Fresh fascias take city forward

Work has been going on behind the scenes throughout the lockdowns and periods of restrictions with Lincoln’s historic Cathedral, Central Market and Science and Innovation Park all seeing new developments.

Some projects that were halted are now resuming as more and more restrictions are lifted and new initiatives and enterprises are being introduced.

Businesses in Lincoln have been invited to take part in an historic shopfront restoration scheme to help revitalise the area and uncover its rich history.

In partnership with Historic England, City of Lincoln Council is on the search for local businesses interested in having their historic shopfronts restored.

As part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme, which saw the city council receive £1.68 million in funding in April last year following a successful bid, it is now creating a programme of historic building restorations to bring them back to their former glory.

Commercial property tenants, business owners and landlords within the designated HSHAZ area may be eligible for a non-repayable grant of up to 90% for restoration, shopfront refurbishment and/or change of use.

If successful, as part of the HSHAZ, owners will be supported by an experienced team of professionals to deliver a bespoke, high quality sympathetic restoration and refurbishment to preserve the building and add maximum curb-appeal.

Property improvements will include, but are not limited to: repairs, reinstating lost features, and making buildings suitable for new use.

Councillor Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Historic Environment Advocate at City of Lincoln Council said: “There are many unique heritage aspects and locations within Lincoln that need to be preserved so that Lincoln’s special character is maintained, and that includes its shopfronts.

“By restoring, revitalising and refurbishing these historic shopfronts, it not only helps us to protect heritage in our city, but also aids us in continuing to make Lincoln a great place for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

David Walsh, principal advisor at Historic England said: “Our experience has shown that restoring historic shopfronts and repairing buildings makes a huge difference to the street scene, and helps drive increased activity on high streets.

“We are very pleased that the shopfront restoration scheme is starting in Lincoln to help the city recover from Covid-19.”

The programme of improvements will run until 2024.

One of the first projects in the Lincoln High Street Heritage Action Zone is the conservation of Lincoln’s St Mary’s Guildhall. Located at the southern end of the HSHAZ, St Mary’s Guildhall is thought to have been built in 1157, and sold in 1251 by Henry III’s butler, Michael de la Burne, to the guild of St Mary of Lincoln.

It was used from 1251 to 1547 as the headquarters of the Great Guild of St Mary, Lincoln’s most important guild, and began to be used as a maltings during this time.

In 1547 it was passed into the ownership of City of Lincoln Council, and is currently tenanted by the Lincoln Civic Trust.

Cllr Murray said: “Despite being tenanted by the Lincoln Civic Trust, this building is currently vacant and at risk.

“Its current condition is preventing this important building from fulfilling its potential and threatening the architectural and historic significance of the site and this is something we are looking to rectify.

“Once these initial works are complete, this will give us a better idea of future works needed to ensure the conservation of the site.

“St Mary’s Guildhall is said to be the only survivor from the small group of the king’s town houses which existed in several major towns, and historic sites such as this are greatly important to the city.”

David Walsh added: “St Mary’s Guildhall is very much a ‘hidden gem’ in Lincoln.

“This project is a vital first step in understanding how St Mary’s Guildhall can be conserved and used in the future for the benefit of people in the city and beyond.”

Another project aimed at restoring an iconic city landmark is the Boultham Park Lake Restoration project.

Additional funding from the FCC Communities Foundation has been awarded to the City of Lincoln Council for works to be carried out to further improve the water quality, biodiversity and engagement in and around the lake including the installation of picnic benches, the creation and installation of a ‘lost features’ trail and a series of workshops leading up to a community public art installation at the lake edge.

The original Lake Restoration Project works, which are being funded by the £658,700 given to City of Lincoln Council by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, along with city council funding, and delivered in partnership with Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, began in January.

Councillor Bob Bushell, Portfolio Holder for Remarkable Place at City of Lincoln Council said: “This work is not only important for the park itself, but also the local community and its visitors.”

Plans are also on the cards to repurpose the Grade II listed Central Market building in Lincoln’s city centre.

Earlier this year a survey was carried out to gather the views of residents, trades and stakeholders and the city council received more than 700 responses.

The redevelopment of the Central Market has been identified as a key project to encourage economic recovery and growth and is included as part of the city council’s successful funding bid under the government’s Town Deal funding programme.

The proposed scheme will restore the building to create a modern and diversified market offer combining retail, food and drink and the opportunity for other uses, responding to local needs and changing shopping trends.

Maria Clayton, Capital Projects Manager at City of Lincoln Council, said: ‘’The survey sought to keep stakeholders, local businesses and the public aware of the progression of the scheme as well as providing an opportunity for feedback on exactly what the residents of Lincoln want from their market.”

Cllr Murray added: “By restoring the Grade II Lincoln Central Market and City Square, we feel we can create a strong, sustainable indoor and outdoor market offer in Lincoln.

“This will create an anchor destination within the Cornhill Quarter which will support high quality independent trading, promoting local produce and start-up retail and creative businesses.

THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR A DAY TRIP
With foreign travel curtailed and ‘staycations’ becoming the ‘in’ thing, hopes are high that visitors will return to the city in droves as restrictions ease further.

A new nationwide survey has found that the Great British Day Trip is back with almost 9 in 10 Brits planning at least one this summer.

The new research shows that 87 per cent of us are planning an old-fashioned day trip, with almost half (47 per cent) admitting they are desperate to get out to explore the UK again.

Of the 2,000 Britons polled for London North Eastern Railway (LNER), 77 per cent said they felt nostalgic for the day trips of their youth, with the excitement of getting up early to make the most of the day, enjoying ice creams on the beach, and spending time in the souvenir shop deciding what to take home with them among the highlights of the occasion.

In fact, 71 per cent of us are now willing to consider travelling further afield for a day trip than we had been in the past, in order to make the most of a day out seeing the sights.

The findings coincided with LNER launching its ‘day trip experience’ to inspire travel-hungry Brits to discover Lincoln, considered to be one of the hidden gems along the East Coast route.

The event, in partnership with Visit Lincoln, will see customers travel on the 08:06 LNER service from London King’s Cross arriving in the heart of Lincoln in less than two hours. They can return on an LNER service of their choice later in the day.

As well as experiencing the speed of LNER’s new Azuma trains, customers will get the chance to explore Lincoln’s history and culture with its Cathedral and neighbouring Castle among the jewels in the crown.

The Lincoln Experience will also promote the area’s local producers and attractions and it coincides with the launch of the renowned Lincoln Imp Trail, which takes visitors on a tour to find a series of imp statues on display.

Imps have become a legendary symbol for Lincoln with the mythical creatures found in many places across the city, including the stonework of the Cathedral.
David Horne, LNER managing director, said city destinations remain the firm favourite.

“According to this research, 70 per cent of people agree that there is a vast amount to do and see in the UK, and 9 in 10 people said they would feel confident booking a day trip this summer.”

Cities such as Lincoln are where tourism is an integral part of the economy, worth £216m to the city and supporting thousands of jobs across the region.

Charlotte Goy, chief executive at Visit Lincoln said: “Lincoln is the ideal city break destination, for a day trip or short break. It’s one of England’s finest heritage cities.

“The railway station is in the heart of the city, and as you step off the train you’ll be delighted by what’s on offer and in awe at how Lincoln has grown and changed.

“We’re delighted to be working with LNER and look forward to welcoming people back to Lincoln safely and responsibly for day trips as well as business and leisure.”

DISCOVER A HISTORIC HIDDEN GEM
Occupying the site of the south Roman gateway of Lindum Colonia, the Guildhall and Stonebow is one of the most important late medieval gateways still standing in England.

The Mayor and council first started meeting on the site over 780 years ago, and the last recorded major work was completed in 1520. The Guildhall, situated above the arch, is still the meeting place of the City Council and the official home of the Right Worshipful the Mayor of Lincoln, one of the oldest Mayoralties in existence.

Home to a collection of nationally important Royal Charters starting in 1157 AD, and Civic Regalia including the sword of King Richard II and mace of King Charles I, the Guildhall offers visitors an insight into over 1,800 years of Lincoln’s history. Recognised by Visit England with awards for Hidden Gem and Best Told Story, a tour of the Guildhall is not to be missed.

SIMPSONS BUTCHERS OFFERS BEST OF LOCAL PRODUCE
Based at Pennell’s Garden Centre on Newark Road, Lincoln, Simpsons is a multi-award-winning butchers which buys from local farmers and producers whenever possible, helping to support the local economy while keeping food miles low.

Owner Gary Simpson opened his first butcher’s shop in 2001 and from day one his aim was to supply only the very best quality, farm assured produce at great value and full traceability to sell on to his valued customers with full confidence.

Gary’s highly skilled team share a passion for offering the best of locally farmed produce, including beef from extensively reared, grass-fed cattle, as well as sausages, minced meat and pre-marinated and baked goods.

“Customer confidence is of vital importance to Simpsons Butchers and we insist that all of our suppliers give us full details so that we can track all meat right back to the farm of origin,” says Gary. “Our commitment to safety, quality and accountability ensures total satisfaction for all of our valued customers.”

Simpsons Butchers at Pennell’s Garden Centre is open seven days a week: Monday to Saturday 8.30am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. For more information tel: 01522 695419, or visit www.gsimpsonbutchers.co.uk

HIGH-CALIBRE LINCOLN ESTATE AGENTS
As one of Lincoln’s fastest growing businesses, Mount & Minster have bucked the economic lull throughout the last 12 months and bought out one of their competitors, as well as having opened another office in nearby Newark. They are now one of the most prominent property companies in the city, offering some of the most sought-after homes both in Lincoln and throughout the surrounding villages.

This year, they have set the benchmark very high with some of the highest sale prices on record, as well as selling some of the most impressive properties privately to a growing list of discerning buyers, mainly from London and the south east through their London office.

“The hard work of our impressive staff is reaping the rewards for the firm as a whole,” explains Ralph Wyrley-Birch, senior partner. “Within a relatively short period of time we have been recognised not only as property market leaders in the City of Lincoln, but are now growing to be one of the biggest in the East Midlands as a whole. This is thanks obviously to those that work within the firm, but also due to the loyal and respected clients we are fortunate enough to work with throughout what has been a difficult, albeit busy, 12-month period.

Mount & Minster’s Lincoln office can be contacted on either 01522 716204 or info@mountandminster.co.uk

UNLOCK YOUR BUSINESS WITH LINCOLN SECURITY
Lincoln Security have gone from strength to strength over the past 47 years, building a solid reputation throughout many industries and gaining a family business award for their work.

The team at Lincoln Security believe that whilst a necessity, security shouldn’t impede the running of your business, or be troublesome to work with. They offer a wide range of security solutions that will keep your premises as secure as possible whilst helping to maintain access.

Earlier this year, Lincoln Security were proud to be named Family Business of the Year at the Lincolnshire Business Awards. The annual event, run in association with Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, was held virtually on 24th March after being postponed from last year due to the pandemic.

Marketing manager Steven Downing represented the business and accepted the award. He said: “I was incredibly honoured to accept the award on behalf of Lincoln Security. When I first joined the business and found out it was still family owned after 47 years, I was baffled as to why such an established, well-known family business had not yet won a Family Business Award. I am happy that I have been able to help them get the recognition they deserve.”

Access Control
With businesses around the county slowly reopening, Lincoln Security have been helping a number of organisations upgrade their entry systems for staff. With the increase in popularity of hybrid working schedules, online Access Control Systems allow for staff to safely and securely access their place of work with tailored access profiles unique to each person.

Lincoln Security create bespoke Access Control Systems to give complete control over who has access to specific areas of your premises. Their systems range from small standalone applications through to fully networked buildings with various entry points suitable for multi-door and multi-site installations within larger complexes such as industrial units, hospitals and universities.

Working with leading manufacturers they can supply and install a range of systems, including: Fingerprint/Biometric, Wireless, Key Card, Fob, Intercom and Pin Code.

For a free, no obligation quotation from a trained and experienced surveyor simply call 01522 532 038 or email info@lincolnsecurity.co.uk with your requirements.

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN RECEIVES AWARD
Lincoln’s New Theatre Royal has started its road to recovery with a double celebration after receiving a special award at the same time as marking its reopening following the latest lockdown.

The venue was chosen as the winner of the prestigious Lincoln Civic Award for 2020 but has had to wait until now to be presented with the trophy.

Lincoln Civic Award Trustees chairman, Henry Ruddock said: “This award was agreed before the pandemic struck. But only now – 15 long months later – have we been able to present it. But what an opportunity it has been for recognition, encouragement and optimism.”

Natalie and Mike Hayes-Cowley are the people at the helm of the New Theatre Royal Lincoln’s regeneration.

Artistic director Natalie said: “The whole theatre family is honoured to have been presented with the Lincoln Civic Award. Securing this prestigious accolade is beyond what we thought was possible when we became custodians of the theatre back in 2016.

“Like all our achievements, it is very much a team approach at the theatre. Without the passion, hard work, long hours put in by all our staff and our amazing front of house volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to create this magical place that the people of Lincoln know and love.”

Managing director Mike said: “Being a Lincoln Civic Award winner puts the theatre amongst some incredibly successful people and businesses who have really given something extra to the city of Lincoln.”

GET THE PERFECT NIGHT’S SLEEP WITH THE HELP OF FORTY WINKS
Forty Winks have been established for 15 years. They are a local Lincolnshire family business. From working in the shop, to doing the accounts and even delivering your local purchases, everyone who works at Forty Winks is a family member.

Their customer service sets them apart from the rest, offering a complete start to finish, first class service. Choose from an excellent selection of high quality products in the warm and friendly showroom, where you are encouraged to try the mattresses, and take your time to find the perfect bed or product for you. Their complete customer service to you continues through their quality delivery service, where their delivery personnel are so good they even take their shoes off! The team will take your items to the room of your choice, and assemble if required. They also offer an old bed disposal service.

Visit Forty Winks at 100 Burton Road, Lincoln or visit www.fortywinkz.co.uk

CREATING BESPOKE DESIGNS FOR THE HEART OF YOUR HOME
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful kitchen for the family to enjoy, or a stunning space for entertaining, you’ll find inspirational ideas with help from the talented team of design consultants at Turnbull Kitchens & Bathrooms.

Winner of the Best Showroom of the Year at the prestigious 2020 Builders’ Merchants Awards in May 2021, Turnbull of Lincoln opened its new showroom in January last year, further building on its unrivalled reputation for delivering inspired designs and quality brands to suit every budget.

Having been in the Hopkins family for over 50 years, Turnbull is a well-established family run business, which prides itself on delivering first-class customer care and service.

With more than 40 years’ experience in the kitchen and bathroom business, Turnbull has many loyal customers who remain dedicated to buying local and supporting a trusted brand with a reputation for delivering on both quality and expertise.

Using their expert knowledge of working with the trade and opening doors to retail customers, the highly skilled team offer a professional planning and free design service tailored to reflect each individual home, taste and lifestyle.

“Even last year, during one of the most challenging times the country has seen, our designers kept in touch with customers offering virtual showroom tours and video appointments,” says Olivia Hopkins, Group Showroom Manager. “The showroom is now open again to the public for both pre-booked appointments and walk-ins and the team are focussed on providing an exceptional and personalised service to anyone that walks through our doors.”

With branches in Sleaford, Lincoln, Boston, Brigg, Newark and Spalding, Turnbull’s largest and newest showroom in Lincoln has more than 7,000sq ft with two floors displaying premium brands such as NEFF, Quooker and Duravit.

“Buying a new kitchen or bathroom from a builders’ merchant may not be what people immediately think of when renovating their homes, but our showrooms are on a whole new level. Luxurious spaces with dedicated designers who can advise at every step of the process; from planning to pricing and installation. We’re here to make your dream design a reality.”

Enjoy a visit to the award-winning showroom in person: Turnbull Kitchens & Bathrooms, Deacon Road, Lincoln LN2 4JB or head to the website for inspiration and to see examples of previous work:
www.turnbullsonline.co.uk/showrooms

BLYTON’S NEW PARLOUR OPENS ITS DOORS
Established in 1985, Blyton Ice Cream opened its third shop in Lincoln High Street last month, offering customers a choice of more than 70 different flavours to eat in or takeaway.

This popular award-winning ice cream business, which also has shops in Brigg and Scunthorpe, has earned a reputation for producing innovative flavours made using quality ingredients. Blyton Ice Cream cafés also provide a wide variety of traditional ice cream sundaes such as their well-known Knickerbocker Glory.

Among the many favourites on offer, its top sellers this season include Classic Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate, Mint Choc Chip and Bubblegum as well as the more unusual Bakewell Tart, White Bueno, Cream Egg, Eton Mess, Lemon Meringue and Ferrero Rocher flavours, with a choice of 10 different types and sizes of cones.

“As a family run business we take great care to listen to customer feedback and create new flavours which deliver on taste,” explains director George Cook.

“We also offer a delivery service for our delicious desserts including: milkshakes, waffles, crêpes and our popular Munchie Sharer Box, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 3pm until 10pm so customers can celebrate or reward themselves with a weekend treat at home.”

The family are excited to welcome and meet new customers within the Lincoln shop, as it is a new chapter for the business. They feel being able to trade within such a vibrant city such as Lincoln is a great opportunity.

For more information visit www.blytonicecream.co.uk

FOCUS ON LINCOLNSHIRE’S DIVERSE LANDSCAPE
As an established author and photographer Jon Fox, who has a lifelong interest in the history and diverse landscape of Lincolnshire, celebrates the beauty and heritage of the county in Lines Across Lincolnshire, published by Green Plover Books.

As a companion volume to Jon’s successful debut publication, The Lincolnshire Landscape in 2015, which is now sold out, his second book combines robust informative and accessible text with stunning inspiring colour photographs taken by the author during his three years’ research.

From natural features such as the Lincoln Edge, extinct valleys and former coastlines, as well as man-made lines of every period from prehistory through to modern times, this unique book provides a remarkable insight into Lincolnshire’s landscape past and present.

“I’ve been photographing Lincolnshire’s varied landscape for decades and hope to inspire others to explore, appreciate, value and conserve the nature, beauty and heritage of our county,” says Jon.

“Capturing the variety of landscapes is always a challenge, but I never get tired of it as there’s always something new to discover.”

For more information visit www.greenploverbooks.co.uk

SILLS & BETTERIDGE FULFILLS ONE–SITE AMBITION
Sills & Betteridge has now consolidated its Lincoln operations by relocating its residential property team from Silver Street to larger, more modern offices at Aquis House, Clasketgate, where they will join the rest of the firm.

Senior partner Stephen Wilson commented: “It has been a strategic ambition of the firm to merge its Lincoln offices for many years, but with over 150 lawyers, management and support staff to accommodate in the city, operating as a one-site practice presented challenges. Now, following the successful implementation of a number of adjustments and efficiencies driven by the pandemic, including flexible working, internal re-organisation of Aquis House and plans to maximise the space at our network of 14 branch offices, we are able to realise this ambition.”
Flexible working has been one of the key factors in the decision.

“Twelve months ago, we introduced home working practices to enable us to operate during the pandemic. We made available a series of support measures for our employees, closely monitored our delivery methods and upgraded our IT and telecoms infrastructures. Feedback from employees and clients has been very positive, meaning that the firm will continue to embrace home working. This has inevitably led to a reduction in our requirements for office space,” explained CEO Martyn Hall.

The firm has undergone considerable expansion over the last decade through a mix of organic and acquired growth and now employs 320 partners and staff in 15 offices across Lincolnshire, the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. For now, most meetings continue to be held via video or telephone, and our solicitors and their support teams are working mostly from home. We can offer, in limited circumstances, Covid-secure, pre-booked meetings in our offices.

ASPIRE2 LEADS THE WAY IN MOBILITY SOLUTIONS
As leading specialists in innovative tried and tested mobility equipment – from wheelchairs and scooters, to riser chairs and beds and everything in between – Aspire2 is a well established, vibrant and forward-thinking company which offers life-changing solutions for all ages and uses.

The company’s ethos is clear in offering quality service tailored to every individual, with an experienced, caring team that prides itself on going the extra mile and building a strong customer relationship.

“We don’t believe you should have to settle for anything less than your ideal mobility solution, and are continuously pushing boundaries to make sure that’s exactly what we’re able to offer,” says manager Krystal Suffling, who explains that the company is always happy to raise awareness and share customers’ stories or fundraising activities through its newsletter, blog and social media. “We know how important it is to meet not just our customers’ basic needs, but help them achieve their real hopes and desires too – in short, whatever it is you aspire to!”

Owner and founder Michael Copas points out that there is no hard sell. The team regularly consult and always listen to customers to fully understand their changing needs.

“Whether it’s a new brand, product service/area or way we operate, we try to adapt our business accordingly,” he explains. “Using our years of knowledge and experience we have come across a wide range of disabilities and therefore have a wealth of options and solutions we can recommend.

“We’re also able to highlight any issues or challenges that may crop up straightaway. This is vital to ensure that the client receives the best level of service and ultimately the correct product.”

Founded in Oakham in 2011, this summer sees the opening of Aspire2’s new 2,200sq ft showroom in Waddington, with a huge range of innovative products on display and available for demonstrations.

“We’ve been in the industry for 20 years and have access to great new options to the market,” says Krystal.

“At all of our branches, there’s easy access and free on-site parking to make the whole process as simple and easy for our customers as possible. We also have a team of engineers who can help with any servicing requirements, at home or in store. We offer free nationwide delivery and a wealth of advice and product options as well through our website.”

Michael adds: “I’m proud to say we’ve got a great team of skilled people with a wealth of training and qualifications behind them, so you can be assured you’re in safe hands. Time and time again we’ve been able to help improve the quality of life of our customers and there is nothing more rewarding than that.”

For more information visit www.aspire2.co.uk

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE
J H Walter LLP has had a presence in the city of Lincoln for the best part of 200 years and has witnessed and advised on many of the significant developments which have transformed the city and county.

The practice specialises in marketing and selling individual and unique land and property. Whilst most will know JHWalter as a land and property agent, the business is also well established in the areas of business, planning and energy.

The practice now employs around 30 staff at its offices at Mint Lane, with a professional team of chartered surveyors, land and property agents, chartered auctioneers and valuers, business consultants and a dedicated planning (RTPI) and energy team offering clients local knowledge and expertise on development potential.

Providing services to corporate and private clients throughout the region, JHWalter is able to assist in the sale of any type of residential, commercial and agricultural property through various methods including: auction, private treaty, informal or formal tender; RICS surveys; valuation of probate, agricultural and non-agricultural land.

FUNDING FOR SCIENCE PARK
The next stage of development at Lincoln’s Science & Innovation Park can now progress in earnest after it secured a £10m funding package.

The second phase of the Park will see its current seven-acre, city centre site double in size and it will offer premises to growing companies as well as bespoke buildings for sole occupancy by medium and large knowledge-intensive businesses.

Funding contributors include the European Regional Development Fund, Midlands Engine, Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, and the Park’s founding partners – the University of Lincoln and the Lincolnshire Co-op.

The first development is already underway and set to be completed in the autumn. The £3m building will provide high-tech grow-on space for innovative, small businesses and research and development specialists looking for larger premises.

The Science Park has already agreed commercial terms with a large, American tech company planning to occupy its own building in the second phase of development. It is hoped construction will be completed by early 2022.

Director of Lincoln Science & Innovation Park, Tom Blount, said: “We have built a successful cluster of science and technology businesses with particular growth in agritech, defence and digital and now we need to expand it.

“More than 100 highly skilled jobs have been created and more than £15m of inward investment has already been pulled into the Lincolnshire economy by our tenants.”

The University of Lincoln and Lincolnshire Co-op jointly founded the Science Park in 2012 to create a world-class environment for science, research and innovation in the city.

Lincolnshire Co-op’s chief executive, Ursula Lidbetter OBE, said: “We are helping to build a genuine community of innovators and technologists that is already having a direct impact on the economic wellbeing of Lincolnshire.”

NEALE COURT CARE HOME SUPPORTS DENIM FOR DEMENTIA
Residents and staff at Neale Court Care Home in North Hykeham swapped their uniforms and regular clothing for a day of denim wearing in support of Alzheimer’s Society. As part of Denim for Dementia day on Friday 21st May, everyone was encouraged to wear denim in exchange for a donation to the Society.

Residents enjoyed a creative craft activity decorating a pair of jeans with beads and embellishments, which senior carer Kayleigh modelled. Chef Gary made some special cupcakes decorated with forget-me-nots for everyone to enjoy with their afternoon tea. Denim for Dementia day takes place during Alzheimer’s Society’s annual Dementia Action Week, a national event that encourages the public to come together to take action to improve the lives of people affected by dementia.

“We see the impact of dementia on people and their families every day at Neale Court,” said home manager Becky Exton. “We are passionate about supporting people living with dementia to have the best quality of life possible for as long as possible. We are always keen to raise awareness both inside and outside our homes. Denim for Dementia is a simple but effective way that anyone can get involved.”

Families and friends are being encouraged to support the campaign by donating directly to Alzheimer’s Society at: https://secure.alzheimers.org.uk/denim-for-dementia/

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL COMPANY OFFERING QUALITY TIMBER PRODUCTS
B Knight & Son Ltd is a well-established family firm supplying quality timber items and manufactured designs from sustainable sources throughout the East Midlands.

Products include domestic and commercial fencing, bespoke gates, garage doors, treated softwoods, hardwoods and building materials to the retail and trade sectors, plus a range of garden furniture, decking and cabins.

B Knight & Son Ltd also supplies firewood, woodworking tools, ironmongery and treatments for all your timber products.

Situated in Langworth on the A158, between Lincoln and Wragby, the company’s skilled on-site team offer a personal and knowledgeable service, also supplying bespoke designs and items not available over the counter. From design advice to fitting the finished product, there is nothing too small or too ambitious to challenge them!

Now is the ideal time to order your log cabin or shed to make the most of summer 2021.

For examples and images of products and services visit www.b-knightandson.co.uk or their Facebook page which is updated regularly.

STUMP BEAVER OFFERS BEST REMOVAL SOLUTIONS
As a highly regarded professional independent stump grinding business, Stump Beaver aims to find the right removal solution for both domestic and commercial customers, offering eco-friendly, efficient and effective answers, as well as remedial work if required all year around.

“From small to large, single or multiple stumps, we have the right equipment, experience and qualifications to cover every job and carry out every request to the highest standards at competitive prices,” says owner Ed, who is based in Lincoln.

“We work throughout Lincolnshire, Humberside, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire. Using our full range of stump grinders, we offer the best solution to our customers and whatever the size or location, always leave each job neat and tidy as if working in our own garden.

“We enjoy seeing customers continue their outdoor projects or garden designs with a smile on their face.”

For more information call 01522 278278 or visit www.stumpbeaver.co.uk

ORGANISING A PEACEFUL GOODBYE
R Arnold Funeral Services offer a personalised and sensitive service taking the worry out of one of the most difficult days of your life.

Established in 1995 by husband and wife team Lindsay and Richard Arnold, R Arnold Funeral Services recently launched their sixth branch at 161 Newmarket in Louth.
The Lincoln office is located on Newark Road.

“Having been a funeral director for the past 25 years, we understand the importance of traditional values,” says Lindsay Arnold. “As one of the most rewarding services you can offer, our compassionate, approachable team take time to talk to each of our clients, listening to their individual needs and looking after and guiding you every step of the way.”

As well established and respected members of the British Institute of Embalmers and National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors, R Arnold offer their bespoke services with a range of funeral plans to help cover costs nationwide.

“We understand that this is a stressful time and understand that when it comes to planning a final farewell, the service should be as unique as the life it celebrates, so it’s important that we offer a personalised 24-hour service. We ensure we are there for you whatever time day or night.”

For more information contact 01522 542701 or visit www.rarnoldfuneralservice.com

JOIN THE BRANSBY OLYMPIC TRAIL
Based just a few miles north of the city of Lincoln, Bransby Horses is Lincolnshire’s best kept secret and normally welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Following their reopening in April, their horses, ponies, donkeys and mules are delighted to welcome back visitors after being closed for most of 2020.

Visitors of all ages are sure to have a great day out meeting their four-legged rescue residents, exploring miles of picturesque walkways, having fun in the brand new play park, discovering take-home treats in the shop or getting a bite to eat in the café.

Families can also take part in the Bransby Olympic Trail from 1st July until 8th August for £3.50 per child with no need to book.

Bransby Horses is free entry and dog friendly, now open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm, and open seven days a week during school holidays. Visit the website at bransbyhorses.co.uk for more information.

LOOKING FORWARD TO NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Established more than 40 years ago, Lincoln Print & Copy Centre have experienced the highs and lows of the economy alongside many other businesses in the area.

Looking at the opportunities as the economy grows, they identified areas where they can help their customers stand out from the crowd and have invested in new printing and finishing equipment.

With the latest Xerox Versant 280 press and Kasfold 640 booklet maker, they can now supply landscape A4 brochures, 6 page A4 leaflets and A5 concertina leaflets with other products available in the near future, all in smaller as well as large quantities.

The combination of the new machines offer many new exciting products for customers.

Their experienced design team have worked in print for many years so understand what’s required in the worlds of commerce, industry, hospitality, culture and tourism. They can help customers understand how the new ideas will work for them, discuss branding and logos, what will attract and inform their customers.

ENJOY “PARTY DAYS AND PARTY NIGHTS” AT HISTORIC COUNTY ASSEMBLY ROOMS
Ideally situated in Lincoln’s historic Bailgate Area, the charming 18th-century County Assembly Rooms is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

With three impressive rooms to choose from, the experienced Events Team can help you plan and cater for meetings, conferences and seasonal and social celebrations.

Enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch or dinner for private or public functions, as well as business events during November, December and January.

The impressive, newly refurbished entrance hall with its light oak parquet flooring and sparkling crystal chandeliers welcomes visitors who can also enjoy relaxing in the modern bar area.

Catering and bar staff are available for small and large groups, from 20 to 250 in the magnificent ballroom – choose from a wide variety of menus to suit every budget, taste and dietary requirement.

County Assembly Rooms is now taking bookings for its stalls at the Lincoln Christmas Market: an ideal showcase for your craft and gift creations – numbers are limited, so don’t miss out!

For more information telelephone 01522 520098, mobile: 07951 288598 or visit www.countyassemblyrooms.co.uk

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
Lincoln Cathedral shop has long been popular with visitors and now it has a contemporary new space in the visitor centre, a stunning boutique look and entrance direct from the Dean’s Green.

Several new product lines have been unveiled including unique Lincoln Cathedral branded beers from the local Ferry Ales Brewery and a bespoke range of Sophie Allport items created exclusively for the Cathedral.

Chapter Clerk at Lincoln Cathedral, Will Harrison, said that the opening of the shop and café was the culmination of many years’ work and a cause for much needed celebration after a turbulent 18 months.

“Completing this project through the pandemic added another level of complexity that we could never have imagined, but through a tremendous team effort between all the staff at the Cathedral, contractors, partners and funders, we have created this resource for all who visit the Cathedral and the local area, and everyone who lives or works nearby.”

Alongside the café and shop, a suite of community meeting rooms have been opened. They will be followed by a learning suite, discovery centre and exhibition gallery.

The Cathedral itself has been welcoming visitors back since 17th May when the second phase of the easing of lockdown occurred.

The Very Revd Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln, said: “The last year has been a difficult time for everyone and as we take the first steps towards safely enjoying the summer months, it is uplifting to see the area come to life again and to see all those businesses opening again and hopefully beginning to thrive once more.”

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