discovering whittlesea issue 138, january 2016

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Insidet h i s i s s u e

Straw Bear Festivalpage 10

Community Matterspage 12-14

In the Hot Seat - Brian Kell B.E.M.page 63

WINTER GARDENING

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D I S C O V E R I N G Whittlesea | January 20162

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January 2016 | D I S C O V E R I N G Whittlesea 3

Happy New Year! January has arrived, and with it comes crisp mornings and the possibility of snow!

January can only mean one

thing to us Whittlesey folk - the Straw Bear Festival. What better excuse do we have to dance, drink and be merry in the cold months of January? Find out everything you need to know on this year’s event on page 10.

The new year is a great time for new beginnings, and it is with

Claire Saberton - Publisher | 01778 421427 | 07837 499061

[email protected]

Becky Kane - Sales Executive | 07950 369814

[email protected]

Andy Armstrong - Op. Director | 01733 200609 | 077809 22214

Natasha Shiels - Editor | [email protected]

John Schwarz - Group Editor | Jack Harris - New Editor

Design - Natasha Shiels | Vinny Clark | Sarah Gumbley

Emma Gunner | Rob Harradine

Photographer - The Studio | www.the-studioonline.co.uk

“Discovering Whittlesea” is published by a local team and is not associated with any other business. Care is taken to ensure that the content and information is correct. However, we cannot take any responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by any errors. Permission must be granted to reproduce, copy or scan anything from this publication. For a copy of our contributors’ guidelines please email [email protected]

Welcome to our January edition...

Welcome to the January edition of Discovering Whittlesea. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy new year, and

introduce myself.

I’ve lived in Whittlesey all my life and am passionate about the town and area. I have a particular interest in local history, but also love to follow current events and attend the various town festivals we are lucky to

have throughout the year. My hobbies include my classic Mini (look out for it at the Whittlesey Festival in September!) and expanding my collection of old Whittlesey photos and postcards – a fascinating but surprisingly expensive pastime!

It is with great excitement that I take on the position of editor; though Natasha will be a tough act to follow, I love a challenge and am looking forward to getting stuck into my new role. Have a great January!

Natasha x

Jack

mixed feelings that I announce that this will be my last issue as editor of this wonderful magazine. I shall be stepping down to enjoy some time with my family. It is with great pleasure that I welcome Jack and Sarah to the magazine, and I wish them all the luck. Thanks for being amazing contributors, it’s been a real pleasure working with each and every one of you. And no doubt I’ll see you around!

Please note - the editorial deadline for the February issue will be January 10th.

5 New Year, New You

6 Your Health - Pregnancy Posture

10 Straw Bear Festival

12-14 Community Matters

18 Gardeners’ Corner

22-23 Club Matters

26 Will and Probate Services - Leaving your house to your pet

30 History Page

34 Mayor's Column

36 A Moment with.. Revd. Gill and Revd. Nigel

38 This Month's Recipe

40-41 School News

43 Charity Spotlight

44-46 Charity Matters

48 Legal Corner

52 Policing your Area

53 Pets' Corner

55 Your Finances

57 Whittlesey Christian Church

58-59 Events Diary

61 Local Fishing News

63 In the Hot Seat...

Whittlesea

With thanks to our contributors...Alex Miscandlon

Eamonn Dorling

Roy Gerstner

Tony Austin

Brian SmithymanKen WadeMayur Mistry

Ubhi VarsaniSimon Norris Westfield NurseryRevd Nigel and Revd GillDack Pearson Solicitors


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10 Tips to Make Your New Year's Resolution a SuccessMost of us will make a New Year's resolution - maybe to lose weight, quit smoking or drink less - but only one in ten of us will achieve our goal, according to the NHS.

Psychologists have found we're more likely to succeed if, we break our resolution into smaller goals that are specific, measurable and time-based. Professor Richard Wiseman, of the University of Hertfordshire, tracked 5,000 people as they attempted to achieve their New Year's resolutions. His team found that those who failed, tended not to have a plan, which made their resolution soon feel like a mountain to climb. Some focused too much on the downside of not achieving their goal, adopted role models, fantasised about their goal, or relied on willpower alone. "Many of these ideas are frequently recommended by self-help experts, but our results suggest that they simply don't work," says Prof. Wiseman. "If you are trying to lose weight, it's not enough to stick a picture of a model on your fridge or fantasise about being slimmer." He said the 10% of participants in the study who had achieved their target, broke their goal into smaller goals and felt a sense of achievement when they achieved these. "Many of the most successful techniques involve making a plan and helping yourself stick to it," says Prof. Wiseman.

Top 10 goal-setting tipsProf. Wiseman's top ten tips for achieving your New Year's resolution:

1. Make only one resolution. Your chances of success are greater when you channel energy into changing just one aspect of your behaviour.

2. Don’t wait until New Year’s Eve to think about your resolution; instead take some time out a few days before, and reflect upon what you really want to achieve.

3. Avoid previous resolutions. Deciding to revisit a past resolution sets you up for frustration and disappointment.

4. Don’t run with the crowd and go with the usual resolutions. Instead, think about what you really want out of life.

5. Break your goal into a series of steps, focusing on creating sub-goals that are concrete, measurable and time-based.

6. Tell your friends and family about your goals. You're more likely to get support and want to avoid failure.

7. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits associated with achieving your goals by creating a checklist of how life would be better, once you obtain your aim.

8. Give yourself a small reward whenever you achieve a sub-goal, thus maintaining motivation and a sense of progress.

9. Make your plans and progress concrete by keeping a handwritten journal, completing a computer spreadsheet, or covering a notice board with graphs or pictures.

10. Expect to revert to your old habits from time to time. Treat any failure as a temporary setback, rather than a reason to give up altogether.

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Pregnancy is a stressful time for the mother, not just from the changes going on within her body, but also the effects these changes have on her body structure. The mother’s evolving posture during the term is a perfect visual example of strains the body structure must cope with, and is the focus of this article. There are three main factors affecting posture during pregnancy. These are:1) The production of relaxin at the end of first trimester2) Weight gain, which during an average pregnancy is between 8-14kg3) The size and shape of the baby.Each of the above variables alters with each passing week, and therefore will alter the mother’s posture. Broadly speaking we can look at three main postural changes corresponding to each trimester.During the initial stages, the enlargement of the uterus pushes the abdominal organs upwards and outwards. This outward motion pushes against the abdominal muscles, which in turn contract to counter-act the pressure. As these muscles are connected to the pelvis, it indirectly causes the pelvis to tilt backwards. Consequently [due to how the pelvis and lumbar spine interact] the lumbar spine loses its curve and becomes straighter (decrease in lordosis).At the same time, the breasts are enlarging and this added weight pulls the upper body (or thorax) downwards increasing the mid back curve (khyphosis). The resultant posture at the end of the first trimester is shown in Fig. A.As the baby and breasts grow in size and weight, this posture is exaggerated further. The production of relaxin at the start of second trimester means the joints are more lax, thus the joints yield to the pull more. Further exaggeration of the mid-back curve leads to the lower neck coming under-strain as it attempts to keep the head upright from the downward pull of the mid-back.

See typical the second trimester posture in Fig. B.During the final trimester, the forward pull of the baby is greater than the abdominal muscles’ ability to counter act it. Thus, the pelvis actually tilts the opposite way causing the lumbar spine curve to increase.This is the main change in the third trimester, and can be viewed in Fig. C.Whether the mother develops pain associated with these changing postures is dependent on her body›s ability to be adaptable. If she is unable to adapt [there are a number of reasons why, e.g. previous history of low back pain], then any one of following symptoms may present itself:• Lower back pain• Chest or rib pain• Neck problems or headaches• Pelvic pain• Trapped nervesBy maintaining mobility and performing gentle stretches/exercises, the intensity of these symptoms can be reduced, although rarely eradicated.Mayur and Ubhi would like to wish you and your family a healthy, happy and prosperous 2016.

Interesting articles to help you understand your body better.

Pregnancy Posture

Contact DetailsAddress: Grosvenor House, Grosvenor Road, Whittlesey PE7 1AQ;

T : 01733 785214, W: www.whittlesey-osteopaths.com, E: [email protected]

January 2016 | D I S C O V E R I N G Whittlesea 77 Queen Street, Whittlesey. PE7 1AY | 01733 351500

OPENING HOURSTues - 9am - 7pm | Wed - 9am - 5pm | Thurs - 9am - 7pm | Fri - 9am - 5pm | Sat - 9am - 4pm | Sun & Mon - Closed

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURSBoxing Day CLOSED | 29th December 9am - 7pm | 30th December 9am - 5pm New Years Eve 9am - 4pm | New Years Day CLOSED | 2nd January CLOSED

For more information and prices on all of the services we offer please visit our websitewww.azaleaboutique.co.uk

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The internationally famous “Whittlesea Straw Bear festival” takes place between January 14th and 17th this year. Once again, the “Strawbearers” are presenting traditional art forms in the five schools in town. Storytellers, Ursula Holden-Gill (primary schools), and Jo Blake-Cave (Sir Harry Smith Community College), will delight the students. These sessions however, are not open to the general public. Everybody is invited to The Ivy Leaf Club on the Friday evening for a diverse programme of music and song, provided by Sunjay Folk and Blues, (a finalist in the BBC Young Folk Awards); Kara, a distinct blend of Russian and British songs and tunes; and last, but not least, Gilmore and Roberts, an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary song (support to

The Return of the Bear PIC

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Fairport Convention in 2011, and nominated for BBC Radio 2 folk awards in 2013). Tickets for the show are just £10. Of course, the main event takes place on Saturday 16th. The roads will be closed from 9am onwards, and don’t forget the free park and ride from Sir Harry Smith Community College. The parade starts from the Manor Leisure Centre, Station Road, at 10:30am. In addition to the thirty or so dance teams following the bear, there will be storytelling in the Methodist United Reformed Church at 12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:30pm with Jo Blake-Cave, acoustic music with Marina Florence, and presentations by Poets United upstairs in the Town Hall, Market Street. Please note this change of venue. The bear goes home for his tea around 3:30pm. All of these events are free. Straw Bear day concludes with a barn dance featuring the dynamic Peeping Tom, who will “folk-rock” the night away, ably assisted by young Phillip Bassindale in Sir Harry Smith Community College. Tickets are £12. If that is not enough, you may return to Sir Harry Smith Community College on Sunday 17th at 12pm, for a two and a half hours of dance display and music - a prelude to the bear burning at 2:30pm.

For further information visit www.strawbear.org.uk or ring 01733 208245. For tickets ring 07857 357970.

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COUNCIL INVITING TENDER CONTRACTSWhittlesey Town Council will be inviting tenders for contracts for annual works including grass cutting, hedge cutting and maintenance, and the watering and maintenance of the hanging baskets for 2016. The “Invitation to Tender” documents will be available from the Town Clerk with effect from Thursday December 10th 2015, with the closing date and time for receipt of tenders of 9:00am on February 29th, 2016. For any additional information, please contact the Town Clerk, Sue Evans, on 01733 351296 or by email at [email protected] after Wednesday December 9th.

“Home Instead Senior Care (Peterborough)”, which is based in Hampton, has announced that it is to create dozens of new jobs in the local area this year to meet growing demand for its unique home help and companionship service.The caring company’s unique philosophy, which sees home care and companionship go hand-in-hand, has received standout ratings from its clients and employees, in brand new independent research released late last year.“Home Instead” believes these results are living proof that there is a better way to deliver home care. 100% of clients would recommend “Home Instead”, 98% of “CAREGivers” are proud to work for the company, and 100% of “CAREGivers” say they are given enough time to deliver the desired levels of care to clients* (*research carried out by Smith & Henderson).Delighted with the findings, Amy Kennedy, Director of Care at “Home Instead”, said: “The results show that in addition to superb client ratings, “CAREGivers” feel valued, respected and part of the bespoke “Home Instead” ethos. 98% understood why “Home Instead” is different from other care companies, 100% would recommend “Home Instead” to a friend or family member as a place to work, 100% would recommend its services to a friend, and 88% say their job gives them the opportunity to learn and develop new skills.”The company celebrates its fourth anniversary this month (January 2016), and over the past four years, has achieved many milestones including winner of a “Peterborough Telegraph Business Award” and finalists in a “National Care Award” category.Amy Kennedy added: “The great news is that on top of the 70+ local people we already employ, contributing more than £400,000 to the Peterborough economy, we still require more “CAREGivers” to join the team to meet our expansion plans for 2016.” If you are interested in joining a team that is genuinely making a difference to the lives of elderly people in the local community, then get in touch on 01733 333342.

Home Care provider to create fifty jobs in Peterborough

MattersCommunity

We bring you items of interest for your home and community.

If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something

to say please get in touch at:Discovering Whittlesea, Benwick Road,

Ind. Est, Benwick Road, Whittlesey, PE7 [email protected]


A Whittlesey war veteran has been awarded France’s highest decoration, the Legion d’Honneur, for his service in World War Two.Born in Wynford Road, Islington, Fred Prescott moved to Whittlesey with

his wife Lily thirty years ago. Aged just sixteen, he enlisted in the 90th City of London regiment RFA (TA) in 1937 as a Driver/Operator with responsibilities for communications. Fred’s full wartime duties commenced in 1939, when the regiment took up defensive duties on the South coast in preparation for the impending German invasion. 1942 saw Fred travel to the Middle East; here, the regiment was involved in various operations in Iraq and Egypt, culminating in the invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky) in July 1943, which successfully drove enemy forces from the island and reopened Mediterranean sea lanes for Allied merchant ships.Following Husky, the 90th Field Regiment returned to Britain to prepare for the Normandy Landings – this included waterproofing their own vehicles in readiness for the amphibious attack. The regiment, alongside two others, went ashore on the first wave

in support of the infantry, firing from inside the tank landing craft (LCTs). From here, they advanced through France and then Belgium, where, to the immense gratitude of the city folk, they helped to liberate Brussels. The regiment next moved into the Netherlands, seeing fierce action as they pushed up ‘Hell’s Highway’ towards the Nijmegen Bridge, before eventually joining the occupation forces in Germany in 1945. Fred finally returned home in 1946 following the regiment’s suspension.

Pictured: The Legion d’Honneur (top left), Fred, wearing his medal (top right) and a photograph taken in 1943 during Operation Husky.

TOP HONOUR AWARDED TO WHITTLESEY WAR VETERAN


DO YOU WANT A WHITTLESEY ALLOTMENT?The allotment site on New Road has flourished since the redevelopment in 2010, and for the first time in eight years, we do not have a waiting list and have some available allotments, both full and half plots. The site also boasts a compostable toilet and a substantial amount of protective hedging, both of which were obtained by the “Whittlesey Allotment and Garden Society”, through grant funding.If you are interested in becoming an allotment holder, please contact me for further information, on 01733 351296, or by e-mail at [email protected]. Alternatively, pop into the office at Grosvenor House, Grosvenor Road, Whittlesey, PE7 1AQ.Sue Evans, Town Clerk & RFO

Whittlesey and District Business ForumNow it’s 2016, let’s get ready to take advantage of any, and all, business opportunities that the year offers. Our AGM will be held at 6pm on Wednesday January 20th, at Grosvenor House, Grosvenor Road, Whittlesey. Membership details and charges will be discussed, and a permanent team appointed.It is open to all to volunteer to help. If you have any propositions for the Forum, please submit them on the following e-mail, by Monday January 11th: [email protected] We also plan to have details of the Forum website, by the time of the AGM.You might give some thought to the Fenland Business Awards which take place every year. Just nominate your favourite local firm. Watch out for details in the “Cambs. Times”, who organise the event.Stephen Hodson, Chair Steering Committee

PUBLIC NOTICE

Please note, as from SUNDAY JANUARY 31st 2016 to SATURDAY FEBRUARY 6th 2016, Whittlesey Play Park will be closed to the public for Telecoms works to take place on top of the Water Tower.

Consultation on advocacy servicesCambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council are consulting with anyone with an interest in the future of advocacy services across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. They are seeking feedback on the draft specification for an integrated advocacy service in their areas. Both councils are fully committed to the principles and benefits of independent advocacy, and want the new advocacy service to build on the success of current and previous advocacy services. There will be one contract for advocacy services in

Cambridgeshire, and one contract for advocacy services in Peterborough.A three month public consultation opened in November 2015. For more information, and to take part, visit www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk and search for ‘Consultations’ to complete the online survey.If you do not have internet access and require a paper copy of the consultation, or if you need it in an alternative format, such as large print or Easy Read, please contact:Cambridgeshire – Carol Williams, tel: 01223 706130 e-mail: [email protected] consultation closes on February 20th 2016.





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Thousands of homeowners across the country have installed solar panels over the last few years, saving money on their energy bills, protecting themselves from future price rises and, best of all, getting paid by the government, tax free, for the electricity they generate.

This has made solar energy a sound investment and given homeowners a healthy return on their investment.

Recent announcements made by the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) proposing cuts to the Feed-in Tariff have come up against strong criticism. However the industry is still expecting to see drastic cuts being announced in January that may come into effect as early as February 2016.

The Feed-in Tariff for small scale solar PV installations could be cut by as much as 87%. That would mean the estimated tax free income and savings generated by an average domestic system would fall from £750 per year to approx. £379 per year. The FiT payments are made

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to zero, for installations under 10kw, by 2019.

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Prince Energy .indd All Pages 10/12/2015 16:04


“Ain’t no sunshine when it’s gone”

Thousands of homeowners across the country have installed solar panels over the last few years, saving money on their energy bills, protecting themselves from future price rises and, best of all, getting paid by the government, tax free, for the electricity they generate.

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Recent announcements made by the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) proposing cuts to the Feed-in Tariff have come up against strong criticism. However the industry is still expecting to see drastic cuts being announced in January that may come into effect as early as February 2016.

The Feed-in Tariff for small scale solar PV installations could be cut by as much as 87%. That would mean the estimated tax free income and savings generated by an average domestic system would fall from £750 per year to approx. £379 per year. The FiT payments are made



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homeowners will earn up to £7,000 less over the FiT payment period .

to zero, for installations under 10kw, by 2019.

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Prince Energy .indd All Pages 10/12/2015 16:04


I l Repair and re-shape lawn edges.> If the weather is mild you can also repair hollows and bumps in an existing lawn. Make a ‘H’ shaped cut in the turf, peel back the grass and either fill the hollow with compost or soil or scrape away the soil from a bump. Re-lay the turf, press it into place and pinch the cut edges together.l Inspect stored tubers of Dahlia and Begonia for rot.> Although care is needed to prevent dampness and rot occurring, it is important not to let the tubers become bone dry, or they will become useless.l Brush snow from trees and shrubs.> If we do have snow it’s a good idea to brush it off the branches of conifers, climbers and light-limbed shrubs and trees. Heavy snowfall can splay branches, break limbs and spoil the shape of the tree.l Order seed potatoes.> Weather permitting, vacant plots can be dug over and planning for vegetable planting begun.

Look out towards the end of the month for signs of Spring in your garden, with early perennials and Spring bulbs such as Crocus beginning to appear as well as Snowdrops – a sure sign that Winter is on the way out for another year.

n January your garden could need protecting from frosts, gale-force winds and heavy rains. Check stakes, ties, fleeces and other supports for damage and consider moving plants to sunnier positions to maximize light. Don’t forget to keep feeding the birds as food is scarce for them over winter. Jobs for the Month:

l Recycle your Christmas tree by shredding for mulch.> Real Christmas trees are biodegradable and so are perfect for recycling into mulch for your garden.l Ensure protective fleece is still in place on tender plants overwintering outdoors.> Even in mild areas, tender plants that cannot be left outside with protection should really be taken into the greenhouse or conservatory by the beginning of this month.l Protect pots.> In cold spells, protect non frost-proof containers with bubble wrap, hessian or fleece to prevent them cracking. Grouping the pots close to a south-facing wall may provide additional protection to the most vulnerable ones.l Check tree ties and stakes on established plants.> Replace, tighten or slacken them where necessary.

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Because of the holiday deadline, I penned this article at the back-end of November, ahead of our very first Christmas party! I am trusting that it went off well, with lots of fun and laughter, with no little food and drink enjoyed by most of our 150 or so members.As we enter the New Year, our committee must get down to some serious business (not that we are idle presently!!), before our AGM in April. We will need to set next year’s fees and prepare for the election of a committee, amongst other things. Volunteers sitting as a steering committee have “steered the ship” for the first year but, as per our constitution, this now has to be formalised and we seek members who want to help move Whittlesey and District U3A onward and upward!For those taking the trouble to read this piece, I would like to dispel the myth that the U3A is only for grey “wrinklies!!!” True, most of our members are fully retired folk, but our organisation is for ALL persons, who are no longer in full-time employment.We welcome, indeed need, younger members to join us, to bring in fresh ideas and enthusiasm, and to prevent us from stagnating! If you read this, but are reticent about committing, why not contact me on 01733 701628, to chat it over, or have a look on our website to find out more about us? Membership costs just £5, from January until April. We have around twenty-four different interest groups running weekly, fortnightly or monthly; plus theatre, day trips, and film clubs that you can go along to as a “taster”, to see what’s what before deciding to join or not. Lots of our members tell me how many new friends they have made since joining, and I know several who meet socially outside of their interest groups Our open meeting this month is on Thursday January 21st at 2pm at Childers, with guest speaker, Chris Donaldson, telling us about the East Anglian Air Ambulance.Tony Wright, Publicity & Communications Officer,Whittlesey & District U3A

WhittleseyMattersClub





WHITTLESEY STREET PRIDE GROUP

If you wish to contact Fred Mills, Chairman:T: 01733 202874E: [email protected] Peter Davies, Secretary:E: [email protected]

Is it the final goodbye to the plastic shopping bag? Hopefully, the introduction of the government charge of 5p per bag at the checkout will result in the reduction of the number of them hanging in the hedgerows along the highways and byways of our pretty towns and villages Do you think this action of a mandatory charge will have the necessary effect? Please let us know your thoughts on this controversial issue by e-mailing us at [email protected] We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our sponsors a Happy and Prosperous New Year:Briggate Service Station; Blinds in Harmony; Chippy Sues; Decker Bus; Nisa Local; The Muffin Oven; Vesuvio; Whitmore House - Bed & Breakfast; Whittlesey & District Round Table 846;The Letter B Public House.



Success for the Model Railway ShowThe third Whittlesey Christmas Model Railway Show, held on December 5th, was a huge success, and raised money for the Scouts and MDMRC. The March & District Model Railway Club meets every Wednesday from 7.30pm onwards at The Rookswood Club, Rookswood, 27 Westend, March, PE15 8DP. It aims to bring together like-minded people with an interest in railways and railway modelling. Club outings are organised throughout the year, and speakers are also invited to give talks on railway related subjects to members and the general public. Members are able to discuss, and seek help and advice on their personal layouts, gaining information from each other regarding modelling.For further information visit www.mdmrc.co.uk or e-mail the Club Secretary, Mike Wyldbore at [email protected] or call us on 01733 204997.

WHITTLESEY LADYSMITH WIThe first meeting of 2016 is on Tuesday January 12th at 7:30pm in St. Andrew’s Hall, Parkinsons Lane. This will include the AGM and, as usual, the committee will provide some warm sustenance on a cold evening – this year, hot puddings! It will be a nice chance for members to socialise.Also planned for January is a meal at the Falcon Hotel on Tuesday 26th at 7pm, for dinner at 7:30pm. Members and guests are all welcome – names however, are required by January 21st please. An entertaining programme is planned for the rest of the year, with parties and outings, as well as informative speakers and demonstrations. If you would like to try something new this year, come along and join us.

Call Sue on 01733 205927 for more information.

WHITTLESEY WIAt December’s meeting, we were joined by members from Ladysmith and Thorney WI, and we all enjoyed a very amusing talk by Linda Scoles, entitled “Really disastrous Christmas gifts are my speciality” – a great reminder to us all.There is no meeting in January, but members will be going to the Black Bull for a New Year ‘s meal on Tuesday January 19th. The first meeting of 2016 is on Tuesday February 2nd, at 7:30pm in St. Andrew’s Church Hall, when Pat Wallace-Pope will give a talk, entitled “The History of Tartan”. New members are most welcome; please contact Ginny on 01733 205148.

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Pictured are Keith Sharp, Chairman of the March & District Model Railways Club; Norman Flatt, Whittlesey

Scout Leader, and Mayor Alex Miscandlon


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Setting aside the fact that his girlfriend won’t inherit anything if he dies because they are unmarried, the scale of the argument had been enough to make giving his house to his cat a serious consideration.

The short answer is no, a cat is a possession and so is a house, so you can’t give them to each other. But like most things in life, if you are prepared to go the extra mile, then it can be done. The trick is to set up a trust for the maintenance of the cat during her lifetime, with additional instructions that detail what should happen to any money that is left over when your cat joins you in the great cat basket in the sky. Maybe you could leave the remainder to Cats Protection, or perhaps you should remember your partner and let them have what’s left.

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ello. I thought I’d take this last article that I’ll be writing for you, to the subject of the medieval Guilds of Whittlesey, because it is a fine example of how we, as a community, have attempted to reflect not only our religious views, but also the way we care about each other as neighbours and friends. Medieval religious Guilds were popular in both towns and villages, as they offered not only a remembering of the individual after death, but also a kind of mutual insurance group or friendly society. Members paid a small sum each week to the Guild and could draw on it in times of need or illness. Whereas some Guilds were formed for specific religious purposes, such as maintaining lights at the altars in the church, others combined religious and lay purposes such as running schools, hospitals and alms-houses. You can see from the above just how potentially important a role they played in the social life of the town. Twelve Guilds are known to have existed in Whittlesey, ten connected to St Mary’s Church, and two with St. Andrew’s Church. They were: St. Mary’s Churchl; St. Mary, Corpus Christi, St. Mary Magdalene, St. James, St. Anne, Holy Trinity, Jesus, St. John, Whitsun, Thomas Becket; St. Andrew’s Church; St. John, St. Anne. Many Guilds had, or shared, a Guildhall or Guildhouse, where the non-religious events would be held, and where the general day to day work would be organised. Many Guilds owned land and animals which were used for the benefit of the members. You can see just how important these organisations were, when there was no health service or welfare state to rely on as we do today. Some of the Guilds were just for a particular part of the community. The maiden’s guild and the young men’s guild, ostensibly responsible for the provision of candles for the Church, helped prepare young people for the responsibilities of adult life. How many Guildhalls there were in the town is difficult to say because of the lack of surviving records, but there were at least four: St Marys, St James, Jesus, Thomas Becket. The religious Guilds survived the destruction of the monasteries in 1540 but fell victim to the anti-Catholic atmosphere of Elizabeth 1’s reign. In spite of the fact that the Guild’s property belonged to its members, all were confiscated and sold off to court favourites at a bargain price. As an example we have the details of the sale of Thomas Becket sale: “A croft of half an acre in Gracious Street, formerly belonging to the Gild of Thomas A Becket, and a parcel of land on which stood Ester (Eastrea) Chapel in the tenure of Robert Scot and a messuage called the Gild Hall”. Jesus Hall is recorded as being in Gracious Street in 1603, and Thomas Becket Guild Hall may also have been in

H

Medieval Guilds of Whittlesey

the same street from the details of the above sale.The Rates List for 1803 records that St. James Guildhall stood on the site of 48, High Causeway. By 1841 it was known as The Nags Head Inn and was rebuilt sometime in the 1860s or 1870s. Although these Guilds were founded primarily out of a deep religious faith in the maintenance of candles in the churches, of expressions of remembrance and prayers for the dead, we must remember, accustomed as we are to the Welfare State and NHS, that to our medieval forebears that to them the Church was their equivalent, their certainty, their succour in times of need and illness. From that flowed all the social benefits available to them. The first recorded hospital in the town, founded by Adam Ryppe in the 14th Century made appeals for funding through the Church. Unfortunately, records have not survived of the individual Whittlesey Guilds but from those in England that have, we can build a picture of how they might have looked in the years that they flourished. These were not specific trade Guilds, but it is likely that they appealed to the craftsmen, the tradesmen, and women, for women played just as important a role in the medieval Guilds. Besides the social benefits mentioned earlier, the Guilds no doubt combined to bring plays and entertainments to the town. Medieval plays put on by travelling troupes of actors were extremely popular, travelling from town to town, putting on open air performances on festivities such as Saints days. So, with the picture of crowds of Whittlesey folk enjoying themselves with comedy, music, dancing and I am sure lots of good local ale, it’s time for me to say goodbye, and I hope you have enjoyed reading some stories about this little town we all love dearly.

| Local History by Tony Austin

In this series, we follow the development of Whittlesey from The Stone Age to present day, through the eyes of ordinary families



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Ca rpentry • Get those wobbly shelves sorted • Doors fitted/hung/adjusted to

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Elect rica l • Replacement of light fittings, switches

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Whittlesey, Peterborough

| A word from. . .

We’re looking forward to the year ahead and meeting more of you. Please feel free to speak to me at any of the functions you see me at.

Cllr. Alex Miscandlon Mayor of Whittlesey

- Please note, councillor surgeries will be held in Grosvenor House from 9:30am to 10:30am on January 9th and 23rd. One District and one Town Councillor will be present on both dates.

I am writing this article in early December due to a printing deadline, but I hope to update you on events such as the Whittlesey Christmas Extravaganza, Whittlesey Amateur Boxing match, and many other events that are due, in the next issue. You will be told all the news in the New Year.

Also for your information, Whittlesey Town Councillors will be holding a Saturday morning surgery. We hope that you take advantage of this opportunity to speak to either a Town Councillor or a District Councillor, to discuss any problems that you feel are relevant to you or the community.

Your Mayor Alex Miscandlon

Alex Miscandlon

Hello everybody. Well we finally got rid of 2015 , and now we all have 2016 to look forward to. Both the Mayoress and I have been attending events, carol concerts and presentation events for some very worthy people.


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Reverend Nigel and Reverend Gill

| A message of hope for the New Year from. . .

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them’.”(Book of Revelation, Chapter 21, verses 1 to 3)Some people find the last book of the Bible, the Book of Revelation, a difficult read. We wouldn’t disagree with this. It is challenging, as it talks about the end of time, either in the near future, or at the very end of all things. At the start of a new year, may we invite and encourage you to have a read of it. Give it a go. You may or may not get all the way through it. Why are we recommending you to do this? It is simply because we find it a very hopeful book, which encourages us to find faith and hope in a loving God, no matter what comes our way. It is also a realistic read about the world in which we live. It is positive about the future of humanity. In the book, you will find all the positives and negatives of our life’s experience: war and peace, plenty and poverty, love and hate. The message of hope it proclaims, as we face a new year and all that might come our way, is based on an act of faith. This act is declared in the above quotation: “the home of God is among mortals.” God is with us, hand in hand in all that we face, not remote, but right next to us. God is with us when we cry or laugh, when good or bad things happen. May God enable us to make this act of faith that we see him in all that we are and do.Thank you for all your support in 2015 and we look forward to being with you in 2016.May God bless you in this new year.Revd Nigel and Revd Gill Nigel (203676) and Gill (202563)

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1. At which town, and when, did Billy Butlin open his fi rst holiday camp? 2. Which guitarist is known as “Slowhand”? 3. What does a numismatist study or collect? 4. What liqueur, bearing the letters D.O.M. on the bottle label, was developed at Fecamp, France, in the 16th century? 5. In knitting, what is meant by the initials ‘psso’? 6. Where in Cornwall is the most southerly point of mainland Britain? 7. Who was the fi rst black player to captain England’s soccer team? 8. How old is a horse when it changes from a fi lly to a mare?

9. What make of car was the time-machine in the fi lm “Back to the Future”? 10. Which is the smallest member of the fl ute family? 11. Which former member of The Humblebums is known as “The Big Yin”?12. Located at St Pancras, what is the largest public building constructed in the U.K. in the 20th century? 13. With 15.1 million listeners each week, which is the U.K.’s biggest radio station?14. In cricket, what is a “Michelle”?15. Which famous leader was born on November 30th 1874, at Blenheim Palace?

A) General K nowledge

Answers: A) 1. Skegness in 1936, 2. Eric Clapton, 3. Coins and/or medals, 4. Benedictine (DOM = Deo Optimo Maximo = To God, most good, most great) , 5. Pass slipped stitch over, 6. Lizard Point, 7. Paul Ince, 8. Four years old, 9. De Lorean, 10. Piccolo, 11. Billy Connolly, 12. The British Library, 13. Radio 2, 14. When a bowler takes fi ve wickets in an innings (from Pfeiffer=”fi ve for ..”), 15. Sir Winston Churchill.

B) 1. 78, 2. 484

C) 1. abdicate, 2. communicate, 3. confi scate, 4. replicate or duplicate, 5. medicate, 6. truncate, 7. domesticated, 8. allocate, 9. excommunicate, 10. pontifi cate.

PUZZLEThe

Page

B) Train That Brain!Take the fi rst number and follow the instructions until you reach the answer. Try it fi rst without pen and paper, and don’t even think about a calculator.Guaranteed to keep brains active and frustration levels high!1. 31 -4, 1/3 of it, square it, -7, halve it, +12, 5/7 of it, -9, x3 = ?

2. 102 x3, 68, +half of it, +53, 70% of it, x2, +56, 90% of it, -8 = ?

Hmmmm...C) “The Cate Quiz” - Part 2If you were given the example of : “The cate who teaches”, the answer would be “educate”. Try these:

1. The cate who resigns.2. The cate who talks.3. The cate who seizes things, as a penalty.4. The cate who copies.5. The cate who gives out pills.

6. The cate who shortens.7. The tamed cate.8. The cate who gives for a specifi c purpose.9. The cate who is banished from Church.10. The cate who pronounces her opinions pompously.

Puzzles page.indd 1 09/12/2015 11:08


School News

On Friday November 27th, at precisely 3.15pm, a band of twenty-four pupils from Coates CP School, all wrapped up against the elements, litter-pickers in hand, accompanied by members of staff and parents, headed off towards North Green on their quest. This activity all started with the question, “What is good and bad in the villages?” Top of the list of what was bad, was litter and dog fouling. So, the School Council, with the assistance of the head teacher, arranged a litter-pick to demonstrate their concern for the local environment, and willingness to do their bit to improve things.The litter-pick lasted almost an hour, and those involved all met back at the school to return the litter-pickers and have photographs taken, to document their achievement. Well done to all involved!

Year 5 Red Kites, of Coates Primary School, have received an exciting and unexpected honour from Buckingham Palace. Last half term, as many of us are aware, Queen Elizabeth II overtook Queen Victoria in becoming the longest reigning monarch in British history. Red Kites were very excited about this huge event, and decided to write a letter to congratulate her.Two lucky children had the honour of going to post the letter with the head teacher, Mrs Boucher. The excitement of writing to the Queen was shared with the lady in the post office, as she had never seen a letter addressed to the Queen before.We had all but forgotten about our letters; then at the beginning of November, Mrs Roberts popped into class with a surprise for us all. We were so very excited to see that it was a letter with a Buckingham Palace postmark – we had got a reply! Inside was a letter, written by the Queen’s Lady-in-Waiting, thanking us for our letters and informing us of how touched the Queen was by the care that had been taken, and the kind things that had been said. Red Kites couldn’t have been more proud!

Primary school pupils from Whittlesey recently visited CEES at Stibbington Centre, spending the week learning about habitats, food chains and minibeasts. The brave Year 4 pupils from Park Lane Primary and Nursery School, challenged themselves by spending four nights and five days away from home, and, for many, this was their first time away from their family. The programme of activities was varied and included a pirate treasure trail, pond dipping and learning all about mini beasts - expanding their knowledge in a variety of subjects.Peter Ingham, Year 4 teacher at Park Lane, said: “The week at Stibbington was fantastic and the children, and teachers, were getting in to a number of exciting activities. The trip was so popular that we had to run two in the end. “At Park Lane we try to immerse our pupils in particular themes that span across all subject areas every day. The Stibbington trip is a perfect example of this. The pupils were engaging with the environment, outdoors and wildlife, but at the same time they were testing and expanding their knowledge of science, geography, maths and English as well as developing team-building skills. All the children had a fantastic time and didn’t want to leave.”The children are now ready to apply the resilience they have learned over the week to the challenges and experiences that are part of everyday life.me. She has given me the gifts of independence, regaining a sense of control and power to direct my life the way I want to, resulting in me recapturing my former confidence and becoming more ‘me’ at last!”

Coates Primary School Litter-Pick

Pupils Enjoy a Stibbington Adventure

A Royal Response!



On Saturday November 28th, the Alderman Jacobs School Choir were invited for one more time to sing before the lights were turned on at Arnold’s Lane. Despite the weather, the children’s voices filled our hearts with Christmas cheer. The crowds seemed greater than ever, and hopefully many donations were made towards “Children with Cancer”. Father Christmas himself even put in an appearance!Over the years, the choir has become a focal point at this local attraction, and many members of the town mark it on their calendars as the start of Christmas. Thank-you to the organisers for providing the town with such a lovely focal point, and for making our children feel welcome and providing them with sweet refreshments afterwards.Christmas is a very busy time for our choir with Church Services, Christingle, and local residents to serenade. This year they will also feature on a CD that the school arranged via a professional recording company. The school opened up a competition for the CD cover and, after careful consultation, Shannon Bayfowrd was chosen, with her design to go on every CD cover sold.Above you can see our amazing school choir with their inspirational teacher, Mrs Sarah Combes, as well as the winning design, pictured below.

The Alderman Jacobs School Choir



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| Spotlight on charities

What a beautiful, pretty, intelligent face! I had been taught a few rudimentary

commands, so I tentatively began asking Nesta to do things for me. After a lot of discussions and observations from the trainers, I was asked did I think we were a good match? Of course I agreed that she had been prepared beautifully for me, my needs, and would fit into my family perfectly.“Nesta has become my reason to get up in the morning and my reason to go to bed at a reasonable time. She regulates my life with her need for routine and order. Having her has helped me enormously in many ways. From a safety perspective, she helps by pressing the alarm button on my Careline system, so that if I have a fall anywhere around my home, assistance can be summoned immediately.“Beyond all those physical things, Nesta has positive psychological and emotional effects on me. Every day I wake knowing I am loved and needed by someone. She makes me laugh with her playful personality - depression relief comes as second nature to her. She is a great listener, and never judges or criticises me. She accepts and loves me and only wants to please me. She has given me the gifts of independence, regaining a sense of control and power to direct my life the way I want to, resulting in me recapturing my former confidence and becoming more ‘me’ at last!”

Jill Dowding-Walker was partnered with a canine partner Nesta, in December 2012. Jill explains how her dog soon became her best friend…“I used to be a busy business woman, I was fit and active, walked briskly everywhere, danced, swam and loved going out to the theatre. In earlier years I had been quite an athletic young woman, enjoying everything from high jump and scuba diving to netball and squash.“Unfortunately, in my late thirties, my health gradually deteriorated. I kept getting infections and became tired all the time. I was unable to continue with my career due to excruciating shooting pains and kept dropping items frequently. It was painful, tiring and frustrating. Then I began to fall over. Suddenly, without warning, my legs just gave way. Eventually I was diagnosed with both CFS/ME and Fibromyalgia in June 2008.“I needed to move into a bungalow, have adaptations, acquire wheelchairs and walking sticks, and apply for a Motability vehicle. I was, at fifty years old, now obtaining a new identity – that of a disabled person. The emotional repercussions of this diagnosis meant that I suffered a real, profound grief and simply withdrew from life. Depression took hold of me and everything I did try to do ended in frustration at my inability to plan and execute even the simplest of tasks. I felt isolated and lonely.

“One day I read a free copy of a disability magazine and on the final page there was a story about canine partners. After reading it, I determined that I could benefit greatly from having my own assistance dog. I attended a disability show where Canine Partners was demonstrating with demo dogs, and I was enthralled at the skills they showed.“After applying I was very excited to be invited to meet Nesta at the Charity’s Midlands Centre in September 2012. Nesta was brought in on a lead, and was quietly walked up towards me.

A woman’sBest Friend

“Nesta has become my reason to get up in the morning”

For more information on Canine Partners, please call 08456 580480 or visit www.caninepartners.org.uk


MattersCharity





raised a staggering £895.91! Very well done to Stuart, his family and all the regulars at the Vine pub. We would also like to thank everyone who donated, helped to sell the poppies, and assisted in the final count. Our current total for this year’s Poppy Appeal now stands at over £7,000, and we hope to reach £10,000 once again, by the end of our financial year, next September.The next main event we have is our Annual Dinner and Presentation Evening, on Friday February 12th, 2016. Tickets will be available soon from Wally Newman or Sue Brown at the Ivy Leaf Club.As this is our last report for the year, on behalf of the Whittlesey Branch and the Poppy Appeal, may I thank you all for your support, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

National Helpline: 080 88028020 Branch Secretary: Ray Thrower 0785 068 0785 Chairman: Ken Mayor 01733 204944 Poppy Appeal: Judy Darby 0772 408 1024

Once again, the weather was kind to us, and the various Remembrance Parades in our area were successfully carried out in the mild dry conditions.A short Remembrance Service was also held at 11.00am on November 11th at our memorial, and it was well attended. We have now collected in and counted over ninety poppy tins, which were located around the area in shops, pubs, garages, schools and local businesses. We are extremely happy to report that over the Remembrance fortnight, a massive £5,043.64 was donated by the public. Although this was slightly down on last

year’s figure, it does show the fantastic generosity of our community.Special thanks go once again

to the Vine public house in Coates. Through different

games, penalties, and special events, they

Stuart, family and regulars at the Vine pub Coates collected a massive £895.61 for the Poppy Appeal

A word from The Royal British Legion

Last month, eleven year old Millie Cousins had twenty inches of hair cut off, in aid of the “Little Princess Trust” who make wigs using real hair, for children that have lost their hair through illness or cancer treatment. As well as having the drastic haircut, Millie has managed to raise nearly quadruple her original target of £350 - the cost of making one wig. Huge congratulations to Millie and your new haircut looks great!

Millie raises £1,326 for Little Princess Trust!


There was a huge turnout for the Christmas lights “Switch-on” in Arnold’s Lane on November 28th. Prior to the “Switch-on”, everyone was entertained by the Alderman Jacobs School Choir singing carols and, with this being their final one, John and Gina Ferridge were invited to switch the lights on by their children, Joe and Hannah.There was support on the night from the Key Theatre pantomime (with Aladdin, Widow Twankey and The Genie), as well as Santa and one of his elves, along with Rudolph and Frostie the

Snowman. Yvonne West, from the charity, “Children with Cancer UK”, also attended.Over the years, the lights appeal has raised money for the charity, “Children with Cancer UK”, in memory of John and Gina Ferridge’s son, Nicholas. On the night, an amazing £1,335.79 was donated, taking the running total to over £30,000. John and Gina would now like to raise as much as possible in this,their final year, and go out on a high.So a big thank-you to all who gave support on the night! The lights will be switched on for one final time, on Straw Bear Saturday as usual.

Pictured are Santa, Yvonne West and Charles the Elf.

During this amazing trip I will have the opportunity to give food and drink to disadvantaged people, help endangered animals and discover more about the amazing island of Borneo.” If any readers feel they are able to help Nidia with fundraising, please contact the magazine via the email address: [email protected].

Fifteen-year-old Nidia Costa, a student at Ormiston Bushfield Academy in Peterborough, needs to raise £2740 for the 2017 trip, and has approached Discovering Whittlesea for help in reaching her total. Nidia previously helped another student raise funds for a similar trip, and is delighted to have been chosen herself this year. She explains: “We teens are so surrounded by technology that we can hardly imagine what it is like to not have mobile phones and computers – less fortunate people in places like Borneo need our help.

TEENAGER HOPES TO RAISE MONEY FOR DREAM TRIP A Whittlesey teenager is hoping to raise money for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Asian island of Borneo, where she will help people and animals in need. Fifteen-year-old Nidia Costa, a student at Ormiston Bushfield Academy in Peterborough, needs to raise £2740 for the 2017 trip, and has approached Discovering Whittlesea for help in reaching her total. Nidia previously helped another student raise funds for a similar trip, and is delighted to have been chosen herself this year. She explains: “We teens are so surrounded by technology that we can hardly imagine what it is like to not have mobile phones and computers – less fortunate people in places like Borneo need our help. During this amazing trip I will have the opportunity to give food and drink to disadvantaged people, help endangered animals and discover more about the amazing island of Borneo. ” If any readers feel they are able to help Nidia with fundraising, please contact the magazine via the email address [email protected] .

Nidia Costa

Teenager hopes to raise money for dream tripA Whittlesey teenager is hoping to raise money for a once in a lifetime trip to the Asian island of Borneo, where she will help people and animals in need.

Arnold’s Lane Christmas Lights Switch-on Smashes Target


Thorpe Hall Hospice’s successful Synergy Café – for those living with dementia and their carers – is being extended into the community.The Café has already been running at Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough for a year, offering activities, events, presentations and support to families affected by dementia.Now the team are expanding the service, adding another weekly Synergy Café to the calendar – this one to be held at the Sue Ryder Café on Whittlesey Road, in Stanground, Peterborough.

Café opening to help those living with dementia

Each Wednesday, between 10am and midday, staff and volunteers will organise games and quizzes, and offer support and help to Synergy Café guests. Thorpe Hall’s day services manager, Jo Hazell, and Synergy Café facilitator, Angie Exton, will oversee the launch of the Café which opens its doors for the first time on January 6th.Sue Ryder Café manager, Wendy Duffy, has undergone the Government-backed “Dementia Friends” training in readiness for the launch of the Synergy Café. She said: “It’s really important to us to be a part of the community in which we sit. We already have customers living with dementia, or caring for

someone who is, so we’re delighted that we’re able to offer them something aimed very specifically at helping them out.

“There aren’t a lot of facilities for those living in Fenland who are living with these types of conditions so we’re hoping, because the Café is quite easy to get to from Whittlesey and Ramsey for instance, that we will become a go-to for those people too.”Please drop in to the Synergy Café at the Sue Ryder Café between 10am and midday on Wednesdays, from January 6th. There is no need to book. There is no fee. Drinks, snacks and light lunches can be bought from the Café.

Wanted – teams to break out of jail!Grab your arrowed suit and bolt cutters – it’s time to play your get-out-of-jail free card, and escape as far away as you can.Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice is looking for teams of up to four, willing to plan, persuade and blag their way as far from the starting point – a cell in Her Majesty’s Prison Peterborough - as possible in the jailbreak challenge.Teams will have no cash and just twenty four hours to make their escape. The only good news is that you can start planning your escape as soon as you’ve signed up – and as the very best escapees know, planning is everything!In Thorpe Hall’s last “Jailbreak” challenge, the winning team reached Malaga in Spain – more than 1,000 miles away. But it’s not just the geography that counts. Teams can rack up extra

airmiles by completing challenges on route – visiting particular landmarks, picking up souvenirs and snapping selfies.The doors of the cell will be unlocked at 9.30am on Saturday, February 27th. And the race is then on. Which team will be breakfasting at the most far-flung point on Sunday, February 28th?All the money raised in the “Jailbreak” challenge, will help fund incredible care at Thorpe Hall Hospice, in Longthorpe, Peterborough.To find out more, or sign your team up for “Jailbreak” (registration fee is £60 per team), visit the website, www.sueryder.org/thorpehall/jailbreak or call the fundraising team on 01733 225999.


Visit us at: Unit 6, Fenland District Industrial

Estate, Station Road, Whittlesey, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE7 2EY

Or call 01733 204294

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BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOUSE Re-mortgages - Equity Release Scheme Advice

ARE YOU A SMALL BUSINESS? Need help with Leases on Commercial Property &

EmploymentARE YOU EMPLOYED?

Need help with Employment Matters & Compromise Agreements

RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS Divorce/Separation - Residence & Child Maintenance

AdviceMAKING A WILL, PROBATES & TRUSTS

Inheritance Tax Advice, Lasting Powers of Attorney

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Telephone: 01487 812325 Email: [email protected]

www.serjeantandson.co.uk

D I S C O V E R I N G Whittlesea | January 20164824 D I S C O V E R I N G March | January 2016

| Legal Corner by Susan Pearson – Managing Partner

PROBATEYou have just lost your life partner and you wander into the bank having mustered up the courage to utter the words that they have passed away, and the clerk asks you: “Will you be applying for Probate?”

What does this word Probate mean?

A Grant of Probate is a document which is produced by the probate registry when they are satisfied that the Will before them is the Last Will and Testament of the deceased.

The Executor(s) named in the Will are required to ‘swear an Oath’ that the document being submitted is the final Will of the deceased and that when the Grant is issued; they will administer the Estate of the deceased in accordance with the terms of the Will. The Executor(s) will also be required to complete an Inland Revenue Account.

The circumstances may be such that a Grant ofProbate may not be required, for instance when your bank account was joint or the deceased’ life insurance policy stipulates that the proceeds of the policy are paid directly to you.

When in doubt, ask a local solicitor who will be able to give you the expert advice you need.

If you require assistance or advice following the passing of a loved one please get in touch.


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| Pets’ corner by Whittlesey Veterinary Centre

The dogs will enjoy playing on our secure paddock or going for a walk with one of our kennel hands

50 Duncombes Road, Turves, Nr. Whittlesey PE7 2DS01733 840350 www.mypethotel.co.uk

*Cats have a great time too, with individual sun balconies

attached to each pen

At the end of the holiday why not take advantage of LA Professional Grooming and Spa treatments for both dogs and cats. The perfect way to end a perfect stay

We can also take care of your rabbits, hamsters or gerbils in our small mammal house or perhaps your

feathered friends in our bird friendly housing

**

*

Book your pets for their holiday at Little Acre

Find us on Facebook50 Duncombes Road, Turves, Nr. Whittlesey PE7 2DS50 Duncombes Road, Turves, Nr. Whittlesey PE7 2DS

01733 840350

Book your pets for their holiday at Little Acre Already planning your holidays?

I write this column at the start of all the Christmas festivities, work parties, shopping trips to crowded city centres and all the other fun stuff we do. Thank my stars for online shopping!On a serious note, bearing in mind the recent tragedy at Paris, I would ask each and every one of you to report anything suspicious, out of character or it just doesn’t seem right, please call the emergency services, You are not wasting our time, you are helping keep your family, friends and neighbours safe.

I would also like you all too thoroughly enjoy yourselves, but plan trips and social outings by having a designated driver, use taxi’s or arrange lifts, this will hopefully avoid any unwanted contact with the emergency services. We are there to provide a safe environment and atmosphere which allows our communities to enjoy their time.A very simple message, enjoy yourselves and keep safe.Ben Di Meo, Local Whittlesey Police Sergeant

Policing your area........................................


Dental checks: Your vet checks the gums for any redness or inflammation; this could be a sign of gingivitis. This is usually the start of problems. From this, plaque can build up, pushing back the gum; this in turn exposes roots, leading to rotting teeth and eventual necessary extraction.Eye checks: Your vet can check your pet’s eyes for any changes, and even the start of certain conditions. Ear checks: Checking inside your pet’s ears can be very beneficial, as you may need to apply a cleaner regularly to them. Finding infection early can prevent follow-on problems like aural haematomas. Smelly or sore ears can be a sign of a skin condition.Getting lumps checked: This is something that should be done as soon as you see the problem. Even if you have an older pet, the smaller the lump is, the easier it is to remove. As the lump grows, it can become uncomfortable or painful, and in some cases the skin can break and become ulcerated. Again, once the lump has

grown, the operation to remove it is longer and a higher risk, and the recovery time for your pet will be longer too.Blood tests: These are always helpful. If we take a sample when your pet is well, we have a baseline to compare any future tests to; your pet may also have an underlying problem that you cannot see, and a blood test can show any unseen abnormality. Caught early, it can be treated, giving your pet the best chance.Limping: Just because your pet’s getting older or doesn’t limp all the time, doesn’t mean that getting it checked is not important. The fact that your pet is limping is already a sign that they are uncomfortable or in pain; it’s best to get this checked. We can do x-rays, give pain relief, and even joint supplements, to help your pet feel better.

Why not get your pet’s health checked this new year? Give us a call on 01733 685514, and we can give them the ‘once over’ for you!

| Pets’ corner by Whittlesey Veterinary Centre

New Year - Time for your Pet’s Health Check

We recommend that your pets see the vet at least once a year. This is important for many reasons; not only will it be a time when you can ask your vet any questions you may have, but your pet can have a health check, and any abnormalities could be found, before they become major problems.


Whittlesey Veterinary Centre

Your pets our passion

Telephone: 01733 685 51427 Broad Street, Whittlesey, Peterborough, PE7 1HA

Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 6:30pm Sat: 9:30 - 12:30am

www.whittleseyvets.co.uk

Free Senior Health Check This January for pets over 8

* Terms and conditions apply

We will check your pet’s:

- Weight- Eyes & Ears- Heart & Lungs- Gums & Teeth- Skin & Coat- Join & Mobility

Free Urine Check


Long Term Care Planning

Eamonn Dorling Dip PFS, Senior Independent Financial Adviser, Brooks Wealth

Tel: 01733 314553 Mob: 07767 795816 [email protected]

Delivering Simple Financial Advice - That really works

Brooks Wealth is a trading style of Ampris Limited who are an appointed representative of Wealthline Limited, Registered in England 08761632 (Registered office: 8a Cowgate, Peterborough). Wealthline Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial

Following budget cuts announced by Fenland District Council (1), elderly and other vulnerable groups may expect to pay for their own care where it is affordable for the patient. It is important that individuals and their families know how care in the community works. It is not simple, sometimes not logical, and often not fair.

Take account of these local headlines:

Bed blocking costing taxpayers £631,000 (2)

A third of old people in Cambridgeshire may strug-gle to find a care home in five years, due to the National Living Wage (3)

All these statements have a bearing on care provision and affordability. It is important to plan in advance and take professional advice early enough. Understanding the implications of “deliberate deprivation of assets”, knowing the implications of maintaining an appropriate will, the difference between the two Power of Attorney types, use of trusts, correctly administered investments and asset ownership, are all areas that a qualified later-life-adviser will provide.

A care assessment is the first stage and is carried out without reference to affordability. The second stage is to determine how and where the care package should be delivered, and who is responsible to pay for it. Simply put, if there are assets (this could include a property), valued above £23,250, the patient will be a

self-funder. Below that level, the Local Authority may become involved – remember, if they are paying, they will have a say in how and where they can obtain best value for the tax payer. Of course the family or some other benefactor could provide financial assistance.

Taking forward the logic of paying a National Living Wage, a care home needs to pay for 168 hours at £7.80, in order to provide one person on duty for a week - that is £1,310 before National Insurance and other “on-costs”. And whilst the Local Authority (tax payers) may pay about £460 per week for care, the true cost may be over £800, depending on the numbers of staff required to deliver the individual care packages that have been agreed.

The advice arena is too wide to give off-the-cuff solutions; suitable advice depends on individual circumstances, attitudes and relevant legislation. If you are concerned about these issues, or the preservation of an estate, contact an independent financial adviser with the requisite training and experience.

1. Cambs. Times - John Elworthy 13th November 2015 .2. Cambs. Times - Charlotte Orson 23rd February 2012.3. Wisbech Standard - Kath Sanson 20th November 2015.

The value of investments, pensions and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.

Finance by Eamonn Dorling |


Buying or Selling your Home?Need a Reliable Lawyer?

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10 Low Cross, Whittlesey, Peterborough, PE7 1HWwww.calmaccounting.co.uk

Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01733 202707

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we’d love to have you come along

Sunday Services 11:00 am 6:30 pm

please go to our website to find out more about us

Some of us are the proverbial “eternal optimist”, while others are pessimistic. I recall someone who had a reputation for always being negative. When asked how they felt, surprisingly they replied: “I feel really good because....”. The person asking was a little surprised, until the next statement, “But I also feel really bad, because I’m wondering how sad I’ll feel when I’m no longer happy.” I don’t suppose you can say anything, except HELP!I will always be grateful for my parents who, while bringing up eight children, inspired us all to never lose our sense of hope. I recall being told: “You will more easily discover the answers that are waiting to be found if you maintain hope.” When I became a Christian, I was amazed to discover a verse which reads: “There are three things which are always available to you, Faith, Hope and Love.” God knows how important these are to us.If you are facing 2016 with a sense of foreboding, please allow me to suggest you ask yourself this question. Is facing 2016 in a spirit of hopelessness and

despair going to change it, or make it any easier for you to handle? The answer of course must be a resounding NO.So let me remind you of something which God has already put at your disposal, something that no one has the power to steal, unless you let it happen. Faith, HOPE and love. Let us help you find hope.In 1997, the journal of the “american heart association” reported on some remarkable research. Susan Everson, of the Human Population Laboratory, found that people who experienced high levels of despair had a 20% greater occurrence of the narrowing of their arteries, than did optimistic people. “This is the same magnitude of risk seen when comparing a pack-a-day smoker to a non-smoker,” said everson. “as far as your health and well-being is concerned, despair can be as bad for you as smoking!”

How important is Hope?WHITTLESEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Brian Smithyman (Pastor of Whittlesey Christian Church, Broad Street) your local Charismatic Church Further enquiries from the Church Office 01733 752093

Brian’s Mobile 07976 957793 | E-mail [email protected] | Church Website www.whittlesey.cc


To list your event contact [email protected] | Event diary: January 2016

1st Story time at Peterborough Central Library for children under 5 years old, starting at 2.15pm. For more information e-mail [email protected]

2nd Get your Saturday night groove on at The Brewery Tap, Westgate, Peterborough where DJ Rick Allen will be playing hits from the 60s through to present day. For more information ring 01733 358500

2nd Boogaloo Baby Rave at Halo in Peterborough. Starting at 12pm you can dance the afternoon away with your baby, toddler or small child. For more information visit www.eventbrite.co.uk

2nd “White Buffalo Country Music Club”. Dave Paisley will be performing at the Ramsey Forty Foot Village Hall. Starting at 8pm and costs £5.50

4th Enjoy the “Real Ale and Cider Club” at The Crown on Lincoln Road. Every Monday with pints at £2 all day

6th Enjoy some fresh air and take a trip to Ferry Meadows. Enjoy a guided walk looking at winter birds coming to the feeding stations and use the opportunity to take a good look at what wildfowl are on the lakes too. Starting at 10am, booking is essential, please phone 01733 234193 to reserve your place

7th-10th Love dogs? Pop along to the Boston and District Canine Society’s Championship Show at the Peterborough Arena. For more information visit www.peterborougharena.com

9th Having been friends for many years Jim and Bob ended up working together by chance when Jim was let down one night and called Bob for help. That was the start of something special. “Jimbob Duo” cover all sorts of music from the past 60 years that you can sing-a-long and dance to – pop along to the Manor Bowls Club in Whittlesey to see for yourself

9th “White Buffalo Country Music Club”. Gary Haynes is performing at the Conservative Club. Starts at 8pm and costs £5.50

9th-10th Posh Events Weekend Wedding Fayre at Stanground Community Centre, Whittlesey Road, Stanground, Peterborough. Free admission, free parking. 11am – 3pm


10th Are your children obsessed with Minecraft? If so bring them along to the “Minevention” at The Cresset for a day full of Minecraft fun. Under 14s must be accompanied by a ticket holding adult. Tickets £16.50. The convention starts at 12.30pm. To book tickets visit www.cresset.co.uk or for more information visit www.minevention.com

12th-16th The Broadway Theatre presents multi-award winning musical, “Blood Brothers”. For more information visit www.thebroadwaypeterborough.co.uk

13th If acoustic is more your thing, The Boat Inn is holding an acoustic session from 8.30pm in the Whisky bar.

15th Start your Straw Bear Festival weekend with a Friday night concert at the Ivy Leaf Club. In concert this year are three great acts “Sunjay”, “Kara” and “Gilmore and Roberts”. Tickets are £10 from www.strawbear.org.uk

15th-17th It’s the Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival! For more information see the feature on page 10 or visit www.strawbear.org.uk

16th Continue your Straw Bear Festival celebrations at Sir Harry Smith Community College with a barn dance! This year see’s the welcome return of “Peeping Tom” often referred to as the Status Quo of Ceilidh bands! Tickets are just £12 and available from www.strawbear.org.uk

16th If you aren’t finished with the Straw Bear celebrations, The Falcon Hotel is holding a Straw Bear after-party which starts at 5pm. Special performances from “Holly and the Boatmen” and “The Islanders”

18th-23rd The Classic Thriller Theatre Company brings their new stage production “Rehearsal for Murder” to The Broadway Theatre, Peterborough. For more information visit www.thebroadwaytheatre.co.uk


Buttercross www.buttercrossauctions.com

ButtercrossAuctioneers & Valuers

All enquiries 07713 081526 www.buttercrossauctions.com

Sunday 24th Jan

The Saleroom

Viewing Fri 22nd 1 - 4 pm

Benwick Rd Whittlesey

at 10.30 am

200 Lot Auction

To include: cabinet items, furniture, china, rustic items etc

19th Get your ‘sing-a-long’ on at the open mic night at The Boat Inn. Starts at 9pm

22nd Join Ranger Ashley Wheal for a beginner’s course in photography. If you have a camera then bring it along! This is an indoor event starting at 1.30pm at Ferry Meadows, and is suitable for over 18s. There is no charge but a donation of £2 would be appreciated. Booking is essential on 01733 234193

24th Buttercross Auction at 10:30am, with an early viewing on Friday 22nd at 1-4pm at The Saleroom, Benwick Road, Whittlesey. Further information on 07713 081526

25th-30th The Broadway Theatre in Peterborough is hosting the fantastic musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat”. Book your tickets now! www.thebroadwaypeterborough.co.uk

30th “White Buffalo Country Music Club”. Travis Logan is performing at the Conservative Club. Starts at 8pm and costs £5.50

30th-31st The Encore Dance Academy are please to present “Magical Moves” at The Cresset in Peterborough. Performance times are 2pm and 6.30pm on Saturday and 2 ppm on Sunday. Tickets £12 for adults, £9.50 for children and senior citizens. For more information or to book visit www.cresset.co.uk

31st Ferry Meadows is hosting two ‘Campfire Cooking for Kids’ sessions. Children can have a go at cooking and eating some simple campfire recipes. The first session runs from 10.30am until 12noon and the next 1.30pm until 3pm. The cost per child is £5 and the sessions are suitable for children 7 years and over. Booking is essential on 01733 234193. For more information visit www.neneparktrust.org.uk



Mondays18:00-19:00 Line dancing for beginners & improvers - £3 per session. No need to book. Tel 07597 104414 for info18:00-19:00 Drop in Hatha Yoga classes to suit all levels. Friendly group of people, also qualifi ed to teach children. £6/class. Some mats available or bring your own. Contact Simon 01733 688235 or 07789 88582520.00-21.00 Fitness/circuits for all abilitie. Classes for people looking to improve fi tness, improve strength, fl exibility & lose weight ect. Classes will be body weight and equipment based exercises modifi ed to suit all abilities. First session free

Tuesdays9:30-10:30am Zumba Latin inspired dance workout. Having fun while burning from 400-1000 calories. For all fi tness levels. Beginners welcome with Lynn Crawford. Darling Dancers Baby Ballet and Musical Theatre Classes £4.50 per child. 4-5pm baby ballet (3-5 years). 5-6pm musical theatre (age 5+). No need to book, for info: 07960 001907

Wednesdays Hebden School of Dance4pm 3-5 years Junior Street Dance, 5pm 6-10 years Modern & Tap Class.

For full listing and special events, see Facebook

What’s on

Wednesdays 18:30-19:30 Yoga Classes, see Monday for info

Thursdays9:30-10:30 Yoga Classes, see Monday for info7pm Scaldgate Club. A social group for adults 19+ with a learning disability. Arts & crafts, cooking, life skills, fi rst aid workshops, trips out & presentations from other charities. Cost £1.50 subs per week, taxi service available for small contribution (£2.50 per week).

Fridays19.00-20.00 Fitness/circuits for all abilities. See Monday for details

SundaysFuture Stars Musical Theatre Classes - brought to you by performer Vicki Mason. 4-6 years 10-11am £3; 7-11 years 11am-1pm £5.50. “Increases confi dence & creativity in all aspects.” To book your child’s place, call Vicki on 07906 919145.

St. Andrew’s Hall, Parkinsons Lane, is also available for private hire at competitive rates. Contact Cheryl on 01733 359450

St. Andrew’s Hall and selected companies are pleased to be off ering party packages. If you book any of the following suppliers for events at St. Andrew’s Hall, you will receive an hour set up free of charge in place of the usual 30 mins (subject to Hall availability - contact Cheryl on 01733 359450).

Playbus Peterborough - Soft play on our Playbus for children’s parties. Email [email protected]; phone 01733 303190; mobile 07561 464935

Kid of the Castle - Bouncy castles (inside the hall or grounds), soft play, and much more. Contact [email protected] (you also receive 10% discount)

Darling Princess Parties - Princess birthday packages and pamper parties. Contact 07861 217360 (you also receive 10% discount)

Lu’s Facepainting - Email [email protected]; phone 01487 812472; text/call 07576 415842. Face and body painting is the super fun addition to any party or event for chil-dren and adults (you also receive 10% discount)

Carly Adams Events Characters - A special guest visitor at your party or event. Photo oppor-tunities, dancing and games. A great gift for your birthday child. Contact 07943 146907 (you also receive 10% discount)

S&T Roadshows - Disco parties for children or adults. Contact Ian Meikle on 07823 478629

Future Stars - Musical theatre themed parties. Learn songs and dances from your favourite musical and perform at the end of the party, plus disco. Contact Vicky on 07906 919145 (you also receive 10% discount)

Party Packages

St. Andrew’s Parish Hall Parkinsons Lane

Straw Bear FestivalSaturday 16th January

St. Andrew’s Hall will be serving hot and cold re-freshmentsfrom 9.00am - 5pm

St Andrews Hall January 2015 .indd 4-5 02/12/2015 11:11


Mondays18:00-19:00 Line dancing for beginners & improvers - £3 per session. No need to book. Tel 07597 104414 for info18:00-19:00 Drop in Hatha Yoga classes to suit all levels. Friendly group of people, also qualifi ed to teach children. £6/class. Some mats available or bring your own. Contact Simon 01733 688235 or 07789 88582520.00-21.00 Fitness/circuits for all abilitie. Classes for people looking to improve fi tness, improve strength, fl exibility & lose weight ect. Classes will be body weight and equipment based exercises modifi ed to suit all abilities. First session free

Tuesdays9:30-10:30am Zumba Latin inspired dance workout. Having fun while burning from 400-1000 calories. For all fi tness levels. Beginners welcome with Lynn Crawford. Darling Dancers Baby Ballet and Musical Theatre Classes £4.50 per child. 4-5pm baby ballet (3-5 years). 5-6pm musical theatre (age 5+). No need to book, for info: 07960 001907

Wednesdays Hebden School of Dance4pm 3-5 years Junior Street Dance, 5pm 6-10 years Modern & Tap Class.

For full listing and special events, see Facebook

What’s on

Wednesdays 18:30-19:30 Yoga Classes, see Monday for info

Thursdays9:30-10:30 Yoga Classes, see Monday for info7pm Scaldgate Club. A social group for adults 19+ with a learning disability. Arts & crafts, cooking, life skills, fi rst aid workshops, trips out & presentations from other charities. Cost £1.50 subs per week, taxi service available for small contribution (£2.50 per week).

Fridays19.00-20.00 Fitness/circuits for all abilities. See Monday for details

SundaysFuture Stars Musical Theatre Classes - brought to you by performer Vicki Mason. 4-6 years 10-11am £3; 7-11 years 11am-1pm £5.50. “Increases confi dence & creativity in all aspects.” To book your child’s place, call Vicki on 07906 919145.

St. Andrew’s Hall, Parkinsons Lane, is also available for private hire at competitive rates. Contact Cheryl on 01733 359450

St. Andrew’s Hall and selected companies are pleased to be off ering party packages. If you book any of the following suppliers for events at St. Andrew’s Hall, you will receive an hour set up free of charge in place of the usual 30 mins (subject to Hall availability - contact Cheryl on 01733 359450).

Playbus Peterborough - Soft play on our Playbus for children’s parties. Email [email protected]; phone 01733 303190; mobile 07561 464935

Kid of the Castle - Bouncy castles (inside the hall or grounds), soft play, and much more. Contact [email protected] (you also receive 10% discount)

Darling Princess Parties - Princess birthday packages and pamper parties. Contact 07861 217360 (you also receive 10% discount)

Lu’s Facepainting - Email [email protected]; phone 01487 812472; text/call 07576 415842. Face and body painting is the super fun addition to any party or event for chil-dren and adults (you also receive 10% discount)

Carly Adams Events Characters - A special guest visitor at your party or event. Photo oppor-tunities, dancing and games. A great gift for your birthday child. Contact 07943 146907 (you also receive 10% discount)

S&T Roadshows - Disco parties for children or adults. Contact Ian Meikle on 07823 478629

Future Stars - Musical theatre themed parties. Learn songs and dances from your favourite musical and perform at the end of the party, plus disco. Contact Vicky on 07906 919145 (you also receive 10% discount)

Party Packages

St. Andrew’s Parish Hall Parkinsons Lane

Straw Bear FestivalSaturday 16th January

St. Andrew’s Hall will be serving hot and cold re-freshmentsfrom 9.00am - 5pm

St Andrews Hall January 2015 .indd 4-5 02/12/2015 11:11

With Christmas behind us, we can look forward to lighter nights and the onset of spring. On a cold and frosty morning, that does seem a long way off right now though. Thankfully, there is nothing wrong with wrapping up warm and getting out onto our local

fenland drains, or indeed the many stillwaters we have in the area.The drains are full of fish, but will need tempting, so my approach would be to scale down on your terminal tackle, using lighter lines and small hooks. You will not need a lot of bait; a few slices of bread, and a pint or two of white bread crumb for punch fishing. Or, if like me, you prefer to fish pinkies, half a pint should be enough, along with a bag of brown crumb, or a pre-mixed groundbait.Top venues will be the Ashline sluice section of the drain, running at the back of Whittlesey, both up and downstream of the locks. Just a little further afield, we have the likes of Glassmoor Bank, Cock Bank and, to a lesser degree, the Twenty Foot Drain. All well worth a visit, and nearly always reliable through the winter months. The Old Nene at Benwick and March both fit the bill as well, and regularly we see good nets of fish taken.Of course, it’s prime time for predator anglers right now, and yet again we have an abundance of waters to fish. Glassmoor Bank again springs to mind straight away; look for feature pegs on the bridges and pump. The Twenty Foot Drain gives you a lot of water to attack, and I would not surprised to see some cracking action from Cock Bank. Best baits will be small roach, rudd, skimmers and even perch. Do not be tempted into fishing really big baits. They do work, but at this time of year when we only have short fishing spells, I do feel it’s better to get a few smaller fish.

D I S C O V E R I N G Whittlesea | December 201528

This house is part of The Sick Children’s Trust, which

cares for children and their families whilst the child

is undergoing treatment in hospital. Benjamin, the youngest member of our four church congregations,

is undergoing treatment for cancer. This requires extensive periods of stay in Addenbrooke’s Hospital.

Acorn House means that his parents can stay close

to him. Acorn House opened in 2000 and helps approximately 440 families every year. Situated within the hospital grounds, Acorn House is only minutes away from the wards and has been specially

designed to ensure access for those with disabilities.

Acorn House is open 365 days a year and can accommodate fifteen families a night. Rooms are allocated to families on a priority basis, and are offered completely free of charge. It is funded solely

by voluntary donations from individuals, companies

and charitable trusts. The cost of staffing and maintaining Acorn House amounts to approximately

£80,000 a year.

Acorn House has fifteen private family bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a communal dining area, a well-stocked playroom, a

shared living room and quiet room and full laundry

facilities. There are also direct telephone lines in all of the family bedrooms linking them to the hospital wards,

so that families can be contacted immediately in the

event of an emergency. Some of the funds we raise will be going to provide

toys and equipment for use on Benjamin’s ward. If you feel you can help by making a donation, either pass it to Nigel or Gill, or someone you know

who goes to one of our parish churches. Please keep this project in your prayers. We wish you a prayerful Advent and a Blessed and

Happy Christmas.Revd Nigel and Revd Gill.

During Advent and over Christmas this year our congregations are

going to be raising funds to support the work of Acorn House.

Predator anglers from across the country often pick out our local fenland drains as the venues they want to fish, regarding them as some of the best, if not the best, and most accessible in England. Despite a much milder than usual November, the British Pike Championship fished on Whittlesey waters produced the proof, if

indeed any were needed, that top quality action can be found on our doorstep. This year saw 220 anglers competing in this unique event. After a week of heavy rain, conditions were poor and the soggy wet banks were difficult in places. Many were unsure just how the drains would perform on the day; however, the unpredictable Glassmore Bank proved to be in very good form. Winner Chris Wade got off to a blistering start. Offering small roach dead baits, he tempted a ‘jack’ pike on his very first cast. The next hour

Predator anglers from across the country often pick out our local fenland drains as the venues they want to fish, regarding them as some of the best, if not the best, and most accessible in England. Despite a much milder than usual November, the British Pike Championship fished on Whittlesey waters produced the proof, if

Nigel (203676) and Gill (202563) | A word from - Revd. Nigel and Revd. Gill

| Fishing news by Ken Wadesaw four more pike banked, topped by a 17lb specimen. For the remainder of the match, Chris added only one more small fish but the title was his with a 44lb-2oz total. Runner-up was Rob Ellis with a 31lb 8oz total. Rob, who was also on the Glassmore section, put three pike to the scales which included the best fish of the day at 23lb 4oz. Rita Clarke from Peterborough, made it a hat-trick of wins in the ladies category with a solitary 5lb fish, taken early in the match

from a difficult section on the Twenty Foot section. The junior title went to fifteen year old Jack Newman from

Southampton. Jack’s two fish total of 10lb 10oz also saw

him take second in section, nudging dad, Jason, into third

spot on the same section. As always, the event was very well organised by Whittlesey AA, a credit to everyone involved. I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and

as a special treat I would like to offer you a 10% discount for Christmas on rods, reels and luggage (19th to 24th

December 2015) on production of the December issue of

this magazine. Image: Pike Champs winner with Whittlesey AA Chairman

Dave White

FISHING NEWS BY KEN WADEWrap up warm and Go Fishing



WHITTLESEY CONSERVATIVE

CLUBFUNCTION ROOM

FOR HIREBirthdays, AnniversariesWeddings, ConferencesChristenings, Funerals

What’s On In January• Sat 9th Travis• Sat 16th Trudie• Sun 17th Sunday Lunch

NEW MEMBERS WELCOMEALL ENQUIRIES TO THE MANAGER

Tel: 01733 202381https://sites.google.com/site/conservativeclubwhittlesey

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKENAT COMPETITIVE RATES

• Sat 23rd Waddo• Sat 30th James Courtney

DRESS CODESmart casual. Football tops,

baseball caps excluded. Two full size snooker tables, dominoes & darts, two gam-

ing machines.

Separate bar facility in function room. Small dance

�oor in the lounge.

Friday

Lunch 12 until 2pm - Liver &

Bacon, Sausage & Mash, Beef Pie

£4.99

Honeyway CottageWhittlesey

Holiday CottageHoneyway Cottage, built in 1650, is a charming thatched

cottage with a tranquil quality located in Whittlesey

www.whittleseyaccommodation.co.ukTel 07906188502 | Email [email protected]

Cottage sleeps four Linen, towels & toiletries provided Gas & electric included Enclosed Garden & pets welcome Modern Kitchen & Bathroom A hamper for breakfast can be provided on request

******

AIRPORT, SEAPORT & EXECUTIVE TRAVEL

DOOR TO DESTINATION THROUGHOUT THE UK.

www.brianhire.co.uk

T: 01733 895986M: 07704 273205 M: 07912 493030

| In the Hot Seat

Dog friendly places to stay and visit throughout the UK, area guides and travel tips, everything you need to plan your holiday all in one place!

www.henrysdogfriendlyholidays.co.uk

Find your perfect dog-friendly holiday!


Thank you.

| In the Hot Seat

1) WHERE WERE YOU BORN, AND WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY OF YOUR CHILDHOOD?

I was born in Chester-le-Street, County Durham in 1950. My fondest childhood memories are playing in an area we called “the fells”. This was a mixture of lowland fells, woodland, streams and pit heaps, on the edge of the town in those days. We would leave home in the morning, play out all day, and return at tea time. We had no worries about safety; we were just a gang of kids having fun.

2) WHO HAS HAD THE GREATEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?

My wife Christine. She is my rock, confidante, support, biggest critic, my Jiminy Cricket and, above all else, my best pal.

3) WHICH TWO CHARACTERS, (ALIVE OR NOT), WOULD YOU MOST ENJOY SHARING A MEAL WITH AND WHY?

HG Wells. I was hooked on his books as a child and I would love to ask him how he thought his predictions had panned out, and Terry Pratchett, the great fantasy writer with a super sense of humour which I can relate to.

4) HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN JUST FIVE WORDS?

Loyal, determined, sensitive, socialist and dyslexic.

5) IF THERE WAS ONE THING WHICH YOU COULD CHANGE ABOUT WHITTLESEY, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Move it nearer to the seaside! One of the benefits of living in Durham was the close proximity to the coast. I am fascinated by the sea. I do hope however, that global warming does not make this a reality.

6) WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A 16 YEAR OLD YOU?

Treat others fairly, never lose sight of your horizons, but always listen and take into account other people’s opinions.

Brian Kell B.E.M.

Brian is a retired civil servant, having spent forty-three years working for H. M. Land Registry. He moved to Whittlesey in 1979 and was instrumental in reviving the local tradition of the Straw Bear Festival in early January; an event which has now developed into a four day festival of traditional entertainment. Brian was awarded the British Empire Medal, (B.E.M.) in the June 2013 Birthday Honours list, for his work in the community and in music. Brian has performed with, organised, and taught British Traditional Dance to various groups (both junior and adult) in the area since 1979.

Image by Chris Brudenell


discovering whittlesea issue 138, january 2016

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