molly_issue34_winter

ISSUE 34 • WINTER 2018 

www.mollysguide.co.uk 

This winter 

with Scaman’s Eggs 

for parents & carers 

Get the family 

OUT & 

ABOUT 

Lots of festive activities 

& events for the 

whole family 

It’s 

Join in 

RSPB’S 40 TH BIG 

Lots of family fun 

on the stage 

this Christmas 

Fabulous festive family days out this 

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY 

FREE

We take 

2-4 

year olds 

A purpose-built local authority school serving the families 

of Birchwood and surrounding areas. Well-equipped inside 

and out with a fully enclosed spacious outdoor area. 

All children are welcome, their abilities, gender, 

cultural and ethnic background are celebrated. 

• 15 or 30 hours per week 

of education and care 

• Morning, afternoon 

or full-day places 

• Before & after school care 

and a lunch club 

Don’t delay - apply today 

PLACES AVAILABLE 

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• Also options to buy 

additional sessions 

For more information please call 

01522 684335 

KINGSDOWN ROAD, LINCOLN LN6 0FB 

Email: enquiries@kingsdownnuseryschool.co.uk 

www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk

...to the winter edition of 

Molly’s Guide, which went to 

press as families across 

Lincolnshire were beginning to 

look forward to ‘the most 

wonderful time of the year ‘ 

4 

Desperate 

Dad 

9 

Kingsdown 

Nursery 

As the temperatures drop, the festivities 

begin to heat up and a quick flick through 

our pages will give you an idea of just how 

much is going on around the county. 

You will also find all our usual features and 

columnists as well as your usual money-off 

vouchers (even more welcome after weeks 

of Christmas shopping!) and remember to 

visit www.mundys.co.uk to keep up to date 

with even more activities which are taking 

place over the festive period 

All that remains is for us to wish you a happy 

Christmas and a wonderful new year... 

here’s hoping you all find yourself on the 

‘nice list’... 

12 

Oh Arthur 

Clothing 

19 

Lincoln 

Drill Hall 

28 

Lincoln 

BIG 

stevensgreenmedia 

Editorial & Advertising: Stevens Green Media Ltd 

63 Bunkers Hill, Lincoln LN2 4QS 

T: 01522 535068 E: info@mollysguide.co.uk 

Design: Dandelion Design 

Print: www.buxtonpress.com 

Photography: www.stuartwildephotography.com 

Cover image: Amelia Fox/Shutterstock.com 

TERMS & CONDITIONS ©2018 

While every effort and care has been made to 

ensure the accuracy of the information contained 

in this publication, the Publisher cannot accept 

responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or 

omissions it may contain. Inclusion in the 

directory does not imply an endorsement of the 

service or product. No part of this publication 

may be reproduced in any form, or by means 

electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording 

or otherwise. Or stored in any retrieval system 

- without the prior written permission of the 

Publisher. Copyright ©Stevens Green Media 

Ltd - All rights reserved. 

32 

Scaman’s 

Eggs 


3

NEWS 

Desperate Dad 

I have a small announcement to 

make. Don’t fear, unfortunately 

for you I’m not retiring the blog, or 

moving to some sun-kissed shores 

to while away my days – if only. 

This announcement is much more exciting, 

much more life changing and even more 

tiring than ever before. 

You see ladies and gentlemen, our very own 

dynamic duo are about to be transformed 

into a tumultuous trio – we’ve another little 

arrival on its way – and she doesn’t know 

what’s about to hit her. 

There’s going to be two big brothers to 

look out for a little sister and the clocks are 

about to be wound back to those heady 

days of nappies, teething, bottle sterilisation 

and sleep deprivation. Oh the pure unbridled 

joy. 

‘Utter lunacy’, I hear you cry. And you might 

well have a point. With a 10-year-old and 

seven-year-old to constantly humour, how on 

earth is a newborn baby a sensible plan? 

pink is the colour... 

Well here’s the thing, and I’m happy to put it out 

there (again!). She wasn’t planned. In fact we 

have no idea how it happened. Not literally obvs 

– but you know what I mean! 

This was an entirely ‘happy’ accident, but one 

that was extremely enjoyable to make – I’m 

almost certain. 

It took rather a while to sink in to be honest, 

to get our heads around and to fathom. Could 

three really be the magic number, I guess we’re 

about to find out? 

Of course a third baby is something we’d 

previously discussed, and discussed at length. 

But the upshot was always the same, we were 

happy with our blessed lot - two boys who keep 

us on our toes more than enough than not. 

New adventures and experiences were 

beckoning and although those long lost ‘nappy 

days’ were often mourned, we’d kind of set our 

sights on the horizon. 

So imagine my surprise when Mrs Dad started 

to get those all too familiar feelings, the 

hormones coursing and the blood pressure 

rising. 

4 

Autumn 2018

And imagine my greater surprise when that 

infamous little tick appeared blue and the bun 

was confirmed as fully in the oven. 

Now imagine my even greater surprise when 

the 20-week scan and extra nailed-on blood 

test confirmed without doubt that we were 

expecting a female dynamo to boot. Cue 

heads and hearts exploding. 

A girl. Yes correct. A girl. After two boys too 

- thrust into the great unknown once more 

without so much as a by your leave – whatever 

was I going to do? 

But as the fairy dust settled and the excitement 

calmed down, came a real sense of renewed 

energy, of purpose, of hope and optimism. 

Let’s not beat around the bush, I’m absolutely 

prepared for my little madam to run me ragged, 

and if I’m completely honest, haven’t got a clue 

what to really expect. 

Neither have the ‘bruise brothers’ or the manic 

menagerie of four-legged friends we foster I’ll 

wager. 

Girls just seem like a completely different 

species to me – all light, fluffy, unicornobsessed 

and with 101 ways to tie hair 

that I’m sure I’m never going to master. 

It’s footie shirts and joggy bottoms most 

days here. Tights and tiaras scare the 

bejesus out of me. 

Somehow I don’t think that’s going to be 

much of problem. 

We’ve still got quite a while to wait, baby 

girl’s not due until mid-Feb, but one thing’s 

certain. Girl or boy, crier or sleeper (please 

sleeper!), footballer or ballerina, unicorn or 

racing car lover – it doesn’t really matter in 

the end. 

To my darling ‘Ruby Ana Teixeira Wood’ we 

can’t wait to meet you and let you enchant 

our lives with the beauty and wonder we’re 

certain you’ll bless us all with. 

There’s also that nagging fear that this world is 

not what it once was, however we like to dress 

it up or skirt around. 

Thirty years ago life was very different. My 

boys’ experience of childhood is in complete 

contrast to mine, so in 20 years’ time, what on 

earth will the world be like for my little madam? 

I suppose we’ll just have to wait and see, and 

try not to drive ourselves mad thinking about 

the endless scenarios that we might or might 

not end up with. 

All we can do is welcome her into this 

wondrous world with open arms and give 

her all the love and support we can muster. 

Barry Wood is an ex journalist now working 

for the NHS in Lincolnshire. A father of two 

boys and husband to one Portuguese wife, 

he blogs regularly as Desperate Dad. 

Read more adventures: 

barrylwood.wordpress.com 

Facebook: Desperate Dad 

Twitter: @Dad_Desperate 


5

NEWS 

Family Christmas Fun 

chi out! it’s only christmas... 

Here at Molly’s Guide, 

we appreciate what a 

magical time of year the 

run-up to Christmas is 

and we also know it can 

be pretty stressful, too. 

Sam Curtis, whose goto 

mantra for all things 

festive is ‘I’m gonna wing 

it’ asked Facebook users 

for their top tips for a 

stress-free, or at least 

a slightly less stressful 

Christmas. 

There’s no escaping it, the Christmas countdown has started. 

The new Grinch film has hit the cinemas, Kevin the Carrot is back 

starring in a cliff-hanger advert for Aldi and the rails in Primark are 

heaving with an array of cheesy Christmas jumpers. 

It’s the same every year, so why does it always feel as if one 

minute it’s the end of the summer holidays, then, in the blink of 

an eye, children are rehearsing songs for their nativity and you’re 

Googling ‘where to buy a sheep costume’? 

I should know the drill by now but somehow, the festive season 

and all the extra work that comes with it ALWAYS creeps up on me. 

Because there is a lot of work involved. From the list-making to 

the gift shopping to the food-ordering and the writing of Christmas 

cards (your five-year-old will definitely want to send one to all 29 

children in their reception class) it’s a busy time. 

Then there’s a pantomime or three to watch, late night shopping 

and lights-on events and ALL of the wrapping to be done between 

the hours of 10pm and 5am when the kids are in bed. 

Not to mention the financial burden. 

So, what can be done? Is there hope for me and people like me, 

who still need to get their head around the Christmas countdown? 

Will I be running around like a headless turkey on Christmas Eve 

or can my team of organised (and slightly smug) Christmas 

experts offer up some advice that will ease the pressure? 

Let’s see... 

6 

Autumn 2018

Don’t try to do it all 

I’m guilty of this, in more ways 

than one. 

Not only do I take on the 

responsibility for buying most of the 

gifts for the entire family, but I also 

try and experience as many of the 

Christmas activities around the region 

as possible. 

My children didn’t always expect 

to go ice-skating, visit the Bauble Barn 

at Doddington Hall, make reindeer 

food, or ride on the Polar Express - 

but they do now because I went big 

on activities one year and now it’s 

hard to scale things back. 

The solution? “Quality, not quantity”, 

says mum-of-three, Emma Harding- 

Hubbard, from Lincoln. She adds: 

“I’m planning less this year. I always 

plan fun stuff to do but then I’m 

so busy that ironically it’s not fun 

and ends up being exhausting and 

stressful.” 

Less is definitely more, it seems. 

The alternative, if you are determined 

to throw yourself into lots of festive 

activities is to write everything down 

on a calendar. Mum-of-two Jennifer 

Wake says: “We have a calendar 

showing what’s happening during 

the run-up to Christmas. Things like: 

make snowflakes and salt dough 

decorations, attend the school play, 

put the tree up, go for a walk and 

have a hot chocolate. It makes the 

countdown more magical.” 

As if she’s not busy enough, Jennifer 

and her husband Martin, hold their 

annual Lights Up party for friends and 

family in early December. 

The event involves the couple 

decorating their house with hundreds 

of lights and preparing a yuletide 

banquet, as well as organising a visit 

from Santa himself. It seems like quite 

an undertaking but Mrs Wake says: 

“I’m always super busy but I love it that 

way. Christmas is my thing.” 

Stagger gift and food-buying 

The super-organised among you can skip this part - you’ve 

probably finished the bulk of your Christmas shopping, a 

bit like mum-of-three, Laura Allen from Lincoln who says: 

“I wrote my list in September, went shopping in October 

and will wrap everything in November. My aim is to be done 

for December so I can enjoy the festive season without 

panicking and thinking I still have things to buy. I also like to 

spend a couple of days doing some Christmas baking. 

“With eight family birthdays in December, I have no choice 

but to be organised”. Laura’s not alone, Jennifer Wake 

echoes her sentiments, saying: “I’ve been buying bits in 

(both gifts and food) for a while now, so I don’t have to rush. 

I am one of those super-organised people every year!” 

Online shopping 

I actually enjoy a spot of retail therapy and like looking at 

things in the shops. Sometimes it feels as if I am singlehandedly 

supporting the high street as sales figures 

continue to fall because sensible people tend to do most 

of their shopping online. Helen Smith from Lincoln, says: 

“I have a mad splurge of organisation mid-November 

which lulls me into a false sense of security. It can get very 

stressful but that’s when online shopping is a boon. I did 

most of mine last year while having a bubble bath.” 

Well, that’s clearly going to be a lot easier than hitting 

the shops... 


7

Make your own gifts 

For those who are pressed for time, the thought of making gifts 

might seem like a stretch too far but according to those in the 

know, a couple of hours in the kitchen can be just as fruitful as the 

same amount of time spent scouring Amazon for a unique gift for 

Aunty Ethel. 

Plus, if you make a gift, isn’t that getting back to what Christmas is 

all about - an act of kindness? 

Debbie Robinson from Lincoln, says: “I make my own peanut butter 

fudge, then bag it up to make the perfect gift.” She adds: “Just 

don’t forget to check for any peanut allergies beforehand”. 

And Jez Ashberry, also from Lincoln, has a similar idea, except 

he favours gifting a bottle of home-brewed sloe gin. You need to 

have picked your sloes back in October to ensure the gin is ready 

in time for Christmas. On the plus side, if the gin needs a bit longer 

to mature, you could always buy a bottle from a supermarket and 

keep the homemade stuff to see in the New Year. 

Too many toys? 

Make some 

memories, instead 

My friend and I always buy 

gifts for each other’s children 

but our houses are bulging 

at the seams with Nerf Guns 

and board games, so this year 

we have decided to take our 

children out together instead of 

exchanging gifts. I can’t be too 

specific about what we have 

planned - my teenage daughter 

often reads Molly’s Guide and I 

don’t want to ruin the surprise 

but hopefully, they will share 

lots of laughs and make some 

childhood memories. 

The ultimate guide to being organised 

If you are a planner, the excellent tips from 

mum-of-two Melissa Bentley will be like 

preaching to the converted. 

On the other hand, for those prone to winging 

it, like me, it might be worth heeding the advice 

below for Chrismas 2019. Melissa says: “I buy 

all wrapping paper and cards in January. I keep 

a running list on my phone during the year with 

gift ideas for each person. I start shopping in the 

summer sales and I wait for Sainsbury’s halfprice 

toy sale in October. 

“I also keep a separate Christmas card list and 

include addresses. 

“I make lots of jams and chutneys earlier in the year 

and label and pack them nicely. I also make fudge 

as a gift. 

“I wrap and pack away by the second weekend 

in December then chill for the rest of the month 

because it’s done! I LOVE Christmas.” 

Alright, Melissa, no-one likes a show-off... 

I am joking, of course. I have nothing but admiration 

for anyone who can put their feet up by the middle 

of December and declare themselves ‘ready for 

Christmas’. 

So, I wish you all a joyful season. I hope it’s not 

too stressful but if you do 

find yourself feeling 

overwhelmed, I’ll leave 

this thought with you, 

shared by mum and 

grandma, Lesley Joosub; 

“Chill out. It’s just 

one day.” 

She’s got a point. 

Molly’s Guide and newspaper columnist 

Sam Curtis lives in Lincoln with her 

husband and their two children Lottie, 13 

and Louie, 5. 

You can follow Sam on: 

Twitter: @sammanfa 

Instagram: sammanfa1 

Facebook: SamCurtisWrites 

Snapchat: @sam-manfa 

8 

Winter 2018

EDUCATION 

Kingsdown Nursery 

30 fr hours available at 

kingsdown nursery school... 

30 Funded Hours for eligible 3 and 4 year olds. 

15 Funded Hours for eligible 2 year old and 

all 3 and 4 year old. Sessions are available to 

buy, morning, afternoons or full days for nonfunded 

2 year olds or as a top up to the 15 

hours funded for 3 and 4 year olds. 

Do you have a 2, 3 or 4 year old? If so, do you know 

that the Government is providing funding for some 2 

year olds, and all 3 and 4 year olds to attend Kingsdown 

Nursery for 15 hours or 30 hours a week? Young 

children can have great fun playing with or alongside 

other children, exploring paint, water, clay and playing 

outside in a safe, well-equipped play area. As well as 

the benefits for the children, having a nursery place at 

Kingsdown, can give parents and carers a welcome 

break from the demands of a busy toddler or young 

child. It can give you extra time to go shopping, do 

some housework, look after the baby, take a college 

course, do extra hours at work or just have a cup of 

coffee in peace and quiet, and drink it while it’s still hot! 

Most children attend Kingsdown for 5 mornings or 5 

afternoons. We also offer full days from 8.45 – 3.25 

p.m. There is a breakfast and after school club if you 

need a longer day. Coming regularly helps children 

develop friendships and positive relationships with staff 

and other children. Families who are not eligible for 

the Government 2 year funding often buy one or two 

sessions a week to help their child develop their social 

skills ready for starting in our 3-4 year old nursery class. 

At Kingsdown we offer a wonderful engaging 

environment, both indoors and outdoors. Children 

have access to top quality resources and fully 

qualified staff, both teachers and Early Years 

Practitioners. We teach children to share, take turns, 

learn about letters and numbers, paint, write and 

draw, ride, climb, explore and investigate. 

Throughout the year, Kingsdown provides 

many opportunities for children to 

experience nature in all its forms. Each 

spring, we have a bird’s nesting box with 

a camera in and children eagerly watch 

the laptop to see if eggs have hatched yet. 

Kingsdown is fortunate to be near Birchwood Nature 

Park and we regularly take groups of children for 

walks there, to look for mini-beasts and to study the 

changing seasons. 

We have weekly music lessons with Rattle & Roll. 

Children learn about classical composers and how 

to recognise their music. They also play percussion 

instruments. We also have Stuart from Meet the 

Beasts in with his exotic pets, snakes, lizards, 

spiders, insects and snails. 

Children can wear their own clothes but many wear 

our uniform of red, blue or purple polo shirt and 

sweatshirt. Children invariably join in with messy 

activities at nursery and if they have their Kingsdown 

uniform on, they are hard wearing and will stand up to 

the demands of a busy day at nursery! 

For more information and a look round, 

please call in or T: 01522 684335 

E: enquiries@kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk 

Facebook: Kingsdown Nursery School 

www.kingsdownnurseryschool.co.uk 


9

HEALTSPORTH & 

Naomi Watkins’ Counselling Hub CIC (NWCH) 

Toys help children 

to relax 

counseing – could it unlock 

a brighter future for your child? 

Unless you have first-hand 

experience of living with a 

troubled child or young person, 

it can be hard to realise 

how many countywide are 

struggling with issues which 

are disrupting their schooling, 

destroying friendships, causing 

them to ditch university or 

give-up on their first job. 

(l-r) NWCH Chief Executive Naomi Watkins 

and NWCH Bid Writer Nadine Daubney 

Parents and carers might not immediately spot a problem, but 

there are tell-tale signs and identifying them early-on is vital. 

But, even if you are feeling there is no support out there, you 

are not alone. Help is at hand – and families can access it 

directly or be referred by a professional worker. 

We’re referring to counselling or “the talking treatment” 

– although in reality it is as much about listening. Whatever 

term you use, it is proving to be a real lifeline for so many 

families, when it comes to getting a child or young person to 

open-up about their problems, so that they can be helped to 

turn things around. 

Naomi Watkins is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive of the 

Naomi Watkins’ Counselling Hub CIC (NWCH) in Lincoln. 

Since it started offering its services to children, teenagers, 

single adults, couples and families 18 months ago, it has 

received more than 600 referrals. 

Amazingly, more than half of those have involved children and 

young people between the ages of four and 25-years-old. 

“Things which might alert a parent or carer are noticeable 

changes in a child or young person’s behaviour. Typically, 

some will become quiet and withdrawn and reticent about 

engaging in activities or talking to people,” said Naomi. 

“Others will do the opposite, and start acting out their 

frustrations, have difficulty in dealing with their emotions 

and maybe become hyperactive or act out. 

10 

Winter 2018

“This may be due to anger management issues, 

feeling they don’t fit in, the fact that they have been 

bullied or sexually-abused. Children and young 

people do also suffer from anxiety and depression 

and they may well have thoughts of suicide.” 

Naomi said that problems can arise irrespective of 

family size or dynamics and they need to be taken 

seriously. 

“Those struggling can come from any background 

and any type of family. They may be the only child, 

part of a big family, fostered or adopted and 

looked after by one or both parents or have 

divorced parents.” 

Health issues, such as when a child or parent 

develops cancer, will affect the whole family. It is 

just one occasion when counselling children can 

have a positive knock-on effect for everyone. 

“When we have a case where a parent gets cancer, 

we work with organisations like Scunthorpe-based 

Team Verrico and with Lincoln-based Sophie’s 

Journey, if the child is ill, and we bring the whole 

family on board to work through everyone’s 

emotions and worries,” said Naomi. 

Whatever the issue, children, young people and 

adults, can self-refer themselves to NWCH or may 

be referred by anyone from a social worker to a 

GP, Macmillan Nurses, a drug and alcohol service 

or other medical or education professional. 

“When someone contacts us, the first contact they 

have is with our Office Manager Sally Watkins. 

She completes an assessment, by telephone or in 

person if they have visited the Hub. It’s important 

to discover the nature of the problem and to match 

the young person with the right counsellor for their 

needs. 

“This will vary because some will have eating 

disorders, special educational needs or be 

struggling to come to terms with a bereavement, 

there are so many different issues. 

“When they first visit us, which may be with a 

parent, parents or social worker, they wait in 

our reception while the child accompanies our 

counsellor. They go into one of our especially 

decorated rooms. We have two for children aged 

four to 11-years old and a young persons’ room 

for teenagers and another three for adults. 

“The priority for any counselling organisation is to 

make sure that the child or young person feels safe 

and relaxed. That’s why the rooms for younger 

people are filled with toys and games. We often 

use the toys to ask the children questions. Often 

our pet therapy dogs help to calm the children. We 

Counsellor 

Sarah Quezada 

at work 

have also been careful to make the young person’s 

rooms gender neutral and non-clinical,” said Naomi. 

“When we are dealing with a case involving sexual 

abuse, we find that some youngsters want to share 

their experiences but others don’t. We tend to 

focus on life in general and how their experience 

has impacted their life – we don’t go over the 

actual abuse itself. We are very careful, a court 

case may be in progress, and we adhere to the 

CPS guidelines.” 

Whenever anyone goes for counselling two of their 

first questions are – how long will it take? and how 

much will my counselling cost? 

“In our case we start by setting-up a minimum 

of twelve sessions, but we review an individual’s 

progress every six sessions,” said Naomi. 

“Thanks to our success in winning funding from 

The Bromhead Medical Trust and The National 

Lottery we are delighted to say that, in many cases, 

we are able to offer free counselling to children 

and young people through our Acorn and 

Snowdrop projects,” added Naomi. 

“We know counselling works and, at NWCH, we are 

thrilled to be able to say that we are saving lives. 

It is so rewarding to be able to turn around young 

lives, give children and young people fresh hope 

and help them to build great friendships for the 

future. Just seeing a child making eye contact 

again and starting to smile again is fantastic.” 

For further info: Unit 10, Allenby Business Park, Crofton Road, Lincoln, LN3 4NL 

T: 01522 253809 E: admin@nwcounsellinghub.co.uk www.nwcounsellinghub.co.uk 


11

HEALTH & SPORT 

Oh Arthur Clothing 

The Danielle Lloyd x Oh Arthur 

collection for Mind will be available 

to buy at www.oharthur.co.uk 

coaborating to raise money for 

mental health charity, Mind... 

Award-winning personalised clothing brand 

Oh Arthur has announced a second collaboration with 

model and former Miss Great Britain, Danielle Lloyd 

– with all proceeds being donated to mental health 

support charity, MIND. 

Mother-of-four Danielle and Oh 

Arthur founder, Emma Jacklin, have 

designed a range of eye-catching, 

brightly-coloured tees for children 

and adults, each one emblazoned 

with a different message of positivity. 

The idea behind the collection is to 

raise awareness of mental health 

issues and encourage people to talk 

about their experiences without fear of prejudice or judgment. 

Prices start from £14 with all proceeds being donated to Mind, 

a charity that provides advice and support to empower anyone 

experiencing a mental health problem. Mind also campaigns to 

improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. 

“Having suffered with anxiety and depression in the past, I 

know how lonely and isolating it can be to experience mental 

health issues,” explains Danielle. “It’s something that 

many people hide, even from their closet family and 

friends, so the work that Mind do in offering both 

emotional and practical support and advice to those 

in need is absolutely invaluable. 

“I knew I wanted to do something to raise money and 

awareness for the charity and considering my existing 

collaboration with Oh Arthur, a new collection to 

promote Mind’s messages and raise much-needed funds felt 

like the perfect way to do it. If we can help just one person feel 

better, I’ll be very happy indeed!” 

“This feels like such an important and relevant topic right now,” 

adds Emma. “There is definitely a positive shift in the way the 

world views mental 

health, but there is 

still a long way to go 

and we wanted to do 

something to help 

promote the messages 

of positivity, honesty 

and acceptance that 

are at the core of what 

Mind aims to achieve.” 

“It’s ok not 

to be ok.” 

Facebook: @oharthurclothing Instagram: oh_arthur www.oharthur.co.uk 

12 

Winter 2018

NEW LINCOLN WASTE MANAGEMENT 

SITE TO RAISE VITAL FUNDS FOR 

GIRL’S LIFE SAVING TREATMENT... 

Boundary Lane, South Hykeham in Lincoln has 

welcomed a brand new waste management site 

which will donate £5 from each of its skips hired to 

Demi Knight, a local girl from Louth who needs to 

raise thousands of pounds for life saving treatment. 

The Pink Skip Co - a local skip hire company formed 

in Louth for women by women - opened its doors in 

October to a new waste management site for residential 

and commercial skips/waste management. Since 2007 

they have helped raise well over £30,000 for local 

breast cancer charity ’The Pink Rose Fund’. 

The next mission from their new Lincoln based branch 

is to help make a difference to Demi (11) who has been 

battling a tumour in her spine and head since March 

this year, having previously beaten the disease back 

in February 2017. Unfortunately, as standard NHS 

treatment has failed, Demi’s family were forced to look 

elsewhere for treatment - but it has come at a price. 

Demi currently receives experimental ‘Antineoplaston 

Therapy’ from the Burzynski Clinic in Texas, in addition 

to fortnightly trips to Poland to receive ‘Avastin’ 

medication. Additional medicine has to be ordered from 

India. Remarkably, Demi’s family self-fund all of the 

flights and accommodation required, with every penny 

raised going towards the treatment itself. 

Thousands of pounds have already been raised, but 

these costs continue to grow as Demi continues her 

treatment- therefore it is vital fundraising continues and 

the ‘Pink Skip Co’ will continue to support Demi through 

the sales of their skips after already donating £2,200 

earlier this year from their Louth waste management 

sites - Pink Skip Co and GBM Waste Management. 

The campaign which is headed up by GBM and Pink 

Skip Co Director Simon Grantham hopes to help make 

a big difference to Demi and her family and hopes the 

whole community get’s behind it by THINKING PINK 

the next time they need a skip. 

Demi’s mum, Mel, stated: “This money will definitely 

make a big difference. “Even if people donate a fiver or a 

pound, it all adds up. “We want to say a massive thank 

you to Simon and the Pink Skip Co for their continued 

support because they don’t have to do this and it means 

so much. I don’t even know how I’ll ever begin to thank 

people for what they have done with fundraising. 

Demi will undergo her next MRI scan this November, 

and a PET scan in due course. 

HEALTH & SPORT 

Pink Skip Co 

PHOTO: Demi with GBM and Pink Skip Co 

Director Simon Grantham 

BELOW: Demo undergoing some of her treatment 

“It means 

everything. 

We wouldn’t 

be anywhere 

without the 

help from 

the public.” 

GBM and Pink Skip Co’s 

new Lincoln site 

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/ 

Demi-knight-cancer-treatment-fund 

To order a skip or for all your waste management requirements T: 01522 528841 www.pinkskipco.co.uk 


13

ENTERTAINMENT 

LPAC 

PHOTO: Last year’s 

main house show, 

Robin Hood & Maid 

Marion and BELOW: 

Last year’s Brrr! 

The Lost Polar Bear 

lincoln performing arts centre at christmas time 

– it’s where the magic happens! 

It truly is a magical time of year! Decorating the Christmas 

tree, leaving a mince pie out for Santa, going out as a family 

to see the big show at the theatre; these are the moments 

that make childhood so special and memorable. 

This year’s big Christmas family 

show at Lincoln Performing 

Arts Centre is Rapunzel, a 

magical musical play adapted 

from the original fairy tale. From 

the creative team behind last 

year’s enchanting Robin Hood & 

Maid Marian and performed by 

University of Lincoln’s graduating 

Drama students, this is the ideal 

festive treat for the whole family. 

What really sets this Christmas 

theatre show apart from anything 

else on offer in the city is the 

original music score, which has 

been composed by the renowned 

opera tenor Mark Wilde. Under 

Wilde’s direction, the cast will 

deliver an impressive vocal 

performance. You’ll be able to 

hear them sing a selection of 

Christmas Carols in the Waterside 

Shopping Centre on Friday 

23rd November as part of the 

celebrations for Christmas Lights 

Switch On. You’ll also have the 

chance to meet the characters in 

full costume the following day on 

Saturday 24th November, 11am 

– 4pm when they will be returning 

to the Waterside Shopping Centre 

for a ‘Sneak Peek’ Meet & Greet 

day, along with the Lincoln Drill 

Hall and New Theatre Royal. 

Rapunzel is recommended for 

ages 6 and up, and there is a 

Relaxed Performance on the 

Friday 21st December showing at 

2pm. In a Relaxed Performance, 

audience members can move 

around freely, leave and enter the 

auditorium as needed, the lights 

never go completely dark and 

sound effects are softened. 

LPAC puts a lot of thought into 

the provision for young audiences. 

You might already be aware of 

their Lil’Pacs sessions, which take 

place on Fridays in Zing Café Bar, 

but did you know that they also 

produce a Christmas theatre show 

RAPUNZEL 

Wed 12 – Mon 24 December 

Tickets from £10 / Family ticket 

offers available 

PENGUINS! PENGUINS! 

PENGUINS! 

Mon 17 – Mon 31 December 

£10 Adult // £8.50 Child // £36 

Family (4 people, max 2 adults) 

specifically for children aged 3+? 

Penguins! Penguins! Penguins! 

uses traditional story-telling 

and puppetry to take you on an 

adventure with Barry, a penguin 

born into the long nights of the 

Antarctic Winter who goes out in 

search of summer sun. Performed 

in the Studio and at less than 

an hour long this is a great first 

theatre experience. 

See website for more information. Advanced booking is highly recommended. 

To book tickets: www.lpac.co.uk T: 01522 837600 or in person at the box office 

in Zing Café Bar within Lincoln Performing Arts Centre. 


15

ENTERTAINMENT 

New Youth Theatre 

Bugsy Malone is to be performed at the Lincoln Drill Hall in March 2019 

by local students across the Lincoln area. 

CENTRES IN LINCOLN 

& NEWARK 

Rehearsals commence 

Early January 2019 

- Book your place 

online today 

‘The Greatest Showman’ 

Summer Camp will be 

taking place in 2019. 

Places are available & can 

be booked online at the 

website address below. 

To join the cast and 

book your place, 

call New Youth Theatre 

Head Office on 

01522 787601 

or visit: www. 

newyouththeatre.co.uk 

Book Your Place For ‘Bugsy Malone’... 

Based on the hit 1976 film, starring Jodi Foster, featuring a catchy, 

swinging score, clean, comedic fun, which is great fun for all the family! 

Two gangs in a fictitious city populated only by children are in a rivalry 

of Capone-ian standards. Dandy Dan’s gang has gotten the upper hand 

since acquiring the “splurge” gun (a weapon that shoots whip cream). 

Bugsy Malone, a one-time boxer, is thrust into the limelight when he 

becomes the last chance Fat Sam’s gang has of surviving. All Bugsy 

really wants to do is spend time with his new love, Blousey... but that 

just isn’t in the cards for our hero. 

‘It’s Splurge-tastic!” 

With fabulous shows like Elf, The Addams Family, Legally Blonde and 

many more, young people from Lincolnshire get their chance to tread 

the boards and see what show business is all about. 

If you’re passionate about starring in your very own production and 

learning the craft of theatre, then here is your chance. Sessions available 

for young people aged 3-5, 5-8, 6-11 and 9-16 years. 

New Youth Theatre also offer Holiday Camps, School Workshops and 

LAMDA acting classes too. 

So, whether it’s a fun time or a career in show business, New Youth 

Theatre is the place to be. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16 

Winter 2018

festive family fun for a... 

The 125-year-old New Theatre Royal has 

welcomed 110,000 people to enjoy the very best 

live shows in the last 24 months. The Autumn 

Winter Season pinnacle is 68 performances of 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, produced by 

the Theatre’s award-winning inhouse team and 

proudly sponsored by Brewin Dolphin. 

ENTERTAINMENT 

New Theatre Royal 

Flossy and 

Muddles 

From Ogre Princess to Unicorn Fairy, West End, X Factor and 

Celebrity Big Brother star Amelia Lily to take centre stage at the 

New Theatre Royal Lincoln as the ‘Unicorn Fairy’, following her 

critically acclaimed appearance in Shrek the Musical. 

Joining Amelia is Christopher Johnson, a CBBC presenter as 

the loveable Muddles and one of Blue Peter’s longest serving 

hosts Barney Harwood, making his debut in Lincoln as the 

Huntsman. 

Natalie Hayes-Cowley, Artistic Director and Pantomime 

Producer says; “If you have yet to experience the magic of 

Pantomime then expect infectious humour, catchy songs, lots 

of audience participation and a good dose of festive cheer. Not 

only are you guaranteed a fantastic, family friendly day out at 

the New Theatre Royal, all the proceeds from ticket sales for 

in-house productions go directly back into the Theatre to help 

secure its future for generations to come.” 

Under 2’s are free and we even have a special relaxed 

performance on 23rd December at 2pm which is perfect 

for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed 

performance environment – including those with an 

autism spectrum condition or learning disability. 

To follow the cast and crew backstage through 

the rehearsals of the show visit NTR on Facebook, 

Instagram and Twitter and following the hashtag 

#NTRSnowWhite2018 

Perfect for all ages, Snow White and the Seven 

Dwarfs runs from December 4th, 2018 to January 

6th, 2019.Tickets are available from 

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk or at the Box 

Office on 01522 519 999. Tickets start at £15. Under 

2’s free. Group tickets are available for 10+ people. 

Apply the code ‘Mollys10’ at the booking stage for 10% off your tickets. Terms & Conditions apply. 


17

ENTERTAINMENT 

Lincoln Drill Hall 

get ready for a swashbuckling 

panto adventure! 

Thursday 6th December 2018 

– Saturday 5th January 2019 

Jamie Marcus Productions in association 

with Lincoln Drill Hall presents: PETER PAN 

This Christmas fly to Lincoln Drill Hall for its mustsee 

pantomime spectacular, Peter Pan. Prepare 

yourselves for a swashbuckling adventure full of 

Pirates, Fairies, Lost Boys, Indians, and of course 

one huge tick-tocking crocodile, in this timeless tale 

about the Boy Who Never Grew Up. 

With a sprinkling of fairy dust join the Darling 

children as they leave Lincoln behind, flying past the 

second star to the right and straight to Neverland, 

to help Peter battle the evil Captain Hook. 

Chris Kirkwood, Lincoln Drill Hall Manager: “Each 

of our panto productions is bigger than the last. 

And each year more and more people have 

come along to experience the magic. Last year’s 

10th anniversary panto, Jack and the Beanstalk, 

smashed audience records, playing to almost 

15,000 people.” 

“From the 6th of December we’ll be whisking 

audiences off to Neverland but rest assured, we 

have everything you want from a great panto 

- a host of crazy characters, stunning costumes, 

spectacular sets, hilarious jokes, sketches and 

song and dance routines and plenty of audience 

participation. Plus, of course, as it’s Peter Pan, 

there are sensational flying scenes and other 

breathtaking special effects, with the action 

jumping right off the stage.’ 

“Lincoln’s favourite Dame James Campbell returns 

as the outrageous Nursey Night Night and we’re 

also thrilled to welcome, fresh from the hit West 

End production of ‘Mamma Mia’, Stephen John 

Davis as a very dastardly Captain Hook. They 

are joined by a huge cast to make this a truly 

spectacular panto you won’t forget’. 

Peter Pan runs from Thursday 6 December 2018 

– Saturday 5 January 2019 

Family of 4 tickets from £56*, Adult tickets from 

£12* (*Subject to availability). PLUS all under 26s 

tickets on all performances are £12 – so kids 

tickets are cheaper than last year! 

To book/more info visit www.lincolndrillhall.com, T: 01522 873894 or pop in to the Drill Hall box office. 


19

ENTERTAINMENT 

Merry Macs of Lincoln 

For further information: 

T: 07572 429953 

E: info@merrymacs.co.uk 

www.merrymacs.co.uk 

Reg Charity 

No. 261017 

festive family fun with 

macmian cancer support... 

Come and join us on Saturday 1st December from 

1pm-5pm at St Marks Shopping Centre, where we 

will be hosting the 2018 Macmillan Tree of Lights. 

This event is for everyone from youngsters right through 

to those young at heart who wish to remember someone 

special, be it a person or a special pet. As well as hanging 

buckets with messages on the tree, we will be serving nonalcoholic 

mulled wine and soft drinks for the little ones, as 

well as mince pies and sweetie bags (for a small donation). 

To keep you entertained during the event we will be joined 

by an array of musicians and Choirs, including REACH, 

who the little ones may be a part of, and the talented Helen- 

Gwynne. So feel free to sing-a-long as we are sure you will 

recognise the songs. As a treat for the Fireman Sam fans, 

Sam has asked his friends to pop along in his truck for the 

afternoon* 

December brings families together to experience happiness, 

joy and festivities. It also brings back memories of our 

loved ones who are now no longer here. So come along 

and join everyone as we do this together to get in the 

mood for the festive period. 

* Subject to callouts 

Now in 

it’s 5th 

year! 

All proceeds will go to 

Reg Charity No. 261017 

Macmillan invites you to hang a message 

of remembrance on their Christmas Tree 

of Lights with a candle in a little bucket. 

Come and enjoy the music with a glass of mulled 

wine (non-alcoholic) as we hang the messages. 

There’s something for all the family to enjoy... 

For more info call Fiona: 07572 429953 

Macmillan Cancer Support - The Merry Macs of Lincoln 

@merry_macs 

Celebrate the lives of loved ones 

this Christmas at the 

Macmillan Tree of Lights 

at St. Marks Shopping Centre, Lincoln 

on Saturday 1 st December, 1pm-5pm 

www.merrymacs.co.uk 

In partnership with 

20 

Winter 2018

it’s panto time!... 

Make your wishes come true this 

Christmas with a visit to Newark Palace 

Theatre’s genie-us panto, Aladdin! 

Running from Friday 7th to Monday 31st 

December, this hilarious festive favourite will 

be packed full of spectacular scenery, breathtaking 

costumes, stunning special effects, 

fabulous song and dance routines and sidesplitting 

slap stick comedy. 

Following 2016’s giant success Jack and the 

Beanstalk and 2017’s beauty of a panto, Beauty 

and the Beast, this year Aladdin promises to 

whisk you away on an unforgettable magic 

carpet ride to Pantoland’s Far East! 

With a law decreeing that the Princess can only 

marry a prince, and the evil Abanazar up to no 

good, it looks as though Aladdin’s dreams may 

never come true. And he’s not the only one! 

Aladdin’s mum, Widow Twankey, has got the 

mixed-up Chinese laundry blues; her other son 

Wishee Washee is being particularly unhelpful; 

and they’re also very poor… if only Aladdin 

could make his fortune then all their wishes 

could be granted! 

ENTERTAINMENT 

Newark Palace Theatre 

Starring the enormously-talented Hayley 

Tamaddon (Dancing On Ice champion and star of 

Emmerdale and Coronation Street) as the feisty 

Princess Jasmine and featuring the return of 

beloved double-act dame Tim Freeman and comic 

Kevin McGreevy, this terrific tale is sure to be a 

treat for all the family. 

Don’t miss out, book now by calling 01636 655755 or visiting www.palacenewark.com 


21

AN AUDIENCE WITH 

FATHER 

CHRISTMAS 

L I N C O L N C A S T L E & G A I N S B O R O U G H O L D H A L L 

Sit back and listen to stories of Christmases from the 

past and enjoy finding out more about the man himself! 

Saturday 15 th & Sunday 16 th Dec 

Thursday 20 th – Sunday 23 rd Dec 

Every child will receive a Victorian style gift 

and have the opportunity to share their 

Christmas wishes. Please book in advance. 

Audiences last between 30 and 40 minutes. 

Tickets: £8 per child, £6 per adult 

Saturday 15 th & Sunday 16 th Dec 

From 11am until 3.30pm 

Experience the magic of Christmas at 

Lincoln Castle by joining Father Christmas 

in a cosy Victorian setting. Audiences last 

between 30 and 40 minutes. 

Normal Admission Applies. 

Victorian 

Christmas 

T E A R O O M 

7 th to 9 th December from 10am to 3.45pm 

Just Pop In - Free Admission. 

Take the weight off your feet and join us in our 

Victorian Christmas Tearoom for a warm and restful 

refreshment stop. With delicious cakes, traybakes and 

hot drinks, relax and soak up the Victorian atmosphere.

DAYS OUT 

Lincolnshire Heritage 

christmas events for the whole family... 

From a brand new event to some old favourites, Lincolnshire’s heritage 

attractions have something for everyone this festive season. 

Running from 15-22 December, the Lincoln 

Castle Christmas Emporium is the ideal way 

to kick-off your yuletide celebrations. 

A spectacular Victorian-inspired light show will 

form the centrepiece of this new Christmas 

experience, complemented by stalls offering 

unique arts, crafts, gifts and locally-sourced 

food and drink, including a cosy tipi bar. 

Castle manager Kimberley Vickers said: 

“What better place to celebrate the magic of 

Christmas with your family and friends than 

historic Lincoln Castle? 

“The breath-taking light show will be repeated 

throughout the evening, and Santa himself will 

be here and is looking forward to hearing your 

Christmas wishes. 

“You can also enjoy the spectacular evening 

views from our Medieval Wall Walk, along with 

great food and drink and Christmas cheer. 

“It’s the perfect festive treat for all the family. 

Don’t miss out!” 

Tickets for the Christmas Emporium cost £7.50 

for adults, £6.50 for concessions and £5 for 

children. Family tickets are available for £20, 

while annual pass holders can get in free. 

And each ticket holder can visit the event as 

many times as they like over the eight days. 

The castle will also be hosting an Audience 

with Father Christmas on 15,16, 20, 21, 22 

and 23 December. 

But that’s not the only festive treat the castle has 

to offer. 

If ever a story was to get you in the mood for 

Christmas, then it has to be Charles Dickens’ 

much-loved classic A Christmas Carol. 

2018 marks the 175th anniversary of this enduring 

traditional tale, and, to celebrate, a first edition of 

this most iconic Christmas work will be on display 

at Lincoln Castle, kindly loaned by The British 

Library. 

For more on all Lincoln Castle has to offer, and to 

book your tickets, visit www.lincolncastle.com 

The council’s other heritage sites will also be 

getting in the Christmas spirit with special events 

across the festive season. 

Gainsborough Old Hall’s ever-popular Victorian 

Christmas Craft Fair returns on 24 and 25 

November, followed by An Audience with Father 

Christmas on 15 and 16 December. 

On 7-9 December, the Museum of Lincolnshire 

Life will be offering a Victorian Tearoom 

experience, the perfect way to relax after a visit to 

Lincoln Christmas Market. 

And visitors to The Collection will be able to enjoy 

a Christmas-themed museum quest and holiday 

craft activities throughout the festive period. 

You can find further details online via 

www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/heritage 

With so much on offer, it’s never been easier to 

make your Christmas historic! 


25

Taste our 

delicious 

food menu, 

with breakfast baps, 

Belgian waffles, 

pancakes, soups 

jacket potatoes, 

ice cream sundaes 

and more! 

Nov-Feb 

Open 10-5 

Tue-Sun 

Closed 

Mondays 

Farm-themed 

Crazy Daisy Golf 

Come 

& meet our 

animals in the 

paddock 

Children’s play area 

Tel: 01522 693757 

Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, 

Lincoln LN6 5SA 

FREE 

PARKING 

FREE ENTRY 

www.daisymadefarm.co.uk 

Seated café 

serving hot 

drinks and 

cakes

Welcome to Fiingham 

Christmas Trs... 

William and Alfred Rose have been growing 

Christmas Trees at Fillingham for over 30 

years and have built up a wealth of experience 

which enables them to consistently produce 

the finest top quality trees. 

No festive home would be complete without the 

scented charm of a real Christmas tree so head to 

Fillingham Christmas Trees to select a premium 

centrepiece grown on the farm. 

Ample free parking is available and our friendly 

team of elves will help you to choose your tree and 

carry it to your car. 

When your perfect tree is safely ‘parked’ for 

collection, you can browse our selection of gifts, 

lights and decorations, say hello to our donkey 

or just relax with a drink, bacon butty or piece of 

cake in our Grotto Café. As usual, there will be an 

entertainer to amaze you with magic and balloon 

modelling not forgetting Thomas the Tank Engine, 

see if you can spot him. 

Santa will be in his grotto on 1st, 2nd and 8th, 9th 

December from 10am to 4pm Cost £5 to include a 

gift of Santa’s choice. 

We support a number of Charities and this year 

we have chosen to take part in The Alzheimer’s 

Society ‘Elf Day’ on 7th December – join us if 

you can. 

There will be a street organ, to get you in the 

festive spirit, on Saturday 8th and Saturday 

15th December from 9am. 

Loads of fun for all the family. 

DAYS OUT 

Fillingham Trees 

For more information and news of special 

events visit www.fillingham-trees.co.uk 

or follow us on Facebook 

Available 

28th Nov 

to 19th Dec 

daily 

Christmas 

shop open 

9am-6pm 

Castle Farm, Fillingham, 

Gainsborough DN21 5BX 

For all your 

fresh Christmas Trees! 

DON’T MISS 

Father Christmas 

in his grotto 

DECEMBER 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th 

£5.00 

including 

a gift 

• Undercover Christmas shop 

with a huge range of decorations 

• Cafe serving hot & cold refreshments 

Visit our Christmas 

decorations outlet for 

bargains galore & browse 

our shopping area. 

Tel: 01427 667014 

www.fillingham-trees.co.uk 

Festive fun 

for the whole 

family! 

Enjoy fun & magic with our visiting entertainers, 

Bruno the donkey and much more 


27

DAYS OUT 

Lincoln BIG 

sparkling festive fun for the whole family... 

It’s time to wrap-up warm and start looking forward to a 

fabulous, action-packed Christmas-time in Lincoln. 

Lincoln BIG Events & Promotions Manager 

Michael Armstrong said: “We’ve got all the 

essential ingredients from twinkling lights to 

decorated trees, pantomime characters, fourfooted 

visitors, a Scandinavian-style bar, late 

night shopping and much more!” 

And we’re not waiting until December to get 

cracking! By the time you read this the city will 

have already welcomed the return of Thor’s 

Tipi Bar to The Cornhill (on November 9) so 

why no drop-in with the family and warm-up 

with a delicious hot chocolate. 

Thor’s, which is accompanied by The Cheese 

Cave (which will serve up tasty grilled cheese 

sandwiches) this year, will stay in place until 

December 31 – so there will be plenty of time 

for more than one visit! 

On November 23, Lincoln promises to dazzle 

families and visitors with no less than three 

exciting Christmas Lights Switch-On 

ceremonies, and there will be entertainment too. 

The lights will go on at St Mark’s Shopping 

Centre at 6pm, in the High Street at 7pm and in 

the Waterside Shopping Centre at 7.45pm. See 

www.visitlincoln.com/what’s-on/christmaslights-switch-on-2018 

for more information 

and important details of how to park for FREE. 

On Thursday, November 29, Reindeer from 

the Cairngorms are coming to the city to meet 

families and take part in a display and parade. 

28 

Winter 2018

The reindeer are always a hot favourite with 

children and adults alike, so don’t miss out! 

“Other animals closely linked to the Christmas 

Story also have Lincoln in their sights. On 

December 13 three magnificent camels 

will lead the much-loved annual children’s 

Lantern Parade, which will wend its way from 

City Square up to Castle Hill, starting at 5pm. 

Everyone is invited to enjoy a Carol Service 

when the parade arrives at its destination,” 

said Mr Armstrong. 

Once again, the World-famous Lincoln 

Christmas Market (Dec 6 to 9) is set to 

deliver an unmissable and magical experience 

for new and returning visitors from at home 

and overseas and there will be other markets 

to enjoy in the city too. 

Finally, it wouldn’t be Christmas without 

another essential feature of the festive and 

New Year season - the traditional pantomimes 

and shows. 

This year’s selection includes Peter Pan at 

Lincoln Drill Hall (Dec 6 to Jan 5) and Snow 

White and the Seven Dwarfs at Lincoln’s New 

Theatre Royal (Dec 4 to Jan 6). 

The Lincoln Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) 

is also staging Rapunzel (Dec 12 to 24) and 

Penguins! Penguins! Penguins! (Dec 17 to 31). 

Lincoln’s unique blend of historic and modern 

attractions provide the perfect backdrop for a 

brilliant mix of festive fun and great shopping 

too, because our amazing selection of national 

retailers and quirky independent shops also 

make it easy to track down that special gift. 


29

the secret’s out!... 

If you haven’t been to Meat Inc., you 

really should give it a try! If you’re a 

regular then you don’t need telling 

about Lincolnshire’s best kept 

comfort food secret! 

HOBBIES & ACTIVITIES 

Meat Inc. 

Meat Inc. is independent and locally owned and 

is a modern day twist on the classic American 

Diner. Situated on Caenby Corner roundabout 

and open seven days a week from 8:30am, you 

can always be assured of a friendly 

welcome, relaxing surroundings, 

great food and ample free parking 

and free guest Wi-Fi. 

Whether you’re after pancakes, 

fresh waffles, or mouth-watering 

freshly pressed burgers, washed 

down with a creamy Biscoff 

milkshake, then this should be 

your go to place. 

Having opened in early September 2016, Meat 

Inc. has a strong local following and really does 

cater for everyone. Whether you be visiting 

alone, with family, or looking for somewhere to 

have a meeting with a fellow foodie. 

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the great 

offers, such as kids eat for £1.99, a free burger 

on your Birthday, or the Armed Forces and 

Bluelight card holder deal. And don’t forget to 

pick up a loyalty card! 

Meat Inc. is also a member of ‘Carbon Free 

Dining’ which is a first for Lincolnshire. So not 

only is the food great but their heart is in the 

right place too. 

Check them out on Facebook, Instagram and 

Twitter, or simply visit the website at 

www.meatinc.co.uk to make a reservation. 

For telephone reservations call 01673 878176. 

For all you impulsive people out there, you could 

just jump in the car, type LN8 2AR into the Sat 

Nav and you’re away. Happy Eating! 

Find us at Caenby Corner, Lincoln LN8 2AR T: 01673 878176 www.meatinc.co.uk 


31


Scaman’s Eggs 

Hello everyone, I’m so excited 

to be joining Mollie’s Guide. My 

family and I have been longtime 

readers of this magazine 

and I’m delighted to be sharing 

all things food, nutrition, and 

crafts - particularly eggs! 

Encouraging families, especially 

children, to eat more eggs is 

something I’m incredibly passionate 

about. Eggs are so rich in protein, 

which not only makes them ideal 

for exercise, but also to help active 

kids grow big and strong, too. 

And, there’s lots of fun to be 

had at craft time with eggs and 

their boxes! Dig out your paints, 

scissors and glitter, and use your 

imagination to create a whole world 

from decorated egg boxes. 

Now winter is upon us, we have 

ideas for a messy Christmas 

dessert that the kids can help to 

make, and a super easy craft that 

will feed the birds in your garden 

throughout the colder months. 

cracking christmas fun! 

CHRISTMAS MESS 

This festive take on the classic summer recipe of Eton Mess 

is a great way to get the children involved with Christmas 

dinner. Using fresh free-range eggs, you can make 

meringues to mix with lashings of whipped cream and 

seasonal fruit and berries for a luxurious but fun dessert. 

For the meringue 

3 large Scaman’s egg whites 

175g caster sugar 

½ tsp vanilla extract 

INGREDIENTS... 

For the Christmas Mess 

600ml double cream 

400g Greek yoghurt 

Punnets of mixed fruits 

and berries, frozen 

4 tbsp icing sugar 

1 pinch of cinnamon 

Start with the meringue. Preheat the 

oven to 140°C (or fan 120°C) and line a baking tray 

with baking paper. In a large bowl, whisk the egg 

whites until they form soft peaks, and then gradually 

add the caster sugar. You should add a table spoon 

at a time until the mixture forms stiff peaks and has a 

glossy texture. Remember the bowl-above-your-head 

test! Whisk in the vanilla extract. 

Use a metal spoon to place dollops of the meringue 

mixture on the baking tray, leaving space in between. 

32 

Winter 2018

BIRD FEEDER 

Winter can be a tough time for birds as they look 

for shelter and forage for food. So, give them a 

helping hand with a homemade bird feeder. 

YOU WILL NEED... 

An empty egg box 

String 

Paints or craft supplies 

Scissors 

Glue 

Garden string 

First, carefully cut the lid from the egg box, you will only need to use 

the bottom half. Remember to recycle! 

Then, get creative. Use paints, glitter, whatever you like to decorate your bird feeder. 

Once your egg box is dry, put small holes in the four corners. Cut two pieces of string to 

the same length, round about 30cm, and feed them diagonally through the holes. Tie a 

small knot in the ends of the string and add a little glue to secure them. 

Fill your egg box with bird seed and find a quiet, sheltered spot to hang your new feeder. 

If you like a soft, mallowy texture, bake your 

meringues for 75 minutes. Then, you can transfer 

your meringues to a wire rack to cool. However, 

if you like crispy meringues, bake for 1 and a half 

hours and leave them in the oven, which should now 

be turned-off, for a few hours. 

When you’re happy with your meringues, it’s time 

to get messy. Gently heat your frozen fruits in a 

saucepan over the hob with the icing sugar and 

cinnamon until all the sugar has dissolved. Leave 

this to cool. 

In a bowl, whip the double cream and Greek yoghurt 

until it’s well combined and starting to hold its shape. 

Break up half of your meringue dollops and add it to 

the cream mixture. 

In your serving glasses, or a trifle bowl, add some 

more of the crushed meringue, then spoon over some 

of the cream, followed by the cooled fruits. Repeat 

again until you have a layered Christmas Mess 

topped with any remaining berries and meringue. 

Simone, the Egg Lady, lives in Little 

Grimsby, near Louth, with her husband 

Neil, and two children Lotte (11) and 

Phoenix (5). 

You can follow Scamans Eggs on: 

Twitter: @scamanseggs 

Facebook: Scamans Eggs 

Instagram: scamanseggs 

Web: www.scamanseggs.co.uk 


33


The Natural World Centre 

lots to explore and experience... 

Situated within Whisby Nature Park, The Natural World 

Centre is just five miles from Lincoln City centre. 

Whisby Nature Park is managed by Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust 

and offers over six miles of all ability footpaths, ideal for a 

relaxing day out or a bit of wildlife watching. 

At the Natural World Centre, you’ll find a great bistro serving hot 

and cold snacks, meals and treats from locally sourced produce 

as well as a fantastically stocked shop featuring local artists and 

crafters from across Lincolnshire. 

Release your inner explorer at Little Darter’s Wildlife Adventure! 

Packed full of exciting tunnels, exploration towers and pits; 

you can watch wildlife in action, dig for fossils or discover what 

lives underground in the cave! Older kids can try their hand at 

the mini assault course which features a ramp and rope ascent, 

balance rope traverse and climbing net. 

Stay and play whatever the weather and enjoy Otter’s Reach 

Indoor Adventure! An educational resource for younger 

visitors aged 3 and upwards to a height of 1.3m. Explore and 

experience the park’s history through imaginative play including 

a gravel plant with hands on features, bulrush stilt posts, 

spider’s web climb, raptors’ nest and more! 

Centre Opening hours: 9.30am-4.30pm daily 

(closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) 

Bistro Opening: 9.30am-4pm (hot food served until 3pm) 

Admission: Free. Car Parking: 1st November–31st March £1 all day 

What’s new to the 

Natural World Centre 

at Whisby Nature Park... 

OTTER’S REACH 

INDOOR 

ADVENTURE AND 

OTTER’S CAFE! 

Experience Whisby Nature Park like 

never before with fun interactive play 

for little ones aged 3 years and above* 

Open October – 31st March 9.30am-4.30pm 

DON’T FORGET... 

Little Darters Wildlife 

Adventure Area too! 

*Height restriction 1.3m 

Whisby Nature Park, 

Moor Lane, Thorpe on 

the Hill, LN6 9BW 

T: 01522 688868 E: naturalworld@lincsinspire.com 

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk 

34 

Winter 2018

are you looking for a 

performing arts academy 

with a difference? ... 

PQA Lincoln provides a unique opportunity 

for children and young adults from 4 

– 18 years to receive quality training in 

performing arts, covering Drama & Comedy, 

Musical Theatre and Film & Television. 

Operating from The Knight’s Building, Lincoln 

College on Saturday mornings, the Academy offers 

training that covers all aspects of performing arts and 

teaches skills involved in acting for stage and screen, 

filmmaking and the elements of musical theatre. 4 

– 5 year olds have their own exciting programme of 

themed classes. 

Part of a successful organisation established by 

actress Pauline Quirke over ten years ago, PQA is 

not a franchise but benefits from being part of a 

professional network that offers exciting opportunities 

including West End and regional performances, 

regional and national film festivals, exciting 

competitions and its own venue at the Edinburgh 

Fringe Festival. PQA also has its own online TV 

channel and a full-time academy for students ready to 

take the next step within the industry. 


PQA Lincoln 

Principal Hayley said, “I was drawn to be PQA 

because of the ethos that recognises every child’s 

individuality. And, because of its unique model, 

we can offer so much to our students. With three 

separate modules, Trinity exams, master classes, 

performances and film projects – there is always 

so much going on. This gives every young person 

a huge amount of opportunity to develop skills, 

contribute ideas and grow, in their own way and 

at their own pace”. 

To book your FREE TASTER SESSION 

E: hayley.wensley@pqacademy.com 

or call freephone 0800 5316282 


35


RSPB 

count the wildlife that’s 

counting on you... 

PHOTO: Ben Hall (rspb-images.com) 

the RSPB 40th big 

garden birdwatch 

PHOTO: Rahul Thanki 

(rspb-images.com) 

It’s time to fill up your feeders and 

get ready for the RSPB’s 40th Big 

Garden Birdwatch. 

Last year, over 9,000 people in Lincolnshire 

(and almost 500,000 people nationally) 

took part in the world’s largest garden 

wildlife survey. This January we are calling 

on your help again, to count the wildlife 

that’s counting on you. 

All you need to do is sit down for an hour 

with a cup of tea and a slice of cake, and 

watch and record the birds that visit your 

garden or local green space over the 26 

- 28 January 2019. 

By collecting this data year-on-year, with 

your help, we can monitor the long-term 

trends of different species: both the highs 

and the lows! From this, we can work out 

what we need to do to help. 

All of the data you send in from your Big 

Garden Birdwatch is really important for 

building a picture of wildlife in gardens 

throughout the UK, including Lincolnshire. 

PHOTO: Eleanor Bentall 


For your free Big Garden Birdwatch pack, 

advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden, 

36 

Winter 2018

Dry biscuits – birds may choke on the hard lumps. 

DO FEED YOUR GARDEN BIRDS: 

Mealworms - dried or alive, both are 

enjoyed by insect-eaters like robins, 

starlings and others. 

Sunflower seeds – these are full of 

beneficial oil and protein. Sunflower hearts 

(seeds with the husks removed) are less 

messy and give quick access to the food 

for birds adapted to seed-eating like blue 

tits, siskins and house sparrows. 

Leftovers - Chopped pears and apple 

feeders will feed blackbirds, song thrushes, 

and maybe redwings and fieldfares. 

Cooked potatoes and pastry, suet, 

chopped (unsalted) bacon and cheese are 

also bird-friendly foods. 

Peanuts - a bird superfood: full of 

energy. If you’re lucky you may even see 

nuthatches stealing them and burying 

these snacks in your flowerbed for later. 

Bird cakes and food bars – fat balls 

and suet bars are excellent winter foods, 

perfect for building up fat reserves and 

keeping birds warm, whether you buy 

some or make your own. 

PHOTO: Blue Tit 

and Great tit, 

Nigel Blake 


DON’T FEED YOUR GARDEN BIRDS: 

PHOTO: Great Tit on coconut feeder, 

Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com) 

PHOTO: Robin, Andy Hay 


Cooking fat – cooked fat from Sunday roasts and 

Christmas dinners merges with meat juices during 

cooking. This combination can stick to bird’s 

feathers and stop them being waterproof. 

Desiccated coconut – this swells up inside birds 

and makes them very unwell. 

Milk – bird’s guts aren’t designed to digest milk 

and can result in serious stomach upsets. 

Cooked porridge oats – these stick around their 

bills, although uncooked oats are fine. 

Salt – garden birds are practically unable to 

metabolise salt. It is toxic to them in high quantities 

which includes a bird identification chart, plus RSPB shop voucher and 

text BIRD to 70030 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch 


37

NEWS 

Fieldview Cavy Rescue 

have yourself a guinea piggy christmas... 

We’re all familiar with the phrase 

‘a dog is for life, not just Christmas’ 

and this should ring true for any 

furry or feathered friends we might 

be considering offering a new home. 

Owning any pet is a large undertaking, but 

can bring great joy and companionship and 

is also a great way to give youngsters a first 

taste of responsibility. 

So if you are thinking about introducing a 

new member of the family and are certain it’s 

the right thing for you, why not consider a 

guinea pig as a possible option? 

It needn’t cost the earth and a local rescue 

centre could be the perfect port of call for all 

your guinea pig needs and info. 

Fieldview Cavy Rescue, not far from Retford 

and Gainsborough, was established in 2014 

after Kathryn Mangles got the idea when she 

looked after her friends’ guinea pigs for the 

first time. 

From housing just a few animals at the 

beginning, Kathryn’s rescue centre has 

grown substantially over the past four years, 

and says that guinea pigs can be highly 

rewarding and loveable members of the 

family. 

“I think guinea pigs make fabulous pets 

as they are very interactive, have amazing 

individual personalities and can be kept 

indoors or outdoors,” said Kathryn. 

“I’m currently housing between 60 

and 70 but have had as many as 

127 in the past. 

“Before committing to guinea 

pigs as pets you must take into 

account they are naturally herd 

animals, so do prefer to live in pairs 

or groups. 

Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com 

38 

Winter 2018

“You must commit to daily care come rain or 

shine and source a good local business where 

you can get a good food, hay and bedding 

choice. 

“They need regular nail trimming and mite 

prevention treatment. An appropriate cage 

size should also be researched if you’ll be 

having more than one living together.” 

Kathryn lives at the rescue centre with her 

partner of 18 years and eight-year-old son and 

in addition to the guinea pigs owns a variety of 

aviary birds, a Shih Tzu, a rescue cat, goldfish 

and stick insects. 

“My piggies are my passion, they are amazing 

little animals that are so characterful and 

intelligent, especially when they greet you 

with a loud ‘wheek!’ every time you appear,” 

added Kathryn. 

Laura Wood from Bracebridge Heath near 

Lincoln has three guinea pigs which all came 

from Fieldview, the imaginatively named 

Forest, Ren and Baz. 

She said she’d never go anywhere else for her 

guinea pigs in the future. 

“They’re lovely little animals and really quite 

cute – I didn’t realise they made such a variety 

of different noises until I owned them myself,” 

said Laura. 

“Fieldview is great because Kathryn can give 

you a lot of advice and guidance on how to 

take care of them and always looks after her 

guinea pigs extremely well. 

“If you’re thinking 

of rehoming a 

guinea pig then 

look no further 

than Fieldview 

– you really can’t go 

wrong.” 

“I was so impressed with the 

rescue centre when we went to 

collect them, it is very clean and 

all the animals seem happy. 

Dad of two Jonathan Fitzgerald, an 

Environment Agency worker who also lives in 

Bracebridge Heath, agrees that guinea pigs 

can make perfect pets. 

“We’d had a few hamsters before but the 

children mentioned guineas, so we decided 

to go for it around 18 months ago – and we 

haven’t looked back,” said Jonathan. 

“As well as being incredible pets for teaching 

William (nine) and Emily (seven) about caring 

for animals, we’ve also found them to be 

fantastic fun and therapeutic for mum and 

dad too. 

“Our piggies have their own brilliant 

personalities and if you’re prepared to do 

some research on how best to look after 

them, you’ll find them so rewarding. 

“You won’t believe the excited ‘wheek!’ when 

you rustle food bag. They’re a lovely part of 

our family now.” 

If you’re thinking of 

rehoming a guinea pig, 

contact Kathryn on 

07760 884099 or email 

kathryn481@btinternet. 

com. 

Alternatively search for 

‘Fieldview Cavy Rescue’ on Facebook. 

The rescue centre is open Monday to Fridays 

from 10am to 2.30pm on an appointment 

basis and 10am to 4pm at weekends. 

For more information 

T: 07760 884099 

E: kathryn481@btinternet.com 

Facebook: Fieldview Cavy Rescue 

www.guinealynx.info 


39


Passion 2 Dance 

get little ft inspired... 

A recognized CDMT dance school with classes following 

the British Ballet Organisation syllabus for Ballet, Tap 

and Jazz and Association Board of Dance for Street, 

Commercial, Lyrical, Acro and Cheerleading. 

Children can take both internal and external graded exams and have 

the opportunity to take part in our annual dance show and events. 

Come along as the FIRST CLASS IS FREE. 

Lincolnshire’s first dance school to become an AcroPAD recognised 

centre – incorporating AcroPAD equipment into our classes. 

• Childrens Dance Classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, 

Commercial, Street, Lyrical, Acro and Cheer Dance 

• Mummy and Me Classes starting from 18months 

• AcroPAD equipment in our classes! 

• Holiday workshops and special events 

• Annual Dance Show 

• Opportunity to take part in recognised exams 

• Onsite Dancewear Boutique 

• 2 purpose built dance studios 

• Café/Lounge and Free Onsite Car Park 

any purchase from our instore dancewear 

and accessory boutique* 

Passion2Dance Studios - 6 Farrier Road, Lincoln LN6 3RU T: 01522 691292 

E: info@passion2dance.co.uk www.passion2dance.co.uk 

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/passion2dance.co.uk 

40 

Winter 2018

WHAT’S ON 

Family fun & events 

Shutterstock.com/ Pressmaster 

Monday 19th November 

Messy Mornings 

10.30am-11.30am 

Enjoy the creativity of messy 

play with your child without 

the mess in your home! For 

babies, toddlers and pre school 

children. No booking required 

just show up and have fun! 

Lincoln Central Library, Lincoln 

www.better.org.uk/library/ 

lincolnshire/lincolncentrallibrary 

Thursday 22nd November 

Take Part in Toddler Art 

10.30am-12pm 

Everyone is an artist – and 

especially toddlers! Fun arty 

sessions experimenting with 

different age appropriate media 

whilst making lots of art and 

having lots of fun! Sessions led 

by Take Part in Art. Suitable for 

children aged 3 to 5 years. £4 

per child. Booking and prepayment 

required. 

Natural World Centre, Lincoln 

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk 

Friday 23rd November 

Lincoln Christmas Lights 

Switch On 4:45pm-7:30pm 

Enjoy an evening of full 

entertainment as the Mayor of 

Lincoln, Councillor Keith Weaver, 

switch on Lincoln’s Christmas 

Lights, accompanied by X Factor 

and West End Star, Amelia 

Lilly, Blue Peter Presenter, 

Barney Harwood and CBBC’s 

Chris Johnson; all of whom are 

appearing in the New Theatre 

Royal’s Pantomime, Snow White 

and the Seven Dwarfs. Christmas 

Carols provided by the Salvation 

Army Band, entertainment from 

clowns, jugglers and dancers, 

with fairground rides and hot 

food. The main switch-on takes 

place at the War Memorial, 

High Street, with entertainment 

also provided on City Square. 

Entertainment starts at 4.45pm 

and the Mayor and guests will 

switch the lights on at 7.20pm. 

War Memorial, High Street, 

Lincoln, LN5 7AU 

www.visitlincoln.com 

Saturday 24th November 

Lego Afternoon 1.30pm 

Fun & family Lego drop-in 

session. Refreshments available. 

Suitable for all ages, children 

under 7 to be accompanied by 

an adult. £1 per family. 

T: 01777 860414 

E: chris@retfordhub.uk 

facebook.com/events/ 

507726053083247 

Sat 24th-Sun 25th 

November 

Christmas Craft Fair 

10am-4pm 

A great opportunity to find 

unique and special gifts and 

treat for Christmas. With over 

40 hand-picked crafters within 

the Hall in almost every room. 

Entry £2. 

Gainsborough Old Hall, Parnell 

St, Gainsborough, DN21 2NB 

T: 01522 782040 

www.gainsborougholdhall.com 


41


-Monday 24th December 

White Post Christmas Experience 

10am-5pm 

I’m dreaming of a White...Post Christmas... 

It’s back! Our Christmas festivities begin on 

Saturday 24th November and run every day 

until Christmas Eve. Our White Post Christmas 

will keep you extra busy this winter, as well 

as getting you in the festive spirit! Head along 

to our Christmas barn where you can explore 

the Winter Wonderland Walkthrough, build a 

snowman, do some Christmas Crafts and, of 

course, meet Santa in his grotto. Make sure you 

save time to take part in our traditional nativity 

play (daily at 1pm), & meet our real life reindeer! 

Plus all our usual farmyard fun; why not feed 

the fa la la llamas? Or check out the mistletoads 

in the Reptile House? Or go and wish our 

cows a Moooory Christmas? So much to do! At 

weekends, two of our cheekiest elves – Elf Ant 

& Elf George – will put you through your paces 

at the very popular Elf Academy! Complete 

challenges, pass basic elf & safety and get put to 

the test – have you got what it takes? So much 

to look forward to, all for normal admission price. 

White Post Farm, Farnsfield, NG22 8HL 

T: 01623 882977 

www.whitepostfarm.co.uk 

Sat 24th-Sun 25th November 

The Coca Cola Truck Visits 

Gainsborough 12pm-8pm & 10am-6pm 

The Coca Cola Christmas Truck is returning 

to Gainsborough on the 24th November from 

12pm-8pm and 25th November from 10am-6pm. 

As well as getting to see the truck we will have 

festive fairground rides, live music, food & craft 

stalls. Holidays are coming to Gainsborough... 

Marshalls Yard, Gainsborough 

www.marshallsyard.co.uk 


-Sunday 9th December 

It’s beginning to look a lot like 

Christmas at Gunby 1pm-5.30pm 

Join us for Gunby’s annual Christmas openings. 

This year’s theme is ‘A Musical Christmas’, so 

you’re in for a festive treat for your eyes as well 

as your ears. Enjoy seeing the house sparkle with 

decorations, sing along to the festive music and 

tuck into a lovely mince pie in the tea-room. 

Normal admission charges apply, free for 

National Trust members and under 5s. 

Gunby Estate Hall and Gardens 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gunby-estate-halland-gardens 

42 

Winter 2018


-Sunday 23rd December 

Our Real Christmas 

Experience 10am-4.30pm 

The Real Christmas Experience 

at Rand Farm Park is an 

immersive Christmas journey 

through our extensively themed 

zones. Decorate gingerbread 

with Mrs Claus, visit Santa in his 

home in the forest, meet Rudi 

& Rossi Reindeer. Learn to be 

a real Elf in Elf Academy before 

meeting Santa himself and 

choosing a toy from his magical 

toyshop! New for this year; 

enrol at Santa’s music school! 

All activities as well as our 

year round favourites such as 

animal handling, bottle feeding 

and much more included in the 

admission price. It promises to 

be the best Christmas ever! 

www.randfarmpark.com 

Sunday 25th November 

Elf Workshop 2pm-3pm 

Please join us for our magical 

Christmas workshop. We’ll be 

making our very own super soft 

and cute 8” Elf to take home, 

decorating a wooden Elf door 

for them and mixing up some 

sparkly Elf dust to sprinkle at 

home. There’ll also be some 

festive colouring to do, not to 

mention a drink of juice and a 

cake from the café to indulge in. 

(The cakes are delicious if you 

also fancy indulging in something 

gooey with a hot drink yourself.) 

The workshop costs £18 and 

includes a drink of juice and 

a cake from the café - sibling 

discount is also available. 

Activities are ideally suited 

for children aged 4+ to do 

independently but younger 

children are welcome to come 

along and take part, they’ll just 

need more adult assistance. 

Torworth Grange Farm Shop 

and Café, Retford 

T 07932 725071 

E: jo@artventurers.co.uk 

www.artventurers.co.uk/ 

lincolnwest 

Sunday 25th November, 

Sun 9th & Mon 24th Dec 

Breakfast with Santa 8-5pm 

Join Santa and his elves for 

a yummy bespoke breakfast 

experience, heaps of fun and 

if you’ve been good all year a 

special gift to take home! PLUS 

exclusive entry to Twinlakes 

Winter Wonderland. See 

website for full details. 

Melton Mowbray, LE14 4SB 

www.twinlakespark.co.uk 

Tuesday 27th November 

The Torchlight Procession 

7.30pm 

This is one of the most 

meaningful & poignant events in 

the St Barnabas calendar. This 

unique & iconic celebration is 

an opportunity for families and 

friends to join us in remembering 

the people that we love. The 

procession commences at 

Clayton’s Sports Ground, 

we then follow the pipe band 

past the Hospice and on to 

the West Front of Lincoln 

Cathedral, where the Tree of 

Life will be illuminated for the 

whole community to see. This 

is followed by refreshments in 

Castle Square. 

Claytons Sports Ground, 

Lee Road, Lincoln, LN2 4BH 

www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk 

Thursday 29th November 

Reindeer Parade 2pm-8pm 

Shutterstock.com/MaszaS 

A parade of festive reindeer 

led by Santa Claus and his 

sleigh from St Marks Shopping 

Centre to rest in the Lincoln 

City Square. 

Where would Santa be without 

his faithful reindeer? During the 

Reindeer Parade, Santa rides 

his sleigh through the city pulled 

by real reindeer. The Reindeer 

Parade takes place after a 

display in the afternoon, starting 

at St Marks Shopping Centre, 

making its way across the High 

Street, and finishing at Lincoln 

City Square. 

Follow the parade or watch 

as it passes by and get your 

photo taken with the reindeer 

and Santa at the post-parade 

display on City Square from 

2pm-4pm, Father Christmas 

will also be in attendance to 

meet children and introduce 

them to the animals. 

The parade starts at 6pm at 

St. Marks Shopping Centre, 

finishing at City Square for a 

final display. You’ll also have 

a chance to meet Santa, and 

let him know what’s on your 

Christmas list this year. 

St Mark’s Square, Lincoln, 

LN5 7EX 

www.visitlincoln.com 


43

Schools do not hold eye tests 

What they see 

WE HAVE FREE 

CAR PARKING 

What you see 

Make sure your 

child’s eyes are ok 

At Clear View Opticians we welcome children 

of any age. Don’t wait until it’s too late. 

Book your child in now - it’s free! 

Private & NHS eye tests • Contact lens trials & aftercare 

169 Burton Road, 

Lincoln LN1 3LW 

01522 542121 

www.clearviewopticians.co.uk 

Thur 29th Nov-Saturday 1st Dec 

Elf the Musical JR time varies 

Join us for our first full production of this academic 

year. This is a show not to be missed. Buddy, a 

young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag 

of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The 

would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually 

a human, until his enormous size and poor toymaking 

abilities cause him to face the truth. With 

Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey 

to New York City to find his birth father and 

discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh 

reality that his father is on the naughty list and 

that his stepbrother doesn’t even believe in Santa, 

Buddy is determined to win over his new family 

and help New York remember the true meaning of 

Christmas. Adults £11, Concessions £10, Family 

Ticket £38. 

Blackfriars Theatre Academy 

www.blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk 

Saturday 1st December 

Wassailing Adventure 11am, 1pm & 2.15pm 

Wrap up warm and join Rusticus Theatre on a 

Christmas Adventure through the woods. An 

imaginative romp through a world of wassailing 

fun as we celebrate some of our ancient seasonal 

traditions in the great outdoors! The event is led 

by two red-cheeked, woollen-clad singers who 

will take the group on a wassail into Skipton 

Castle Woods. But Christmas magic is in the air 

as the groups’ singing conjures up some magical 

characters with their own ideas about Christmas 

in Skipton Castle Woods. Book in advance. £7 

per adult, £5 per child. Under 2 year olds go free. 

Meet at the main gate. 

Skipton Castle Woods 

www.woodlandtrusttickets.cloudvenue.co.uk/ 

christmas 

Saturday 1st-Sunday 2nd December 

Santa Paws 10am-4pm 

A perfect opportunity for your dog to get to meet 

Santa Paws and all his helpful elves! Taking place 

at our Dog Adventure Paddocks. Father Christmas 

will be available on both days and with the chance 

to have your photo taken also! We will have a 

Dog Themed Christmas Market, Refreshments, 

Father Christmas and his Elves plus all dogs can 

have a play in our Dog Adventure Paddocks! The 

Dog Adventure Shop will also be there for any 

Christmas Purchases! Tickets can be bought 

online via our website. If you would like a trade 

stand at our Santa Paws event please get in touch 

T: 01522 402993 / E: info@dogadventures.co.uk 

Lincoln Drill Hall, Freeschool Lane, 

Lincoln, LN2 1EY 

www.dogadventures.co.uk 

44 

Winter 2018

Saturday 1st-Sunday 2nd December 

Children’s Craft Weekend 10am-3pm 

Come along and make a Christmas card, 

then post it in the oldest working post-box in 

Lincolnshire. £3 per child. The £3 fee covers all the 

materials used including a stamp and envelope. 

The Museum of Lincolnshire Life, Lincoln 

www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/heritage-and-tourism/ 

museum-of-lincolnshire-life 

Saturday 1st-Friday 21st December 

Christmas Present Trails 12pm-4pm 

Help Molly the Mill Mouse, Dora the Duck and 

Charlie the Crane find their lost presents. Each 

venue has its own family trail - so explore these 

fascinating places looking for clues before 

claiming your own Christmas gift. 50p per trail. 

Cogglesford Watermill 

http://community.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ 

CogglesfordWatermill 

Saturday 1st-Monday 24th December 

Santa’s Grotto 11am-5pm 

Lincoln city centre’s only Santa’s Grotto returns! 

Santa’s new home will be located on the lower 

mall, open daily until Christmas Eve, when Father 

Christmas has to leave us at 3pm to take care of 

some very important business. Meet Santa and 

receive a gift for £6. 

Waterside Centre, Lincoln 

www.watersideshopping.com 

Winter fun 

on the farm... 

• Fully heated indoor 

play barn 

• Outdoor play areas 

• Tractor & trailer rides 

• Keith’s Krazy Karts 

• Farmyard crazy golf 

• Take a goat for a walk 

• Woodland walk 

• Select Lincolnshire 

award winning Tea Room 

• Gift Shop 

• Birthday 

parties 

School trips 

welcome 

Come and play 

whatever the 

weather! 

Come and see 

Father Christmas 

in his grotto 

(please see website for 

Christmas activities & 

opening times) 

* with support 

from LEADER 

Grant funding 

01652 678822 www.hallfarmpark.co.uk 

South Kelsey, Market Rasen, Lincs LN7 6PR 

Christmas at Pink Pig Farm 9am-5pm 

We have two exciting experiences; The North 

Star Experience or Santa Experience. Head to 

our enchanted woodland & meet Mrs. Christmas 

in her festive yurt where you can make reindeer 

food. Then make your way through the woodland 

with our elf, spotting the naughty elves as you 

go! Finally, visit Santa in his grotto, receive the 

magic key for our woodland toy shop & pick a 

real quality present to take home. This is such a 

lovely, organic, natural family experience like no 

other! Both experiences include these activities as 

standard but with The North Star Experience you 

also get the following; learn how to be an elf in our 

wonderful ‘elf school’, get a children’s ‘Christmas 

tea in a bag’ & ‘build-a-cuddle’, pick your very 

own teddy or reindeer! Oh...and unlimited all day 

play is included in both experiences! 

www.pinkpigfarm.co.uk 

For full details on all What’s On and Events 



45

• LYRICAL • TAP • ACRO • BALLET • STREET 

• JAZZ • ADULT FITNESS • PRE & POSTNATAL 

Children’s dance classes for toddlers 

to 18 years with regular performance 

opportunities and accredited 

examinations through the IDTA. 

ALL TEACHERS FULLY QUALIFIED, INSURED 

AND DBS AT OUR PURPOSE-BUILT 

DANCE STUDIO AND ON SITE SHOP. 

We run holiday workshops, 

parties and other dance 

based events. 

07540 445002 

Follow us: 

www.rhythminmovement.co.uk 

Lincoln‛s Green Spaces 

HARTSHOLME 

Christmas Trail CU £3.50 . 

Fri 14th to Mon 17th Dec, 12pm-3pm 

Wildlife Wind Chimes £3.50 . 

Sunday 13th January, 1pm-2.30pm 

Love Birds £5 

Tuesday 19th February, 1pm-2.30pm 

BOULTHAM 

Wildlife Wind Chimes £3.50 . 

Thursday 21st February, 10am-11.30am 

ARBORETUM 

Lantern Making £3.50 . 

Tuesday 19th February, 

10am-11.30am 

CU = Childrens University validated activities 

TO BOOK please telephone, email or message on Facebook as below: 

T:01522 E: hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk 

873735 www.lincoln.gov.uk/hartsholmecp 

Saturday 1st-Monday 24th December 

Father Christmas in his Winter Grotto 

Time varies 

Visit Father Christmas in his winter grotto and 

receive a gift. No visit to Father Christmas is 

complete without first saying hello to Mother 

Christmas, where she’ll help you decorate your 

own Christmas cookie. Please note that all tickets 

must be pre-booked & a booking fee of 5% will apply. 

Belton House 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house 

Monday 3rd-Friday 16th December 

Christmas at the Castle Time varies 

Looking for a new tradition this Christmastime? 

Kick start the festive period and join us for an 

alternative take on celebrating Christmas. This 

year celebrates the senses; immerse yourself in a 

multi-sensory experience taking place throughout 

the Great Tower. See the front of the Castle lit up 

and experience new sights and smells that you 

wouldn’t normally associate with the inside of 

a medieval castle. Pre-booked tickets required 

for both members and non-members. Free entry 

for National Trust members. No tickets available 

to purchase on the night. Adult:£8, Child:£4 & 

Family £20. Please see website for times. 

Tattershall Castle 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tattershall-castle 

Monday 3rd December 

LIVES Christmas Carol Concert 7.30-10pm 

LIVES are hosting a fantastic concert featuring 

various local school choirs and groups singing 

popular festive carols. Accompanied by the 40 

piece Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Concert Band. 

An evening of joyous singing welcoming the 

advent. All money raised from the evening go direct 

to LIVES to help keep their volunteer responders 

saving lives in Lincolnshire. Refreshments incl 

mulled wine and mince pies. Raffle & concert CD 

available on the night. Please note that seating is 

unreserved. Doors open 7pm. Children under 4 go 

free but a ticket will be required. 

Lincoln Cathedral 

www.lincolncathedral.com 

Wednesday 5th December 

Nature Tots 10am-11.30am 

A great opportunity each month for you and 

your pre-school little ones to have fun in 

natural surroundings. Each session will include 

seasonal outdoor activities, All children must be 

accompanied by an adult. Suitable for children 

under 5 years. Booking essential. £2 per child. 

Gibraltar Point, Gibraltar Rd, Skegness, PE24 4SU 

www.lincstrust.org.uk/events 

46 

Winter 2018

Admission Special Offer 

3 for 2 

3 admissions for the price of 2 

T: 01673 858904 

E: kay@randfarmpark.com 

8 miles East of Lincoln on A158 

www.randfarmpark.com 

Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. 

Not in conjunction with any other offer. 

Valid from 2nd Jan 2019 to 28th Feb 2019 

20% 

OFF 

children’s first 

months classes 

when signing up 

07540 445002 

Dance classes for 

toddlers to 18 years 

• LYRICAL • TAP • ACRO 

• BALLET • STREET 

• JAZZ • ADULT FITNESS 

• PRE & POSTNATAL 

Follow us: 

www.rhythminmovement.co.uk 

*Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 28.02.19 

admit 1 child 

FREE 

with 2 full paying admissions.* 

Tel: 01652 678822 

www.hallfarmpark.co.uk 


Come and enjoy a 

FREE 

coffee, latte 

or cappuccino 

Have a relaxing 

coffee on us 

25% 

OFF 

This voucher entitles you to 

breakfast in the 

Feedroom Café 

(daily 10-12) 

WITH THIS 

VOUCHER 

Valid until 31st 

March 2019 

Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe, Lincoln, LN6 5SA 

One voucher per customer. Not in conjunction with any other offer. 

Charity No. 1075601 

I am happy to receive the Bransby Life 

newsletter twice a year by post 

Bransby, Lincoln LN1 2PH 

www.bransbyhorses.co.uk 

One voucher per transaction. Valid until 30th Mar 2019. Photocopies not accepted. 


47

Thur 6th-Sun 9th Dec 

Lincoln Christmas Market 

All day 

Stalls, performers, and festive 

cheer take over Lincoln’s 

Cathedral Quarter for four 

days of festive entertainment, 

shopping, and food and drink. 

Visitors to the famous Lincoln 

Christmas Market will be sure to 

soak up the festive atmosphere 

across this large market site, 

with more than 280 stalls nestled 

in and around Lincoln Castle, 

Lincoln Cathedral, and many 

other venues and streets along 

the way. 

There is something for everyone, 

from unusual gifts to food and 

drink from near and far, not 

to mention a whole host of 

entertainment for all the family to 

enjoy. Enjoy the scents of mulled 

wine and freshly cooked food, 

the sounds of entertainment, 

music and merriment and the 

sights of this market in this 

stunning, historic city. 

Shops across the city will also 

stay open late for the duration 

of the Market, and the Artists’ 

Christmas Village offers goods 

from local artists & crafters too. 

Castle Hill & Lincoln Castle: the 

starting point for your visit to the 

Market with authentic Germanthemed 

stalls, arts, crafts, gifts, 

and more. 

The Lawn: the Christmas Bazaar, 

Christmas Pantry, and a huge 

variety of food and drink - 

including local produce, roasted 

nuts, and more. 

Westgate & Fairground: get into 

the festive spirit with more stalls, 

the Craft Marquee, fairground 

rides, and The Big Wheel 

- a great way to see the whole 

historic area from up high. 

Lincoln Cathedral West Front: 

authentic wooden chalets with 

the stunning Lincoln Cathedral as 

a backdrop. 

Bailgate and Steep Hill, Lincoln, 

LN1 3AA 

www.visitlincoln.com/whats-on/ 

lincoln-christmas-market-2018 

Friday 7th December- 

Sunday 6th January 

Snow White and the Seven 

Dwarfs Time varies 

The angelic Snow White and her 

lovable dwarfs battle against the 

Wicked Queen in a rip-roaring, 

high energy & beautifully crafted 

production of this firm family 

favourite. 

TV and West End star Amelia 

Lily will play The Unicorn Fairy. 

Prank Patrol presenter Barney 

Harwood plays our heartthrob 

Huntsman. Back by popular 

demand is Chrisopher Johnson 

playing Muddles.Joey Howard 

will make his debut NTR 

appearance as Nurse Flossy. 

The beautiful songbird Sophie 

Gaudie will play Snow White 

& promises a flawless and 

formidable performance as our 

leading lady. 

New Theatre Royal Lincoln, 

Clasketgate, Lincoln, LN2 1JJ 

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk 

Fri 7th-Mon 31st Dec 

Aladdin Time varies 

Come and join us for another 

fabulous festive treat with the 

hilarious pantomime, Aladdin. 

With a law decreeing that the 

princess can only marry a 

prince, and the evil Abanazar up 

to no good, it looks as though 

Aladdin’s dreams may never 

come true. And he’s not the only 

one! Aladdin’s mum, Widow 

Twankey, has got the mixedup 

Chinese laundry blues; her 

other son Wishee Washee is 

being particularly unhelpful; 

and they’re also very poor... If 

only Aladdin could make his 

fortune & then all their wishes 

could come true. The Palace 

Theatre once again promises a 

show packed full of spectacular 

scenery, breath-taking 

costumes, stunning special 

effects, fabulous song & dance 

routines and hilarious slapstick 

comedy. See online for prices. 

The Palace Theatre Newark 

www.palacenewarktickets.com 

Shutterstock.com/Maya Kruchankova 

Fri 7th-Sun 9th Dec 

Beauty and The Beast 

Time varies 

Come and join Madame Manon 

de Pamplemousse and her two 

children Jacques and Beauty 

along with their handsome 

French Poodle Felix on an 

adventure of love and danger. 

As they defeat the Wicked Witch 

Mallabelle and save Prince 

Christophe from her evil curse. 

Adult £5, Child/Student/Senior 

£3, Under 5’s free. 

BGSU Performing Arts Society 

www.thevenuelincoln.co.uk 

Saturday 8th December 

Santa visits Marshall’s 

Yard Time TBC 

Join Marshall’s Yard and North 

Notts lions as Santa makes a 

stop at Marshall’s Yard! Ask 

Santa if you have made the Nice 

or Naughty list this year. 

Marshalls Yard, Gainsborough 

www.marshallsyard.co.uk 

Sat 8th & Sat 15th Dec 

Breakfast With Santa 

9.30am-11.30 

Our cafe is truly magical at 

Breakfast time as Santa makes 

an appearance on his festive 

tractor bringing gifts for all the 

children. £3 per child, the price 

includes a visit from Santa to 

your table and a small gift. 

Santa will arrive at 10am 

T: 01652 640308 

www.unclehenrys.co.uk 

48 

Winter 2018

Take your child on 

a musical journey, 

sessions for babies 

and toddlers 

Bring this voucher and receive 

20% OFF 

YOUR FIRST CLASS 

Call Elaine Bielby: 07717 758485 


Valid from 

28th Nov- 

19th Dec 2018 

your chosen 

Christmas 

tree! 

Tel: 01427 667014 

www.fillingham-trees.co.uk 

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

10% 

OFF 

REFRESHMENTS 

WITH THIS VOUCHER 

CHURCH FARM 

s k e g n e s s 

Telephone: 

01754 766658 

Church Road South • Skegness • Lincs • PE25 2HF 

www.churchfarmvillage.org.uk 

*Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Expires 31.03.19. 

FREE 

TASTER SESSION 

Lincoln College, 

The Knight’s Building, 

Monks Road, 

Lincoln LN2 5HQ 

www.pqacademy.com T: 0800 531 6282 

Taster sessions must be booked in advance. Not in conjunction with any other offer. 

One child admitted 

FREE 

WITH THIS VOUCHER 

MG18 

Save 

£7.50 

North Parade, Skegness, Lincs PE25 1DB 

T: 01754 764345 E: info@skegnessnatureland.co.uk 

Must be accompanied by a full paying adult. Cannot be used with any other offer/discount. Valid to 31.3.2019. 

www.skegnessnatureland.co.uk 


49

Wednes 12th-Monday 24th December 

Rapunzel Time varies 

Once Upon a time, in a far off Kingdom, a 

bargain is struck and a young girl is taken from 

her parents. Locked away from the world “to 

keep her safe”, the young Rapunzel grows 

up dreaming of adventures and life outside of 

her lonely room at the top of a tall tower. And 

as she grows up, her hair grows longer and 

longer and longer. Adapted from the original 

fairy tale, this magical musical play explores 

how the power of love can both blind us and 

help us see. And it’s also about the hair, that 

ridiculously long hair… 

From the creative team behind last year’s 

enchanting Robin Hood & Maid Marian and 

performed by University of Lincoln’s graduating 

drama students, this is the ideal festive treat for 

the whole family. 

Running Time: 2 hours (inc. interval). Age: 6+ 

Lincoln Performing Arts Centre, 

University of Lincoln campus 

www.lpac.co.uk/event/rapunzel 

Shutterstock.com/marigo20 

Friday 14th-Monday 17th December 

Christmas Trail 12pm-3pm 

Join us to celebrate our favourite time of year 

Christmas! Explore Hartsholme Country Park 

by taking part in a festive themed trail. Solve 

the puzzles and complete the challenges to 

finally claim your sweet treat. There is a charge 

of £3.50 per child for this event and booking is 

essential. All children must be accompanied by 

an adult. This activity is aimed at children aged 

4 to 13 years. This is a Children’s University 

validated activity. Location Get your trail sheet 

anytime between 12pm and 3pm from the 

Visitor Centre. 

Hartsholme Country Park, Skellingthorpe 

Road, Lincoln, LN6 0EY 

www.lincoln.gov.uk/visitors/events-inlincoln/hartsholme-country-park-events 

Saturday 15th December 

Singing Princesses and Santa’s Grotto 

11am-3pm 

Come along to our Farm Park and join in with 

a princess sing-along and meet Santa in his 

Grotto. Singalong with Anna and Elsa from 

11:30am-12pm and Belle and Tinkerbell from 

1:45pm-2:15pm, then you get the chance to 

meet the princesses from 12pm-12:45pm and 

2:15pm-3pm. Santa will also be in his Grotto 

from 11am-2pm. £6.50 entry and under 2’s free. 

Hall Farm Park, Tattershall 

www.tattershallfarmpark.co.uk 

Sat 15th-Sun 23th December 

An Audience With Father Christmas 

Time varies 

Experience the magic of Christmas at 

Lincoln Castle by joining Father Christmas 

in the Victorian setting of the Bath House at 

the Castle. Sit back and listen to stories of 

Christmases from the past and enjoy finding out 

more about Father Christmas himself. Every 

child will receive a Victorian style gift and have 

the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes. 

Places are limited so please book your place in 

advance to avoid disappointment. Audiences 

last between 30-40 mins. Children £8, Adult £6 

Lincoln Castle 

www.lincolncastle.com 

Monday 31st December 

Christmas at Bransby Horses 10am-3pm 

Find the hidden pictures of the Adoption 

animals having fun at Christmas time around 

Bransby Horses for your chance to win a prize! 

Each week there will be one lucky winner who is 

chosen to win a special surprise. Entries can be 

purchased from the Gift Shop. Join us for Face 

Painting and Glitter Tattoos at the Visitor Centre 

10:30am-2pm (£3 per person). 

Lincoln Castle 

www.bransbyhorses.co.uk/news-events 

Friday 4th-Saturday 5th January 

The Snowman Time varies 

This festive Christmas classic will be shown 

on the big screen in the Nave, lit to create a 

magical atmosphere. This heart-warming story 

will be accompanied by a live orchestra and 

soloists from Lincoln Cathedral Choir who will 

make the most of the incredible acoustics of the 

Cathedral to ensure an unforgettable experience 

for adults & children alike. See online for prices. 

Lincoln Cathedral 

www.lincolncathedral.com 

50 

Winter 2018

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