Over the past week in Lincolnshire, we have witnessed our community unite in countless heartening ways. As the festive season begins, Sleaford’s local star, Manville Wiles, plans to brighten our Christmas with his age-old tune battling for the title of Christmas number one. Additionally, our road maintenance teams and gritters were honoured in a unique multi-faith ceremony, an act that communicates a sense of unity and appreciation for those who maintain our roads’ safety and availability.
The extent of engagement was apparent when our local MP, Hamish Falconer, made UK Parliament Week surprisingly real through a visit to a local nursing home. Our local young talent was also recognised, with a builder’s competition highlighting the poetic charm of Lincolnshire, as relayed through the words of our emerging poets. There was cause for celebration when a cherished local hotspot, the Wonky House, marked the successful end of its preservation project with a regal tour.
A surge of community-led initiatives flowed through our town, from Horncastle residents knitting a 200m scarf to encircle Tanglewood Care Home in solidarity with Dementia UK, to Scunthorpe’s inaugural Mental Elf 5k run to raise mental health awareness. The week drew to a close with an intriguing debate about the evolution of our Christmas card tradition, questioning whether it was phasing out or enjoying a revival.
The week also marked Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust’s proposal for a new wetland nature reserve in Horncastle, symbolising our dedication to protecting the natural splendour of our county. For those with a flair for drama, local actor Colin McFarlane passionately encouraged involvement in a prostate screening trial.
Amid all these activities, a Cleethorpes couple celebrated 70 years of companionship, reinforcing the timeless power of love. It’s been a week of rebirth, resilience and festive cheer in Lincolnshire. As we stride vigorously into the new week (cheers, Girls That Hike), let’s maintain this spirited pace.
