Wednesday, 20 August 2008

Making money W.I Coningsby/Tattershall

Celebrating their 90th year the group are also hoping to celebrate the 105th Anniversary of the Canadian Coningsby W.I. with whom they are friends. A number of the Canadian members came to help celebrate Coningsby & Tattershall’s 90th birthday recently with a visit to their celebrity dinner and various outings organised by Con/Tatt members, and at the same time invited everyone to visit them to celebrate their 105th in a couple of years time!
As an aid to this the group are raising on-going funds to help with additional expenses of anyone planning to go to Canada.
Each member is offered £10 which she can spend in any way she likes to see how much profit she can make.
Since April people have paid to guess the weight of a cake, a member has made mystery parcels which they have sold, another grown and sold plants, Connie Stennett and her helpers held a very successful whist drive, Lorna Curtis and her helpers held a superb Sunday luncheon.
In September there will be a Quiz sheet for sale (£10 winner) and there will be a sale of hand made cards from the craft club in October.
There has been a demand for a further whist drive which will also be October 11th at Coningsby Community Hall. This starts at 7.00pm prompt and the ticket of £3.50 includes WI refreshments and a raffle.
There are no meetings in August but resume on 11th September 2008. Anyone wishing to find out more come along to the meeting on 11th commencing at 7.15pm in Coningsby Committee hall. Everyone welcome.

Coningsby & Tattershall Lions

Coningsby & Tattershall Lions Update.
At their recent meeting lottery winners were 1st. Amy Simons 2nd John Ward 3rd D.Barker.
Members met at their usual venue The Fortescue Arms.
There will be another Bridge Day, by popular demand, on Tuesday 9th September
Tattershall Village Hall. This costs £25 per coup-le which includes coffee on arrival,
Roast dinner and afternoon tea prior to the presentation of prizes and distribution of
Winning raffle prizes.
The annual FREE FUN DAY will be held on Saturday 13th September and is open to all youngsters, disabled and able, up to the age of 18.Many sports are enjoyed with trophies for the winners and medals for all who take part.
The 19th September, will be a Cheese & Wine Open Evening at the Fortescue Arms.
To book any of the above phone Mike Phillips .01526 342036
On 27th September the club will be visiting Greyhound Races at Peterborough. The cost is £15 which includes a seat and meal. Interested parties to contact Penny in Penny’s CafĂ© Coningsby or phone her 01526 342122.

Tuesday, 12 August 2008

Youthworx Entertains

Recently Coningsby Town Councillors were entertained to a pizza evening by members of Coningsby’s Youthworx before being shown around the premises and seeing everything that the youngsters participate in.
Units have now been fitted in the proposed art studio/project workshop and with three new staff due in the near future everyone is looking forward to additional hours.
The members are visiting Nettleham Police HQ where they will be able to experience skidpan training.
Due to the prevalence of the sexual infection Chlamydia with the under 19’s (bearing in mind that 70% of cases do not show any symptoms) the young people may apply, in strictest confidence, for a pack to take away, return after testing and to receive the results by text.
The young people also have access to the c-card scheme (to supply free condoms).
Recently First Responder Jim Wood visited the Young Parents and baby group to talk to them how to interpret signs of illness in their babies and toddlers, what to do if not sure and how to cope if the infant has swallowed an object which may be stuck in their throat or of they have an apparent airways blockage. Youth leader Kate Pinfold said that the talk had encouraged the largest morning meeting so far and she thanked Jim very much for giving such an interesting presentation.
At present Youthworx (have you seen the new outside sign the youngsters have made?) meet Monday evenings and Wednesday evenings 6.30pm – 9.00pm, Monday evenings for project work. Also Tuesday mornings 11.00am – 1.00pm for young parents .
Parents are always welcome to come and look round the premises.
Youthworx number is 01526 344031

FREE SPORTS FOR ALL

Saturday 20th September there will be a FREE sports day at Gartree School organised by the Coningsby/Tattershall and District Sports Forum.
Chairman Bridget Wayman said that it should be an excellent day for all ages and is being held specifically to promote and encourage sport in the area.
Admission is free for adults and children but youngsters under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult.
Just some of the sports activities include cricket, basketball, football, tennis and hopefully mo re extreme sport such as Kite flying, Fencing and indoor curling.
Water will be provided and people may bring along a packed lunch.
There will be medals for those who compete and plenty of instructors, some from ELDC and RAF volunteers who will help and guide with the various activities.
The Forum was set up in 2005 specifically to promote sport in the area and especially with a view to using the Allan Barker Recreation Ground extension when it is up and going.
The Forum has funds available which can be applied for by any local sport club, organisations with sporting individuals, schools, lone sports people. The funds may be used for training or for equipment.
Bids take place bi-annually and must be in by 31st August or 28th February.
Phone Bridget 01526 345501

Roman Trail Leaflets

The new Roman Trail leaflets have been designed and commissioned by Colin Ironmonger and have been paid for by advertising. These leaflets are already being distributed by Heritage Lincolnshire and proving successful in attracting visitors to the village.

Scrabble Club

Ancaster Scrabble Club continue to meet in the sports and social club at 2.00pm every Wednesday from 2.00pm. Top scorers for June were Jean Bottomley 3960, Merryl Day 3698 and Patt Jeffery 3587.
Everyone very welcome to join the group. For further details please telephone 01400 230469.

Help needed

Around Ancaster magazine is looking for someone with a computer to record, scan and reproduce the content of the adverts in order that the team who print them are kept up to date with any amendments. Additions etc. The current volunteers are very happy to go through the procedure with anyone willing to help and will continue until the end of the year.
If you can help or for further details please telephone Merryl 01400 230469.

Parish Office opening hours

The Ancaster/Wilsford group Parish office is open on Monday to Friday between 9.30am and noon. Outside these hours there is an answerphone for messages and an emergency number to ring if necessary. The Rectory phone number is 01400 231145 and email ancasterparishoffice@btinternet.com.

Monday, 11 August 2008

Coningsby Town Council

The July meeting of Coningsby Town Council was held in the usual venue, the community hall, with a welcome from Mayor Coun Paddy Donnellan.
He thanked Mr Dick Owen who attended to sign a form for the Environment agency as a Flood Warden. This means that there are two new wardens with Coun Ray Curtis, Mr Ray Brett and Mr Dick Owen who offer their valued service to the community.
Police Report.
PC Duncan Bustin reported on the noticeable change in behaviour problems since Charlie’s Night Club has reopened but said that the management are joining the Pub Watch Scheme in the hope it will eliminate many of the problems.
He said that the crime figures were up because more crimes have been detected due to support teams being called in to help.
Allan Barker Field Extension
All the plans have now been passed for building works and quotations being applied for. The clerk was asked to apply for trees from the LCC free trees scheme to use on the Allan Barker field.
The clerk, Kathy Roberts, reported that there had been more problems at the Sports Pavilion with vandalism including a door being broken.
Funding Request
Three youths who have achieved high status in Martial Arts applied to the council for funding. Although the council is unable to help they were more than happy to recommend the Sports Forum and other sports bodies where they might apply for funding.
Community Access Centre
Coun Ray Curtis reported what an excellent facility the new Access Centre was at Gartree School and hoped that everyone would use it.
CCTV
All cameras are now set up and working in the village. Funds are still required.
Civic Service.
This will take place Sunday 26th October 2008 at Coningsby St Michael s Church.
Allison Homes
The new road to be named Bramble Close.

Sunday, 10 August 2008

PINGLE BRINGS OUT MOTHS, BATS & PEOPLE.

The annual moth & bat evening escaped the rain despite heavy rainfall in New York just three miles away!
Approximately 40 people attended the evening including 21 students of various ages.
Many species of moth (32) were recorded making their way to Tony Ludlow’s mercury-vapour trap.
The bright ultra-violet light lured a good selection of large and small moth which were identified by Toby and his willing helpers. These included the small magpie with its distinctive black/white, the snout moth span, plus the swallow-tailed bright pink elephant hawk-moth with a 4” wing span and a pale yellow swallow-tailed moth with a 3” wing span.
While this was in progress other visitors walked along the Pingle with Roger Parsons using a bat detector to listen in on the noise of hunting bats. Feeding bats were seen and heard across the area, often up to three at a time.
The detector changed their ultrasonic clicks, known as echolocation, to sounds everyone could hear. It was even possible to tell when an insect was being caught by the distinctive change of sound. Most people stayed for an hour or two with the last enthusiasts heading homeward at about 11.30pm.
Chairman of the Friends of the Pingle Roger Parsons said “We would like to thank all who attended for their very welcome support. This is just the kind of activity we like to see on this small but special local nature reserve.There is not much wild space left within the village and we need to preserve what we have and make the most of it. We welcome every bit of help people can give to help us keep the area tidy, litter free and well-used.”

Coningsby/Tattershall Lions

At their recent meeting President Tim Barker reminded everyone of the Bridge Day planned for 9th September, there are still a few places left.
The popular event takes place at the village hall at the cost of £12.50 per head and includes tea and coffee during the breaks plus an excellent roast luncheon .Good prizes for the winners and a raffle. Anyone wishing to book should phone secretary Mike Phillips 01526 342036.
All proceeds from the event goes to local Lion Club Charities.
The Lions in conjunction with Woodhall Spa Rotary are organising another FREE fun day for youngsters on 13th September at Gartree School.
Various games could include Football, Rugby, Archery, Skittles, Tennis Speed, Horseshoes, Target Bowls, wheelchair obstacle race and others. Medals awarded.
Refreshments will be available, barbeque, tombola. There are spaces for some charity stalls, if you would like to book ring Mike (As above).

Anne & Andy Celebrate

andles A 50th birthday for Anne Simons and a 30th Wedding Anniversary for the Coningsby couple prompted them to have a one off celebration for both events and invite all their friends and family along.
However, they did stipulate that there was not to be any gifts, donations however could be given to a couple of their favourite charities if so desired.
A great evening at Tattershall Village hall with the disco “Sparkle” and an excellent BBQ supplied by Mike Atkins saw everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves , plus donations amounting to £825 for the couple’s charities.
“We thank everyone who helped on the day “ said Anne “and for the very generous donations”.£402.50 has been donated to “Candles” the Lincoln based charity for Breast Cancer Research and £422.50 donated to “Wish Upon a Star” the charity who give very ill children the opportunity to have a wish granted.

Coningsby & Tattershall W.I.

Marilyn Hawkins opened the July meeting welcoming members and two visitors Ann and Norma.
Everyone was kept entertained by Mavis Wilkinson from North Scarle who spoke on the culinary, cosmetic and healing properties of herbs. Samples were passed around which members could sniff and taste while Mavis spoke on their particular properties and how she had become interested in herbs during her school days. Members were also able to sample her lavender flavoured buns and mint tea at tea time.
The herb posy competition was won by Evelyn Hodson and runner up was Linda Kirk.
Connie Stennett gave the vote of thanks for a fascinating talk.Members were reminded of helping to serve refreshments at Coningsby Show on 13th September and asked to bring plants and other garden items for an outside stall

Coningsby/Tattershall W.I.

Marilyn Hawkins opened the July meeting welcoming members and two visitors Ann and Norma.
Everyone was kept entertained by Mavis Wilkinson from North Scarle who spoke on the culinary, cosmetic and healing properties of herbs. Samples were passed around which members could sniff and taste while Mavis spoke on their particular properties and how she had become interested in herbs during her school days. Members were also able to sample her lavender flavoured buns and mint tea at tea time.
The herb posy competition was won by Evelyn Hodson and runner up was Linda Kirk.
Connie Stennett gave the vote of thanks for a fascinating talk.
Members were reminded of helping to serve refreshments at Coningsby Show on 13th September and asked to bring plants and other garden items for an outside stall.

Coningsby Show 2008

It is getting near that time of the year again, have you kept an eye on your fruit and vegetables, protected your flowers, tried out new recipes, all ready for the Coningsby Show which will be held on 13th September at Coningsby Community Hall.
Will you win first prize this year?
Schedules are now available in Coningsby/Tattershall village post offices, Richard Sivill’s Gallery, or from any show committee member.
There will not be a sunflower competition this year but there will be an Art Competition
open to all ages, in any media, any size.
There will be the usual Scarecrow competition, a static model of an Alien Creature or a Spaceman, any size.
There are a few spaces for charity stalls outside the hall, the best dressed will win a trophy. These will be set up from 1.00pm, the hall doors open at 2.00pm to the public.There are loads to do in the Children’s Classes, various age ranges. If you get a schedule you will find many things for your children to do during the looming summer break!

French make English Breakfast

A small group of Twinners have just returned after a long weekend in Brulon, the town twinned with Tattershall & District, in the Sarthe region of France.
Members had been invited to share in the celebrations to mark Bastille Day and to join in the festivities to open new facilities at the lake and refurbished town hall (Mairie). These included joining in the several parades, enjoying various displays from mountain bikers, dancers and jazz to the new tepees near the camp site complete with ‘Indians’ and a wolf!
The French friends had asked the members to help at an English Breakfast which was planned as a fund raiser. They gallantly rose to the occasion cooking sausages and bacon on a barbecue, scrambling eggs and heating baked beans on small gas rings.
150 participants enjoyed the English Breakfast during the morning, which was good to see as English food is not always appreciated by other nationalities!
Old friendships were renewed and new ones formed during the weekend and it is hoped to take a larger group next year, probably in September, when a coach party is planned.
The Twinning is open to all in the Coningsby and Tattershall area , especially in nearby villages which are not twinned. There are members in Kirkby on Bain and Mareham le Fen.
New members are always welcome, knowledge of French is not vital, just an interest in other people and their way of life.

Meetings are held in the Fortescue Arms, Tattershall, on the first Monday of the month at 7.30pm.

Coningsby New Surgery

At the recent Patient’s Forum meeting it was discussed about the Government wanting to close down pharmacies in doctor’s surgeries and the fact that this would cause great inconvenience to patients who used the pharmacy plus the difference the loss of income would make. There is still time for anyone against the proposed pharmacy threat closure (especially in rural areas) to sign a petition at www.surelines.com/saveourdispensary/htm
It was noted that extending the surgery hours was working very well. There is a late night on Thursdays until 8.00pm and on Saturdays from 8.00am until 10.00am. Appointments should be booked and are particularly for non emergency patients who are unable to attend normal surgery hours.
The money raised from the raffle will be used to buy nebulisers.
Anyone can ring the surgery between 11.30am and midday to speak to a nurse or doctor should you have a query.
Apologies should you experience a long wait to see the doctor, this is unavoidable at times due to an emergency or due to patients being late.

Thanks to Round Table

Thursday Club Chairman Dian Stevens opened the meeting last week welcoming all present and sending Get Well wishes to those unable to attend. Members were able to enjoy a film, “Ring of Bright Water”.
This week members were introduced to Mr Neil Hudson from Sleaford & District Round Table who, in conjunction with Woodhall Spa Round Table, had raised the wonderful sum of £640 and bought the Thursday Club their own “Home Cinema”.
The audio/home cinema DVD system will enable members to enjoy a variety of entertainment including comedy, musicals, drama etc;
The system, including a projector, speakers and screen was demonstrated prior to Neil enjoying afternoon tea with club members who expressed their gratitude for such a wonderful and thoughtful gift.
Please note: In future the club will meet from 1.30pm not 2.00pm as at present

From Jumpers to Jumper!

Recently the Lincolnshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, who normally meet at Revesby Village Hall, set themselves a challenge to make a garment commencing at 10.00am with the fleece finishing and completing a jumper by 4.00pm.
The event took place at Gibraltar Point, Skegness, but unfortunately the lady with the fleece arrived late due to traffic delays.
This meant a mad dash to card the wool on drum carders (by hand it was too long) . Angela Barker with Carla Temprell from Coningsby were the first to spin enough wool to ply together thus providing the knitters with sufficient to knit the squares to make a garment.
A chaotic time ensued with spinners shouting for more fleece and knitters shouting for more wool although it was great fun and a good laugh.
When the squares were finished they then had to be crocheted round the edge and crocheted together, making sure they were in the correct position!
One particular member, Jenny Smith, was wonderful with crochet, working out what went where.
The jumper was finished by 4.45pm prior to being modelled.
Many thanks to the staff at Gibraltar Point who expected 12 people but 28 turned up!

Tuesday, 5 August 2008

Ancaster Roman Weekend

Ancaster Roman Weekend was a success and enjoyed by everyone who attended. A small amount of money has been raised for the School, Playing field and Church. It promoted a lot of interest in the history of Ancaster and hopefully this will become a regular event. The Grantham Archaeological Group were thrilled with the results of their dig and they will be explained in detail in the parish hall some time during September or October. The Roman Reenactment Group have expressed their interest in returning to Ancaster if we wish.
Organisers would like to thank the Parish Council whose initial investment made this weekend possible and also to the residents and visitors who supported all the fund raising events that were held on the run up to the weekend.

Ancaster Ladies Club

Ancaster ladies club welcomed Lucille Baker and her friend to explain the benefits to be gained from Aloe Vera products.
Raffle winners included Merryl Day, Jo Watson and Angela Riddington.
The ladies next meeting will be the meal out at Woodies on August 21 6.300m for 7.00pm

Lincolnshire Sponsored Bike Ride

The annual Sponsored Bike Ride and Stride takes place on Saturday 13 September in aid of Lincolnshire’s Historic Churches. Anyone interested in take part sponsor forms are available from Colin Phillips 11 Saxon Way Ancaster.