on the page or colours surrounding letters or words • Rapid tiring • Headache or eyestrain

During colourimetry we can find the specific colour to benefit you. We tailor the 3 parameters of colour, hue, saturation and brightness while the eyes are colour adapted. This will give a final colour which is extremely precise to each individual’s needs. The colour will be different for each person and the precision coming from a choice of over 100,000 colour combinations now available. In its most effective form this prescription will be delivered as Cerium Precision Tinted Lenses.

Schools do not hold eye tests

SIGNS • • • • • • •

Moving closer to or away from page Becoming restless Using ﬁnger as a marker Skipping words and lines Rubbing eyes and blinking excessively Low self-esteem Lack of concentration/disruptive behaviour

Symptoms of visual stress are not always immediately obvious. Many individuals who suffer with this condition believe the discomfort they feel when reading or the distortions they experience on the page are “normal” and experienced by everyone. That is until someone presents them with an appropriate colour and they realise that reading can become more comfortable and even enjoyable. If you would like to book a colourimetry assessment please contact Annabelle: T: 01522 542121 www.clearviewopticians.co.uk

What they see

What you see

Make sure your child’s eyes are ok At Clear View Opticians we welcome children of any age. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Book your child in now - it’s free!

Private & NHS eye tests • Contact lens trials & aftercare 169 Burton Road, Lincoln LN1 3LW WE HAVE FREE CAR PARKING

01522 542121

www.clearviewopticians.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

HEALTH & SPORT

St Barnabas Hospice

LINCOLNSHIRE HOSPICE TO HOST BRAND NEW SPRING FUN RUN St Barnabas Hospice to host brand new Spring Fun Run for Lincoln. Following a successful year of new events for St Barnabas Hospice, a further brand new event has just been launched taking place in Lincoln City Centre. The Spring Fun Run is due to be held on Sunday 25th March. This untimed run is open to all, with a 2.5k and 5k routes to choose from. The charity is encouraging those wanting to get involved to wear their best spring themed outﬁts for the fun run. There will also be a prize at the end for the best dressed.

On the day there will be a warm up, an array of merchandise, cakes and a chocolate tombola. Spectators are also welcome to come along for a day out and enjoy another fantastic charity event.

Laura Stones, Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Hospice, said: “We are really looking forward to bringing a brand new event to the centre of Lincoln and think this is something that all the family can get involved in. There are no age restrictions and child entry includes a free mask to decorate and wear on the day.

“St Barnabas works tirelessly to ensure patients and their families make the most of every second they share, regardless of how much time remains.”

“We want to see everyone dressed up in their best Easter themed outﬁts and there will be a special prize for the best dressed. We think this event will bring together the whole family for a fantastic cause, whether you are running in memory of a loved one, or just to have fun!”

Laura said: “Events like this Spring Fun Run are crucial in helping raise the funds needed to continue caring and supporting over 9,000 people across Lincolnshire that are living with a life-limiting or terminal illness.

To take part, adult tickets are only £10, and children’s tickets (under 15’s) £5, the children’s entry includes a free mask to decorate and wear on the day. There are a number of corporate sponsorship opportunities available, for more information please get in touch with the Corporate Fundraiser Caroline Swindin on 07435 970309. Register online at: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/spring18

For more info contact Laura Stones T: 01522 559515 E: laura.stones@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Winter 2017

north hykeham’s hidden jewel...

ENTERTAINMENT

Terry O’Toole Theatre

Have you discovered the fantastic family shows on offer at the Terry O’Toole Theatre? Described as a ‘Hidden jewel’ by BBC Radio Lincolnshire the venue is tucked-away in the middle of North Hykeham., within the newly re-furbished ONE NK Centre The theatre is especially proud of it’s high quality Children’s Theatre programme, featuring award-winning shows from around the UK, which are very suitable for all the family and offer a magical introduction to live theatre for your little ones!

COMPETITION TIME! Why not enter Terry O’Toole Theatre’s Christmas Prize Draw for the chance to win a FREE Family Season Ticket to see all three fantastic family shows next Spring?

Yana and the Yeti ~ Pickled Image Saturday 10th February 3pm This is how Yana’s story begins… Imagine being far, far from home and all alone, arriving in a remote, snow-bound village, surrounded by dense forest and strange noises! And who is the strange, friendly and rather large cuddly creature with his special blanky? Age Guide: 5 years+ Dog’s Don’t Do Ballet ~ Little Blue Monster Productions Saturday 17th March at 12noon and 3pm Biff isn’t like other dogs! He doesn’t do dog stuff like peeing on lampposts, scratching his ﬂeas or drinking out of toilets. Biff likes moonlight and music and walking on his tiptoes. Biff thinks he’s a ballerina... But dogs don’t do ballet - do they? Age Guide: 3 years+

Reynard the Fox ~ The Fabularium Saturday 7th April 3pm Colourful comedy and furr-tastic storytelling as The Fabularium re-tell the tale of Reynard the Fox, a most infamous scoundrel who prides himself on being the trickster of the forest! Age Guide: 3 years+ TO ENTER THE PRIZE DRAW, JUST ANSWER THE QUESTION: What is the name of the little dog in ‘Dogs Don’t Do Ballet’? & send, together with your name & address to Molly’s Guide, 63 Bunkers Hill, Lincoln LN2 4QS. Closing date: December 31st 2017. Ts & Cs Apply

www.mollysguide.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Lincoln Drill Hall

f�, fi, fo, fum, i sme� christmas panto fun!

This Christmas, Lincoln Drill Hall celebrates ten years of panto with its most incredible festive spectacular yet - Jack & The Beanstalk! The venue ﬁrst embarked on its magical panto journey in 2007, beginning its partnership with Jamie Marcus Productions with a stunning adaptation of Cinderella. Since then the Drill Hall panto has become a ﬁrm festive city tradition, with productions of Aladdin, Sleeping Beauty, Dick Whittington, Snow White and Peter Pan wowing audiences.

Each year has been bigger than the last, with last year’s Beauty & The Beast smashing audience records, playing to over 14,500 people. This year’s production of Jack & The Beanstalk is additionally special as it’s the Drill Hall’s 10th panto, so expect some spectacular surprises to celebrate this landmark. Back by popular demand is James Campbell as the outrageous Dame Dotty Trott. She’s the mother of our hero Jack and his brother Silly Simon and they haven’t a bean to their name – and now their loveable cow Daisy has dried up! And if that wasn’t bad enough, the village is being menaced by the giant Blunderbore - and his wicked henchman Fleshcreep

has captured the beautiful Princess Zena. But this is one princess who can take care of herself, so come along and follow Jack up the beanstalk to ﬁnd out who saves the day! With a host of crazy characters, stunning costumes, spectacular sets and special effects, including a 12ft giant, hilarious song and dance routines, more jokes than a bag full of magic beans, plus, of course, plenty of audience participation, this is one madcap adventure your family won’t want to miss! Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the Drill Hall panto and it’s never too early to book! Jack and the Beanstalk runs from Tuesday 5 December to Tuesday 2 January. Tickets are £18, £13 concessions and a £56 family of 4 ticket.

To book or for more information: T: 01522 873894 www.lincolndrillhall.com or pop along to the Drill Hall Box Ofﬁce 20

Winter 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

LPAC

two magical performances this christmas... It truly is a magical time of year and a visit to Lincoln Performing Arts Centre should definitely be high on your list of festive things to do this Christmas. This year they are presenting two stunning Christmas Shows; one for the whole family and the other for younger audiences. The main house family show is a wonderful musical play The Adventures of Robin Hood and Maid Marian (Mon 11-Sun 24 December). It is winter in Sherwood and snow covers the greenwood. England is in trouble and the Sheriff is up to mischief! The people need a hero but who will step forward and fight for them? Enter the enchanting and brave Maid Marian who is searching for the mythical hero Robin Hood and finds herself caught up in an epic adventure! This refreshing alternative to the usual pantomime offers a unique immersive experience where the auditorium has been transformed into a space with audiences on three sides, which puts the children and their families at the heart of the action. This year the venue is also working hard to make the show more accessible. We spoke to

Box Ofﬁce Coordinator Phoebe about the extras on offer: “I’m thrilled that we are including a ‘relaxed performance’ on 22 December. This means the show will feel more, well, relaxed! Audiences will be free to come in and out, meet the characters or tour the set beforehand so that the experience isn’t too overwhelming. We are also offering a captioning service for the whole run!” If you have any questions about access you can contact Phoebe at the Box Ofﬁce on 01522 837600. Part of this commitment to bring more festive theatre to more people includes the return of a studio Christmas Show for ages three plus. Following the success of last year’s Brrr! The Lost Polar Bear, we join Anja and her friend Karl on another snowy adventure in The Winter Whale (Fri 15-Sun 31 December).

We spoke to Director Craig Morrow: “This year we’re being more ambitious with more songs, more silliness and new elements such as puppetry. I’m also particularly excited about trying to work out how on earth we’re going to squeeze a 50 foot whale into our small studio!” We can’t wait to see what Anja and Karl get up to this time! We have a special family ticket offers for Molly’s Guide readers of £40 for a family of 4 (max two adults) for The Adventures Of Robin Hood And Maid Marian with promo code ‘MOLLYSGUIDE’

To book: www.lpac.co.uk, T: 01522 837600 or at the box ofﬁce in Zing Café Bar within Lincoln Performing Arts Centre. www.mollysguide.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

New Youth Theatre

madagascar - a musical adventure... Madagascar The Musical is to be performed at the Lincoln Drill Hall in March 2018 by students aged 5-8 and 9-16 years. This fun ﬁlled famous musical adventure comedy, follows Alex the Lion and his friends, as Marty the Zebra’s quest to ﬁnd the world outside Central Park Zoo. With fabulous shows like Hairspray, Oliver!, Grease and many more, young people from Lincolnshire get their chance to tread the boards and see what show business is really about. If you’re passionate about starring in your very own production and learning the craft of theatre, then here is your chance Sessions available for young people aged 3-5, 5-8, 6-11 and 9-16 years. New Youth Theatre, established in 2001, has gone from strength to strength; they have numerous successful franchised centres in several counties. The founders themselves still teach 450 children aged 3-16 each week and put on shows three times a yearat local Theatres.

To join the cast and book your place, call New Youth Theatre Head Ofﬁce T: 01522 787601 www.newyouththeatre.co.uk

Winter 2017

New Youth Theatre also offer Holiday Camps, School Workshops and LAMDA acting classes too, call us for full details. Centres in Lincoln and Newark. So whether it’s a fun time or a career in show business, New Youth Theatre is the place to be. REHEARSALS COMMENCE JANUARY 2018 - BOOK YOUR PLACE ONLINE TODAY.

a beautiful tale makes for a Beast of a panto!

ENTERTAINMENT

Palace Theatre

From the producers of 2016’s sensational production of Jack and the Beanstalk and 2015’s magical fairytale Cinderella comes Beauty and the Beast, an enchanting pantomime bursting with brilliant costumes, bewitching music, side-splitting slapstick and bags of audience participation. We’ve gaped at the gargantuan Giant, now marvel at the unbelievable Beast! Our story begins as a handsome prince is cursed to spend his life transformed into a hideous beast. Join us to discover if Beauty and her friends, the ‘glamorous’ Dame Dorothy Do-It B.U.M (Buster of Unsightly Mess) and her wilfully witless son, Willy Do-It, can outwit the arrogant bully Eugene and his odious sidekick, Pimple, and lift the curse. Be whisked away on Dorothy’s turbocharged hoover and engage in a race against time ﬁlled with fun, adventure and laughter! Soap star Jonathan Wrather will be baiting the boos as baddie Eugene. The actor, best known for recently taking on the villainous role of Pierce Harris in Emmerdale says “doing panto is always enormous fun. Playing the baddie in one is great fun too as you get such strong reactions from the audience. Beauty and the Beast is a terriﬁc story and I can’t wait for rehearsals to start.”

The Palace is also delighted to welcome back Tim Freeman whose performance as Dame Trot in last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk had the audience in stitches. He’s looking forward to returning and says “the Palace is such a lovely theatre with a great crew! Best of all though are the Newark audiences who are always up for a laugh!” With spectacular scenery, incredible special effects and loads of festive fun, Beauty and the Beast is a delight for all to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the chance to make your family’s Christmas with a trip to the Palace Theatre Newark! Beauty and the Beast runs from Friday 8 December 2017 until Wednesday 3 January 2018. To book tickets call The Palace Box Ofﬁce: 01636 655755 or visit www.palacenewark.com

www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Petwood Hotel

Deck the ha�s and enjoy some festive ch�r!

Walking through the doors at the Petwood feels like coming home to a grand country house with a friendly feel. The real Christmas trees and open fires warmly welcome visitors and the festive menus offer a taste of Christmas with a nod to the excitement to come. The splendid gardens are fabulous to explore at any time of year and so be sure to pack your boots and enjoy a stroll around the Petwood grounds and woods – perfect for capturing the imagination of mini explorers. Whether walking through Woodhall’s pinewoods after a film at the Kinema, or making use of the new play equipment across the road at Jubilee Park, the Petwood makes a perfect finish to a family day out in Woodhall Spa. From Friday 1st to Saturday 23rd December, you can enjoy some delectable Christmas treats in the Terrace Bar, from festive bar lunches to the return of the Petwood’s popular Champagne Christmas Afternoon Teas. Add to the mix some mince pies and mulled wine, festive local ales and boozy hot chocolates, and there is a warming yuletide treat for grown ups too.

Winter 2017

On Saturday 9th December, the fabulous RAF Spitfires Choir will sing during the latter half of afternoon tea service to add that extra dose of festive cheer. For more information, see www.petwood.co.uk. For families getting together prior to Christmas and wanting to experience the fun and food without the organising and washing up, why not consider hiring a private room? The Squadron Bar seats up to 16 people and the Garden Room up to 25, both of which are available for exclusive use. To find out more, contact the Events team on 01526 352411. For menus and more information on specific service times of the Terrace Bar and Afternoon Tea menus, see www.petwood.co.uk. For tickets or more information on any of the hotel’s events please call 01526 352411.

annual christmas activities unveiled at the zoo...

DAYS OUT

Photo: Twycross ZooSimon Childs

Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo is inviting visitors to get closer to the magic this Christmas by putting the family experience at the heart of the festive season. Although everyone looks forward to that special grotto moment with Santa, queues can be long, children are often wary and a little scared, with parents often feeling rushed.

That’s why the Leicestershire-based zoo wants to make a stand against the two-minute visit and do things a little differently this year by making that Santa visit a little bit more special for its guests. This year, Santa is taking time out of his busy schedule and on selected dates from Saturday 2nd December to Sunday 24th December, spend time with him at multiple times throughout their visit, at their own leisure. From a magical photo opportunity on Santa’s sleigh to interactive activities, where children can take part in Santa’s Key Tree (new for 2017), listen to him read a story or feed the penguins, there are so many opportunities to capture that special moment. Ryan Floyd, Guest Services Manager for Twycross Zoo, says “As a conservation zoo, we are passionate about providing immersive experiences and we wanted our Christmas offering to reﬂect those values.”

Photos: Twycross Zoo-Amy Haycock

During the day, Santa will enchant visitors at his story-telling sessions, which will take place in the Explorer Café at 11.15-11.45am and 3-3.30pm. The stories, specially written for Twycross Zoo, will be about William the Donkey (who visitors can also meet) and wildlife conservation work in the countries Santa visits every year.

New for 2017, Santa’s Key Tree will ensure that all children have their presents delivered on time – chimney or no chimney! Upon arrival all boys and girls will be presented with a magical key to be placed on the Key Tree, ready for Santa to collect on Christmas Eve morning. Guests can watch Santa collecting the keys live on Christmas morning through Facebook. Visitors can also have their photos taken with Santa, meet pets and butterﬂies with Santa, watch festive ﬁlms in the Study Centre, take part in arts and craft sessions. Guests can keep up their energy by stopping at the zoo’s Himalaya restaurant, which on Fridays will be open to visitors until 9pm, and will be seasonally decorated and serving festive foods. Although Twycross Zoo is open to the public from 10am to 5pm daily, the Christmas activities are only available on selected dates, given below. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day.

For more info on Christmas events and to book tickets: www.twycrosszoo.org T: 0844 474 1777 www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Lincoln Castle and heritage events

celebrate christmas present with links to the past... Lincoln Castle has a whole host of festive events taking place this Christmas. For young visitors to the Castle, maybe a visit to Father Christmas himself might be just the ticket? An Audience with Father Christmas – 16th, 17th, 20th – 21st December. Experience the magic of Christmas at Lincoln Castle by joining Father Christmas in the Victorian setting of the Bath House at the Castle. Sit back and listen to stories of Christmases past and enjoy ﬁnding out more about Father Christmas himself. Every child receives a Victorian style gift and has the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes. Tea with Father Christmas – 20th December. A new family friendly special event. Children and families are invited for a special after-dark tea time treat - a visit to the Victorian Prison for a storytelling performance of “A Christmas Carol”. Costumed characters along with a host of puppets bring to life Dicken’s famous tale. After the 30 minute performance all are invited to the Castle café for tea when special guest, Father Christmas, will take time from his busy schedule to meet everyone! What The Dickens – 20th, 21st December. Especially for the School Christmas holiday, and set inside the Victorian Prison, Inner State Theatre perform their festive family favourite – “A Christmas Carol”. Two costumed characters – Sir Henry Greatham and Lady Lydia will tell the story of Scrooge in Dickens’ famous tale. To book, or for details on admission and times for all of the above events - please go to: www.lincolncastle.com

Over at The Collection the fun continues with a great selection of Christmas activities for little ones. Festive Story Times will take place on 21st and 28th December at 11.15 am; and these are completely free to pop along to and enjoy. The popular festive themed Craft Activities will be returning too and running throughout the holidays, as will the “Collecting Christmas” Craft Trail. Both are £2 each to take part. On Sunday 10th and Sunday 17th December a treat awaits young visitors as Afternoon Tea with Santa takes place in Stokes Collection Café. Tea takes place from 4:30pm to 5:30pm and costs £9.50 per child, which includes a gift from Santa. Booking is essential – and you can do so online at www.stokes-coffee.co.uk (The cafe and bar open will be open for grown ups too!) Visiting Lincoln Christmas Market this year? Take the weight off your feet and pop into The Museum of Lincolnshire Life on Burton Road and their Victorian Christmas Tea Room for a warm and restful refreshment stop. The Tea Room will be open from the 8th – 10th December (Friday to Sunday of the Christmas Market) 10am to 4pm. For more details check: facebook.com/Museumoﬂincolnshirelife www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Doddington Hall

CHRISTMAS IN WONDERLAND AT DODDINGTON HALL... Imaginatively decorated for this year’s theme ‘Christmas in Wonderland’, Doddington Hall will be open especially for the festive period. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, the Hall will be creatively transformed with displays ﬁlled with Christmas adventure and wonder.

Photo by: Catherine Clough

It’s an opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere in a treasured family home, which has seen a lot of Christmas mornings over its 400 year plus history. A chance to see what the present day family and staff have created and to think about how Christmas may have looked and felt through the centuries. This year, as in previous years, the displays will have been created by a team which includes Claire Birch, who runs the Doddington Estate with her husband James, several staff members, resident cutting gardener ﬂorist Rachel Petheram of Catkin Flowers and lighting and production designer Howell Thomas with students from Lincoln College. Elsewhere on the Doddington Estate, there is plenty of magical atmospheric shopping to be enjoyed including the colourful Bauble Barn and freshly-cut homegrown trees in the pretty Stable Yard. Doddington at Home and Country Clothing are both full of inspirational gift ideas and the Farm Shop has plenty of seasonal produce and gift ideas for both under the tree and on the table. Doddington Hall will be open to visitors every Wednesday – Friday 2-6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm between Saturday 25 November - Friday 22 December plus Thurs 28 and Fri 29, 10am4pm. Admission, Adult £9, Child £4.50 (under 3yrs free). Shops and Cafes open daily. For information about Christmas at Doddington T: 01522 694308 www.doddingtonhall.com

Winter 2017

Winter fun on the farm... Outstanding childcare and education for children aged 0-11 years old, run by a qualiﬁed Early Years Teacher Graded by Ofsted as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas since 2007

PROVIDING • Full/part time day care for 0-5yrs • Before and after school care • School Holiday cover • Free 2 & 3 year old childcare spaces*

• Newly extended indoor play barn* • Outdoor play areas • Keith’s Krazy Karts • Farmyard crazy golf • Woodland walk • Seasonal activities • Award winning Tea Room • Gift Shop Please see our website for Christmas activities & opening times * with support from LEADER Grant funding

• Birthday parties • School trips welcome

• Flexible & reliable

Come and play whatever the weather!

• References available on request (* Free childcare spaces subject to eligibility)

01652 678822

For more info please call 07825 741723 or email: loobylooschildcare@gmail.com

www.hallfarmpark.co.uk South Kelsey, Market Rasen, Lincs LN7 6PR

Welcome to the wonderful world of Baby & Toddler Swimming

Monday monrnings at Burton By Lincoln

Dinky Dolphins aim is to prepare your precious little one with the essential life skill of learning to swim.

Through fun and interactive sessions A typical 10 week we are dedicated to enabling all term is £110 and levels of ability to learn to swim. we offer a reward We only swim in pools that are 32 degress as a minimum which provides a fantastic learning environment for all.

scheme which means you can earn free lessons by referring a friend.

Visit www.dinkydolphins.co.uk to ﬁnd a pool near you and turn your little one into a Dinky Dolphin www.mollysguide.co.uk

Taste our delicious food menu,

with breakfast baps, Belgian wafﬂes, pancakes, soups jacket potatoes, ice cream sundaes and more! Nov-Feb Open 10-5 Tue-Sun

Come & meet our animals in the paddock

Farm-themed Crazy Daisy Golf

Closed Mondays

Children’s play area Tel: 01522 693757 Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln LN6 5SA FREE ENTRY FREE PARKING

www.daisymadefarm.co.uk

Available 25th Nov to 20th Dec daily

See our

FREE CHILD vou

Seated café serving hot drinks and cakes

chers on page s

47 & 49

For all your fresh Christmas Trees!

Don’t miss

Father Christmas in his grotto December 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 10th & 16th

Christmas shop open 9am-6pm

Festive for the wfun ho family! le

Enjoy fun & magic with our visiting entertainers, Bruno the donkey and much more £4.50 including a gift

• Undercover Christmas shop with a huge range of decorations • Cafe serving hot & cold refreshments Visit our Christmas decorations outlet for bargains galore & browse our shopping area.

Castle Farm, Fillingham, Gainsborough DN21 5BX 32

Winter 2017

Tel: 01427 667014 www.ﬁllingham-trees.co.uk

DAYS OUT

special christmas offer...

Woodside Wildlife Park

Woodside Wildlife Park, in conjunction with Mollies guide are offering a very special offer. Buy one get one free. Yes, buy a Tiger experience voucher (£129) and get one free, or a Meerkat and Lemur voucher (£39) and get one free or maybe treat two people to a falconry half day (£69) instead of one. Just use the code word MOLLY when booking over the phone. Not available on internet sales. These special Christmas gifts give you the chance to ﬂy hawks, have an adorable Meerkat sit on your knee, feed a Lemur or maybe Feed a Tiger. And what’s best you get to take a friend for free. Woodside Wildlife Park is Lincoln’s very own zoological park. Home to Tigers Wolves, Lynx, Butterﬂies, reptiles and even Crocodiles in the recently relocated Sir Joseph Banks Conservatory from the Lawns in Lincoln. Through their membership of the European association of zoos Woodside, is involved

e Buy on as Christmcher gift vou free! e get on word Code LY MOL

in world wide conservation and breeding programmes in collaboration with other zoos across Europe. With new and exciting animals arriving over the next few weeks building strong links with other zoological collections to save animals across the world. For further information: T: 01522 754280 www.woodsidewildlife.com

Come and meet our tigers, white wolves and white owls and many more in a wintry setting Winter Opening 10am–4pm everyday (CLOSED Christmas Day) A fun packed day visitor attraction from toddlers to grandmas too • Birds & Animals • Displays • Tropical Paradise • Experience Days • Birthday Parties • School Visits • Tea Rooms

Telephone: 01522 754280

www.woodsidewildlife.com

r inte ll wnds a en ke Op wee so

Newball, Near Langworth, Lincoln LN3 5DQ

u llow

www.mollysguide.co.uk

To get the full picture click on to www.visitlincoln.com/christmas For more information: T: 01522 545458 E: visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

A CRACKIN’ CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

17th November, 5pm-7.30pm Start the countdown to Christmas at the annual fun-packed Christmas Lights Switch On at St Marks Shopping Centre, Lincoln High Street, and Waterside Shopping Centre. ST MARKS SHOPPING CENTRE LIGHTS Live entertainment will kick off at St Marks Shopping Centre at 5pm with music, children’s entertainment, a snow cannon, cast from Jack and the Beanstalk at Lincoln Drill Hall, and a snow globe selﬁe station. The switch on of the new lights will take place at 6.15pm. CITY SQUARE City Square will be a festive wonderland too providing a new space to enjoy the switch on near the High Street with less of the crowds. Children’s rides, singing princesses, and food and drink stalls will entertain from 5pm. A big screen will show a live feed of the High Street stage for the switch on at 6.45pm HIGH STREET LIGHTS Lincoln High Street will be full of festivities for the switch on of the main city centre lights with entertainment from 5.30pm. BBC Lincolnshire’s Melvyn Prior will be compering with choirs, the Salvation Army Band, and the cast from Aladdin providing entertainment. The Mayor and Civic Party will process from the Guildhall to join Lincoln City FC managers Danny and Nicky Cowley, sing Andy Abraham, and Gogglebox’s Sandi Bogle to switch on the lights at 6.45pm. WATERSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE Following the launch of the centre’s new Santa’s Grotto, the switch on will take place at 7.15pm. 36

Winter 2017

11th November, 10am-4pm Get some early Christmas shopping and get in to the festive spirit this year at The Natural World Centre’s annual Christmas Market. Over 25 stalls are in attendance this year bringing a wide range of quality Lincolnshire made products supported by the Country Crafts Association; an organisation dedicated to providing high quality local crafted items. From woodwork to intricate jewellery, ﬁnd great gift ideas for all the family! Take the opportunity to wrap up warm and explore the rest of the Natural World Centre, including the Little Darters children’s play area, and Whisby Nature Park. A festive day of fun for the whole family.

THOR’S TIPI BAR 14th November to 31st December, A winter wonderland in the heart of Lincoln city centre, complete with roaring ﬁres, cosy furs and twinkling lights. THOR’S tipi bar - playing on Lincolnshire’s Viking heritage - will be a novel experience for Christmas shoppers and revellers alike in Lincoln over the festive period. Two linked canvas tipis will form the bar, which will be festooned with lighting and decked out with wooden tables and benches, cosy furs and an open ﬁre pit. Serving local draft ales, mulled wine, and hot cider, the fully licensed bar will have something to warm everyone’s cockles. And a hot chocolate station will allow kids, big and small, to choose a topping for their homemade chocolate treat.

REINDEER PARADE 23rd November, 6pm-8pm A parade of festive reindeer led by Santa Claus and his sleigh from St Marks Shopping Centre to rest in the Cornhill Quarter. Where would Santa be without his faithful reindeer? During the Reindeer Parade, Santa rides his sleigh through the city pulled by real reindeer. The Reindeer Parade takes place after a display in the afternoon, starting at St Marks Shopping Centre making its way across the High Street, and ﬁnishing at Lincoln City Square.

LANTERN PARADE 14th December, 5pm-8pm

LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD & GIFT FAIR 2nd & 3rd December, 9am-4pm Lincolnshire Showground The Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair is now in its 17th year and has grown and grown over the past decade to help kick off the festive season. Spanning two exhibition halls and a large marquee, this is the second largest annual event at the Lincolnshire Showground and it’s all held indoors! Here you will ﬁnd more than 150 exciting and varied exhibitors, entertainment from live choir groups, and cookery demonstrations from top local chefs with tips on cooking a delicious festive feast. The Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair promises Christmas treats and festive inspiration for all of the family. The Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair is not one to miss this Christmas, so come along for lots of festive treats and a great day out.

Join in the festive parade carrying paper lanterns through the streets of Lincoln, ending with a light show on City Square. This Christmas, join as hundreds of families parade down from Castle Hill to City Square carrying paper lanterns. The evening will begin at 5pm at Castle Hill with Carols and a Nativity Play. Warm up with a hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts and get your paper lanterns from stalls on Castle Hill before the start of the parade. Then follow the marching band down Steep Hill, through Lincoln High Street to City Square where the evening will conclude with a spectacular light show.

BRANSBY HORSES CHRISTMAS FAYRE

9th December, 11am-4pm

Help raise funds for the horse charity with festive fun, shopping, delicious food, seasonal craft stalls, Santa’s Grotto, carols and mulled wine. With more than 350 horses, ponies and donkeys to care for, the Bransby Horses Christmas Fayre is also a great opportunity to meet the animals, ﬁnd out more about them, and to help raise funds for the charity. Donations are gratefully received & all funds raised go towards the welfare work to help care for, rehabilitate and rehome the horses, ponies and donkeys that have been rescued.

SANTA FUN RUN & WALK 17th December, 11.30am-6pm, Lincoln Cathedral Quarter Thousands of Santas run and walk through Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter for the biggest festive fundraiser in Lincoln. Santas of all ages run or walk around Lincoln’s most iconic landmarks, starting and ﬁnishing on Castle Hill. Over 2,500 runners dressed in their Santa suits will run or walk the 3.5km 2 lap course around the historic Bailgate course to be claim their bespoke medals.

www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Rand Farm Park

discover what’s new at rand farm park There have been lots of very exciting changes at Rand Farm Park since the summer with even more planned over the coming months. You can not fail to see and be impressed by the new Large Animal Barn which although it was originally hoped would be ready for the new academic year in September, actually opened its doors a few weeks ago in time for the October Half Term holidays. This new purpose-built 100’ x 120’ building will allow access to the animal pens throughout the day adding to the handson learning experiences for Residential Visitors and students from Lincoln College participating in the Animal Management courses. Hands-on activities will still form a major part of all visits with everyone being encouraged to “Look, Feed, Hold and Cuddle” the animals at Rand Farm Park. The rabbits and guinea pigs were some of the ﬁrst to move into their new housing which

includes realistic models of Lincoln Cathedral and Castle and this has allowed a new Air Cannon Arena to be installed in their old penning which will be themed in different ways throughout the year... Halloween, Christmas and Spring but generally “Randolf’s Sweet Shop” as a new Coffee Kiosk with “something sweet” will be added before too long. Next will come the transformation for Christmas. “It is our vision to become a major venue for a Real Christmas Experience over the next few years” said Joshua Waring, Operations and Development Manager steering the future of Rand Farm Park. Our Christmas offer in 2016 was well received as we had added “Decorating Gingerbread Biscuits with Mrs Claus”, “Rudi and Rossi’s

Reindeer Feed Station ” and “Santa’s Post Ofﬁce” to the ever popular “Living Farm Nativity” before arriving at “Santa’s Home in the Forest”. This year will see two further activities - “Elf Academy” and the “3D Enchanted Forest” with other traditional games along the way. “But it’s not all for the children” said Joshua. “There are surprises for the parents as well. We like to offer something for everyone at such a special family time. But I’m not saying any more... The only way to ﬁnd out all is to come along and join in the fun and as in previous years, there is still the opportunity to have Breakfast with Santa as well.” And then it will be 2018... once we have all eaten too much Christmas Pudding, it will be back to work for the next step including “Role Play”. For further information: www.randfarmpark.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Lincoln BIG

Lincoln Christmas Lights

family festive fun in lincoln! It’s the most magical time of the year and there’s plenty happening in Lincoln to keep local and visiting families on their toes.

Lincoln BIG’s levy paying businesses have helped to set the scene by having sparkling Christmas trees installed and a new attraction is coming to The Cornhill on November 14 – Thor’s Tipi bar – which will

stay open until December 31 (closed on Christmas Day). This “retreat”, which comprises two canvas tipis, with lighting, wooden tables, benches, cosy furs and an open ﬁre pit, will serve draft ales, mulled wine and much more, as well as hot chocolate with everyone’s favourite toppings. Then, on Friday, November 17, there’s no less than three Switching-On of the Christmas Lights ceremonies taking place – so don’t miss out!

Thors Tipi Bar 40

Winter 2017

A fantastic evening is planned and, there’s no school the next day so everyone from tots to people in their nineties, can have a great night out.

St Marks Shopping Centre will get the ball rolling with its switch-on at 6.15 pm, when pantomime stars appearing in Jack & The Beanstalk at The Drill Hall will be in attendance. This will quickly be followed by the city’s main switchon ceremony at 6.45pm, in front of the High Street War Memorial, near St Benedict’s Square. This is being hosted by the Civic Party, accompanied by Lincoln City Football Club’s Management Team Danny and Nicky Cowley and singer Andy Abraham and Gogglebox’s Sandi Bogle, who are appearing in Aladdin at the New Theatre Royal. A big screen will also be set-up in City Square, so families will also be able to watch the switch-on there. There will be children’s attractions too, including petting animals from Rand Farm Park.

Reindeer Parade

Finally, at 7.15pm, still more lights will go on in The Waterside Shopping Centre.

Families can meet them at St Marks Shopping Centre, between 2pm and 4pm.

Don’t forget to do a spot of late shopping and remember the city’s new 1,001space Central Car Park, off Broadgate, will also be open.

They will be starting the Lincoln BIG Reindeer Parade at 6pm and making their way up the High Street before going past Thor’s Tipi bar in The Cornhill on their way to City Square, where there will be a chance to take photos with Santa Claus and the deer.

On November 23, we will be welcoming some special, four-legged friends, reindeer from the Cairngorms. Lantern Parade

This year Lincoln BIG is also inviting whole families to be part of its traditional Lantern Parade on December 14. It will begin in Castle Hill at 5pm, with carols and a nativity play. Participants will then follow a marching band down Steep Hill and the High Street to City Square to enjoy a fabulous light show. Lincoln’s Steep Hill and Bailgate businesses will also be staying open until 6.30pm for late night shopping

Remember to log on to www.visitlincoln.com to ensure you don’t miss anything! www.mollysguide.co.uk

have you s�n

our new website?

Keep up to date with What’s On for family days out and activities NEW LISTINGS ADDED WEEKLY

www.mollysguide.co.uk

Winter 2017

the little pottery studio has exciting news!!

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

The Little Pottery Studio

We have moved to the Cathedral Quarter in Lincoln. Our new premises will be at The Lawns adjacent to the new Stokes Cafe. The new premises will be able to offer lots more crafts for the whole family to enjoy. We also have a ceramicist coming on board to offer workshops and courses from handbuilding to the potters wheels. The Little Pottery Studio was established in 2015 and is growing everyday! We are so excited to welcome you all. Please see our Facebook for our ceramic workshops and special events.

For further info: T: 01522 536535 Facebook: The Little Pottery Studio www.thelittlepotterystudio.com

LINCOLNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ONLY PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY STUDIO Open to everyone to come and create a masterpiece, learn new techniques & explore your creative side.

OPENING TIMES: Saturday - 9am-5pm Sunday -10am-4pm Mon-Wed -10am-3pm Thursday/Friday - Closed

Now serving STOKES COFFEE!

ONCE YOU HAVE PAINTED YOUR PIECE WE WILL PROFESSIONALLY GLAZE AND FIRE YOUR POTTERY OPEN LATE NIGHT READY FOR YOU TO COLLECT A FEW DAYS LATER. OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

01522 536535

Find us at: SUITE 3, THE LAWN, UNION ROAD, LINCOLN LN1 3BU www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

Passion 2 Dance

Providing dance classes in Ba�et, Tap, Jazz, Str�t and Acro... We treat each child individually and whether they just want to have fun or focus on exams, we can help them achieve their goal. We welcome students of all ages and abilities. We understand that the social aspect of dance lessons is just as important as the technique! Offering graded exams with BBO and IDTA as well as other ways to gain recognition for their hard work and dedication. Opportunities to take part in our annual Dance Show held at The New Theatre Royal in Lincoln.

“Come along and see the facilities and book in for a free class.” Our instore dancewear and accessory boutique stocks Bloch, Capezio and Pineapple dancewear, shoes, bags and accessories. We also have a beautiful range of hair accessories, stationery and gifts perfect for Christmas presents. Look for the 10% voucher for use in the shop throughout November and December. For more information T: 01522 691292 www.passion2dance.co.uk

• Childrens Dance Classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Street and Acro • Mummy & Me Classes starting from 18months • Holiday workshops and special events • Onsite Dancewear Boutique • 2 purpose built dance studios • Café/Lounge • Free Onsite Car Park any purchase from our instore dancewear and accessory boutique*

Passion2Dance Studios - 6 Farrier Road, Lincoln LN6 3RU T: 01522 691292 E: info@passion2dance.co.uk www.passion2dance.co.uk Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/passion2dance.co.uk 44

Winter 2017

20% OFF

£1 OFF A CHRISTMAS TREE

admission

Valid for up to four people. Expires 28th Feb 2018

Tel:

01623 882977

MONDAY-THURSDAY ONLY *Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 21.12.17

www.whitepostfarm.co.uk Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

admit 1 child

��

FREE

with 2 full paying admissions.*

Tel: 01652

678822 www.hallfarmpark.co.uk

*Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 31.01.18

10% OFF ALL POTTERY

ON PRESENTATION OF THIS VOUCHER.

LINCOLN’S ONLY PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY STUDIO

01522 536535 FIND US AT REDHALL, BRACEBRIDGE HEATH, LINCOLN One voucher per transaction. Can be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid til 28.02.2018

www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

count the wildlife that’s counting on you...

RSPB

RSPB big garden birdwatch 2018 Half a million people are expected to watch and count their garden birds for the 2018 RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch in January. The world’s largest garden wildlife survey, now in its 39th year, takes place on 27, 28 and 29 January 2018. The public is asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in their garden or local green space, then send their results to the RSPB. Close to half-a-million people across the UK, over 8,000 of whom took part in Lincolnshire, joined in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey in 2017 counting more than eight million birds and providing valuable information about the wildlife using our gardens in winter. In Lincolnshire, the house sparrow was top of the Big Garden Birdwatch rankings, with starling and blackbird rounding off the top three. [Note 1] Last year’s Big Garden Birdwatch also revealed an explosion in the number of recorded sightings of waxwings. These attractive looking birds flock to UK gardens in winter once every 7-8 years when the berry crop fails in their native Scandinavia. Known as an ‘irruption’, results showed that waxwings were seen in around 11 times more gardens in 2017 compared to the last couple of years, with sightings as far west as Wales and Northern Ireland. Daniel Hayhow, RSPB Conservation Scientist said: “The birds we see in our garden are often the first experience we have with nature – whether it’s a flock of starlings at the feeder, a robin perched on the fence or some house sparrows splashing in the bird bath. But it may come as a surprise to know that some of our most-loved species are in desperate need of our help as their numbers have dropped dramatically. “The Big Garden Birdwatch is a great opportunity to get involved with helping our garden wildlife. By counting the birds that visit your outdoor space, you’ll be joining a team of over half-a-million people across the UK who are making a difference for nature. It only takes an hour so grab a cuppa, sit back and see who makes a flying visit to your garden.” Species such as starlings and greenfinches have seen their numbers visiting gardens decline by 79 and 59 per cent retrospectively since the first Birdwatch in 1979.

But it wasn’t all bad news. There was good news for robins in last year’s survey, with the average number seen visiting gardens at its highest level since 1986, helping it climb two places to number seven, its joint highest-ever position in the Big Garden Birdwatch rankings. Daniel added: “With over half a million people now regularly taking part, coupled with nearly 40 yearsworth of data, Big Garden Birdwatch allows us to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are doing. With results from so many gardens, we are able to create a ‘snapshot’ of the birds visiting at this time of year across the UK. Even if you see nothing during your Big Garden Birdwatch hour, that’s important information too, so please let us know.” As well as counting birds, the RSPB is once again asking participants to log some of the other wildlife they have seen throughout the year. This year, people are being asked to look out for badger, fox, grey squirrel, red squirrel, muntjac deer, roe deer, frog and toad. [Note 3] To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2018, watch the birds in your garden or local park for one hour at some point over the three days. Only count the birds that land in your garden or local park, not those ﬂying over. Tell us the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time – not the total you see in the hour. The parallel event, Big Schools’ Birdwatch takes place during the ﬁrst half of spring term next year, 2 January – 23 February 2018. Further information can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch Big Garden Birdwatch and Big Schools’ Birdwatch are part of the RSPB Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the house crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their gardens or outdoor spaces – whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a home for hedgehogs.

Winter 2017

2 for 1

One child admitted

FREE

Worry Monster Pack!

WITH THIS VOUCHER

Includes: • Mini-Handmade worry monster keyring. • Worry monster journal. • How to support your child with anxiety leaﬂet.

Save

• Slime (for distraction from worries).

£6

North Parade, Skegness, Lincs PE25 1DB T: 01754 764345 E: info@skegnessnatureland.co.uk Must be accompanied by a full paying adult. Cannot be used with any other offer/discount. Valid to 28.02.2018. MG17

www.skegnessnatureland.co.uk

Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer/discount. Valid 28th February 2018

T: 01522 274151

£8 each Only 20 available!

www.supportingminds.com *Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 28.02.18.

admit 1 child

FREE

with 2 full paying admissions.*

678822 www.hallfarmpark.co.uk

Tel: 01652

*Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 31.01.18

Come and enjoy a

FREE coffee, latte

Have a coffee roelaxing n us

or cappuccino

WITH THIS VOUCHER Valid until 31st March 2018

Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln, LN6 5SA One voucher per customer. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

www.mollysguide.co.uk

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES

Christmas magic

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

what christmas rea�y means to me… Amongst the reams of wrapping, endless mince pies, Santa visits and restless nights, festive music always plays a crucial part in everyone’s Christmases. Here, Molly’s resident blogger Desperate Dad, explains why it’s so important to him and his family at this time of year… Music has always been an integral part of my life. I must have been barely four-years-old when my dad called me into the living room to listen to a new record he’d been raving about. ‘Just wait for the drums on this’, he said excitedly as he sat me down in front of his treasured hi-ﬁ system. A tinny drum machine loop led into a slow burning atmospheric vocal with keyboards - pretty uninspiring at ﬁrst listen to be honest. ‘There aren’t any proper drums on this rubbish’, I was thinking to myself. Then Phil Collins sang ‘it’s no stranger to you and me’, and all hell broke loose on my senses. That iconic percussion solo on the classic ‘In The Air Tonight’ hit me for six and started a love affair with music (and the drums) that is still as passionate today as it ever was in the early 80s. It wasn’t long before my dad had fashioned me a pair of primary school drumsticks and I was bashing the heck out of the sofa arms to Madness and Muppet LPs. I still maintain that the original Muppet Movie soundtrack is one of the best albums of all time. As I grew up in the 80s I was directly exposed to my parents’ eclectic tastes, from Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s epic Welcome To The Pleasure Dome - I was never allowed to look at the pictures in the gatefold vinyl - to my mum’s classic Motown Jackson 5 LPs. Later on I was introduced to legendary rock giants including Genesis, Marillion and Pink Floyd 48

Winter 2017

- it was an extraordinary journey of discovery. I also remember exploring my new stepdad’s stash of classic vinyl - excitedly thumbing original albums from Queen and Dire Straits, and enjoying Jeff Wayne’s epic War Of The Worlds time and time again. But it was the compact disc that was king in our house and his impressive digital collection was slowly assimilated into my consciousness. As I grew older I discovered Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Guns N’Roses and Metallica - these were my bands and it was my time - the 90s had never sounded so good. I’m just about old enough to remember cassette taping the Sunday Top 40 - I deeply cared about the changing chart positions and who was going to be No.1 that week. In today’s downloadable, touchof-a-button, on-the-go society, no-one really seems to care who’s topping the charts anymore - but at this time of year it remains of keen interest to me. And at Christmastime, for just a few short weeks, we all return to the same batch of songs that are rolled out time and time again - without fail. Some are classics in their own right, others completely forgettable, but they all take someone back to a moment or Christmas in time and evoke memories that are impossible to erase. Many of mine transport me to special Christmas Eve nights at home as a youngster, sitting with my Gran choosing our favourite

festive tracks or dancing around the living room with my zany uncle Mike. Indeed the battle for the Christmas No.1 spot still seems fiercely contested with each artist desperately bidding to be the one to enter the nation’s festive psyche for a couple of weeks at the end of the year. This is reinforced by the fact that Top Of The Pops still gets its sole yearly outing as part of the Christmas Day TV schedule. It’s always a must watch in our house along with the Queen (all rise) before the big celebratory sit down lunch. The Christmas No.1s along with the obligatory standards from Bing, Slade, Wizzard and Wham! (to name just a few), are the soundtracks to all our holidays and part of what I believe it’s really all about. So it’s here I proclaim to be a deeply religious person, a borderline fundamentalist and someone who gives thanks and praise on a daily basis - particularly at this time of year. It happens every time I turn on the radio or fire up that Christmas party playlist on my beloved, memory squeezed iPod, with my family gathered around me. It was in the air that night Phil Collins spoke so profoundly to me with a flourish of his rhythm sticks and will remain with me - in my very fabric and being - as long as any vociferous Birminghambased glam rocker can holler ‘It’s Christmas!’ at the top of his voice. Merry Xmas Everybody!

Admission Special Offer

3 for 2

SIBLING DISCOUNT

10% OFF

3 admissions for the price of 2

SECOND CHILD PLACE*

T: 01673 858904 E: kay@randfarmpark.com 8 miles East of Lincoln on A158

07494 857419

www.randfarmpark.com Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Valid from 1st Jan 2018 to 28th Feb 2018

www.dinkydolphins.co.uk *Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 28.02.18.

One child admitted Bring this voucher and receive

FREE WITH THIS VOUCHER

your chosen Christmas tree! Valid from 25th Nov20th Dec 2017

Tel: 01427 667014 www.ďŹ llingham-trees.co.uk

Only one voucher to be redeemed per Christmas tree. No photocopies of voucher will be accepted.

20% OFF

ÂŁ6

www.skegnessnatureland.co.uk

10% OFF

admission

Valid for up to four people. Expires 28th Feb 2018

Tel:

Save

01623 882977

www.whitepostfarm.co.uk Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

any purchase from our instore dancewear and accessory boutique*

6 Farrier Road, Lincoln LN6 3RU T: 01522 691292

www.passion2dance.co.uk

*Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 31.12.17

www.mollysguide.co.uk

where to m�t santa in lincoln... Santa’s Grotto

Breakfast with Santa

Santa’s Grotto

Waterside Shopping Centre 1st-24th December, 11am-5pm Mon-Sat, 10.30am-4.30pm Sun City Centre’s only grotto - near H&M and Next Prices to be conﬁrmed

Doubletree by Hilton 2nd-9th December, 9am Breakfast with Santa, then meet him & receive a gift Adult £11.95, Child £14.95 (Child 2-12) 01522 565180

Castle Farm at Fillingham 7th-8th & 14th-15th Dec 10.30am-4pm All visitors receive a special gift 01427 667 014 ﬁllingham-trees.co.uk

- Waterside

Christmas Fayre

Bransby Horses 9th December, 11am-4pm Craft stalls, Santa’s Grotto, Carols and Mulled Wine Admission free, donations welcome. 01427 782860 bransbyhorses.co.uk

Tea with Father Christmas Lincoln Castle 20th December, 4.30pm & 6pm Storytelling performance of “A Christmas Carol”, then tea where Father Christmas will meet everyone. £15 per person, adult & children. Booking recommended

lincolncastle.digitickets.co.uk/tickets

- Fillingham

An Audience with Father Christmas Lincoln Castle, 16th, 17th & 20th-23rd December, 10am-4pm Father Christmas tells Christmas stories, children receive Victorian style gift and meet the man himself £8 childrem, £6 adult. Booking recommended. lincolncastle.digitickets.co.uk/tickets

Lincolnshire Food & Gift Fair and Santa’s Workshop Lincolnshire Showground, 2nd-3rd December, 9am-4pm Get hands-on with crafts and activities, including Christmas storytelling, festive baking and meet Father Christmas. Advanced £5, on day £6, under 16s free lincolnshireshowground.co.uk/ food_gift/

Sunday Lunch with Santa Double Tree by Hilton, 17th December, 12pm 3-course choice-meal, followed by entertainment for the children and a special gift from Santa. £19.95 adults, £12.95 children (12 years and under). Children under 2 years of age go free. 01522 565180

Father Christmas Doddington Hall, 3rd-21st December. Time to be conﬁrmed See Father Christmas in the the Hall’s Library. Meet elves, share Christmas wishes with Father Christmas and receive a small present per child. Child 2yrs & under £4.50, Child 3yrs+ £7 and includes Christmas in Wonderland. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult (House admission £9 per adult). doddingtonhall.com/whatison For where to meet Santa and other festive events visit:

mollysguide.co.uk

and more information about Christmas:

visitlincoln.com/christmas

Winter 2017

The best photography is about much more than taking a picture. It’s about capturing a moment, telling a story, preserving a memory. Sometimes it’s about looking at things a little bit differently.

Find me on

Capture the moment...create a memory Photographs of you, your family or friends, taken in the comfort of your own home or setting of your choice - that look far better than anything that could be achieved in an expensive studio. No tinting, no computer trickery, just simple, beautifully taken, timeless photographs, that you will treasure forever. With over 25 years’ experience of professional family portrait photography & weddings, PR shoots to frontline work for the national media. Whatever your occasion, let Stuart Wilde Photography capture your moment.

t: 07974 695626 e: stuartwildephotos@btinternet.com www.stuartwildephotography.com