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Halfway through the year and I actually accepted an invitation recently. I felt quite giddy knowing I was going to an event that was mostly business but also would be very sociable. Stokes, the long established tea and coffee business based in Lincoln, were giving a ‘sneak peek’ of their High Bridge Café prior to reopening. I have spoken to many hospitality businesses who have used the lockdown periods to refresh interiors and devise new menus. Now they are back and ready to welcome you with safety always in mind but above all delicious food and fabulous, friendly service. We have included in our Taste of Excellence listings a selection of other county eateries where you can now eat indoors instead of braving the weather. Welcome back to them all and we wish them a prosperous summer.

Staycation getaways have also been on our minds this month. I will certainly be staying locally this year and if you are a Lincolnshire resident you do not have to travel far to find escapism – be that for a day out or longer. Throughout the magazine we have features which tell the story of the new investments being made in our coastal communities and countryside which will enhance the tourism experience even further.

Barbara Young writes about Woodhall Spa and the fabulous Treetop Hideways, eco-chic retreats set amongst lakes and woodland. Sue Taylor takes a walk through the history of Skegness Pier, which new owners are planning to restore. Harlaxton Manor, one of the grandest houses amongst many grand houses in the county, will be hosting a series of events over the next few months to which the public are invited. If art is your pleasure, the forthcoming Art of Lincolnshire exhibition at Doddington Hall will showcase 20 leading local and national artists.

As indicative of anything that we have more normality in our lives is that The Diary extends to three pages this month – and most of these are events and shows that you can go to in person – always a more engaging experience than Zoom can really offer.

I can feel that giddiness coming on again with the thought of being out and about, so I will leave you to begin your read. I am sure you will find plenty to entertain and tempt you. We just need that summer sunshine to appear now.

Enjoy!