The Romans under the road
Joe Smith working on one of the smaller outbuildings that once surrounded a large Roman house.
Discovering Lincolnshire’s past as we build for the future
The discovery of artefacts dating back 5,000 years has brought unexpected excitement as the construction of the North Hykeham Relief Road gets underway.
A team of archaeologists have been hard at work behind the scenes, trying to better understand the remarkable discoveries recently made which could shed new light into Lincolnshire’s rich history.
After preliminary investigations, the dig got underway along the route of the new road, which will complete the circular bypass around Lincoln. The work focused around Waddington and the edge of Lincoln, where archaeologists uncovered a rich and varied treasure trove.
One of the most significant discoveries was the buried remains of a large Roman building, which was positioned overlooking the Witham Valley. Its location, just south of Lincoln, suggests it could have once commanded impressive views across the landscape.
Combined with a well-preserved pottery kiln and other artefacts discovered here, the building offers a reminder of how the area formed part of a thriving rural and industrial estate during Roman times.
Uncovered within the footprint of the new road, another striking find was uncovered – a 5,000-year-old polished stone axe. With no signs of wear, archaeologists believe the axe was likely a ceremonial object, perhaps passed between communities during important social or ritual events.
Its discovery helps to illuminate the rich Neolithic presence across the Lincolnshire landscape and adds to a growing body of evidence for early settlement.
These findings follow a pattern seen in other major infrastructure projects across the county. Investigations during the Lincoln Eastern Bypass revealed a wealth of material spanning thousands of years, ranging from flint tools and prehistoric enclosures to Roman buildings, timber logboats, and Anglo- Saxon cemeteries.
Similarly, archaeological work for the Spalding Western Relief Road and Grantham Southern Relief Road uncovered Roman pottery kilns, quern stones, ovens, and well-preserved structural remains.
Together, these archaeological milestones not only enrich our understanding of Lincolnshire’s past, but also ensure that modern infrastructure developments respect and record the historical treasures lying beneath.
Cllr David East, executive councillor for highways, said: “Carrying out thorough archaeological investigations as part of our major infrastructure projects, like the North Hykeham Relief Road, is vital. It allows us to protect and record the incredible heritage beneath our feet, ensuring that discoveries from the Neolithic period through to Roman Britain are properly understood and preserved for future generations.”
A beautifully polished Neolithic stone hand axe found at the site.
A Roman coin found on site.
Secrets unearthed
If you thought the North Hykeham Relief Road project was just about tarmac and traffic flow, think again.
Braving the elements, a hardy crew of archaeologists has been unearthing secrets that have been hidden for millennia.
Members of the archeological team: Joe Smith, Grey Hewitt, Ali Gething, Chris Clay and Jake Minton.
Allen Archaeology, led by director Chris Clay, has been on site just south of Lincoln, digging deep into the past. And now that construction on the final stretch of the Lincoln ring road is firmly underway, Chris is taking a moment to reflect on what turned out to be an extraordinary excavation.
“It’s been a huge treat to be working on this site,” Chris said. “We’ve uncovered a varied and interesting number of artefacts. It’s a dig that provided a story that we could really get our teeth into.”
And what a story it is. The team revealed what appears to have been a sprawling Roman country house surrounded by a cluster of smaller buildings. Workshops, bath houses, kilns, a bakery… even accommodation for workers.
With so much going on, it wasn’t just a villa; it was practically a mini Roman industrial estate buzzing with activity 2,000 years ago. But the biggest twist wasn’t from the Roman era at all.
One of the standout finds was left behind by people 3,000 years before the Romans ever set foot in Britain.
A beautifully polished Neolithic stone hand axe emerged from the soil, and the intriguing part, it had never been used. “We believe it was a ritual item,” Chris added. A rare, carefully crafted object created not for work, but for meaning.”
Of course, the dig is only half the journey. Back in the lab, every item is being meticulously cleaned, dated, and archived to build a complete interpretation of the site. But the exciting finds will go on display for the people of Lincolnshire.
“The material will be handed to the local museums for storage,” Chris explains. “It will be up to them to decide what artefacts go on display to the general public.”
Find out more about the North Hykeham Relief Road and all our other major projects.
Retail therapy
John Horry and apprentice support worker Eloise Roberts seen antiquing one of the garden ornaments.
Adults in Boston with additional needs work together to create fabulous garden ornaments for sale around the county
With spring on the way and people getting back into their gardens, the enterprising team at Scott House community hub in Boston is producing fabulous garden ornaments for sale.
From design, manufacturing, decorating and finally selling their creations, the Scott House team really can do it all, as assistant manager, Sam Lane explained. “Every one of the people here that we support are involved in the process in some way,” she said.
“There are people who mix the materials and make the garden ornaments, people who do the painting and ‘antiquing’ and then people who help with sales. Obviously, we have to keep stocked up with materials and everyone helps keep a check on that too. They love doing it and I think they’re quite rightly very proud of the items that they make.”
The garden items vary in size and range from animals to water features and the team is gradually building up the number of outlets where they are sold. The Skirbeck Road hub is attended daily, sometimes by more than 30 adults with additional needs and the creative, busy atmosphere is having a positive effect on those that attend.
“Some of the people we support here also volunteer elsewhere to pass on their skills to others,” added Sam. “I have noticed a really significant change in them. Their confidence is increasing and the joy and laughter in the studio sometimes is contagious. They love what they are doing.”
The items made are transported elsewhere around the county and sold over the counter at venues in Lincolnshire, including:
- The Village Church Farm – Skegness
- Old McDonalds Farm Shop – Wyberton
- Quad Café – Newland, Lincoln
- Boundary Street Hub – Lincoln
Richard Parish and Mick Robinson enjoy the task of painting the new garden figures.
All profits from the sale of the garden ornaments are ploughed back into the facility, but also help to fund supported holidays for the adults involved. “These trips are fabulous for our adults,” Sam added. “We take them once a year, with this year’s trip being to the Calvert Trust in the Lake District.
“The Calvert Trust mission aims to enable people with disabilities to achieve their potential through the challenge of adventurous activities in the countryside. They have a great time and are amazed at the opportunities they have there, whether it be hiking, archery or even canoeing. Our team focus on what our adults CAN do.”
Find out more about day services across the county.
Energy from waste
Janine Cordingly was one of the first residents in North Kesteven to start recycling waste.
Lincolnshire set to join food waste revolution – turning everyday kitchen scraps into energy for our county
Have a think about what ends up in your kitchen bin after a normal day of cooking and eating.
Not just unfinished food, but also the bits no one eats in the first place: tea bags and coffee grounds after your morning brew, eggshells from breakfast, vegetable peelings and stalks, meat bones, or a banana skin dropped into the bin without a second thought.
These everyday items are exactly what the new food waste caddies, which are being delivered to every home, are designed for.
From this month, household food waste collections are starting in parts of Lincolnshire. From the week commencing 30 March, collections will begin in Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey, followed by South Kesteven from the week commencing 13 April. Collections in Boston Borough, East Lindsey and South Holland are scheduled to start this coming autumn.
This new service is part of the Government’s national Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced under the Environment Act 2021, and means every household will have a simple, consistent way to recycle both edible and inedible food waste.
By using your food waste caddy, you are helping reduce the amount of waste sent to Lincolnshire’s Energy from Waste facility. Instead, food waste is collected separately and taken to an anaerobic digestion plant in Lincolnshire, where it is turned into renewable energy and fertiliser for agriculture.
So even if you feel you rarely throw food away, those small, everyday scraps soon add up.
North Kesteven resident, Janine Cordingley, who has recently received her caddies and welcome pack said: “It’s great to see food waste being collected separately and turned into energy for Lincolnshire homes. It’s a fabulous idea and very simple to do. If it helps to save money, then the council can spend it on something else.”
What can I put in my kitchen caddy?
You can recycle all your food waste, including the following:
- All uneaten food and plate scrapings
- Raw or cooked meat and bones
- Raw or cooked fish and bones
- Dairy, butter, yoghurt and eggs
- Tea bags and coffee grounds
- Rice, pasta and beans
- Bread, cakes and pastries
- Raw or cooked fruit, veg and peelings
Janine using her new food waste bin.
Environment Day
Following the success of the first-ever Environment Day at the Lincolnshire Showground, which welcomed more than 230 children from ten primary schools, the event is returning in 2026.
This year it will see even more pupils taking part in this exciting addition to our Let’s Talk Rubbish programme, which aims to inspire the next generation to recognise the positive impact they can have on the environment.
To find out more, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/foodwaste, or follow your council on social media for updates.
Big ambitions, balanced books
Cllr Sean Matthews speaking at the latest budget meeting.
How we will spend your money during this year
With costs that have gone up by more than £80million this year, there has needed to be a balance between keeping council tax low and paying for vital services.
Council leader, Cllr Sean Matthews explained: “This is our first budget as a new administration. The government has provided some additional funding to reflect that the county has been under-funded in the past, but it won’t be anywhere near enough to cover our extra costs. We are meeting that challenge by rooting out wasteful spending.
“We have been left a legacy of projects which need to be finished, such as major road projects, so we have to make sure they are completed. But just like residents save up for bigger purchases, the council should do the same! We do not want to borrow money to fund future projects.”
In addition to an extra £36m from the government, the budget proposals include efficiency savings and using a proportion of the council’s reserves.
To raise some additional funding, the council has agreed to raise council tax by 2.9%, of which 2% will only be used to fund increasing costs of adult social care. The small increase in council tax adds 90p per week on the average band D property.
Cllr Tom Catton is the council’s executive councillor for finance. He explained: “Our executive has identified £35.5m of known savings for 26/27. These savings will rise to £62.6m in the coming years. But this is just the beginning, I am confident we will find further savings.
“We have reviewed the reserves we hold and have identified money we can use this year without adverse risk to the council. We owe it to the residents that chose change last May, to look at things differently and to deliver that change. I genuinely do not believe we can ask residents to pay more in council tax while we have money in the bank above what we truly need.”
Cllr Tom Catton speaking at the latest budget meeting.
A consultation was held earlier in the year to get feedback from residents, businesses and other organisations on increasing council tax and Cllr Catton thanked all those who took part. “I would like to thank everyone who took part in our public budget consultation. I read every single one of the 389 comments that were made.
“Consistently, residents told us that they were still worried about the impacts of increasing council tax on their own finances. But equally many worried about the council not balancing the books and having to cut services. Our budget addresses both of these issues.”
Our 2026 budget includes:
- £61 million to maintain the roads, including an extra £6 million for pothole drainage
- £138 million for children's social services - £21.5 million more than last year, including for SEND support and children in care
- £189 million for care for older people and adults with disabilities - £30 million more than last year
- £4.4 million for new fire engines and life saving equipment
Read more about the council’s budget.
Raising awareness of domestic abuse
Amanda Baxter and a client talk through a domestic abuse case.
'He threatened to kill Holly’s pet, then he turned on her’
Mum of domestic abuse victim Holly Bramley is leading a campaign for a national register of people who harm animals
Lincolnshire mum Annette Bramley is working to raise awareness of domestic abuse after the tragic loss of her daughter Holly.
Holly was murdered by her husband Nicholas Metson in March 2023, following years of controlling and abusive behaviour.
Annette, who lives in Holbeach, believes that his threats to kill Holly’s beloved pet was a ‘red flag’ for his future actions.
In an attempt to save lives in the future, she is leading a campaign to establish ‘Holly’s Law’ - a nationwide animal cruelty registry that lists individuals known to harm or kill animals.
“According to the RSPCA, many domestic abuse victims say that their pets are also injured or killed as a means of controlling or punishing,” explained Annette.
“This man had a history of violence towards animals and former partners. He threatened to kill my daughter’s pet in an attempt to control her. He eventually escalated his actions to take Holly’s life.”
The campaign for Holly’s Law has already received more than 53,000 signatures and her local MP has supported the cause by writing a letter of support to the Prime Minister. But Annette hasn’t stopped there: “I have also written a letter to Queen Camilla who is patron for ‘Save Lives’ a UK-based charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse.”
“I have been blown away by the response so far. If we can raise awareness of this problem and the help and support that is available, then we will have done something worthwhile.
“People should be aware of the link between this type of behaviour and domestic abuse.”
Together we can end domestic abuse
Jane Dhanji, (Boxes of Hope) Charlotte Goodwin (Ringrose) Anne Canter (LDASS) Annette Bramley and Boxes of Hope managing director Amanda Baxter.
A hard-working and dedicated group of experts is helping people from Lincolnshire to recognise and escape domestic abuse.
At Boxes of Hope in Holbeach, a specially trained team are supporting those who are seeking an end to their abusive relationship.
The council commission EDAN Lincs (End Domestic Abuse Now) to deliver specialist support and assistance to individuals and families in Lincolnshire through LDASS (Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service).
As well as educating community groups and services, the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, part of Lincolnshire County Council, has developed business engagement packages to help support employees across the county, for more information visit: www.domesticabuselincolnshire.com.
“This issue has become more prevalent because victims now have more information about it,” explained EDAN senior manager Ann Canter. “We can help anyone to escape this sort of situation. We have venues across Lincolnshire and we work with crisis teams, legal services, financial partners, accommodation services, police and Citizens Advice.
Ann added: “Domestic abuse does not have to mean physical violence. Coercive and controlling behaviour can be equally harmful to victims and to children who witness it.”
Find out more about what domestic abuse support is available to you.
Opening doors
Early careers team gives young people a great start into work
Thinking about your first step into the world of work? You’ve got options and our Early Careers team is ready to help you explore them. Whether
you’re curious about work experience, eyeing up an apprenticeship, or diving into a T Level placement, there’s something for everyone.
At the council, everything revolves around one thing: supporting our residents. From helping families through tough times, to making sure older adults get the care they deserve, to building the roads that keep our county moving – it all matters and you could be part of it.
There are roles for people who love working directly with others, and roles for those who prefer to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Imagine building a future career in digital services, civil engineering, youth work, social care or finance.
Curious? Visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/earlycareers.
Meet some of our class of 2026
Molly
LCC apprentice Molly.
Molly knew the traditional university route wasn’t for her. she wanted real experience, real skills, and a real wage. So, she jumped into an apprenticeship within the council’s business support team, where no two days look the same: helping children’s services, highways, management teams and more. “I wanted to gain practical skills early in life and earn while I learn,” she said. “An apprenticeship felt like the perfect way to build confidence and independence.
“I was amazed by how many different opportunities the council has. It’s such a respected organisation, and the training has been brilliant. The best part though has been how much I’ve grown. If you’re motivated and want real experience, an apprenticeship is a fantastic choice.”
Shay
LCC apprentice Shay.
After finishing his GCSEs at Priory City Academies, Shay took a leap into a T Level in Accounting and he hasn’t looked back. Since May 2025, he’s been working with the council’s finance team as part of his industry placement.
“A T Level was right for me because you get proper hands on experience in a workplace while earning a qualification,” Shay said.
“I spent time in accounts payable and now I’m in the adult finance team. I need 315 hours of experience, but I can choose when I work as long as I get the hours done.”
“If you want a real insight into the world of work and great qualifications, a T Level is the way to go.”
The Viking Way turns 50
Norman Gosbee, Karen Gosbee, Nick Paish and Lizzie Loring with Penny the dog.
Lincolnshire’s superstar walking route celebrates a golden milestone
Ready to blow away the cobwebs and enjoy some stunning scenery? Say hello to the Viking Way, Lincolnshire’s superstar walking route, which reaches a half century birthday this year!
This 149-mile-long route runs from the banks of the Humber to the town of Oakham in Rutland. Established in 1976, the breathtaking walk is now in the big birthday club, celebrating 50 glorious years.
The route was set up through a partnership between Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Humberside County Councils together with popular outdoor organisation, The Ramblers.
The route was dubbed the Viking Way in a nod to our fabulous Lincolnshire history – right back to the late ninth century when our county was part of the historic Mercia region. The Viking Way reflects the influence of Danelaw on our entire landscape in this part of the UK.
Navigating your way along the route couldn’t be easier either, it’s waymarked with a series of easy-to-see signs all sporting a Viking helmet. And, if 149 miles is a little on the long side for you, you can always enjoy one of the many short ‘circular’ walks that use part of the Viking Way.
Why we love it
- It’s free! No subscriptions, no hidden costs – just you, your boots, and the great outdoors.
- Feel-good vibes: Walking is a great workout that’s easy on your joints and brilliant for your mental health.
- Wild encounters: From Lincolnshire Wolds to Limewoods, expect birds, blooms, and breathtaking landscapes.
On the route
- Picture-perfect spots: Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, cliff villages, and the Kesteven Uplands.
- Historic towns: Caistor, Horncastle, Woodhall Spa – plus the city of Lincoln itself, where you’ll wander past the castle and cathedral before tackling Steep Hill.
- Easy options: Not many of us will consider tackling the whole 149 miles, so the route is split into 13 sections and loads of short circular walks. Perfect for a Sunday adventure.
Years of progress
Over the years, the Viking Way has had a serious makeover – stiles swapped for gates, safer crossings, shiny new waymarkers, and even accessible stretches like the Spa Trail and Water Railway.
Ready to walk the walk?
Make 2026 your year of adventure. Grab a map, pick a section, and get exploring!
Find maps, routes and insider tips at Visit Lincolnshire.
Your stories
Share your Viking Way stories with us, at www.letstalk.lincolnshire.gov.uk.
In the footsteps of Vikings
Found close to Baumber, this Samanid dirham started life in the Middle East and was later converted into a pendant.
The Viking Way recognises the influence of Scandinavians and their descendants on eastern England, as they moved from raiders to settlers who shaped the Lincolnshire landscape.
Incredible artefacts transport us back over 1,000 years. An extremely rare gold hammer-shaped pendant, discovered in Spilsby, is thought to represent Thor, the Norse god of thunder. These objects were worn as amulets to bring divine protection and indicate Old Norse religious traditions being observed in Lincolnshire.
Other artefacts show the global scale of the Viking trading network. Another pendant was unearthed in Baumber, close to Horncastle, which started its life as a coin in the Middle East, more than 4,000 miles away.
The silver coin is an Arabic dirham and was minted in AD 905/6, probably in Afghanistan. It was later gilded and converted into a pendant, and likely found its way to Lincolnshire as a souvenir worn by a Viking trader as a symbol of wealth and status.
The pendants are just two of the amazing artefacts going on display at an exciting exhibition exploring Lincolnshire’s Viking story, which will launch at Lincoln Museum when it re-opens following a £1.7m re-development.
A hammer-shaped pendant, discovered near Spilsby, thought to represent Thor the Norse God of Thunder.
As well as the exhibition, visitors will discover a brand-new archaeology gallery designed to bring people closer than ever before to the county’s fascinating history.
Stay up to date with the redevelopment of Lincoln Museum by following ‘Lincoln Museum and Usher Gallery’ on Facebook and Instagram.
‘Checking in’ to a new career
Tracey Lacey, Carla Springthorpe, Mary Magurie and Shona Turner at Grantham's Premier Inn.
New partnership helps young people make the leap from training to work
If you’re visiting Grantham’s Premier Inn look out for Carla the latest graduate of the council’s InspireU success story.
The 22-year-old has stepped into the world of paid work at the town’s Premier Inn, after completing a supported internship with the help of job coach Mary Maguire and deputy careers lead, Tracey Lacey.
The link between InspireU and Premier Inn has resulted in lots of young people finding paid employment. InspireU is seeking other employers to get involved in the supported internship scheme.
“The young people work with a job coach while they’re training and they really benefit from a gradual transition into paid work,” explained Tracey. “And it works both ways, because the business gets a knowledgeable and valued member of staff. Everyone benefits.”
The supported internship scheme’s latest graduate, Carla, said: “I really enjoyed doing the course, learning new things, and meeting lots of people.”
“I am now loving the job at the Premier Inn. It was really good to work with a job coach to start with so that I learned about the job gradually and with support. The hotel is a really great place to work.”
The proof, though, is in the pudding, and Carla’s progress in the world of work has been endorsed by multi-site hotel manager and Carla’s boss, Shona Turner. “Carla is getting on really well,” said Shona. “She was quite shy to start with, but working with us and the job coach helped to lift her confidence and her transition into paid work has been really straight forward.
“Now, just like anyone else, she gets on with her tasks totally unsupervised and she has a great relationship with her colleagues.”
Any employer that would like to know more about the supported internship scheme, or young person with Special Educational Needs and /or Disabilities that would like to know more about InspireU, you can find out more at: www.inspireu.org.uk.
The supported internship scheme’s latest graduate, Carla.
A hotel experience with a difference
Landing that very first job is a huge moment for any young person. But for those who aren’t in mainstream education, taking that first step into the world of work can feel more like a giant jump.
Whitbread - owners of Premier Inn - have invested at InspireU College to launch a brand new training centre on the Lincoln campus. And this isn’t just a classroom with a few props. It’s a real hotel environment with en-suite bedrooms and a proper reception.
Cllr Natalie Oliver speaking at the launch.
Cllr Natalie Oliver, executive member for children’s services, sums up the possibilities that are opening up: “By giving students the chance to train in a real hotel environment, we’re opening doors to opportunity and independence.”
“It will make a life-changing difference and for Lincoln’s young people, those doors are now well and truly open.”
Playing a leading part
Cllr Jackie Brockway
From music to meetings and from classroom to council chamber, Cllr Jackie Brockway plays a starring role
You wouldn’t normally throw music, theatre and politics into the same sentence – but for county councillor Jackie Brockway, it’s just the right mix.
Jackie, who represents Saxilby and Nettleham on Lincolnshire County Council, first arrived in the county back in 1992 with her husband Colin, a doctor. After teaching music in schools around Lincolnshire, life took an unexpected turn when she began to experience hearing loss.
While Jackie continued to teach despite this challenge, another opportunity arose to make a difference – and she was happy to pursue it.
In 2007, Jackie stepped boldly into the world of local politics, winning a seat on West Lindsey District Council. Five years later, she was elected to Lincolnshire County Council – and she hasn’t looked back.
But her work isn’t just about meetings and policy papers. Jackie has become a passionate advocate for people living with hearing loss – the very challenge she knows first-hand. She’s even learning sign language so she can communicate more confidently with deaf and hard of hearing residents.
Born in Llanelli, South Wales, Jackie moved to Pembroke aged 7. She went on to study music at the University of Wales in Cardiff. Busy, creative and energetic from day one, she’s never been someone who sits still for long.
That same drive came in handy when she set up and ran her own children’s theatre company, taking a leading role in writing shows, making costumes and composing music.
“When I had the theatre company, I made sure every child in any production had a speaking role. They all had lines to deliver and that was very important to me,” she said.
Work at the county council became more challenging when Jackie became the council’s chief whip – a role which saw her making sure councillors followed the rules, attended meetings and stayed on top of what matters in their communities.
“I loved that role,” she says. “It kept me at the heart of everything – supporting the leader, helping councillors, and always telling truth to power.”
Jackie says she continues to be proud and privileged to have been chosen to represent her residents on the county council.
“When someone puts a cross on a ballot paper, it’s a sacred oath. They’ve put their trust in me, and I’ve always felt deeply honoured by that,” she said.
While hearing loss may have taken her away from teaching music, one thing is clear: when it comes to the needs of her community, Cllr Jackie Brockway is always listening.
Find out more about your local councillor.
Poppy snap is a winner
Visit Lincolnshire and 2Aspire’s first photography competition has announced its winner.
The stunning picture was taken at the International Bomber Command Centre, featuring a backdrop of Lincoln’s skyline and the centre’s one-of-a-kind Summer poppy display with a Lancaster Bomber recreated in poppies.
The photographer, however, has chosen to remain nameless, but says the image was very personal, due to their connection as one of the many RAF veterans in Lincolnshire.
Now bursting with a passion for photography, the retired winner has been spurred on to develop his skills further with a photography course at his local college.
Linda Radford, skills engagement officer, said: “It’s fantastic to see that our photography competition has helped light a fire in this gentleman’s heart, and that he’s taking the passion forward to develop his skills even further.
“The competition itself has been great. It’s inspiring that there are so many people out there willing to learn, regardless of age or ability, and we strongly encourage anyone with an interest or passion, to keep learning!”
Find courses that suit your aims and interests with 2aspire.org.uk.
Your Lincolnshire love story starts here
If you’re planning on keeping your wedding small, but thinking big in terms of quality, you may want to follow the trend of making your day more intimate.
Right now, the hottest trend in “I do’s” is to have a smaller wedding and Lincolnshire is packed with gorgeous and quirky spots, ideal for an intimate event.
Think cosy country houses, character-packed heritage buildings, rustic barns, dreamy water mills that provide all the vibes and all the charm.
And while the guest list might be shorter, the celebrations certainly aren’t. Couples are treating their nearest and dearest to multi-day fun – prewedding get-togethers, post-wedding wind-downs, and a mini-break rolled into one. It’s less ‘one-day event,’ more ‘wedding weekender.’
Dive into ideas for stunning ceremony venues, delicious celebratory meals, and fun activities and experiences at www.visitlincolnshire.com/weddings.
Why I love being a school governor
Cllr Jane King is one of the many people to discover the joys of becoming part of a school community by taking on the role of school governor.
We are looking for people who want to make a real difference to young people in the county and Jane is encouraging others to follow in her footsteps.
“I have been a governor at my local Primary and High School for many years now, and it’s a lovely experience,” she said. “You become part of the school community and you are there to give support to the teaching staff, helping to ensure the smooth running of the school and making sure that they are delivering real value for money. I thoroughly enjoy my time at the schools and would urge people to step forward.”
Governors support and challenge the school’s leadership team to drive improvement, but aren’t involved in the day-to-day running of the school.
You’ll be asked to:
- attend governing board meetings
- visit the school to see how things are working
- listen to the views of staff, pupils and parents
- help make decisions about issues such as pupil exclusions and staff disciplinary matters
You don’t need to be an expert in education, but you do need to be passionate about supporting the school and its pupils.
You can apply online at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/schoolgovernor. If you have any questions, email governorsupport@lincolnshire.gov.uk.
Plan your perfect day out
Lincolnshire has a jam-packed calendar this year, with exciting events, activities and experiences for the whole family right across the county.
Kick off the fun in Easter exploring historic houses and gardens with trails and egg hunts, hands-on crafting or head outdoors into the wild for spring walks along our world-renowned chalk streams as the countryside bursts into life.
As it keeps getting warmer, the coast offers an enticing opportunity for a cool dip and all the classic seaside fun, with beach days, boat trips and festivals all on offer.
Across our many market towns and villages, we’ll see craft fairs, local music and theatre ramp up, while the county’s castles and open parks are set to showcase our history alongside popular outdoor cinema nights and interactive experiences for the kids.
There’s lots to see, do, and experience in Lincolnshire. Discover what’s on and plan your perfect day out with www.visitlincolnshire.com.
Currently reading
Join the National Year of Reading celebrations and let the Lincolnshire Libraries team help you find your next favourite read from the thousands of books and e-books they have available for you to borrow for FREE.
All the books featured here are available at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/currentlyreading, so you can reserve them for free to collect at your local library.
Bridgerton: An offer from a Gentleman - Julie Quinn
The Bridgerton family is wealthy, well born, and universally admired. But not even Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers can identify the masked maiden who has completely captivated the Bridgerton second son, Benedict, at his mother’s masquerade ball. This is a must read for fans of the hit Netflix series!
Available in book, e-book and e-audio.
Eleanor: A 200-mile Walk in Search of England’s Lost Queen - Alice Loxton
In 1290 after her death, King Edward I’s beloved wife, Eleanor of Castile, was carried on a 200-mile journey from Lincoln to London, which was later immortalized in stone. Now, bestselling historian Alice Loxton set herself the epic challenge to walk the entire funeral route on the corresponding dates. This journey uncovered the extraordinary life and formidable character of this lesser-known royal.
Available in book, e-book and e-audio.
Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT and the Race That Will Change the World - Parmy Olson
In November 2022, ChatGPT was released and it was clear that our lives and our careers would never be the same again. Supremacy is the astonishing story of the race to exploit generative AI. It unfolds between two titans of Silicon Valley, Microsoft and Google, as they rush to embrace OpenAI and DeepMind, the two leading AI companies, and harness them for limitless profit.
Available in book, e-book and e-audio.
The Enchanted Wood - Enid Blyton
Introduce your young readers to old friends from your childhood to coincide with the film release of The Magic Faraway Tree. Jo, Bessie and Fanny move to the country and find an enchanted wood right on their doorstep! In the wood stands the magic Faraway Tree where magical characters live that soon become their new friends. Together they visit the strange lands which lie at the top of the tree and have the most exciting adventures – not to mention some narrow escapes!
Available in book and e-book.
There’s a warm welcome waiting for you at your local library, so call in and discover all that’s on offer. Your library card also gives you free access to thousands of e-books, e-audiobooks, e-newspapers, e-magazines, e-music and online resources through our digital library.
Visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/libraries to find out where your nearest library is or to join online.
Follow @Lincslibraries on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with what’s on offer and going on in your library.
Helping students dream big
As big life decisions loom for students looking ahead to life beyond the classroom, the Greater Lincolnshire Careers Hub is right there beside them.
The hub is always there for the county’s young people, opening doors, building confidence and helping thousands of individuals to imagine a future they’re excited about. Like a super-connector, the hub brings together schools, colleges and employers so students can get a real feel for the world of work. And it’s already paying off.
Schools are seeing stronger links with local businesses, exciting new partnerships and clearer pathways to deliver inspiring careers experiences.
For employers, it’s also a big win. Getting involved means helping shape future talent, supporting local skills growth and investing in the workforce that will one day power our region’s economy. Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher or employer, the Greater Lincolnshire Careers Hub is helping young people dream big and turn those dreams into reality.