Grapevine November 2023

1 Keeping it Local with news from Martin, Timberland & Martin Dales! GRAPEVINE THE NOVEMBER 2023 IT’S BEHIND YOU! PANTOMIME TRADITIONS EXPLAINED What’s in store for Holy Trinity Church? In Loving Memory The meaning behind the RAF Memorial on the airfield THE PROPOSED ANAEROBIC DIGESTER AT MARTIN MOOR Read all about it and prepare to have your say HELPING HANDS A local business reaches out

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3 GRAPEVINE November 2023 There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming weeks. MATES will be hosting their annual free junior disco as well as preparing Christmas dinner for invited VIPs (Very Important Pensioners); Martin and Timberland both have Christmas events in their village halls; and there will be carol singing and even a trip to the pantomime (oh no there won’t...) In this issue Martin and Martin Dales Parish Council have presented some information about the anaerobic digester that has been proposed for Martin Moor. A survey asking you for your opinion on this development will be coming through your letterbox soon. It is important to read the article then fill in the survey and return it, so that your views about this can be heard. This magazine is written and produced entirely by volunteers. It is funded solely by selling advertising space and is distributed by a small team walking from letterbox to letterbox to bring you local news and views. If you want to get involved please email us! Design & Production: Lindsay Fulton Advertising Sales/Invoicing: Brian Dorken Writing: Kevin Garner-Smith; Craig Garner-Smith; Brian Dorken; Lindsay Fulton, Stephen Agnew, Kirsty Summers ON THE COVER: The Grapes getting ready for Christmas in Martin Village Hall! DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT ISSUE: TUESDAY 9th JAN (AD BOOKINGS) TUESDAY 16TH JAN (ARTICLES) PLEASE SUBMIT ALL COPY TO [email protected] or post in the MVH letter box outside Martin Village Hall. CONTENTS 5 What’s in store for Holy Trinity? by Stephen Agnew 7 Why Martin seldom has snow by Brian Dorken 10 Anaerobic Digester proposals: Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council want your views - look out for the survey 14 Helping hands A local business helps the homeless 16 You’ve got a friend in MATES by Nicky Wilkes 19 Order your unique Martin Calendar! 21 The meaning of the Memorial What does this local landmark really represent? 22 In loving memory... Kirsty Summers reflects on her personal connection to the RAF Memorial 25 Wheely well done, Oliver! Local lad raises money for the Rainforest Foundation 27 Building a community Martin Village Hall goes from strength to strength 29 History in the making Do you have a story to tell? 33 It’s behind you! Craig Garner explains the traditions surrounding pantomime (oh no he doesn’t...) 32 MARTIN VILLAGE HALL: Save the dates! Cooking up change; A grand day out; Community Hub; Quiz night; Volunteer award There’s something for everyone! 45 Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council report 49 It’s a goal! Youngsters score new goal posts for Martin Play Park 50 LETTERS We didn’t get any, but do send us some!! 50 A view from the County Council by Cllr Rob Kendrick 53 News from Timberland & Thorpe Tilney Parish Council Volunteers came to the rescue during the recent flood 54 Timberland Digital Hub Free technical support for all 55 TIMBERLAND TALK: What’s Happening at TVH 57 Timberland Community Market A busy year ahead 58 What’s On Listings

4 T R Y O UR U N I Q UE BLAC K R O C K ST O N E C O O K I N G, A GR EAT WAY T O E N J O Y Y O UR STEAK , O R E N J O Y O UR H A N GI N G K EBABS, F R ES H FIS H O R SU N D AY CAR V E R Y ALL WAS H E D D OWN WIT H GR EAT CAS K ALES O R A GLASS F R OM O UR N EW E X TE N SI V E WI N E LIST O PENING T IMES TUES - THUR 4 : 30 - 10: 30 / F R I 4 : 30 - 11: 30 S A T 1 2 - 11: 30 & SUN 1 2 -6 F O O D SE R VED DA I LY HIGH ST R EET , MA R T IN, LN4 3 Q T C A L L 01 5 26 701087 T O B O O K A T A B LE WWW. THE R O Y A L O A KMA R T IN. C OM Bookings being taken now for Christmas parties and Christmas day

5 As a relative newcomer to Martin, as I walk the streets, lanes and paths with my dog I keep finding out new things about the village. I have been struck by what a holy place it must have been in a bygone era, as there were four churches and chapels built, and that, for a small population, is quite extraordinary. So I reiterate, the folk of Martin must have been very devout and holy. Of course three of those buildings are no longer in use as places of worship, having been converted into buildings suited to other uses. But there is still one place of worship, Holy Trinity Church, a delightful building and a building much used by the local church school. But the question which is on my mind is: “What is its future?” Martin church in recent years became part of the Car Dyke benefice of six villages from Martin down to South Kyme, all served by the one Vicar. The latest of the Vicars of the benefice moved to a new parish six months ago. Although there will, at some point, be a parish priest who has responsibility for Martin church and village, they will also have responsibility for more than the current tally of six churches. So what will become of Martin church? Well, as a resident of the village and as a retired parish priest, I think that is the responsibility of the village. Do we want to have a church where services are held, where key points in people’s lives are celebrated, where marriages, baptisms and funerals can take place? Do we want to have a church where the school can celebrate events throughout the school year, as we recently celebrated Harvest Festival? Do we want to have a base from which can be offered pastoral care for all members of the village? I can’t answer those questions for you, but I suggest that they need addressing, not by the Bishop or any other clerical dignitary, but by the villagers of Martin. So what do you think? Perhaps you might like to respond through the letters pages of The Grapevine, or through one of the Martin Village Facebook pages. But however you respond, it would be good to hear from you. – Stephen Agnew What’s in store for Holy Trinity Church?

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7 S now is relatively rare in the UK due to a combination of geographical, climatic, and atmospheric factors. Here are six key reasons: 1. Maritime Influence: The UK’s proximity to the North Atlantic Ocean brings mild and moist air. This maritime influence tends to keep temperatures from dropping as low as they would at similar latitudes on landmasses farther from the ocean. 2. North Atlantic Drift: The warm waters of the North Atlantic Drift, an extension of the Gulf Stream, help moderate temperatures along the west coast of the UK. This warm ocean current prevents the surrounding air from becoming too cold, making it less conducive to snowfall. 3. Jet Stream Position: The Jet Stream, a highaltitude fast-flowing air current, plays a significant role in determining the weather patterns in the UK. When the Jet Stream is positioned to the north of the UK, it allows mild and moist air to dominate, reducing the chances of snow. Conversely, when the Jet Stream dips southward, it can bring colder Arctic air and increase the likelihood of snowfall. 4. Temperature Margins: The UK’s climate tends to hover around the freezing point during winter, resulting in a narrow temperature margin where conditions are optimal for snow. Small fluctuations can lead to alternations between rain and snow, making significant snow accumulation less common. 5. Elevation and Topography: While some areas of the UK, such as the Scottish Highlands, experience more frequent snowfall due to higher elevations, much of the country is low-lying. This limits the opportunity for snow to accumulate. This is particularly true in Martin which stands on a small ridge above the fens. The centre of the village is only ten metres above mean sea level. 6. Climatic Instability: The UK experiences an unstable climate due to its location at the boundary between polar and tropical air masses. This leads to rapidly changing weather patterns, often resulting in a mix of rain, sleet, and snow rather than consistent snowfall. So, I hear you ask, what caused the Beast from the East? The “Beast from the East” was a term used to describe a severe cold weather event that affected the UK and parts of Europe in late February and early March 2018. It brought extremely cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and disruptive weather conditions. This Why Martin seldom has snow... by Brian Dorken

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9 phenomenon was primarily caused by a combination of meteorological factors: 1. High-Pressure System: A strong area of high pressure developed over Scandinavia and eastern Europe. This high-pressure system led to cold air being drawn in from Siberia and other northern regions. 2. Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW): In the weeks leading up to the event, a Sudden Stratospheric Warming event occurred in the Arctic region. This warming disrupted the polar vortex (a circulation of strong winds that usually keeps cold air trapped in the Arctic) and caused it to weaken and split. This allowed cold air to spill out from the Arctic and head southward. 3. Jet Stream Position: The Jet Stream, a highaltitude wind pattern that influences weather systems, was situated to the south of the UK during this period. This southward shift allowed the cold air from the east to dominate the weather, resulting in the bitterly cold conditions and heavy snowfall. 4. North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO): The NAO is a climate index that affects the strength and direction of westerly winds and storm tracks over the North Atlantic. A negative phase of the NAO, which was observed during this time, is associated with blocking patterns that can lead to cold and stable weather conditions in the UK. The combination of these factors resulted in the “Beast from the East” event, bringing prolonged subzero temperatures, heavy snow, and disruptive conditions to many parts of the UK. It serves as an example of how complex interactions between atmospheric systems can lead to extreme weather events. Both diagrams are ©Wikipedia. The photograph of the garden is ©Brian Dorken and must not be reproduced elsewhere without express permission. The article is written by Brian Dorken who took a short course in Meteorology with the Open University in 2018. A garden in Martin during the Beast from the East

10 RAF MEMORIAL ECLIPSE FARM proposed site for the ad MARTIN MOOR MARTIN METHERINGHAM AIRFIELD VISITOR CENTRE LOOK OUT FOR A SURVEY IN YOUR POSTBOX SOON

11 A Large scale anaerobic digestER IS BEING PROPOSED FOR THE OLD RAF AIRFIELD AT MARTIN MOOR Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council wants to know how you feel about this. Your household will soon be receiving a survey through the letterbox, which you are urged to fill in and return. The Anaerobic Digester will be on the old airfield at Martin Moor, immediately behind the homes and buildings to the east of the B1189 (in other words, opposite Eclipse Animal Feeds and H&K Autos). The developing company, Green Create (www.green-create.com) has submitted a document to NKDC which outlines the proposal. A copy of this document can be obtained by emailing the Parish Clerk ([email protected]). • 182,000 tonnes per year of poultry waste and biomass would be used to produce gas for injection into the national grid. • The source of poultry waste is unknown but all of it will be trucked into the site, with the airfield providing parking for waiting trucks. • Other material (biomass and digestate) will be trucked in to and off the site, five and half days per week, with an estimated 140 lorry movements per day, 7am6pm Mon to Fri, 8am-1pm Saturdays. • There is a commitment by the developer to contain odours (the local authority’s power to enforce this is to be confirmed). • As the project is significant in scale, any planning application will be reviewed by Lincolnshire County Council. • The site itself is within Blankney Parish, but Martin & Martin Dales is expected to be a consultee, as are other parishes affected. A development of this scale will have an impact on many aspects of life in this area, including: • Jobs: job creation during construction and after commissioning; • Infrastructure: the site is served by B roads and country lanes, and all routes to the site pass through villages; • Environment: 8 hectares of land will be taken over by 46 industrial structures, surrounded by a 2m high fence; within 150 yards of homes; • Traffic: an estimated 140 lorry journeys a day to and from the site; • Heritage: the site is on the old airfield, adjacent to the recently renovated control tower and the 106 Squadron Memorial.

12 ECLIPSE FARM Martin Moor, Metheringham LN4 3BQ Tel: 01526 378491 • www.eclipsefarm.co.uk email: [email protected] Suppliers of quality animal feed and pet food. All leading brands in stock at competitive prices. We stock a comprehensive range of wild bird seeds, peanuts, sunflower hearts, fat balls and mealworms etc. We are agents for Kirton Sectional Buildings who make quality sheds and garden buildings. All of the most popular models are displayed on our site which is open for viewing during daylight every day. All sizes of Calor Gas in stock. Opening times: Monday to Friday 8.30 to 17.00 Saturday 9.00 to 13.00 Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT ECLIPSE FARMartin Moor, Metheringham LN4 3BQ Tel: 01526 378491 • www.eclipsefarm.coemail: [email protected] Suppliers of quality animal feed and pet foAll leading brands in stock at competitive pWe stock a comprehensive range of wild birdpeanuts, sunflower hearts, fat balls and mealwWe are agents for Kirton Sectional Buildinwho make quality sheds and garden buildAll of the most popular models are displayed owhich is open for viewing during daylight eveAll sizes of Calor Gas in stock. Opening times: Monday to Friday 8.30 to 17.00 Saturday 9.00 to 13.00 Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays UNDMANA

13 Parish Actions Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council are taking this project very seriously as we believe it will impact a generation of local residents. To this end, we are commissioning the following: • A survey of parish residents: when this survey arrives, please complete it and post in the Parish Council postbox at the Village Hall. • A Parish Meeting: we will be calling a meeting early in the New Year to discuss the project, its impact and our approach to its development; • A Parish Consultation: we will be requesting that the developer consults with the communities affected to ensure that any impact of the project is mitigated. • A committee of local parishes affected has been formed to scrutinize the development, with support from the district councils involved. Lincolnshire County Council is the decision maker • We urge local residents to contact Lincolnshire County Council to state their support or objection to the project. • Please outline these by writing to Planning Services, Lancaster House, 36 Orchard Street, Lincoln, LN1 1XX. To submit a comment, you must provide your name and address, including your postcode, the application number/ planning reference (22/1635/CCC), the site address (Land To The East Of B1189 Martin Moor Metheringham Lincoln), and a clear statement that you are objecting/supporting or making observations. Households may submit more than one letter. Based on the submission made to NKDC and the perceived impact this will have on the communities affected, a community action group, FightingMAD, has been established to oppose the development. Contact [email protected] or join their Facebook page if you want to act against these plans. Traditional Carol Concert Holy Trinity Church, Martin Wednesday 20th December 2023 6.30pm start, to last around one hour The singing will be led by members of Sleaford Choral. There will be a mix of favourite communal carols, with Sleaford Choral and Martin & Walcott schools performing a few entertaining carols. Rowland Lee, accomplished composer, pianist/organist and Sleaford Choral’s Musical Director, will be accompanying on the church organ, and conducting Sleaford Choral in some pieces.

14 Newly erected lavender signage and a revamped logo have recently changed the public face of Tilly’s Tea and Gift Shop, and behind the spruced-up facade the owner has started a new project to help rough sleepers in Lincoln... When Kate Badley took over Tilly’s Tea & Gift Shop in Metheringham High Street in May 2022, she set about putting her own stamp on it. The popular venue now boasts quirky murals, new menus (including vegan and gluten free), a takeway service and a selection of gifts and cards sourced from local makers. Kate organises raffles and psychic nights, and is always trying new creations, such as a stunning Remembrance Day poppy cake and a realistic plate of fish and chips made out of fondant. She has now turned her hand to something a bit different: once a month, when the tearoom is closed, Kate sets about batch cooking meals to take to Project Compass, a charity which works with homeless people in Lincoln. Kate has been doing this since August this year, after seeing a Facebook post about the work Project Compass does. She decided she wanted to do something to help the wider community outside Metheringham, so she got in touch with Becky Frost at the project, bought some ingredients and got cooking. Now she batch cooks every three or four weeks and a typical delivery from Kate’s kitchen will consist of enough food to feed around ten people. “I make pasta bakes, casseroles, curry, that sort of thing,” she said. “Soft food has been requested as the service users can have dental issues. I use money that has been donated and also my own money to buy the ingredients, and I do all the cooking myself. I personally accept money donations, but people can get in touch with Project A helping hand from one High Street to another... Tilly’s owner Kate Badley November 2023 14 [email protected]

15 Compass themselves to see what else they can do for them.” Becky Frost at Project Compass said: “We work with rough sleepers in Lincoln. We support and signpost people to assist them into accommodation. We also offer clothing, sleeping bags and food, as well as nursing care, through an NHS team called the HHH (Holistic Health for the Homeless).” Based in Lincoln High Street, the project offers a place were guests can stay inside, in a warm environment, and have unlimited hot drinks and toast. They are given a hot lunch and then a takeaway bag with drinks, sandwiches and snacks. Becky said: “Guests can have a wash, use our phone and laptop to keep in touch with people and charge their own phones. Kate offered to provide us with a hot meal and cakes every month, which we really appreciate. Cakes always go down very well and are considered a treat for which our guests are very grateful.” Kate said she loves being involved with Project Compass and doing what she can to help the people who come to their premises. “They’re a great team doing a fantastic job and I plan to support them for the foreseeable future.” How can you help? Becky Frost at Project Compass said: “We understand that it is really difficult for the general public to know what they can do to help those that are living on the streets. We don’t recommend that people give money or goods directly to individuals but that they give them to a recognised service such as ours. We are always happy to receive donations of sleeping bags and blankets, warm clothing, toiletries, food and money. People can be reassured that it will be going to people who are genuinely rough sleeping.” Project Compass can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or ringing 07944900658. Kate at Tilly’s Tea & Gift Shop said: “If anybody wants to help me to keep cooking for this Project, either financially or with donations of ingredients, please get in touch with me on [email protected].” Right: Guests at Project Compass can enjoy a plate of food and a wash in a warm and friendly environment. Below: One of Kate’s meals. [email protected] 15 November 2023

16 YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND IN MATES The MATES team is continuing to work for the benefit of our local community and has been busy over the past few months. Using monies obtained from an application to NKDC Health and Wellbeing Fund, a variety of activities to suit all ages were offered, and either fully or part funded, to local residents over the past few months. These included weekly sports sessions for children run by local resident and physical trainer Mick. These were all well attended and were really enjoyed, and a wide variety of sports were offered. Adult boot camps were also run weekly on the playing field using a professional trainer. The seated exercise classes, held during the warm hub on a Wednesday morning, are also still funded by MATES and are proving popular, with many commenting how they feel the exercise has benefited their mobility. There were two silent disco events run by Dance Free CIC in August, providing dancing in nature using mindfulness and relaxation techniques to just enjoy the moment and the environment. We also had two circus skills events with Circus Starlight offering circus skills training to children of all ages. This consisted of four sessions (in the Village Hall due to the poor weather conditions) and they were really popular, with children learning skills they had never had the opportunity to do before. MATES have also been part funding yoga sessions on a Tuesday evening at Martin Village Hall. These are run by Amanda MATES members Julie Crowson, Nicky Wilkes, Vic Evans and Clare Pearson enjoying an event that they didn’t organise themselves! They reached the finals of the BBC Radio Lincolnshire Make A Difference Awards in the Great Neighbour Group category and were proud to be awarded Highly Commended on the night.

17 from Unique Yoga. They are continuing with a new group of sessions starting soon and have proved to be beneficial, both physically and mentally, to all those who have attended. Come along and try yoga if you haven’t done it before. MATES are working with SoundLINCS CIC and are funding sessions on drums and percussion for all ages. We are halfway through the drumming workshop sessions being held at Martin Village Hall at 5.30pm on Wednesday evenings and the next sessions are the 1st, 8th and 15th November and cost £2.50 per person. Come and try something new and enjoy activities which you can do with your children and make a noise without bothering anyone. All ages welcome and it really is great fun. For the Spring term we are again working with SoundLINCS and running a series of Ukelele sessions for all ages, so come along and learn how to play the Ukelele and have a laugh. Over the summer holidays we put out an appeal for ‘back to school’ equipment for families who needed a little help. This collection was extremely successful and thank you to everyone who supported it. We intend to do the same next year. MATES also donated £200 to the Martin Village Hall Baby and Toddler group to purchase some more equipment. And, together with Martin Village Hall, the Parish Council and Julie Crowson, we equally funded the purchase of new football posts on the playing field, which are being well used already. The MATES committee continue to do weekly collections from Lincoln Foodbank and distribute to families who require them in our area and the surrounding villages. If you do need help from the foodbank, please text LARDER to Nicky or Clare (below) and we will get back to you. Future events include: Saturday 4 November - Last years ‘no fireworks’ bonfire event was extremely successful, so we have another one arranged for this year with a bar (run by MVH) and food. This will be at the Cricket Club commencing at 6pm. Saturday 9 December - Our annual children’s disco will be held at Martin Village Hall. This will be free for local children and has always proved to be very popular. Sunday 10 December – Our annual VIP Christmas Lunch for all residents of Martin, Martin Dales and Timberland who are aged 70 and over at the Village Hall. This is the third year in a row this Christmas lunch has been held and is free to those attending. If you are 70 or over and a resident of Martin, Martin Dales or Timberland, or know someone who is, please can you make contact using the methods below so we can formulate the invitations. Did you know there is a foodbank service right here in Timberland, Martin & surrounds? Just text the word LARDER to one of the numbers below (you can ring, but texting is preferred). If you contact us by Friday evening, food packages will be ready for you locally the following Tuesday. Full details will be given out by our volunteers when they talk to you. Nicky 07557853952 Clare 07816127681 Donations of non-perishable food are always welcome. They can be left at 76 High Street, Martin (next to the pub) in the plastic box over the low wall. MATES

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19 Further details on any of these events can be provided by texting: Nicky – 07557 853952 Clare – 07816 127681 Vic - 07901 822260 Email: [email protected] Or if you would be available to volunteer to help at any of these events, we would love to hear from you. We will also be collecting for Christmas Hampers for those families who may need a helping hand this Christmas, so please let us know if you have any donations that could support this collection. They will be gratefully appreciated and used for a good cause. Also, if you know of a family (with or without children) who would benefit from a little help this Christmas please let us know. Finally, MATES were proud to be nominated for the BBC Radio Lincolnshire Make A Difference Awards in the Great Neighbour Group category. We were informed that we had been selected from over 200 nominations to be one of four groups in this category to attend the awards. We did not win but were proud to be Highly Commended and given an award. This proved to us that the work we are doing is worthwhile and appreciated. Also, congratulations to Craig Garner from MVH for his ‘Highly Commended’ in the Best Volunteer category. MATES was set up to help during the pandemic and remains here for the benefit of our community. We are currently researching and applying for more funding to run activities next year for the benefit of everyone of any age. We are always wanting to hear ideas and suggestions from you, the residents, as to what we can do to support you and the community. All MATES volunteers work hard to ensure we achieve this aim, but we always appreciate extra help and support, especially at the events we run. Take care, Nicky A TINY SHOP WITH BIG IDEAS! HONEY • BAGS, MUGS, CUSHIONS YOU CAN BUY OFF THE SHELF OR ALL OUR ITEMS CAN BE PERSONALISED beetopia Beetopia’s Saturday afternoon opening will resume in the Spring. Until then, please ring 378901 to place orders or come and see us at these events: Sat 25th Nov from 12 noon Christmas Bazaar Timberland Village Hall Sun 3rd Dec from 12 noon Christmas Fair Martin Village Hall 01526 378901 www.beetopia.uk

20 The Penny Farthing 4 Station Road Timberland LN4 3SA Tel: 01526378881 A traditional family-friendly pub with a fantastic homecooked menu using locally sourced produce and an ever-changing specials board with carefully selected real ales and fine wines. TUES Two meals £17.50 on selected dishes plus Quiz Night WED Grill Night Two grills £25.00 FRIDAY Fish & chips Two for £17.50 SUNDAY Lunch from £11.00, kids eat for £5.50 Food served: Tues to Sat 12 noon to 9pm Sunday 12 noon to 6pm Closed Mondays BT Sport Wi-fi Car Park Beer Garden Log Burner Real Ale Fine Wines DEALS FOR YOU Quiz Night every Tuesday from 8pm £1 entry Free supper with your quiz master Robert

21 An extract from a letter written to The Lincolnshire Echo by D Richards, Secretary/Historian, 106 Squadron Association, Woodbridge Close, Worcester (date unknown) details the symbolism and historical background of the Memorial. Mr Richards wrote: “The plaque in the base, situated in a fireplace-type recess, was erected on the airfield in February 1946 when the squadron was disbanded and symbolises the heat of the inferno which awaited airmen over the target, and secondly the warmth of the welcome extended to the air crews on their return. “ Surmounting the headstone is the squadron crest and a gift from our Dutch friends. It is sculpted in Indian granite to represent peoples of the Commonwealth who served on 106 and proudly highlights the squadron motto ‘Pro Libertate’ (For Freedom). The apex is level to represent the equality of sacrifice of all who gave their lives. “The left and right arms, which house the two brass plaques, are representative of the Chaplain’s Prayer associated with the Royal Air Force which includes the following words: ‘Help them to do their duty with prudence and fearlessness, confident that in life and death the Eternal God is their refuge’ and underneath are the everlasting arms. “The memorial faces west, representing the direction of safety after leaving enemy territory. “The handmade bricks, which have stood the stresses of all kinds of weather, remind one of the pressures on democracy and the sacrifices made for its preservation. “The members of 106 Squadron Association are extremely grateful to John Pye for all the hard work and generosity expended on our behalf.” The meaning of the Memorial You’ve probably jogged, cycled or driven past it many times. You may have sat on the bench to enjoy the peace and quiet. But have you ever thought about what the Memorial on the old airfield really represents?

22 The 106 Squadron Memorial (and the people it is dedicated to) has always been an integral part of my family’s life. I was five when it was built and I remember my father letting me apply the cement and then laying a brick as he built the Memorial. I don’t know which brick it was but I know I contributed that small part! Right from an early age, my father always emphasised the importance of continuing to show respect and gratitude for the sacrifices so many made in the Second World War. Of course this is true of any war but living on Metheringham Airfield (in the house next to the Memorial) meant we had a deeper connection to 106 Squadron and the Second World War. I would go with him to the Squadron Reunion dinners and sit and speak to the Squadron members and their families. Even as a small child, I was always struck by how matter of fact they were about their experiences. Just that they had a job to do and got on with it. They experienced some horrific things and lost so many close friends but I think it’s a pain they buried, to try and live the life that they fought so hard for. So showing them respect and remembering those who had given their lives, was the least we could do. After moving to Lincoln, we would still return to the Memorial every two weeks. My father would take a packed lunch and a flask of tea. He’d mow the grass and I’d help with the Kirsty Summers is the daughter of John Pye, designer, builder and donor of the 106 Squadron Memorial on Metheringham Airfield. In response to hearing about the proposal to build an anaerobic digester adjacent to the site, she writes of her personal connection to the Memorial and the part it has played in her own family history. In Loving Memory...

23 smaller things, like picking weeds out of the gravel and polishing the plaques. Then we’d sit on the bench, share the lunch and spend time together. Just me and him, a peaceful airfield and the skylarks. Occasionally somebody would stop at the Memorial and stand in front of it. I never really thought too much about it as a child but I did always wonder why they looked so solemn and emotional. Now of course I realise that they came to the Memorial because it gave them somewhere to grieve. My father would usually chat to them and then we’d leave them to sit, looking out across the airfield. Sometimes a school would arrange a trip to the Memorial and local Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre. It was important to keep the stories of those who fought still alive and still relevant. When I had my own children, both my father and I felt it important to keep the duty passed along the generations. So then it was their turn to go with my father every couple of weeks, and have the same experiences that I did. When my father passed away, it became my responsibility to look after the Memorial. It was always my father’s wish to be buried on that land. Some Squadron members have their ashes scattered there but it doesn’t count as a burial site. He knew that having his body buried there would protect the land from development. So now it is I who goes with my children to maintain the area and Memorial. I had always envisioned my children doing the same with their children. They could also sit on the bench, and look out at the same view that generations of our family had. Sitting on that bench at the Memorial was my father’s favourite place in the world to be. You can imagine my shock and devastation hearing about the proposed anaerobic digester that could be sited within just a few hundred yards of the Memorial. It could be argued that it wouldn’t affect the land that the Memorial sits on, but it would change the entire atmosphere of the place. Lorries continually rumbling by and the massive structures taking over the landscape would change everything about the airfield and the Memorial. People wouldn’t be able to sit and reflect. They couldn’t sit on that bench and settle into the peace of the area. The Memorial is such a place of peace and contemplation. Not just for us as a family, but for visitors throughout the year and those who have travelled miles just to come and pay their respects (sometimes from other countries!). Each year members of the Services, locals, schools and all manner of people gather at the Memorial to mark Remembrance Day. There is just silence apart from the skylarks, as we all stand and connect with one purpose. The AD proposed for Martin Moor would be larger than this one at Wijster in The Netherlands.

24 Christmas menu from 28th Nov For all your family gatherings, work parties and Christmas get-togethers. Saturday 16th December Bring your party to our party. Entertainment from Frankie the fabulous Soul and Motown singer. Friday 22nd Christmas Party Join us to celebrate the holidays in style with The Stolen Fridays to entertain us from 8.30pm. Free lift home to all local areas – get yourself here and we’ll get you home. Christmas Eve Food served until 7.30. Christmas Day Fully booked. Check our Facebook page for any last minute cancellations. Open for a drinks 12-4pm. Boxing Day Open 12-6pm for drinks and food 12-4pm. New Year’s Eve (limited space left) sit down 2/3 course meal along with a disco to see us through the night. If you don’t fancy a meal just join us for a drink. Always a great atmosphere and of course free bacon/ sausage butties and a free lift home. New Year’s Day Open 12-6pm, food served 12-4pm with our famous all day breakfast available to soak up the night before (booking highly recommended but not essential). The Penny Farthing 4 Station Road Timberland LN4 3SA Tel: 01526378881 Great rates and facilities Regular updates throughout the day Planned EYFS activities and outings School pick ups/drop offs Home-cooked dinners after school Secure large gardens and paddocks Animals - chickens, alpacas and ponies First Aid trained / Enhanced CRB checked Over 10 years’ childcare experience Safeguarding & child protection training Level 2 Health & Hygiene All vouchers accepted Open: Monday to Friday 7am to 6.30pm Situated on Martin Straight To book a place please call Nicky on 07800 936882

25 Martin Village Hall Tuesdays 6pm Timberland Village Hall Every Wednesday morning 10.45am Slow and Low Restorative Yoga . . . . . Book at www.uniqueyoga.co.uk Ten-year-old Oliver Godfrey set himself an ambitious task to cycle 33 miles along the whole Waterway Railway from Boston to Lincoln to raise money for the Rainforest Foundation. Last month, he completed the marathon cycle ride in only five hours. When asked for one of his highlights, he said reaching JJ’s for a sweet and cake stop as he knew that he was then half way. Oliver wants to say thank you to everyone who sponsored him. He raised an eye watering £500! WHEELY WELL DONE OLIVER!

26 7 The Broadway, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6ST 01526 352196 Award winning local traditional butcher selling a variety of meats reared locally on the outskirts of Horncastle. LOCAL DELIVERIES ARE AVAILABLE Delivered free of charge within 10 miles! Orders can be made by phone. Orders taken for pubs, nursing homes, schools and tea rooms. Cooked meats, a selection of pies and condiments, Lincolnshire specialities, including award-winning Lincolnshire sausage, stuffed chine and burgers. Lincolnshire hampers available to order

27 As well as arranging over 700 hours of activities and events and donating over 3000 hours of their own time this year, the MVH committee has been working hard to raise much needed funds for Martin Village Hall In the last 15 months, its fundraising from grants and applications and generous donations from the community have raised just under £118,000. This excludes monies raised from its own activities and hall hire. Treasurer Kevin GarnerSmith said, “Every donation is very much appreciated, however big or small. There have of course been some sizeable donations from organisations, but also many smaller ones from members of our own community. “Fundraising remains one of our committee’s key objectives. As well as needing to cover our own operating costs such as oil, electricity, water, licensing, etc, we have identified over £100,000 of essential repairs. “We are also looking at raising money to help improve the toilets, increasing the thermal efficiency and heating of the building and decorating the hall.” Projects The committee has also identified projects for fundraising including performing arts, such as a panto for 2024, as well as staging, lighting and sound equipment. Much of its £118,000 raised is currently committed to the Heritage Society project, the kitchen which has recently been completed, and helping fund its various activities such as the Wednesday Community Hub, MYHub, Baby and Toddlers Group, the AmDram Society and the Book Club. The committee has bold plans for the hall, including building a mezzanine meeting room, outside seating area and new bar facilities. All monies, together with profits from bar nights and coffee mornings, hall hire and tabletop sales etc go back into the community. The committee wishes to sincerely thank everyone for their continued support and generosity. Many of the regular activities and clubs would not exist without the support of the loyal support of volunteers within the community, young and old, who give up their time. HELPING BUILD A COMMUNITY Martin Village Hall’s annual quiz is always a popular event. If you are trained in accountancy and feel that you can spare a few hours helping with the preparation of the annual accounts, Kevin would be very pleased to hear from you!

28 Anewly renovated self contained converted double garage that sleeps two adults. Open plan living and sleeping area with two single beds that can be pushed together if required. • Egyptian cotton bedding and top quality duvets a pillows. • Fully equipped kitchen. • Free parking and use of the gardens. • Prices from £55 per night. For more information or to book please message or call Helen on 07966 986281. Walnut Lodge Accommodation in Timberland KELLY’S CATCH Fish & Chips High Street, Metheringham Tel: 01526 320315 We are open: Wednesday to Saturday 11.30am – 1.30pm 4.30pm – 8.00pm Closed Sunday, Monday, Tuesday PHONE ORDERS WELCOME Debit/credit cards accepted 10% OAP discount on Wednesdays FIGHTINGMAD Fighting Martin Anaerobic Digester FightingMAD • help@fi ghtingMAD.co.uk N TO THE ANAEROBIC DIGESTER AT MARTIN MOOR SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE LEFT TO GO TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. Do you want to show your opposition to this development? Pick up a fl yer and put it in your window. They can be collected from Beetopia on Saturday afternoons, or email to arrange local drop off. Pick up a flyer and put it in your window. Please email to arrange collection.

29 A generous grant of £41,000 from the Heritage National Lottery has meant that the Heritage Society’s dream of researching and publishing a book on the history of Martin can now become a reality. For those of you who think that Martin may be a small village with very little history, you would be wrong. First mentioned in the Doomsday Book, the village grew into a thriving community in the mid 1800s, with over 1000 inhabitants and enough shops and businesses to make it virtually self-sufficient. During its heyday, it had three pubs, two brewhouses, two windmills, a saddlery, boot and shoe makers, bakers and butchers as well as two chapels, a church and a Sunday school. Farming was the main industry with many of the locals owning or renting land to make their living. Colourful characters also abounded with connections to Viscounts, Lords, Members of Parliament and the Bishop of Lincoln. The society has two years to complete the book project. Why not be part of history, by sharing photos and memories? Anyone who wishes to get involved is invited to come along to one of the regular monthly meetings at MVH or to make contact on [email protected] ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Martin Heritage Society ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– History in the making

30 AS LOCAL AS IT GETS! email: [email protected] @proglidelincoln www.proglidelincoln.co.uk

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33 F or many youngsters, their first glimpse of theatre is going to a pantomime, either with their school or their family. For me it was Cinderella at the age of six. I remember being mesmerised by the music, the dance, colourful costumes, the slapstick silliness and the highs and lows of the story, all ending of course in the baddies getting their just desserts and the underdogs finding fame and fortune by marrying a Prince or Princess. My first panto was watching Frazer Hines from Emmerdale perform as Buttons, and a young lady called Jodie Jackson as Cinderella. Theatre is a small world and Frazer’s wife became my first agent, and Jodie became a lifelong friend who went onto perform in the Starlight Express in Bochum, Rocky Horror and later becoming the number one tribute artist as Madonna, performing across the world. English pantomime has its roots in the Italian form of masked theatre that was popular in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. The term “pantomime” is derived from the Greek words “panto,” meaning “all,” and “mimos,” meaning “to imitate.” Pantomime originally featured a solo performer who used mime and physical comedy to tell a story. Over time, this evolved into the ensemble productions we know today. The success of panto is largely down to its cross-generational appeal. It’s loved by children and adults and the double entendres and mix of humour means everyone can enjoy the show. Most importantly, panto is of course, It’s behind you!! With panto season fast approaching, local actor Craig Garner talks about the importance of pantomime and its many traditions and superstitions 33

34 Martin Moor, Metheringham LN4 3BQ Tel: 01526 378997 email: [email protected] web: eclipsefencing.co.uk Open: Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am– 12pm We supply: • Sheds & Garden Buildings • Fencing & Gates • Trellis panels • Decking & paving • Postmix & aggregates • Landscaping sleepers • Garden gates • Concrete posts & gravel boards • Timber posts • Metpost system • Various timbers • General hardware • Butane & Propane bottled gas • Winter logs, sticks, coal • Sheet materials Delivery service available Trade & DIY welcome Full show site Eclipse Fencing Ltd Martin Moor ShedS & Garden BuildinGS pavinG SlaBS & timBer FenCinG & GateS

35 about tradition. It’s a man dressed as a dame, a girl dressed as a prince, a poor lass or lad who ends up as a prince or princess. And of course, an evil person who gets their comeuppance and comes good. Pantomime is a chance for the children and the adults to have fun and a vocal workout. “It’s behind you!” “Oh no it’s not!” “Boo!!!” There’s the inevitable sing song, the opportunity to jump out of your seat to try and catch sweets thrown from the stage, dodging the water guns and clapping like mad for the curtain call at the end of the show. Children are encouraged to shout out and disagree with the cast, hiss and jeer and boo the baddies and scream at scenes such as the ghost gag, where members of the cast are sitting on a bench, singing a song, seemingly unaware of a ghost dancing behind them. It’s no wonder that children love pantomime so much. Panto is hugely important for actors, whether they are from TV, film or theatre. For many actors, though, it certainly is not about the money. Often, it’s not for the glamour either. Back stage is often cramped, dusty and with no natural lighting for hours at a time. Show days are long and Christmas Day is often spent away from family when the last show on Christmas Eve finishes at 10pm and cast and crew have only a few hours off before their next performance on Boxing Day at 11am. With no public transport operating on Christmas Day and often performing at the other end of the country, cast and crew will often miss out on the opportunity to be with their nearest and dearest. But yet we all love it, whether famous celebrities like Dawn French or Sir Ian McKellen, or first timers fresh out of performing arts college. The cast and crew become your family for two months and the bonds you forge are for life. Recognise anybody? This photo is from the 1994 production of Jack and the Baked Bean Stalk in Martin Village Hall.

36 Cast members exchange cards and small gifts on the first night (which we regard as the press night) which we cherish for years to come. I still have an unopened bottle of Cornish fizz from Dawn French, and in contrast, a Christmas decoration made by her during the intervals using toilet roll innards, a London Palladium tea towel from Julian Clary and many other trinkets acting as fond memories of time in pantomime. Press night is particularly important for us and next morning many of us anxiously delve into the show reviews of national newspapers to see if we’ve had a personal mention from show critics. Press nights are accompanied by an afterparty. At some, like the London Palladium, we get a chance to mix with Lord Webber, Elaine Paige, TV celebrities, top producers, directors and the press of course. At others, it’s not so glamorous and the local mayor or councillor may be the guest of honour. Regardless of who attends though, the “high” of having finished a press night is always the same and the relief of having gotten through a show without having forgotten a line produces adrenaline which is only cooled by a glass (or two) of show fizz. Traditions aren’t confined to the audience though and superstition is particularly rife amongst the cast and crew. A tradition which I particularly like is the port club. During the interval in the second show of the day, the lead actors have a small tot of port. I’m not sure where it originated from but it’s certainly a tradition I maintain. Actors are naturally superstitious and here are just a few: Whistling in the theatre is considered bad luck. This superstition started in the middle of the 1600s when theatrical scenery began to fly. Sailors had extensive knowledge of ropes, rigging and knots and were often hired backstage as crew. Like on a ship, the sailors would communicate with each other through whistles to bring a backdrop in or out. Consequently, a whistling actor onstage could start a scene change early or they could get knocked out from incoming scenery! You should never say Good Luck to an actor of course, instead something like “break a leg@. The leg was a part of a side curtain. If you were particularly good, the audience would call for you to come back on stage and the leg would be raised and lowered. The more you were called back, the more chance there was of breaking it. Having a great performance was hence associated with breaking a leg. “Bad Dress (rehearsal), Good Opening” refers to where many stage actors swear that a bad dress rehearsal is a good sign and that it leads to a great opening night. This superstition’s origins are unclear, maybe a producer or director trying to boost a cast’s morale, but it’s a comforting concept when the final dress goes south. I’ve certainly experienced some shockingly poor dress rehearsals, wondering how we are going to pull it together, only to have a truly tremendous first performance. In a pantomime it is considered bad luck to perform the whole piece without an audience – which means that it should never be fully performed before opening night. This can be something of a problem during dress rehearsals – when it is vital to do a full run. The way superstitious directors get around this is by not allowing the actors to say the final two lines of the show (which are traditionally rhyming couplets) until the opening night. Instead, the actors will just substitute the words with blah, blah, blah, blah, blah! There is also the belief that the ‘good’ characters (Fairy Godmother/Genie) should only enter stage-right, and the ‘bad’ characters (Abanazar/King Rat) should enter stage-left. This is because in old theatres the baddie would make their first entrance rising from a trapdoor that was always on the left side of the stage. Also, in folklore, the ‘good’ side is always the right side.

37 For some theatre purists, panto may be considered second rate, I recall speaking to Lenny Henry on the eve of a panto at the London Palladium when he unfairly, I felt, likened panto to “urine and cabbage”. Sir Lenny now of course is an acclaimed Shakespearian actor, but he had clearly forgotten his Tiswas days. Or perhaps he was just jealous that his ex-wife, Dawn French, was about to play the wicked queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the London Palladium for a reported £250,000 for a short season. For anyone thinking that panto is an easy option, don’t be fooled. It’s not unusual at the larger theatres to perform 80 shows, many with three show days and only one day a week every seven to ten days. The Dame in particular will have at least twelve costume changes. I remember Julian Clary, who was cast as the Magic Mirror, standing in the wings of the Palladium having one of his costumes actually winched over him. And unlike the film industry, all makeup is applied by the actors themselves. What appears to be slapstick on stage is actually a well-disciplined production backstage. Dress and tech rehearsals will last for two weeks solid and often go on late into the night. Once the show is in flight, all actors are required in the theatre by the “half” (actually a period of 35 minutes) before the curtain goes up. No exceptions! Next year will see the 30th anniversary of Jack and the Baked Bean Stalk at Martin Village Hall. Some of you will remember watching it and some perhaps even performing in it. 2024 may just see an updated version of Jack and the Bean Stalk. Keep a lookout in the Grapevine for more information. Martin resident and Village Hall Committee Chair Craig Garner has appeared in panto since the age of 17. His first professional panto was playing Miss Minga, an ugly sister. Although his height has naturally provided him opportunities to play one of the seven in Snow White, such as at the London Palladium and the Birmingham Hippodrome - where he sang solo each show - he has also played the giant in Jack & the Beanstalk, Tommy the Cat in Dick Whittington, Little John in Robin Hood and Abanazar in Aladdin. This year Craig will be appearing as Captain Hook in Peter Pan, the Revenge of Hook at the Lincoln Drill. Thanks to charitable funding, subsidised coach tickets and theatre tickets are being sold for the matinee performance on Saturday 16th December, collecting and dropping off at Martin Village Hall. If you are interested then you will need to book quickly as spaces are limited. From Ugly Sister to Captain Hook...

38 • News from Martin Village Hall • News from Martin Village Hall •

39 Email [email protected] Mobile 07763 045293 Facebook MVH has its own Facebook page In person Pop along to one of our events and talk to members of the committee. MVH now has a commercial grade kitchen for its community after completing a refit in September. A generous donation of £40,000 together with £12,000 raised from the village hall’s own bar nights, coffee mornings and various fundraisers funded a kitchen capable of catering for 100 people. The project required a host of preparatory works such as dismantling the existing units, brickwork, carpentry, electrical, plastering and plumbing work and was completed in under six weeks. Chair Craig thanked the committee for their tremendous hard work in helping complete the works so quickly. He also thanked KCM Catering of Grantham as well as local contractors including Ben Johnson, Lachlan Paige and Chris Holland Plastering for their excellent work. MVH has lots of exciting plans for the hall including cooking and baking classes and providing warm meals for the community hub during the winter months. Craig added that the kitchen will also prove invaluable for MATES when they prepare and cook the VIP’s Christmas lunch in the coming weeks. COOKING UP CHANGE AT MVH... BEFORE... AFTER! DURING...

40 • News from Martin Village Hall • News from Martin Village Hall • The kitchen works meant that the village hall had to be temporarily closed for a week during the first week of the kitchen installation. Keen not to miss out on an opportunity to meet up, the community hub took a coach trip to Ruskington Garden Centre and spent a few hours amongst the plants with tea and cake. MVH are organising another coach trip in December to watch the pantomime at Lincoln Drill. Tickets are heavily subsidised at £20 for adults and £15 for children which include a light breakfast at the village hall, coach travel and matinee tickets. Contact the village hall to reserve your tickets. The Community Hub in Martin Village Hall has secured funding for the next 12 months thanks to a grant promised by SHINE. The weekly hub is open every Wednesday between 9.00am and 1.30pm and is open to all. Whether you would like to come just for breakfast, a light lunch or to meet friends and neighbours, the hub welcomes you. A chair exercise class, funded by MATES, is available for those who wish to partake at noon for an hour and provides an excellent opportunity to improve health, fitness and mental well-being. The Community Hub is open at MVH every Wednesday 9.00am– 1.30pm Everything came up roses...

41 Email [email protected] Mobile 07763 045293 Facebook MVH has its own Facebook page In person Pop along to one of our events and talk to members of the committee.

42 • News from Martin Village Hall • News from Martin Village Hall • New Quiz Champions for Martin The second MVH annual fish and chip supper and quiz took place in September with 12 teams competing for the prestigious glass trophy kindly donated by Majestic Crystal. Last year’s winners, Simple Minds, turned up to defend their title. With a score of 99, they fell just one point short of last year’s winning score of 100. But it was Quizlamic Extremists, led by Julie & Ady Crowson scoring 110 out of a possible 130 who were triumphant in lifting the trophy. Strictly Lost Out, a team fielded by Julie Fenwick, did exceptionally well with 106 for second place, with third place going to J&C, Liz & Will Jenkins, equalling their score of 99 from last year. Moor Laners, wooden spoon winners from both last year’s fish and chip supper and quiz and the family quiz, were hoping to make it a hat-trick of wooden spoons. At the end of the multi-choice questions they indeed looked as if they might pull off the hat-trick. However, a near perfect performance in the picture round of flowers meant that Mary Richardson lifted her team off the bottom and instead the Millbands scooped the coveted title of wooden spoons etched by Beetopia. Special thanks to Sheila and Laura for running the bar, Kelly’s for once again providing an excellent fish and chip supper and of course the MVH committee for helping make the evening a success. Generous raffle prizes from Jamie Marcus productions, Molly & Me Interiors, Graham Fidling Butchers, Metheringham Co-op and Woodhall Spa Kinema all helped MVH raise over £700. I t was a successful evening for Martin at the BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Make A Difference awards held at The Drill in Lincoln. Craig Garner-Smith was awarded a trophy as a runner up and Highly Commended in the Best Volunteer category whilst MATES was awarded a trophy as a runner up and Highly Commended in the Great Neighbour category. Craig said that it was humbling to see The Drill filled with such dedicated volunteers and felt privileged to be part of such a caring community as Martin. Craig praised the hard work of his fellow committee members and Friends of Martin and congratulated MATES on their great achievement. Martin Makes a Difference! Quiz winners John & Debs Atkinson, Ady & Julie Crowson and Dan Smyth.

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45 The Council wish to take the opportunity to thank Lindsay Fulton and her team for the hard work and dedication in the production of the parish newsletter, The Grapevine. The Council continues to work hard on behalf of the Parish and welcomes any comments or suggestions from parishioners to enable them to do the best they can on behalf of the Parish. We are pleased and excited to announce a new ‘limited edition’ of the Martin Village Calendar for 2024 which will soon be available for you to purchase. The calendar features 12 photos of Martin that were submitted by people from within the village, and displayed at the village fete in July with the most popular ones included in the calendar. For anyone interested in purchasing this bespoke calendar please email ben@ martinparishcouncil. co.uk in the first instance. The cost will be £5.70 per calendar and the size is 148mm wide and 420mm in length. The Council would like to express thanks and appreciation for the continued offer of support from a Parishioner in charging and relocating the SID in an effort to reduce speeding through the village. Councillors themselves are volunteers and often undertake volunteer activities for example, park maintenance but it is always greatly appreciated when Parishioners offer to help as well. Appreciation to all Parishioners who undertake voluntary work across the Parish including those involved in Speed Watch, Martin Village Hall and Litter Picking. If you able to help in anyway please do not hesitate to contact the Clerk who will pass your details onto the full Council and others. The Council continues to be busy with the grounds maintenance to maintain the upkeep of the parish. The Parish Council again takes this opportunity to thank David Holvey as the paid contractor and volunteers who undertake this work . The Parish Council also continues to monitor and maintain the play park space and the equipment is inspected, on at least a monthly basis by Cllr. Kitely. It is also inspected by ROSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) each year. The 2023 inspection took place in August and the Council will work through any issues raised. These are, fortunately, currently achievable over the coming months. Councillors and volunteers clean, paint and tidy the play area. If you have any interest in being a park volunteer, please contact the Clerk. The Council also some years ago purchased a News from MARTIN & MARTIN DALES PARISH COUNCIL Your current Parish Councillors are: Clare Pearson [email protected] David Busby [email protected] Sasha Kiteley [email protected] Will Jenkins [email protected] Ben Lilley [email protected] Mick Ignatowski [email protected] There are currently three vacancies. If you are interested in joining the Parish Council, please contact the Clerk on [email protected]

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47 Defibrillator which is on the wall of the Village Hall. Please inform the Clerk if you access and use the Defibrillator. This is also inspected on a regular basis and has recently been fitted with a new battery and contact cards are inside. Did you know that the Parish Council has a website that all parishioners can access? This is updated with meetings, minutes, accounts etc and is very kindly administered by a parishioner Mr Gareth Charles, who we would like to thank for his ongoing support. The new goal posts have been completed and many thanks to Cllr Ignatowski for leading on this. These have been financed by the Parish Council and very generous donations from a Parishioner, the Village Hall and MATES. What do we have planned for the coming months? • The Parish Council will continue to review the progress of the development of an AD and Solar Farms in the area and are represented on the FightingMAD group by Cllr Lilley. • Purchase and install Coronation gates for the church graveyard. • Woodland area project plans are moving forward lead by Cllr Jenkins. • Inspect and assess the maintenance needs of the War Memorials in the Church Yard and in Martin Dales. • On-going grounds maintenance. • Continued inspections of Playpark and Defibrillator. • Updating of the Emergency Plan Is there anything you feel as a parishioner you should be getting from your Parish Council? Please come to one of our meetings to discuss or contact the Parish Clerk and she will ensure all enquiries are raised at the next meeting. Tuesdays 14th November 2023 9th January 2024 19th March 14th May AGM Dates and Venue are subject to change due to unexpected circumstances. For any clarification and information please contact the Parish Clerk: parishclerk@ martinparishcouncil.co.uk Website: www.martinparishcouncil.co.uk Tel: 07557102755 Issues with regard to roads and lighting etc can be reported on fixmystreet: https:// fixmystreet.lincolnshire.gov.uk For the Community Policing Team, the contact number for police related nonemergency enquiries is: Call 101 Number to call for non-emergency medical advice: Call 111 In an Emergency: Call 999 Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council is pleased and excited to announce a Limited Edition Martin Village Calendar for 2024! It features 12 photographs of Martin submitted by people from within the village. These were displayed at the village fete in July and the most popular ones have been included in the calendar. To buy your copy of this unique calendar, please email ben@ martinparishcouncil.co.uk. Dimensions 148mm wide x 420mm long 2024 The images in this calendar are the winning entries in a photography competition organised by Martin & Martin Dales Parish Council in 2023. MOCKUP_Layout 1 17/10/2023 14:11 Page 1 £5.70 each

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49 I t was early in November 2022 when Cameron and Will, supported by Brian Dorken, ventured into a Parish Council meeting to ask if the youngsters could have full size goal posts. For two young teenagers, it must have been a daunting task but they stood up and clearly and confidently delivered their request, explaining to the councillors that the current ones in the park were aimed at 8-year-olds and clearly not ideal for Martin’s teenagers. Some of the older youngsters would walk to Timberland after school to play on their football pitch but parents of younger teens were naturally nervous of allowing their children to venture out of the village so they missed out on playing with their friends. Initial requests to Mrs Mary King’s Trust to put the goal posts across the old cricket pitch were unfortunately rejected. However, the Parish Council agreed that they could be placed on the land belonging to the parish. Although a third of the size of the original proposal, it still allowed larger goal posts to be erected. To assist funding, Julie Crowson in memory of her mother, MVH & MATES all offered to share the costs equally with the Parish Council. The Parish Council agreed to the proposal in July and works were finally completed in October 2023. Thanks are extended to all funders; to David Holvey for marking out the pitch and doing some of the grass work; Parish Councillor Michael Ignatowski and local builder Sean Hillaby for getting the project over the line, the donation of grass seed from Boston Seeds Limited and various volunteers, including Josh, William and Cameron, for helping with the preparatory works. Special thanks of course go to Cameron and Will for building up courage to ask! IT’S A GOAL! Josh Cameron and William

50 Major road improvements B1191 Martin to Woodhall Spa By the time you read this the road improvements should have been completed. This has been a major project and I was able to attend several site visits to see the scale of the work involved. The land under the road is peat and clay and this presented a number of challenges. Highways engineers had to design and construct a “layer cake” of various materials with reinforcing mesh. This is one of the reasons why the project took the time it did. £10m extra funding for roads maintenance On the subject of roads, I am pleased to report that due to underspend returns, and careful and diligent management of spending, the County Council is in a healthy fiscal position to put an extra £10m towards roads maintenance this year. This comes on top of the £19m previously put into roads maintenance to further expand Highway’s effectiveness at keeping roads open and in working order. We face significant cost pressures in keeping our road network usable on a daily basis, and this additional money will be vital in our efforts to carry our as many improvements to the 5,500 miles of roads across the county. We have one of the largest road networks in England. Every single penny of this latest additional funding will go a long way to getting more potholes filled, surfaces repaired, and other A view from the County Council by Cllr Rob Kendrick, Metheringham Rural Division LETTERS!? The Grapevine has a Letters Page where you can air your views about most things but sadly we didn’t recieve any this time! We didn’t solicit any (or make them up) so there’s no LETTERS page in this issue. Please get involved and air your views in your magazine. There’s plenty going on to talk about... The rules are: 1. No more than 300 words. 2. We need your actual name and address for our records, but you may remain anonymous in print (make this clear, otherwise your name will appear). 3. Email to [email protected] or post in Martin Village Hall letterbox, or through the door at Beetopia, Martin High Street. 4. Keep it legal, decent, honest and truthful please. 5. We reserve the right not to use your letter, or to cut it for length if more than 300 words. 6. We may also publish your letter, or a response to it, on our Facebook page. If you want to write an article instead of a letter, please get in touch to discuss it. The Grapevine – Martin THE GRAPEVINE SCHEDULE 2024 February issue: Advert booking: Tuesday 9th January Copy deadline: Tuesday 16th January Distribution: 3rd & 4th February 2024 May issue: Advert booking: Tuesday 9th April Copy deadline: Tuesday 16th April Distribution: 4th/5th May 2024