June 2010 Archives

Dear Councillors

You are summoned to a meeting of Metheringham Parish Council which will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 29th June 2010 at 7.30pm. Prior to the official start of the meeting a public forum of not more than 15 minutes will be held if required. The public may address the council between 7.15pm and 7.30pm on current matters, or issues which may become future agenda items and your attendance is also requested during this period. A Police Report will be given at this time.

Signed: Ms S N Wetherall AILCM
Clerk to Metheringham Parish Council
21st June 2010

AGENDA
29th June 2010

1. To resolve to accept Apologies for Absence and reasons given

2. Members Declarations of Interests: Members may make any declarations of interest at this point but may also make them at any point during the meeting in accordance with the 2000 Local Government Act.

3. Reports from representatives on outside bodies:
a) To receive a report from the County Councillor.
b) To receive a report from the District Councillor.
c) To receive reports from Council representatives on other outside bodies.
d) To receive a report from the Parish Dog Warden

4. Notes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Tuesday 25th May 2010, to be approved and signed as the minutes.

5. Clerks report on matters outstanding (previously circulated)

6. Financial matters:
a) To consider membership renewal of the Society of Local Council Clerks for 2010 at a cost of £135.00.
b) To consider a request from St Wilfrid's Church for a donation of £250.00 towards the upkeep of the new Cemetery.
c) To resolve to make a payment of £280.00 for repairs to motor at the swimming pool.
d) To resolve to make a payment of £500.00 for the removal of old filter sand, purchase of new sand and installation at the swimming pool.
e) To consider and approve quotations received to remove sycamore tree Drury Street at an approximate cost of £300.00.
f) To approve Cllr Roland is to become an authorized signatory for the Parish Council bank accounts.
g) To consider funding some trial sessions of Fairplay football and other diversionary activities eg. boxing, dance and golf at an approximate cost of £130.00 per 3 hour session.
h) To consider and approve quotations received for alterations to entrance of village hall and car park.
i) To consider applying to the Public Works Loan Board for a loan to carry out the above alterations.
j) To consider accounts for payment.
k) To receive a report from the RFO on the PC finances, Income and Expenditure.

7. Planning Committee:
a) Notes of the last meeting held on 9th June 2010, to be approved and
signed as the minutes (previously circulated).
b) To consider planning application Ref: 10/0486/FUL on behalf of Patrick
Dean Ltd (farmers based at Mere). Proposal to lay an underground pipe (for water) from Mere Pumphouse (north of Mere Hall, Bracebridge Heath) to Boothby Heath Farm for Agricultural purposes.
c) To consider planning application Ref: 10/0637/FUL, proposal erection of 3
No Light Industrial Storage Units on land adjacent to Unit 24, Moorlands
Trading Estate, Metheringham.

8. Correspondence:
a) To note general correspondence (publications and letters are available for viewing).
b) To consider a letter from NKDC regarding Members Register of Interests Under the Local Code of Conduct and Disclosure of Gifts or Hospitality, members to consider if they need to make any amendments.
c) To consider a letter from NKDC relating to Local Code of Conduct and Declarations of Interest - Training Workshops to be held on 13th July at Waddington Village Hall at 6.30pm or 14th July at NKDC Offices, Sleaford at 6.30pm and to agree representation.

9. To receive reports on Outside Meetings:
a) To receive a report from the Chairman on the LALC County Committee
meeting held 21st June 2010.
b) To receive a report from members on the East Midlands SLCC Regional
Conference held 22nd June 2010.
c) To receive a report from Member/Clerk on 'Burials seminar' held 29th June
2010.

10. To receive reports from Working Groups:
a) Allotments
b) Children's Playgrounds and Playing Fields
c) Consultation and Questionnaires
d) Fayre and Feast
e) Forward Planning
f) Highways, Footpaths & Car Parks
g) Risk Assessment
h) Street Lighting
i) War Memorial and Spring

11. Recreation field & related issues: To receive an update.

12. Allotments: To receive an update following recent requests for land, relating to the proposal for new allotments and pavilion.

13. Small Christmas Trees: To agree to a scheme for the Parish Council to co-ordinate the purchase and installation of brackets, small Christmas trees and lights for retail and domestic properties on High Street (previously circulated).

14. Asset Valuation Report: To approve the valuation report compiled by
Andy Hey FRICS, Chartered Surveyor (previously circulated).

15. Gifts and Hospitality Form MPC/017: To adopt Gifts and Hospitality Form MPC/017 for Metheringham Parish Council (document previously circulated).

16. Metheringham & District Swimming Pool Association (MADSPA): To discuss the future and organization of the swimming pool.

17. Date, time and venue of next meeting: Tuesday 27th July 2010 at 7.30pm in the Village Hall.

Parish of Nocton

Notice of Vacancy in the Office of Parish Councillor

Notice is Hereby Given pursuant to Section 87(2) of the Local Government Act 1972 and Rule 8(1) of the Local Elections/Parishes and Communities Rules 1986 that:

TREVOR J MORRIS

has ceased to be a member of the above Parish Council and that a casual vacancy exists in the office of Councillor for the said Parish.

On receipt of a request in writing from any ten local government electors for the said Parish, an election to fill the vacancy will be held within sixty days. If no such request is made the vacancy will be filled through co-option by the Parish Council.

Requests for such an election should be addressed to The Returning Officer, North Kesteven District Council, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincs, NG34 7EF to arrive no later than fourteen days from the date of this notice (computed in accordance with Rule 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Elections (Parishes and Communities) Rules 1986.

Dated: 24th May 2010
Signed: (Clerk to the Council, the Proper Officer for this purpose)
Name: Mrs D Green
Address: 1 Potterhanworth Rd, Nocton, Lincoln, LN4 2BP

From Dot Howes

Local householder Steven Ward was recently rewarded for his quick thinking action and bravery in apprehending the thief at a break-in on Drury Street in July 2009. Steven was presented with a Public Appreciation Certificate by Lincolnshire Chief Constable Richard Crompton. Only a handful of these certificates are presented in the UK each year and the award came from Lincolnshire Police Authority. The person apprehended was convicted and is serving two years community service for the break-in.

Metheringham and District outdoor heated pool is now open for the summer. The usual sessions have not changed from last year but at the moment there are no qualified instructors available to teach swimming at the pool on a Friday evening. If anyone knows anyone who could be approached please contact Dian Robinson on 01526 321581 as soon as possible. Friday night lessons have been a popular feature of the pool for most of its life and are vital in helping ensure that all the young people in the area can swim before they go up to secondary school which is part of the pool's reason for being. The pool committee is currently very depleted which means keeping the pool open at all is in jeopardy unless more volunteers come forward with their support.

The Pre-School are holding a quiz night on Friday June 18th at 8.00p.
m. in the Scout Hut. Tickets are £2.00 per head.

Metheringham have been entered into the Best Kept Villages and Small Towns competition run by Community Links. To ensure the village is looking its best when the judges come round in June or July or August please do your bit to help keep the village centre amenities tidy and litter free during this time in particular.

At the Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre - in the old gymnasium - on Wednesday 23rd June 2010 at 7.30pm. Admission: Members free, Visitors £5.00 including tea/coffee and biscuits.

Enquiries to: Friends of Metheringham Airfield, Westmoor Farm, Martin Moor, Metheringham, Lincoln LN4 3BQ. Tel: 01526 378270/604

Access and facilities for the Disabled. All proceeds in aid of the Visitor Centre / 106 Sqn Museum.

The Football club held their Senior / U18 presentation at Nando's on the Brayford at Lincoln on Friday 4th June with around 65 members present.

The Under 18s had won the Intermediate Central league on goal difference from long time leaders Manor United. This was done by virtue of winning their last nine games. Captain Andy Miles was presented with the trophy by local league referee Mark Thomson. All players were then presented with medals.

The club awards were then presented with U18 manager praising his team and making the following awards.

Adam Swales Metheringham FC - U18s Top Scorer
Andrew Miles Metheringham FC - U18s Player of Season
Aaron Harrison Metheringham FC - U18s Player of Season
Adam Swales Metheringham FC - U18s Players' Player
James Brett Metheringham FC - U18s Manager's Player
Ben Garrick Metheringham FC - U18s Manager's Player
Rikki Smith Metheringham FC - U18s Manager's Player

Minutes of the Nocton Annual Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday the 4th of May 2010 in the village hall

Present: Miss Storr Chair
Ms.Wilson Vice-Chair
Mr. Askew
Mr.Capewell
Mr. Morris
Mr. Rumbelow
Mr.Chambers D.Cllr.
Mrs. Green Clerk
Mr.Flannigan PCSO
10 members of the public

Apologies: D.Cllr.Rose, P.Cllr.Watchus, C.Cllr. Overton

1. Declaration of Prejudicial Interest in Accordance With the Ethical Code of Conduct: None
2. Police: There had been 2 crimes of theft reported since the last meeting.
3. Public Questions: Thanks were expressed to the P.C. for changing the room setup for this meeting.
The white flat back lorry is still removing material from the hospital site, a skip taken in today. What is the view on the large posters up in this conservation area village? Will seek advice of NKDC Conservation Officer.
4. Litter: Mr.Sidney was paid for litter picking in April.
5. Election on Chairman: Miss Storr nominated by Mr.Rumbelow, seconded by Ms.Wilson, there were no other nominations, Miss Storr willing to stand and was duly elected to the Chair.
6. Election of Vice Chair: Ms.Wilson nominated by Mr.Morris, seconded by Mr. Askew, there were no other nominations, Ms.Wilson willing to stand and duly elected Vice-Chair.

The Minutes of the Annual Parish meeting were proposed as correct by Mr.Rumbelow, seconded by Mr. Askew and signed by the Chair.

The Minutes of the April Meeting were proposed as correct by Mr.Rumbelow,
seconded by Mr.Capewell and signed by the Chair.

Matters Arising: 14/10see2/10) Safety mirror, have more information from the Internet, but want bank details prior to ordering, it was agreed that these details can be given and a mirror ordered.

15/10see3/10) Play area - no progress, could do with more information on just what is required.

16/10see4/10) Nothing has been received from the residents of Wasps Nest regarding the BT red kiosk, Mr. Morris will contact them.

17/10see5/10) Two filing cabinets have been purchased, one still to be delivered.

18/10see6/10) Allotments - all now in order, most plots allocated, a small number available to other villagers, contact Mr.Faulkner 07799296161

19/10see13/10a) Still awaiting replies regarding the surveys needed on the V.H. subsidence.

20/10see13/10b) The Cricket Club have purchased two toilet units. The P.C. to settle the bill and Cricket Club reimburse the cost of the second unit

21/10see13/10d) The water leak outside the bungalows on Wellhead Lane was reported to Anglian Water - repaired. The large pothole close to the same site reported to LCC Highways - filled in.

Village Hall 22/10)
The electrician working on the necessary license has discovered serious faults with the system that need to be rectified before the certificate can be signed. He presented a list of urgent and none urgent work along with prices. £3000 plus VAT for immediate work. After much discussion it was proposed by Mr.Morris that the building be closed following this meeting until the urgent work is completed, seconded by Mr.Askew, all agreed. As the hall is to be used as a polling station on Thursday for the Parliamentary Elections the electrician promised to come in tomorrow and make sure the hall, toilet and kitchen are safe and have at least lighting and heating, the clerk will call Cliff Robinson in the morning to appraise him of the problem. This months coffee morning will have to be cancelled. Tomorrow evenings Committee meeting will be held in the Church.

Equal Opportunities 23/10) Nothing to discuss.

Nocton Hall 24/10) Anderson & Glenn are still working on the Urgent Works Order. It was noted by the P.C. that Mr. Hall has been doing sterling work of clearing the rubbish into one place. Fly-tipping had been reported and some removed. A reply to our letter to NKDC Environmental Health regarding asbestos received, but need to write again for an update. Karen Bradford would like to attend the P.C. meeting next month, as she cannot attend on Tuesdays it was agreed to swap evenings with the NVHMC and hold the meeting on Wednesday the 2nd of June

Letters: 25/10
a) NKDC reply to our letter re: asbestos at former hospital site
b) NKDC Standards Committee Agenda/Minutes
c) NKDC Standards Committee: Protocol for Handling Complaints Against Members
d) e.on New Unmetered Supply License
e) smp playgrounds ad.
f) COMLAN playgrounds ad.
g) NKDC Standards Board Guidance on Blogging
h) NKDC Amended copy Protocol for Handling Complaints Against Members
i) Food & Water England re: proposed Nocton Dairy
j) NKDC What's On
k) Open Spaces Society
l) Clerks and Councils Direct

Planning 26/10
a) NKDC copy of comments sent to LCC re: 10/0206/ anaerobic digester Nocton Fen
b) The Greenspan Agency re: above 10/0206/

Finance 27/10
a) Lloyds statement (7) £19550.79, (8) £126.30
b) Open Spaces Society renewal notice £40 (ch. signed)
c) e.on electricity invoice £317.58 (2 1/4 ) ch. signed)
d) AON revised insurance invoice £540.36 (ch. signed)
e) AON VH insurance invoice £882.74 (ch. signed)
f) SRP Toilet Hire Ltd. two toilet units £763.75.( ch.signed)
g) Lincoln Office Furniture Ltd £256.15 (ch, signed)
h) Clerks April 2010 sal. £168.72 exp £23.32 inc. ink cartridge(£192.97 ch. signed)
i) Mr.Sidney April litter picking £40 (ch.signed)
j) NKDC payment for SID insurance 2009/10 & 2010/11 £108.42
k) NKDC Precept £7875.

Financial Statement: 28/10)
The financial statement for year ended 31st March 2010 was presented, there was a query on the printed sheet but the cash book was correct and signed by the Chair

Any Other Business 29/10
a) The P.C. have no objection to ArtsNK putting on a children's event on The Village Green the Spring Bank Holyday weekend.
b) Mr.Morris said he would like to retire from the council, D.Cllr. Chambers and Ms. Wilson expressed thanks to him for all his work on parish matters, thanks are recorded to him form all the councillors. The clerk will inform Cliff Robinson of the vacancy.
c) Ms.Wilson asked if Nocton Dairy could be kept on the agenda? If anything comes in regarding this it will be an agenda item.
d) Mr.Rumbelow asked if a letter could be sent to David Glew and Dominic Grant thanking them for cutting the grass along the bridle path? The clerk will do so.
e) Woodland burials need planning permission
f) The Green outside the school is being churned up by school staff using it for car parking. Staff are requested to park there when there is a funeral in Church, but the clerk is to ask that they do not do so unless necessary.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday the 2nd of June 2010 at 7pm in the village hall.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.30pm

Editors Corner

For my lead into your Summer Issue I feel I have to express sincere thanks to the dedication and commitment given to this village by Graham (Butch) Bromfield, Maggie and sisters Sue and Lynn over the last 10 years.

Ten years ago, it is, when Butch took over the Star & Garter but sadly he has now moved on to pastures new at The Ferryboat, Washingborough and we at MACLA pass on all our best wishes. Butch and his team will be a hard act to follow when one looks back at what they have done for this village.

Every year, without fail, they have held the Annual Veg and Produce show with all proceeds going to worthy local causes, including the Church, the Swimming Pool and the Metheringham Pre-School to name a few. The whole staff have all been actively involved in the annual Fayre and Feast, getting into the spirit of the event and decorating the pub out in the specific theme. Butch has regularly acted as Santa at Christmas Parties.

On Remembrance Day and the Switching on of the Christmas Lights, without payment, the Star has made refreshments available to all involved. They have supported the football club through sponsorship and events and been actively involved in providing school meals for our local primary school.

As I said - they will be a hard act to follow - thanks for everything.........

Pete Ford (Editor)

Metheringham, Sots Hole and Tanvats Parish Council News

The Parish Council currently consists of eleven councillors, ten from the Village Ward and one from the Fen Ward. At the Annual Meeting of the Council held on 25 May 2010, Cllr Dr Allen was re-elected as Chairman and Cllr Roland elected as Vice Chairman, as Cllr Mrs Honisett had stood down from the position. The Chairman thanked Cllr Mrs Honisett for all her help and support during her time as Vice Chairman. Cllr Ford was re-appointed as the Responsible Financial Officer.

Specific issues are dealt with by working groups with appointed leaders and members:-

• Allotments:Cllr Mrs Honisett (leader) ,Cllr Ford and Cllr Roland


• Children's Playgrounds and Playing Fields:Cllr Roland (leader) , Cllr Mrs Creasey, Cllr Dobbs, Cllr Ford and Cllr Mrs Peek


• Consultation and Questionnaires: Cllr Waddington


• Fayre & Feast: Cllr Reynolds(leader), Cllr Mrs Creasey, Cllr Ford, Cllr Mrs Peek, Mike Credland, Margaret Kristen, Linda Lacey and Cllr Mrs Webb.


• Forward Planning:Cllr Dr Allen (leader), Cllr Ford, Cllr Mrs Honisett and Cllr Mrs Webb.


• Highways, Footpaths and Car Parks:Cllr Waddington (leader),Cllr Mrs Honisett, Cllr Mrs Peek, Cllr Roland and David Honisett.


• Risk Assessment:Cllr Ford (leader), Cllr Dr Allen


• Street Lighting: Cllr Reynolds (leader), Cllr Roland and Cllr Waddington


• War Memorial and Spring: Cllr Mrs Webb (leader), Cllr Dobbs and Cllr Mrs Honisett


• Planning: All planning issues are dealt with by the appointed Planning Committee, this consists of Cllr Mrs Honisett, Cllr Mrs Creasey, Cllr Mrs Peek, Cllr Mrs Webb and Cllr Waddington.

A wonderful story appeared in the March 1982 edition of Lincolnshire Life. It was written by Reginald Williams who was stationed at Blankney Hall during the war. He was there on that fateful night when the Hall burned down in July 1945 and he describes the scene in vivid detail. Fifteen years after he was de-mobbed from the RAF he returned to Blankney and the story of his visit evokes a roller coaster of memories and emotions. This remarkable story takes us back in time to what was probably the most important day in the history of Blankney.

It was a showery July morning when I arrived at Blankney village, fifteen years after I had left it to be demobbed from the RAF. Much of the village looked the same: the white railings at the crossroads, the school-house on the corner, and the telephone kiosk outside with the little cottage village post-office. Higher up the road between Lincoln and Sleaford was the entrance to the Park and golf course, the grass verges had been trimmed, with cottage gardens displaying their roses. These Tudor-style cottages, laid out by W. A. Nicholson in the 19th century, looked even tidier and cleaner than they had appeared when I was here fifteen years earlier.

Now that winter is behind us the Trustees and Management Committee thank you all for your support through the dark, cold snowy days and hope you all made it with not too many bumps and bruises.

The past few months have seen a few changes to the everyday running of the hall, with the retirement of John Harrison which had a "knock on" effect with his wife Annie, who was in an unfortunate situation due to the job of booking secretary, being part of the manager's remit.

Our cleaner, Carol Knox, who always kept the hall 'spick and span' for all users had an unfortunate accident while on holiday and has also found it necessary to stand down.
We are sure that you will all join us in thanking the three of them for all their hard work, which they gave without question or complaint to bring your village hall up to a standard to be proud of and wish them all long and Happy Retirements.

We welcome to the team our new Caretaker/Booking Clerk, Mr. Rob Halls and hope that all hirers will be patient ,while Rob learns the ropes, by leaving the hall with its equipment in the condition in which they would hope to find it.

Potential hirers should contact Rob on 01526321807.

We are currently putting together a programme of events for the coming months, so far we have a:-

Band Concert 19 November, which will take the form of a "Proms Concert". Tickets will be on sale in the near future at £5.00 each.

50/50 Auction Date to be confirmed.

Christmas Party 17 December.

Other activities by hiring groups, will also have tickets on sale.

The Arts, Crafts and Models Exhibition will now take place in 2011 as no suitable dates are available.

The hall now owns its own Kurling equipment. Please contact Gwyneth on 322633 for more information and dates.

The Hall is a vital asset to the village so if any person has ideas for events then please contact Cliff on 320183.

Cliff Tompkins. (Secretary)

We are the parents and teachers association for Metheringham Primary School. Our aim is simple - to raise money that the school can use to provide equipment and facilities for your children to use.

On 10 July we are holding a Summer Fair from 12-3pm on the school field and at the school. There will be lots to do and loads of stalls. Last year was our first attempt and went pretty well considering it was the air show that weekend. This year we are hoping for bigger and better things so please come along and support us and your school.

If anyone is interested in helping at the Fair or in joining the committee, then please do not hesitate to contact me on 01526 323431 - I'd love to hear from you.

Alicia Armsworth

The Bowling season started with the usual weather, lacking sunshine and cold winds but bowlers are noted ashappy hardy souls. Unfortunately the season got underway with us having to pull one of our sides out of the League due to a lack of members.

On Sunday 20 June, from 13.00 hrs, we will be welcoming a team from Welwyn Garden City who are touring Lincolnshire. You are all welcome to come along and watch, have a cup of tea and perhaps a pint or two!

You will find our club down the footpath that links Prince's Street with Alfred Avenue (opposite the Playing Field Car Park).

If you like a bit of fresh air and gentle exercise why not come along and try the game yourself - we are a friendly bunch and always looking for new members.

Any enquiries contact John Browett (01526) 321967

The work to refurbish the kitchen and toilet areas in the Village Hall was completed on time and on budget. This was a great credit to the work done by the whole of the Village Hall Committee led by the Chairman, David Green, the Secretary, David Hyde, and the Treasurer, Andrew Mitchell. The two Davids are now taking a rest from those posts and, at the Annual Village Hall Meeting, were replaced by Sharon Hedley and Andy Richards respectively.

There is a full programme of activities in the Village Hall but there is still opportunity for hall hire at very reasonable rates. Contact the Bookings Secretary, Kathie Craigs on 01526-321470 for your event.

Generally the Parish looks well cared for and both Scopwick and Kirkby Green look fine with the spring blossom and new greenery. Once again we have entered the Best Kept Village competition. Both villages are treated as one for the purposes of judging. Points are awarded for just about everything from tidy gardens to well kept and litter free verges through to tidy churchyards. To be successful special attention needs to be maintained through the potential judging period of June, July, and August.

Yes, there are a number of things that, with the assistance of the District Councillors, are being pursued with, particularly, the Highways Department in NKDC to resolve. Filling the potholes, fixing the bridge, and cutting the hedge, etc., would certainly make life more pleasant for all and not just for the Best Kept Village Competition.

Having mentioned tidy churchyards above volunteer groups have been hard at work sprucing up those in Scopwick - most notably the graveyard in Vicarage Lane. Most people know that includes the War Graves amongst which is that of US war pilot John Gillespie Magee who wrote the famous poem "High Flight". This graveyard is accustomed to frequent visitors - not just by local people but by many from outside who come to visit and pay their respects at the War Graves.

Joe Kennard (Clerk)

A recent study by consumer protection IT magazine Which? Computing recommends that anyone who really wishes to erase their personal details from an old computer hard drive needs to take a decidedly low-tech approach - with a hammer. As part of the study, the magazine bought eight computers on eBay, and successfully recovered a total of 22,000 files that the vendors believed had been irrevocably deleted.

Criminals have been known to source old computers from auction sites, skips and even rubbish dumps before using easily available software to restore files. While sophisticated software now exists that can erase files more permanently, the magazine sees total destruction as the easiest and most straightforward solution.

Some industry experts think this approach is more extreme than most consumers need to take. According to Rupert Goodwins, editor of technology news website ZDNet, "You can get a credit card number on the internet for about £10 from credit card thieves. So nobody's going to spend more than £10 trying to nick your credit card number off your hard disk."

Phillip Hoskins, a Partner in Andrew & Co LLP says, "Fortunately, people are becoming more aware of identity theft and taking simple steps to protect themselves. It only takes a few minutes to safeguard personal details and this is time well spent when considering the amount of effort needed to put right the disruption identity theft can cause."

This summer Countryside Nk has all sorts of things you can do out in the countryside. From looking at bats to fishing for frogs, North Kesteven's Countryside Promotion Officer, Theresa Hobbs invites you to enjoy the outdoors this summer.

All events are free; children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Please book for events by contacting Theresa on 01522 694353 theresa.hobbs@leisureconnection.co.uk

Bat Detectors!Friday 16 July at 9.30pm
Tunman Wood near Thorpe on the Hill

Join WatchNK Countryside Rangers for a moonlight walk through Tunman Wood in search of bats. Learn how to identify some of our native bats and find out more about their habitat and lifestyles. As this involves walking through woodland in the dark this event is not suitable for children under 14 years. Please remember to bring a torch!

Family Fun Day! - Thursday 29 July from 1pm til 4pm
Lollycocks Field, Sleaford
With a pond teeming full of wildlife, and a delightful wildflower meadow, there's lots to see and do on Lollycocks Field. Join us for an afternoon of pond dipping, exploring, willow weaving and much more to learn about our wildlife.

A Day in the Woods - Thursday 26 August from 10am til 4pm
Tunman Wood near Thorpe on the Hill
Join us for a whole day in the woods to discover lots of woodland skills. Find out what our woods have to offer and learn how to identify woodland animals from their tracks.
Please bring a packed lunch.

There are 5 houses in 5 different colours. In each house lives a person of a different nationality. The 5 owners drink a certain type of beverage, smoke a certain brand of cigar, and keep a certain pet.

Using the clues below can you determine who owns the fish?

The Brit lives in a red house.
The Swede keeps dogs as pets.
The Dane drinks tea.

The green house is on the immediate left of the white house.
The green house owner drinks coffee.
The person who smokes Pall Mall rears birds.

The owner of the yellow house smokes Dunhill.
The man living in the house right in the middle drinks milk.
The Norwegian lives in the first house.

The man who smokes Blend lives next door to the one who keeps cats.
The man who keeps horses lives next door to the man who smokes Dunhill.
The owner who smokes Blue Master drinks beer.

The German smokes Prince.
The Norwegian lives next to the blue house.
The man who smokes Blend has a neighbour who drinks water

Answer in Macla News Magazine or next edition - Autumn 2010

Washingborough Community Centre - 19 November 2010

Metheringham Village Hall - 20 November 2010

Tickets £6 Full: £5 Concessions
on line - www.amicitouringtheatre.co.uk
or box office 01673 843911

All requests for Baptism Marriage and Funerals please contact

• Margaret Amos 321049


• Richard Brewin 320163

Thursday 17 June Metheringham Amateur Dramatics are putting on a gala performance of Allo Allo in the Village Hall at 7.30pm - only 120 tickets available - all profits to St. Wilfrid Church. Please support this event.

Cleaners are needed to clean the Church on a voluntary basis.
Please contact Margaret Amos 321049

SITUATION VACANT
A cleaner is needed for the Church Hall, there is a remuneration for this
Please ring Margaret Amos 32049

Sad news I'm afraid. Our Table Top / Car Boot sale on 10 April was a flop! A big professional Car Boot moved site, lock, stock and barrel, from Woodhall Spa to Metheringham on Easter Sunday and now every Sunday! - That killed our Table Top / Car Boot Sales stone dead! We just can't compete with the big boys, I guess they do have to make a living and we wish them well. As a result of this we have had to cancel future such events for 3 July and 4 September scheduled for Metheringham Village Hall & Car Park.

Sincere apologies for any disappointment or inconvenience this may cause to our faithful few stallholders, customers and volunteers. We will however still be holding our Table Top / Car Boot on Saturday 2 October in the hope that genuine booters will want to be inside the Village Hall, in the warm and dry at that time of the year. They will be able to enjoy the Bacon Butties and home baking from our snack bar and lovely prizes on our raffle.

The loss of revenue due to the cancelling of these events (and the flop) has to be made up somehow or our four chosen charities who we give this year's money to will receive virtually nothing and at a time when many are in crisis. We are looking for new ideas, also for sponsors. Could you or your firm or squadron do a sponsored event for us? A Dance? A Walk? A Shave? A Domino or Darts Marathon? Anything! - we would love to hear from you.

"Mad Fortnight" 31 May to 13 June

MAWS volunteers will be calling house to house "carrying the can". All authorized collectors will have an ID / Licence & MAWS Collecting tin. Please give what you can, every penny must count. More Collectors are still needed.

Friday 18 June - start 7.30 pm at Martin Moor Golf Club - An evening with "Sharna" (Top female vocalist) - Dance floor, bar open (refreshment can be purchased from bar).

Admission by ticket only. £3 each from Martin Moor Golf Club, D&K News, High St, Metheringham and MAWS Office, 31 Station Rd, Metheringham.

Please phone Joyce 01526 321436 for more details

On Wednesday 21 July, the Club are privileged to be hosting a concert by the internationally acclaimed "Duo Kyiv".

For a few years now, Igor Sayenko and Oleksiy Kolomoiets have included the UK in their annual tour, raising money for the "Hippokrat Society" which supports the surviving victims of the Chernobyl disaster. Both guys are in their late twenties, but play with an accomplished flair that is beyond their years, and the reviews they received during last year's tour were glowing in their praise.

The style of the music is mainly a mix of popular light classics and eastern European folk music. One of last year's reviewers claimed that the applause for their first number (a selection from "The Nutcracker Suite") was so rapturous that it seemed to last longer than the piece itself.

The evening will start at 7.30pm, in Wragby Town Hall. There is no admission charge, but the audience will be invited to make a voluntary donation to the work of the Hippokrat Society during the course of the evening. Light refreshments will be available during the interval.

For anyone with a true love of music, this is an evening not to be missed.

Geoff Brown (01526) 321490

Lincolnshire Libraries have joined forces with BBC Radio Lincolnshire to create the Lincolnshire Book of the Month. Library Staff launch a new title each month with a live phone-in at the end of the month about the featured title, where readers and listeners can share their thoughts about the book. Members of a local reading group who have read the title also give their views about the book. The Book of the Month can be borrowed or requested free from any Lincolnshire Library before the phone in and for four weeks after.

Do you know about the Spires and Steeples Arts and Heritage Trail? You can find out about it by picking up a leaflet from the library or going on to their website at www.spiresandsteeples.com Find out about ListenHERE which is a guide to exploring the Spires & Steeples Arts and Heritage Trail through a variety of digital sound recordings. You can download the recordings or hire a preloaded mp3 player from Metheringham library. The tracks are a mixture of recordings from villagers along the route from Lincoln to Metheringham, Lincolnshire folk songs performed by local singer Brian Dawson, and a specially commissioned piece of binaural sound work from composer Dallas Simpson. The binaural sound work involved recordings being made over the route between Lincoln and Metheringham. These were then chopped into sections, stacked up and played in parallel. This has resulted in 5 tracks of approximately 7 minutes each, each track containing 8 layers of sound on top of one another.

Shooting Stars has continued to go from strength to strength and has now relocated to Martin Village hall to accommodate the extra children we have attending.

In November we attended our first troupe competition - and we only entered one section - Junior Pom, which we won. We also achieved 2nd Place leader in pom (Lauren Taylor) and 1st place mascot (Lieouni Gray) It was a great competition and 8 teams took part in total.

The school has celebrated more sporting success this year. The most recent was at the end of March when our Cross Country team won the annual race at Nocton. This team win included a win for Harry in the boys' race and a second for Sarah in the girls' race.

The school has been involved in an exciting project with Siren FM (the University radio station). We borrowed some of their recording equipment and a few of the older children have interviewed their relatives as part of our recent World War Two topic. A group of children will be going to the radio station in June to make the recordings into a radio programme to be broadcast soon afterwards. Also as part of the topic, Class 3 went on an excellent trip to the Eden Camp museum in North Yorkshire.

As I write this, we are about to mark a very special retirement at Dunston. Margaret Doughty has worked at the school since 1979 as our caretaker and later as a midday supervisor as well. She is loved by all of the staff and children and we will be very sad to see her go. We wish her a long and happy retirement.

Finally, a date for your diary. The school Summer Fayre will take place on Friday, 9 July from 3.30 pm, following on from our Sports Day. Please come and support us if you can.

Graham Boyall - Headteacher

We would like to invite you to attend our fund raising events this summer.

Picnic and Treasure Hunt - to celebrate Fathers Day on 20 June from 2:30pm at Dunston St. Peter's School

Summer Fayre - following Sports Day on 9 July from 3pm at Dunston St. Peter's School

Everyone welcome, all funds raised will be spent on the purchase of new laptop computers for the school.

Contact Jenny Hutchinson on 321627 for more information

from Pc Simon Gordon

It's hard to believe that it's Summer again already. After a long and cold winter we deserve some decent weather and as I write this article, the forecast is for some hot weather. However, this said, it gives the 'sneak-in' burglar his opportunity. We all like to relax at home but if you are all down the bottom of the garden, think about how easy it is for somebody to sneak into your house and take a wallet or handbag. Lock your front door.

Please be aware of 'bogus' traders. Although we have not suffered particularly in the Metheringham area, this sort of thing seems to be on the increase generally in Lincolnshire. These people tend to target the elderly and vulnerable, who always tend to be more trusting than most. Do not accept the word of somebody who arrives at your door to tell you your roof or guttering needs fixing. They may quote you £40 for the job. They will be very persuasive. They will then do the 'work' on your house, and invariably tell you they quoted £400, or some other ridiculous price. If you argue, they can get nasty. Never let these people take you to a 'cash-point'. Some of these criminals may state they work for the water-board, or the gas-board, and may even have some type of uniform on. Always ask for some identification. Don't just glance at it. If there is a contact 'phone number on the I/D, you can always 'phone the company. Do not let anybody into your property unless you are 100% happy.

by Dot Howes

The Over 60s will be holding their summer coffee morning on Sat 13th June between 10.00a.m. and 11.30a.m. The usual raffle, bric-a-brac, books, tombola and cake stalls will be in attendance.

Tickets for Metheringham Amateur Dramatics much awaited production of Allo Allo are now on sale in the Info Lincs (01526 323100) and at D & K news. Performances are on the 17th 18th and 19th and the 25th and 26th of June in Metheringham Village Hall. On Thursday 17th there is a Gala night performance in aid of St Wilfrid's Church and tickets for that will be £10. The other performance tickets are £7.50 and £6.50 for concessions. All performances will be a t 7.30p.m.

There were two changes to the parish council at the meeting held in the village hall on Tuesday 25th May. Cllr Mrs Jenni Honisett stood down as Vice Chairman and was replaced by Cllr George Rowland. Mrs Ruth Parker has ceased to be a member of the parish council and a casual vacancy now exists on the council. Requests to fill the vacancy can be made by any elector in the parish. If there are no requests made within 60 days the parish council can make a co-option. Details of how to apply are on the parish council notice board in the memorial garden.

Metheringham and District Swimming Pool Association ( MADSPA) held its' AGM at the swimming pool on Thursday 27th May. Unfortunately due to the poor turnout very little business could be conducted and there were not enough nominations to elect a committee. A request has been referred to the parish council for an Extraordinary General Meeting. In the interim as soon as the water is ready the pool will still be able to open thanks to the volunteers who run it. This is likely to be on the 5th/6th June but notices will be displayed.
The 2009 Chairman, Dian Robinson, gave her report giving thanks to Malcolm Wallace, Stevie Moir, Lee Rickells, John Goodburn, Steve Mearns and the lads from RAF Digby for helping prepare the grounds and buildings for opening. She was unhappy at the lack of support for the fundraising events last year. The It's a Knock Out had to be cancelled, The Triathlon and Beach party were also poorly supported and very few sponsor forms and monies were returned after the Sponsored Swim. She said it was time for new ideas, new minds and new blood to get involved with running the pool as the gate entry does not cover the running costs.
The outgoing secretary has resigned and did not send in her report.
The outgoing treasurer had sent the accounts and these were discussed.

Metheringham WI hold their next meeting on Wednesday 16th June in the village Hall at 7.15p.m. when singer Nigel Creasey will be the guest speaker.

Singer Sharna will be performing at Martin Moor Golf Club for Metheringham Animal Welfare Supporters Group ( MAWS) on Friday 18th June at 7.30p.m.. There will be a dance floor and a bar and tickets are £5 available from D & K News and the Golf Club. MAWS are currently holding their Mad Fortnight doing door to door collections to raise funds for the four animal welfare charities they are supporting this year.

Spend a week having fun and learning a new skill. Come to the Silver Sounds Band Summer School and start learning how to read music and how to play a brass band instrument; try them all (cornet, flugel, tenor horn, baritone, euphonium, trombone, or even a bass tuba!) and choose your favourite. Instruments and expert tuition provided FREE.

The Silver Sounds Band Summer School has been arranged during the school holidays as the Band hope that youngsters will be interested in learning to play, and to join the Band. However, the Summer School is not limited to children, and people of all ages are welcome to come along. If you have ever thought about learning to play a brass instrument, or if you have played in the past and would like to try again, this is the perfect opportunity. The Band tutors will be on hand to show you how to read music and to play your choice of instrument. The week will conclude with the chance to sit in and play in a short concert with the rest of the Band. The Band School will take place at the Village Hall in Dunston, from 10.30am - 3pm daily.

Comments on MACLA Website about Nocton Hospital following the article published in the Summer 2009 issue

D. Newton said: I have just found your wonderful site. I did most of my national service cooking in the officers' mess. A lot of local civilians were employed in those days; they were lovely people. I used to go home every other weekend so I didn't get to know the area all that well. From the map I see the mess is still standing.

5077803 AC1 Hotson E said: I served at Nocton from 1960 to 1962 on Ward 7 and Ward 5. Group Captain Sidney was Station Commander. Group Captain Knipe was one of the Surgeons. Some of the Sisters were Williams, Pacival and Glover. My mates were Aberdeen Bob Leiper, Cuzz Mick Crossley, Bob Croft, Shaggy Bill Dunnet. I played Double Bass for The Bob Paterson Trio. Bob was the Camp Butcher who came from Bonnyrigg and supported Hearts. I have written my Life Story which include some of the incidents at Nocton. If we decide to go further; then I will need help from my Family Ian and Vicky. Cheers Eric the Viking

Life playing for Dunston is never straight forward, firstly with our Division 6 side having to play in Division 2 after having to disband one team. This subsequently led to relegation into Lincoln's Sunday League 4, and so it begins.

With the same old faces turning out for pre-season, the season still started off full of hope, however the first game soon made us realise what a long season it was going to be, going down 8-0, away to Tennyson FC.

On Sunday 13 June at 10.30am it will be the Sisterhood Anniversary Service led by Mrs Shepherdson.

During the summer our Church Group have a break but the Sunday Morning Service at 10.30am, will continue.

Our Harvest Festival will be on Sunday 26 September at 10.30am and will be led by Rev. Neil Vickers, Superintendent Minister of the Boston Circuit.

A Harvest Supper and Auction of Product will take place on Monday 27 September at 6.30pm, by tickets only, which will be available from Mrs J Sellars.

We hope everyone has a lovely summer and the weather is good.

Another season has at last come to an end. What a season it has been. The snow and ice in December and January meant that we suffered from an enforced mid-term break which only served to make it a very long and disjointed affair. Despite this we have once again managed some successes, not least of these being our Under 18s who came good after a slow start, to take the Lincs Central Intermediate League Championship on the last day of the season and the Under 12s who finished Runners-up in their Division.

Metheringham Village Hall was packed to the rafters on 21 May for the Club's Annual Junior Presentation Evening. Sadly despite a letter being sent Lincoln City failed to come up with any of their players to make the presentation (obviously too buy with play-off!).

Chairman John Wood was master of ceremonies with the following awards presented:

Keiron Pogson - U8s Top Goalscorer
Daniel Lindsey - U8s Player of season
Ethan Thompson - U8s Players Player
Levi Woolley - U8s Most Improved
Ben Whitehouse - U8s Managers Player

A Metheringham Book Club Review

Pronounced obscene when it was firstpublished in 1915, The Rainbow is the epic story of three generations of the Brangwens, a Midlands family. A visionary novel, considered to be one of Lawrence's finest, it explores the complex sexual and psychological relationships between men and women in an increasingly industrialized world. (Amazon website)

But then one of our book club members says

Well to the book - I have not finished it because:

a - I went on hols and it was too difficult to take with me!!! Light reads for holidays is the rule.
b - It is so full of angst and suppressed anger I am finding it hard to get through, a bit like treacle and gumboots.

As to the content and writing style, I think it is quite amazing writing. He really gets to the bottom of the human condition doesn't he? I can see how readers at the time would have lapped it up as reflecting country life as it was then. However I feel we have moved on and I am not sure I want to go back - it is pretty black. Every time I see a chink of happiness and sunshine, he tells us what is going on inside someone's soul and it's usually dark and (think of another word for angst) thesaurus comes up with torment - that will do. He does go into loads of minute detail and unlike his original readers, who had nothing else to do so could read every word, I am skipping paragraphs and sometimes pages, so style is 9.

As to content - It is so very detailed and I would like to finish (I like a challenge) so will have to bring back the book and then order it please. Not only detailed but must be one of the few absolutely realistic records of the time and place so 10 for that.

Linda

Well, opinion was divided about the enjoyment aspect of the book but most people thought that the quality of the writing was very good and it averaged out at 5½ for enjoyment but 8½ for the quality.

On a blisteringly hot day several summers ago we visited Titsey Place in Surrey. They had rebuilt their old walled vegetable garden on a south facing slope and were growing eighty three varieties of tomato - black, striped, green, yellow, old fashioned and new. Unfortunately, nothing was for sale, although we did come home with a catalogue so I thought I might be able to experiment with an assortment of some of the more unusual ones - roads to hell and good intentions spring to mind! I then found a catalogue listing three hundred varieties in every colour and shape imaginable. Being so spoilt for choice each year I have tended to grow one or two old favourites and then add one or two oddities. Some are good, some are bad and some very indifferent.

The recently formed Keep Fit is flourishing. It takes place every Tuesday at the Sports Pavilion, Moor Lane, Branston starting at 9.15am. The cost per session is £2.50 per person and lasts for one hour. The full course of exercises suitable for the over 60s is proving very popular but there are a few places available - if you are interested then contact Dick Newman (Group Convenor) on 01522 794935 to join and enjoy yourself.

One of the popular Open Groups is 'Classic Movies' which has moved its starting time to 10.15am to allow 'Keep Fit' members to attend. That Group meets on 15 June and the film is 'Brighton Rock'.

Most 'Open Groups' meet at the Old Village Hall at Heighington

Events coming up are as follows:

• 8 June Armchair Travel 10 am


• 11 June 33 Music 2 pm


• 14 June Aspects of History 10 am


• 15 June Classic Movies 10 15 am


• 17 June Music Appreciation 2 pm


• 18 June Art Appreciation 10 am


• 28 June The Way We Were 10 am

Meets at the Heritage Room, Heighington

Further information regarding the above Groups is available at every General Meeting which takes place on the fourth Tuesday of every month at Branston Village Hall. The doors are open at 1.30 pm for a 2 pm start.

Bookings for the Christmas Lunch on 14 December at the Lincoln Hotel should be made as soon as possible - a deposit of £5 is required (the total cost is £16.95)

At last we are enjoying slightly warmer weather and all the signs of new life. We finally managed to arrange our pudding party and had a scrumptious time with an assortment of puddings, hot and cold. It was quite an event and one we plan to repeat next year.

We are planning a working weekend to spruce up the building, which at 150 years old, needs quite a lot of TLC. If you like a bit of DIY or decorating please contact Beth on 321919 for more information.

We plan a strawberry tea on Saturday 3 July 2.30 - 4. 30 pm. All being well we will enjoy a lovely sunny afternoon in the garden and really hope you can join us - the strawberries should be at their peak.

The midweek meeting now meets on 1st and 3rd Tuesday at Woodcutts, Chapel Lane and we welcome new members - call Jenny on 321627 for more information.

We are starting a new plan of Sunday meetings - worship on the 2nd and 4th Sundays in the months at 11.00 am, and looking for new ideas for other times.

Lunch club dates for the coming months are 18 June / 16 July / 17 September at 12.00 noon.

Beth McLuckie

The above bridge, owned by Network Rail has been weight restricted since 1969, and during an assessment programme in 1994, found to be weak. Constructed from Cast Irons beams, if not addressed, it is at risk. The County Council is responsible for funding the strengthening of the bridge to allow unrestricted access usage. To achieve this they proposal to have the existing bridge re-decked. To complete this it will be necessary to close the carriageway to vehicular traffic. During the period of the closure, a footbridge will be provided to allow pedestrian access between the two villages.

LCC recognise that the road is both a commercial and school bus route and such services will be maintained by providing a call connect shuttle service between the villages.

The period of closure will be:

Alternative route: B1189 Lincoln Road (Metheringham), B1188 Sleaford Road, Lincoln Road and Chapel Lane (Dunston) and vice versa.

Any queries or further information, please contact Greater Lincoln & Gainsborough Highways Division on 01522 782070

Well, we had a very successful visit hosting the French families this year and the weather was excellent. We had an evening of Bingo/Beetle in French & English, a Day in York visiting the National Railway Museum & the City Centre itself, ending the day with a meal in the Ask Restaurant.On the final full day we had a meal in the Lincoln Hotel overlooking the Cathedral. It was absolutely wonderful. If this whets your appetite to join, then just pick up the phone and call a number below.

A date for your diaries 10 July 2010 Annual Duck Race 2pm - 4pm - All usual stalls with a new addition this year and this is a 50/50 Table Sale. Look out for posters

321740 Helen Door
322515 Ralph Timms
321951 Sue Kelly

All Club events are held at the Village Hall, Metheringham, unless otherwise stated.

On Wednesday 28 April: Members and guests enjoyed a visit to the flower festival at Long Sutton and this was later followed by a visit to Springfields, at Spalding, for shopping.

On Wednesday 5 May: we were able to welcome 19 new members from our waiting list to replace members who have resigned or moved out of the area. Regrettably we were not able to absorb all those on the list on this occasion. There is a waiting list for membership but you are welcome to join the list by contacting the Chairman Margaret Amos on Tel: 01526 321049.

At long last the cricket season is with us. Hopefully we can now look forward to some balmy summer days and some good cricket at what has got to be one of the most beautiful and well kept grounds locally. The ground is a credit to David Pearse who now does the majority of the work on it.

A huge debt of thanks is also due to the Parker family who continue to lease us our beautiful ground and are always there to give us assistance if needed.

The committee of Blankney Cricket Club have worked hard over the winter months to try and establish the club as one which local people would like to join and be proud to play for.

Metheringham fire station raised a total of £562.00 following Santa and his sleigh visit during December 2009. A big thank you for the continued support that everyone gave during the evening. Santa was joined this year by members of the vintage fire restoration club which helps to preserve old fire engines - thank you to everyone who attended. If you would like to make a donation to the FSPF please contact Mark Smith 01522 682594. Thank you.

All front line fire appliances have now been fitted with a Mobile Data Terminal (MDT). The equipment is similar to a satellite navigation system with global positioning and mapping but with more functionality allowing crews to access technical data, risk specific information, vehicle technical data and location data including hydrants, water supplies and local risk data all of which can be printed off within the appliance.

First of all a thank you to Jean Simpson for continuing the flow of information about WI activities for the church magazine during my absence.

The February meeting was a talk by Alan Porter about his life as an auctioneer and cricket enthusiast, the valued antiques and collected cricket memorabilia.

The AGM was in March with the committee re-elected en bloc, including Audrey Webb, continuing as President. The rest of the evening was devoted to a frenetic game of Bag Beetle (ask Audrey to explain the rules!) followed by refreshments.

The speaker at the April meeting was Sean Barkes who practised traditional Chinese Medicine. He treated many ailments using acupuncture.

The sports activities continue to be popular, darts, table tennis and Ten-pin bowling, also golf.

Some members attended both the Annual Spring Council Meeting in Spalding and the Phoenix Group Meeting held in Rauceby. There was also a theatre visit to Lincoln Theatre Royal.

The Summer outing is to Holkham Hall on Thursday 15 July.

Future Meetings

• 19 May - Resolutions - talk and discussion


• 16 June - Navigation House, Sleaford - talk by Tony Kitson


• 21 July - Marion Foers giving talk about Beatrice Potter as a storyteller and illustrator


• 18 Aug - Gift Wrapping by Jane Means


• 15 Sept- Open Evening - Around the World in 80 Pictures by Steve Lovell

It is a pleasure to see so many new members and I am sure there is something to interest everyone. Audrey and her committee work hard.

Jill Spooner

Our senior citizens party was held in the village hall on 17 April. Some 100 people sat down for tea at 4.00 pm to then be entertained by the Withern Singers. They were excellent and seemed to be enjoyed by everyone. During the interval a bouquet was presented to Mrs Barbara Wilson who resigned as our secretary last year after many years in post, alongside her husband Sandy who had also been Treasurer for much of the time.

This year we were pleased that Mrs Gill Wright could join us. Gill's late husband Dr Brian Wright who was our Chairman for 40 years. Mrs Wright kindly donated a cheque to the club and we, in return, presented her with a bouquet of flowers.

Our AGM was held on 17 May but sadly our Chairman Derek Bell had to stand down due to ill health. His place has kindly been taken by Dennis Bowler and we look forward to working with him.

The Skegness Trip in June is nearly full. After this our next trip will be to Kings Lynn on Tuesday 17 August at 9.00 am

Pam Woolley Secretary

On 3 March Bill Hodgson gave the members an informative talk on walking sticks and brought many samples of his work.

Two weeks later Tony Stephens gave a talk on Wind Instruments and played the clarinet. Then on 31 March members enjoyed a social afternoon.

The first meeting in April welcomed Jean Wernyke and her four legged friend with Jean giving a talk on Support Dogs.

On 21 April Colin North gave a very interesting talk on "Snails, Not What you Think".

On 4 May Rod Fanthorpe gave a talk on Lincolnshire Superstitions, which brought back a lot of childhood memories for the members.

On 19 May the club held its 8th AGM. Two representatives from the South Lincs Blind Society gave a brief update on the society and brought various aids for sale.

Anyone wanting to the join the club must be registered with SLBS and should contact SLBS on 01476 592775

The club meets every fortnight and anyone wanting to join can contact Betty Knight on 01522 794121 or Patricia MacPherson on 01522 856981.

Metheringham New Life Church meets each Tuesday 7.30pm and would love for you to join us on the following dates:

• 8 June Dunston Methodist Hall


• 15 June Metheringham Village Hall


• 22 June Metheringham Village Hall


• 29 June Dunston Methodist Hall


• 6 July Metheringham Village Hall


• 13 July Metheringham Village Hall


• 20 July Metheringham Village Hall

Mission X kids club for ages 7-11 (7 til 8pm) and Mission Xtra Youth Club for ages 11-16 (8.15 until 9.30pm) run on alternate Fridays in the Methodist Church hall (Metheringham). The clubs are free and all children are welcome. Our dates for this year are

• Friday 11/ 25 June - 9 / 23 July

Our Mission X Holiday Club 'Pyramid Rock' will run between 26 - 30 July. There are just a few spaces left. For further information contact Nicky on 322305

Everyone at Metheringham Primary School embraced the arrival of Spring at the beginning of Term 4. Daffodils filled the school grounds and our hanging baskets and fruit trees blossomed, bringing welcome colour to the outside of the school. We have to thank our gardening / environmental club for creating such pleasant surroundings for us all. Their work will continue in the summer terms, along with the Key Stage 1 pupils, as they cultivate their new vegetable plots in the school grounds.

In March a group of 26 Year 6 pupils and 3 Year 5 pupils packed their bags and boarded the bus for a week's residential visit to the Kingswood camp in West Runton, Norfolk. The pupils were set many physical, problem-solving and team building challenges during this visit. These ranged from climbing, zip wiring, abseiling and caving to fencing, quad biking, bouldering, laser quest and information technology projects, to name a few. The highlight for pupils and staff was the opportunity to spend time on the beach rock pooling and looking at environmental issues. Many staff and children faced their fears to achieve and take part in the tasks on offer.