The Stained Glass Museum in Ely, Cambridgeshire, has been awarded Designated Status by Arts Council England, placing it among a select group of institutions whose collections are recognised as being of national significance. This prestigious accolade celebrates the exceptional range, quality, and importance of the museum’s collection, which spans more than 800 years of stained glass history.

Designated status has been awarded to the museum’s entire collection, including its collection of glass, preparatory designs and cartoons, and specialist tools and sample materials used to make stained glass, recognising it as one of the most significant collections of its kind in the country.

Founded in 1972, The Stained Glass Museum has spent more than five decades championing the artistic, technical and cultural importance of stained glass. This prestigious recognition acknowledges the museum’s leading role in using its collections to promote research, conservation and public engagement with this unique art form. Designated Status is granted to only a small number of non-national museums, galleries, libraries and archives across England and Wales. It is a mark of distinction that demonstrates how collections play a significant role in deepening our understanding of the world and our shared cultural heritage. This award acknowledges The Stained Glass
Museum’s proactive commitment to developing its collections, and its dedication to improving research and interpretation to further the understanding and enjoyment of stained glass for diverse audiences, both now and in the future.

Dr Jasmine Allen, Director and Curator at The Stained Glass Museum says: “Achieving Designated status is a real accomplishment for our team, and an important step towards achieving our vision for the museum to be ‘a national centre for the enjoyment and understanding of stained glass through storytelling, creativity and research’. It underlines the important role The Stained Glass Museum’s collections play in the public understanding of the history and development of stained glass in Britain – not only through our public gallery, learning, outreach and events programme, but also through research projects, partnerships, publications, conferences, and increasingly loans to other cultural institutions.”

Mark Hosea, Chair of the Board of Trustees of The Stained Glass Museum added: “We are delighted to have been awarded Designated Status by Arts Council England, recognizing the significance of the entire collection of The Stained Glass Museum. The strength and depth of the collection was fully acknowledged by the expert assessment panel who recognized its ‘comprehensive representation of stained glass as a national craft, including significant artworks, technological developments, and links to endangered craft skills’. We hope that this Designated Status will act as a foundation for future growth and help us to strengthen existing and develop new partnerships, secure further funding, and help facilitate and generate new research into stained glass as a living art form with a long and rich tradition in this country.”

Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England said: “The Stained Glass Museum’s Collection tells the story of British and international stained glass making over nine centuries. Alongside the beauty and expertise to be found in the panels on display, visitors can also track significant periods of change for society, and eventually see the world we live in reflected back at them. This expertly curated and cared-for museum is a significant addition to our network of designated collections. Congratulations to The Stained Glass Museum on this achievement, which recognises collections of national significance.”

© The Stained Glass Museum

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Running until Friday 7 February 2026, SPACE immerses visitors in a journey through the universe, combining large-scale digital projections, original soundscapes and storytelling set within one of England’s most iconic medieval buildings.

As night falls, Ely Cathedral becomes a breathtaking canvas of swirling galaxies, distant planets and abstract interpretations of time, light and creation. The experience invites visitors of all ages to explore humanity’s fascination with space while seeing the Cathedral in a completely new way.

The installation is created by the acclaimed artistic collaboration Luxmuralis, known for transforming historic spaces into powerful, emotionally engaging environments through light, music and narrative.

Amy Royal, Head of Events at Ely Cathedral, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Luxmuralis back to Ely. SPACE offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the Cathedral in a completely new light. It brings together art, music and architecture to create a memorable experience for all ages.”

Peter Walker, Artistic Director of SPACE, added:
“Ely Cathedral’s scale and beauty make it a perfect setting for SPACE. Our aim is to create moments of wonder that connect people emotionally with both the building and the themes of the universe.”

SPACE is running now until Friday 7 February, with timed evening entry sessions available. Early booking is recommended for remaining slots.

Further information and tickets are available at:
https://www.elycathedral.org/events/space

Visit Ely Cathedral’s Star Dome | 16–21 February 2026

Following the SPACE light show, visitors can also experience the Star Dome at Ely Cathedral during half term, from 16–21 February 2026.

The Star Dome is a fully immersive planetarium experience that transports audiences into a celestial world of stars, planets and galaxies. Guided by an expert in astronomy and astronautics, visitors will explore constellations and discover the myths and legends associated with the night sky.

On Saturday 21 February, a special session will take place in collaboration with Tiptree Stargazers, with telescopes set up outside the Cathedral to observe astronomical objects in the night sky, weather permitting.

The Star Dome offers a calm, educational and memorable experience for all ages.

Tickets and further information are available at:
https://www.elycathedral.org/events/stardome.

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The colourful, hand-knitted chicks have become a familiar and much-anticipated sight in the Hospice, its charity shops and at local events during the lead-up to Easter. Each chick is sold to raise vital funds that support compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families across Cambridgeshire.

The charity is now inviting knitters of all abilities to get involved by creating chicks to be sold in the run-up to Easter. A knitting pattern is available via the Hospice’s social media channels, and all handmade chicks should be clearly labelled for community fundraising.

Completed chicks can be:

• Dropped off at the Hospice
• Delivered to any Arthur Rank Hospice Charity shop
• Posted to: Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, Cherry Hinton Road, Shelford Bottom, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB22 3FB

The deadline for donations is 15 February.

For those who don’t knit but would still like to support the appeal, donations of Crème Eggs or similar-sized Easter eggs are also very welcome. Each knitted chick is traditionally filled with a small chocolate egg before being sold. Donations can be dropped off at the Hospice, any of the charity’s shops, or ordered directly via the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity Amazon Wishlist.

Anyone with questions is encouraged to email cf@arhc.org.uk or comment on the charity’s social media posts.

By taking part, local supporters will help spread joy this spring while contributing to the ongoing care and support provided by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity to patients and their loved ones.

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The Rotary Club of Ely welcomed Michael Ling to its meeting on Thursday 2 October at Ely Bowls Club, where he gave an engaging and informative talk on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Michael, a former teacher, was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and left his teaching career eight years ago to become a full-time coach supporting children and adults with the condition. He explained that ADHD is an invisible disability affecting around 5% of the population, though many remain undiagnosed.

There are three recognised types of ADHD – Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive and Combined – with symptoms that can include difficulty focusing, fidgeting, restlessness, or impulsive behaviour. Michael highlighted that ADHD has a strong genetic link, with parents who have the condition facing up to a 30% chance of passing it on to their children.

While untreated ADHD can impact wellbeing and reduce life expectancy, Michael emphasised the many positives, including creativity, sensitivity, and entrepreneurial drive. In fact, people with ADHD are three times more likely to start their own business, often thriving in dynamic and innovative environments.

Michael also spoke about current challenges in accessing diagnosis and treatment, noting that waiting times in the UK can vary greatly. However, patients in England have a legal right to choose their provider for non-emergency elective care, which can sometimes speed up the process.

More information about Michael’s work can be found at www.michaellingcoaching.com

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This was a demanding concert for the orchestra, but one they delivered with confidence and precision. Under Steve Bingham’s baton, the strong, warm resonance of the strings filled the Cathedral, with expressive phrasing that held the audience spellbound.

Arnold’s Peterloo Overture vividly told the story of the battle for democracy, its dramatic contrasts depicting both the horror of the 1819 massacre and the triumph of eventual reform. The music’s thunderous drums and tense dissonances captured the chaos and tragedy of that day, balanced by passages of calm and resolution. It was a powerful reminder of why Arnold, who also composed the scores for The Bridge on the River Kwai and The Inn of the Sixth Happiness, is so widely admired for his storytelling through music.

Vaughan Williams’s Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis provided a moment of pure transcendence. Its ancient harmonies, set within a lush, spacious soundscape, were woven together by the interplay between the full string orchestra, a smaller ‘echo’ ensemble, and a string quartet. The result was ethereal and deeply moving, with the orchestra perfectly capturing the composer’s trademark sense of serenity and timeless beauty.

Elgar’s Symphony No. 1 rounded off the evening in grand style. Complex and emotionally rich, the work’s shifting moods — from playfulness and rhythmic vitality to moments of immense grandeur — were handled with poise and energy. The orchestra’s performance was both powerful and tender, leaving the audience with Elgar’s stirring melodies resonating long after the final note.

The concert was enhanced by excellent programme notes written by Jeremy Harmer, which added further depth to the evening’s experience.

Ely Sinfonia’s next major concert, Heroism, Harmony and Triumph, featuring works by Beethoven and Walton, will take place at Ely Cathedral on Saturday 2 May 2026 at 7.30pm

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Organised by Ange and Gav Marker, the event aims to give young people aged 10–16 a chance to display and sell their handmade crafts, artwork, upcycled items, tech projects and more in a fun and supportive environment.

“The Junior Makers Market is all about helping young people gain confidence, learn new skills and experience what it’s like to run a small business,” said organisers Ange and Gav. “We would love your support, as we truly believe young people can gain valuable life skills, confidence and financial literacy through experiences such as this.”

Visitors can expect a friendly, family-focused event filled with creativity and community spirit. Entry and parking are free, and refreshments will be available throughout the day.

There are still a few stall spaces available, priced at £5 per stall, which includes a table and two chairs. To keep things fair, the organisers aim to avoid duplicate stall types, so young makers are encouraged to book early and confirm their category.

For more information or to apply for a stall, contact jnrmakersmarket@yahoo.com

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The event, hosted by East Cambridgeshire District Council, will be a fun day out with a focus on wellbeing. 

The aim is to encourage visitors to take steps towards a better lifestyle in a number of areas including:

• healthy living
• exercise and active lifestyles
• mental health
• financial wellbeing 

Among the attractions on the day will be:

• taster sessions and information on how to get involved in sports
• free climbing wall and smoothie bikes 
• cost of living advice 
• free Slimming World vouchers (eligibility criteria apply)
• Health Check kiosks by Healthy You
• Fitness Rush mobile gym
• free bike servicing, basic repairs and maintenance advice
• information on clubs, workshops, fundraising, volunteering and careers

East Cambs Community Safety Partnership will also be engaging with residents on safety concerns and sharing advice on many topics including county lines and knife crime. 

Cllr Julia Huffer, chair of the council’s Operational Services Committee, said:

“Our popular Health and Well Fair is returning for its third year. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover new activities and clubs in our local area, as well as have conversations and find out where you can get help and advice when you need it.

“Health and wellbeing can be fun and with sports and activities available to try on the day, as well as more meaningful discussions with local organisations, it can open exciting new avenues for our residents.”

The event is being supported by a diverse range of organisations including East Cambridgeshire District Council, East Cambs Community Safety Partnership, Healthy You, Dr Bike by Outspoken Cycles, Living Sport and Slimming World.

To book a free bike servicing visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dr-bike-servicerepair-session-soham-tickets-1559436308979?aff=oddtdtcreator

The event is taking place between 11am and 3pm at Soham Pavilion, Fountain Lane, Soham on Sunday 7 September.

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Events in your area include:  Ghost of a Smile (Theatre) and Victor and Albert  (Comedy). Additionally, we have workshops with Handmade concertina books, Africa Music and Comic and Graphic Novel.

Thanks to public funding from Arts Council England, tickets are affordably priced between £3 and £9, with concessions available.

Guests can look forward to a unique and intimate experience, quite unlike anything offered by a traditional theatre or larger entertainment venue. Everyone is welcome – we aim to make our activities as welcoming and accessible as possible. Detailed access information for all activities is on the Events page on our website.

Tickets are now on sale. Take a look at the full programme schedule, pick up a brochure and purchase tickets in participating libraries and online www.library.live/the-library-presents  

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The Club regularly supports local community events and causes, while also contributing to international initiatives. Meeting most Thursday evenings at Ely Bowls Club, members enjoy a mix of community service, guest speakers, and fellowship.

Part of a worldwide organisation of like-minded individuals, the Rotary Club of Ely is always open to welcoming new members who want to make a difference locally and globally.

For more information, email info@rotaryclubofely.co.uk or find them on Facebook at Rotary Club of Ely.

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These works form part of an ongoing commitment to preserve and protect this nationally important site, ensuring it remains safe and accessible for future generations.

The planned repairs are vital to address wear and stress on the original timber framework of the building, dating back to the 13th century.

The conservation project has been carefully designed to respect the house’s heritage, and the team will be working closely with specialist contractors experienced in historic building preservation.

During the temporary closure, all core services provided by Oliver Cromwell’s House will continue offsite, including the Tourist Information Centre and the popular Gift Shop, which will both relocate to Sessions House, Lynn Road, Ely, which has significant relevance to Ely, with many fascinating stories to tell.

Tours and talks about the building will be available to the community and visitors together with a series of new and exciting tour experiences in partnership with other local heritage sites and cultural organisations. Collectively, these initiatives will allow visitors to continue exploring the rich and diverse history of Ely through guided walks, collaborative events, and experiences throughout the city and surrounding area

The Visit Ely team will continue to offer visitor support, provide local information, and retail experiences from this temporary base.

Anna Bennett, Manager of Oliver Cromwell’s House, said: “We would like to encourage all our visitors and community to take advantage of exploring Sessions House during our temporary closure and your full support during this short period of restoration is appreciated. We are very lucky to have Oliver Cromwell’s House in Ely, so by preserving its vast, historical legacy enables us and future generations to continue to enjoy in the future”

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Think your local library is just about books? Think again! Tickets are now on sale for the 16th season of The Library Presents, the arts and entertainment programme that transforms these community spaces across Cambridgeshire into immersive, theatre-style experiences.

Returning this September, the programme features 33 different acts and includes a mix of live music, laugh-out-loud theatre, mind-blowing magic and dazzling dance. Hundreds of local residents played a part in shaping this season’s line-up by taking part in the choosing process. Highlights include: hip-hop dance theatre from I’m Muslamic Don’t Panik, dance performances from Olive Branch, theatre show The Ghost of a Smile! and storytelling from F(able): Fierce Fairy Tales for the Next Generation.

Try something new this Autumn

Did you know that when asked their motivations for attending, 61% of our audiences said they come to The Library Presents to try something new? This Autumn, why not join them? Featuring 51 events at 24 intimate library venues, from Bassingbourn to Yaxley and everywhere in between, this season offers more variety than ever. Whether you’re amazed by the arts or wowed by the workshops, there’s truly something for everyone. From performances to hands-on sessions for adults, families and young people, all events are affordably priced between £2 and £10, with concessions and flexible “pay what you can” options available at selected shows.

This season will offer more new artists and workshops than any other programme to date and features eight dance performances and workshops.

What’s on locally in Ely, Littleport and Soham

As part of this county-wide line-up, libraries in Ely, Littleport and Soham will host a range of performances and workshops.

Ely
Ely Library will welcome the quick-witted comedy of Victor & Albert and the powerful dance theatre performance of I’m Muslamic Don’t Panik, both with Hearing Loops available, alongside a third live event later in the season.

Littleport
Littleport Library will host:

• Crochet Flowers for Beginners – Monday 17 November, 6pm. Run by published author and teacher Claire Montgomerie, this workshop guides confident beginners aged 8+ (with some crochet experience) through creating colourful floral motifs. Under-12s must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.
• The Ghost of a Smile! – Saturday 13 December, 7pm (doors open 6.40pm). Two of Charles Dickens’ creepiest tales reimagined with a comic twist. Adapted and directed by Gavin Robertson and performed by Nicholas Collett. Suitable for adults and young people 12+. This is a Relaxed Performance with a quieter space available. Hearing Loops will also be in place.

Soham
At Soham Library, families can enjoy the Jungle Jumble Flip Book Workshop – Friday 31 October, 2pm. Illustrator Moira Millman will help participants aged 7+ create imaginative animal flip books using drawing, rubber stamping and collage. Under-12s must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.

Libraries like you’ve never seen them before

The humble libraries and community spaces of Cambridgeshire will be transformed with lighting, backdrops and sound equipment. And while there is plenty for the little ones to enjoy, adults can enjoy performances accompanied by a glass of something cold from the bar at some of our evening events.

Councillor Alison Whelan, Chair of the Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said:

“We’re delighted to launch a new season of The Library Presents, with an exciting range of events shaped by our communities and hosted in local libraries.

Our libraries are vibrant community spaces where people can come together to engage with culture and creativity. The Library Presents makes high quality live entertainment accessible locally, demonstrating our commitment to creating a fairer Cambridgeshire. This autumn season is set to be a wonderful celebration of creativity, diversity, and connection – and we warmly invite everyone to come along and enjoy it.”

Accessibility and inclusivity for all

With a commitment to making the arts accessible to everyone, The Library Presents offers a range of assistance, including relaxed performances — safe spaces for neurodiverse or autistic audience members — BSL-interpreted events, audio-described and live-captioned performances, and ‘touch tours’ before performances, to assist those with extra sensory needs. Detailed accessibility information is provided for each of our events and can be found in the programme brochure (available in all libraries and other community hubs) or by browsing our website.

Funded by Arts Council England

Cambridgeshire is one of a small number of library authorities funded to help bring high-quality arts programmes to local communities, thanks to the continued funding from Arts Council England.

Over a three-year period, £530,000 has been invested to help keep ticket prices affordable and ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said:

“The Library Presents is a brilliant example of how creativity can thrive in unexpected spaces, bringing high-quality arts experiences directly into the heart of local communities. We are proud to support a programme that champions accessibility, celebrates diversity, and empowers residents to shape their cultural landscape. It’s inspiring to see libraries transformed into vibrant venues where people of all ages can try something new.”

Tickets on sale now!

The first event of the new season takes place on Saturday, 13 September. Demand is expected to be high, with many events likely to sell out quickly. Tickets can be purchased online, by scanning the QR code in the programme brochure, by phone, in person at participating libraries, or on the door (subject to availability).

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More than 150 works of art by professional and amateur creatives will be on display and sale in the exhibition, which is taking place in the Hayward Theatre at King’s Ely from Tuesday 5^th August to Sunday 10^th August.

The exhibition will be a celebration of the spectacular Great London Plane Tree of Ely, which is the largest in the UK, and one of the original London Planes. Located in Ely’s Old Palace Gardens, the 42-metre-high specimen has recently been awarded more than £120,000 by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to help safeguard its future. The tree was planted in around 1674 and is believed to have been a gift from King Charles II to the Bishop of Ely.

Artworks will include a wide variety of subjects, including the Ely Plane Tree itself and its glorious surroundings. The exhibition will be open from 10am-4pm every day, admission is free, and entry is via The Gallery, Ely, CB7 4DH.

On Saturday 9^th August and Sunday 10^th August, members of the public will not only be able to visit the exhibition but also tour the Old Palace Gardens and meet Ely’s London Plane Tree. On Saturday 9^th August, Adam Cormack, Head of Campaigning at The Woodland Trust, will also be delivering talks about heritage trees. David Day, who is leading the campaign to protect Ely’s London Plane Tree for future generations, will also be talking about the conservation project. These talks will be at 11am and 2pm. Again, the talks are free and everyone is welcome.

David Day said: “We will be delighted to welcome everyone to the art exhibition, and to celebrate our natural heritage. Working together with The Woodland Trust, The Tree Council, The University of Cambridge Department of Engineering, and others on the conservation of this heritage tree, the National Lottery Heritage Fund grant will finance the project over the next four years. The money will help to ensure that this magnificent tree can be enjoyed by future as well as current generations, and it stands as a fine example of how our natural heritage can be conserved and nurtured. The grant would not be possible without the National Lottery players, and we thank them for their generous support.”

Adam Cormack said: “We are really pleased to be supporting this event and the conservation work on the nationally important Plane Tree in the school grounds at King’s Ely. We are looking forward to showing people the tree and talking to visitors about it. Recent high profile tree felling cases including the Sycamore Gap Tree on Hadrian’s Wall and the Whitewebbs Park Oak in Enfield have underlined the importance of these trees but also their vulnerability. Our talks will cover this and much more.”

To find out more about the Ely London Plane Tree conservation project, please visit: https://treecouncil.org.uk/science-and-research/the-london-plane-of-ely/

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With stalls spread across both the church and the church hall opposite, the event showcased an impressive variety of handmade and artisan goods. Visitors browsed jewellery, fairy gardens, hand-sewn gifts, decorative wreaths, woodturned items, ceramics, paintings and customised Jellycat bunnies. Church volunteers also sold homemade cakes, adding to the local flavour.

A creative last-minute idea saw organisers selling ice creams from the church porch – a welcome treat that tempted passers-by in the heat and kept spirits high.

There was something for everyone. Children enjoyed craft activities while the Witchford Drum Circle offered a chance for families to get hands-on with rhythm-making in a shady spot outside the church.

A particularly popular stall supported a local hedgehog rescue (formerly Heather’s Hedgehog Hostel), drawing attention from younger visitors eager to learn and contribute.

The raffle and tombola proved just as busy, with generous donations from local businesses, residents and stallholders. Refreshments were available all day, and many guests made the most of the churchyard’s peaceful setting while enjoying a cool-down with their ice cream.

Despite clashing with several other local events, the craft fair raised over £500 to support the church. Organisers are already looking ahead to the next one.

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Business Networking Expos has confirmed Spotted in Ely as the official media partner for the upcoming BNX Expo, a brand new Cambridgeshire business event which will take place on Tuesday, 28 October 2025 at Ely College.

As one of the region’s most recognised and trusted local media outlets, Spotted in Ely will help bring the expo to life through exhibitor spotlights, behind-the-scenes coverage and community-led promotion across its established platforms. With a combined reach of over 65,000 people, the partnership is set to create real visibility for businesses taking part.

Sara Giller, BNX Expo Event Director, said:
“BNX was created to give businesses a bold, energised space to connect and grow. Spotted in Ely was the obvious choice as media partner, they’re trusted, community focused and they genuinely want local businesses to thrive.”

BNX Expo will feature a wide mix of exhibitors, including local service providers, product sellers and national brands. This free Ely business event is open to start-ups, established businesses and anyone looking to connect through networking in Ely and meet others across the wider Cambridgeshire business community.

Spotted in Ely will also be exhibiting at the event and encouraging businesses to book their attendance for free or secure one of the exhibitor stands at this Cambridgeshire business expo.

Early bird stand prices start at £144 + VAT for 4Networking members and £199 + VAT for non-members, but only until 31 July. After this, prices will rise. If you’re thinking of getting involved, now’s the time to book.

An optional 4Networking Big Breakfast will take place at 8am for early networkers, with more opportunities to connect throughout the day. Attendees can find out more about further networking activities and what’s happening beyond the stands at the event itself.

Caroline Jane Andrew, BNX Co-Director, added:
“This expo is about bringing people together in a meaningful way and that starts with the way we communicate it. Spotted in Ely understands the heartbeat of this community and we’re thrilled to be working with them.”

Ruth Buckley, Chair of Spotted in Ely, said:
“We’re really pleased to support an event that shines a light on Ely’s business community. BNX Expo is a chance for people to meet, share what they do and see what’s happening locally. It feels great to be part of something that brings businesses together in such a positive way.”

Event Details:
Tuesday 28 October 2025
10.30am – 3.00pm
Ely College, Downham Road, Ely, CB6 2SH
Free to attend – exhibitor stands available to book now
www.businessnetworkingexpos.co.uk

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The Cambridge Rock Festival is a beloved event in the festival calendar, showcasing the best of rock, blues, and prog music and providing a platform for emerging talent. The festival is run by a team of dedicated volunteers, who work tirelessly to bring the event to life.

“We’re excited to celebrate another year of music and community to the Cambridge Rock Festival,” said Emma Thomas, Festival Coordinator. Dave Roberts, Festival Director adds “Our lineup is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with a mix of established acts and new talent. We’re looking forward to welcoming our fans back to the festival and introducing them to a variety of music, both new and old.”

Join us for our long weekend of festival fun, with Thursday evening’s line up bringing together some of the finest tribute bands and original acts to give you a taster of what lies ahead for the next three days of the festival. Friday – Sunday offer music from 11am – 11pm showcasing many more great bands you know, and great bands to discover!

The festival will take place once again at Ben’s Yard, Ely, with a range of entertainment for all tastes. In addition to the live music, the festival will feature its renowned real ale bar and merchandise, local food stalls, and a selection of stalls selling a variety of wares.

The Cambridge Rock Festival is committed to providing a friendly, safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The festival organizers are working closely with their loyal team of volunteers, grown from a circle of friends 21 years ago. The site is disabled friendly with no step access in green fields.

For more information about the Cambridge Rock Festival 2025, including ticket sales and lineup announcements, please visit our website at cambridgerockfestival.co.uk Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates.

Media Contact: Emma Thomas – emmat.crf@gmail.com

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Full details and tickets are here: https://elyfolkfestival.co.uk/calling-families/

Tickets are limited for this one-off event so don’t wait too long before getting yours.

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A new season of The Library Presents is currently filling Cambridgeshire libraries with music, theatre, dance, and creative workshops this spring – now it’s your opportunity to help shape the future by choosing the performers you want to see in the Autumn 2025 Season!

Between Wednesday 26 March and Friday 2 May, Cambridgeshire residents are invited to take part in The Library Presents choosing process. Their selections will help decide which artists and performances feature in the Autumn lineup of the much-loved arts and entertainment programme. Whether you love live music, laugh-out-loud theatre, mind-blowing magic, dance or theatre, this is your chance to help create the programme and ensure it reflects the interests of our communities.

Since its launch in 2018, The Library Presents has delivered more than 1,000 hours of entertainment, and more than 500 events, offering everything from live music and puppetry to immersive digital arts and hands-on workshops. Thanks to the public’s input, the programme has evolved with each season presenting exciting new artists and events, much to the delight of local audiences who continue to be enthralled with the variety and quality of the performances. One of last season’s attendees commented: “I would expect to travel quite a distance to see these shows – so it’s very much appreciated that they are within easy reach.”

The choosing process coincides with the Spring season of The Library Presents, which began on 21 March and will run to 29 June. More than 50% of tickets had sold before the first performance took place, confirming the continued popularity of this long-running programme.

Thanks to the generous support of Arts Council England, The Library Presents continues to receive significant public funding, enabling the programme to bring high-quality arts experiences to communities across Cambridgeshire. Over a three-year period, £530,000 has been invested to help keep ticket prices affordable and ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “We were delighted to continue our funding for The Library Presents through our 2023-26 National Portfolio, supporting them to programme a huge variety of creative and cultural events that communities across Cambridgeshire can enjoy. It is hugely powerful to see that local residents have played such an important role in choosing the performers and events that they want to see.”

Making the arts accessible to all is at the heart of The Library Presents. Standard ticket prices are heavily subsidised, with events costing between £2 and £8.50. The programme’s commitment to inclusivity means families, children, and individuals of all ages can experience the magic of live arts. One delighted grandparent shared their experience of taking their grandchild to see Rainbow Butterfly, a vibrant family show combining storytelling, carnival, aerial circus: “The dancers were incredibly talented acrobats, they did a great job of talking to the audience and taking them on a journey. The after-show activities were well chosen and gripped the children.”

Browse the selection at your participating libraries or go online between 26 March and 2 May to take part. For more information, visit Library Live | The Library Presents.

Participating Libraries:

Barnwell Road, Chatteris, Cherry Hinton, Ely, Littleport, March, Ramsey, St Ives, St Neots, Whittlesey, Wisbech, Yaxley

Audience member quotes

I would expect to travel quite a distance to see these shows – so it’s very much

appreciated that they are within easy reach. I particularly loved Graffiti Classics.

Volunteer quotes

I thoroughly enjoy my volunteering experience and wish I had more time to do more.

Terrific! The events are so varied, and it is good to interact with the attendees.

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Amherst Field, conveniently situated near the Ely train station, boasts more than six times the space of the previous venue at Jubilee Gardens, ensuring a comfortable experience for all attendees as well as allowing for onsite, two stages, a community tent and funfair.
In addition to the new location, Ely Pride 2025 promises an unforgettable line-up of entertainment, activities, and a wedding ceremony for the first time in the event’s history.
The event will feature a diverse array of local and national performers, including the world-renowned RuPaul’s Drag Race star, Vicki Vivacious, as the headline act.

The day will commence at 10am and run until 9:30pm with the usual craft and street food market, showcasing local vendors and The festivities will continue with entertainment throughout the day, providing a platform for artists and creatives to share their talents. The event will once again be attended by The Pole Shed who will be demonstrating their skills through out the day.

In a heart-warming first, Ely Pride 2025 will host a wedding ceremony on stage, highlighting the celebration of love and unity within the LGBTQ+ community. This public display of commitment and support emphasizes the event’s mission to promote inclusivity and acceptance for all.
Ely Pride’s dedicated committee is working tirelessly to make this year’s event a standout occasion for the city. To ensure its success, the charity is actively seeking sponsorships, donations, stalls and volunteers to join the cause. Those interested in contributing to Ely Pride 2025 can visit the official website at www.prideinely.co.uk for more information on how to get involved.

Ely Pride is immensely grateful to King’ School, The Pole Shed and to all the volunteers, partners, and attendees who continue to make Ely Pride an extraordinary celebration of diversity and love. Join us on August 9th, 2025, at Amherst Field for a memorable day of unity, acceptance, and unforgettable
entertainment.
For more details on Ely Pride 2025, please visit www.prideinely.co.uk.

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 Opening the evening will be Paul McClure, aka The Rutland Troubadour.  Described as “open, honest and warmly melodic” by KLOFmag, he is famed for his dry on-stage wit and powerful songs.  His performances are a delight and guaranteed to get the audience singing.

 Next up will be Eve Selis, a Californian music veteran who has released eleven albums of acclaimed music over a thirty year career.  A regular visitor to the UK, she has attracted rave reviews throughout her life, with her most recent album, 2024’s Dark Sky Blue (“Magnificent” – San Diego Troubadour), winning plaudits across the globe.

 Third to take the stage will be the home-grown Ags Connolly.  He has “the perfect voice for country music” (American Songwriter) as well as the approval of legendary DJ Bob Harris, who says he offers “modern day traditionalism of the very best kind”.  His 2019 album Wrong Again was named UK Country Album of the Year at the 2020 UK Country Music Awards.

 Finishing the evening with a bang will be “the Kings of British Americana“ (Americana UK) Danny And The Champions Of The World.  Danny George Wilson has been making great music for nearly thirty years, with Grand Drive, critical and audience darlings Bennett Wilson Poole and of course the Champions. An “engaging and powerful force” (Blabber and Smoke”), he will be playing songs from his latest album, You Are Not Alone (**** Uncut, **** Mojo) and this performance will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the festival.

 The four acts will join those already announced, including headliners Oysterband, The Dhol Foundation, Blackbeard’s Tea Party and Sam Kelly and the Lost Boys as well as Maddie Morris, Gaz Brookfield, Sound of the Sirens, Gaelforce, The Magpie Arc and Martin Simpson and many others.

 In addition the festival offers the well-established local music showcase, an “open mic” competition with the chance to play on the main stage,ceilidhs, instrumental and dance workshops, ‘meet and greet’ sessions with some of the festival’s leading artists, jam sessions and children’s entertainment and of course the return of Dog Bingo!  All this takes place on one site at the beautiful Stuntney Estate, just behind Ben’s Yard. Add in an outstanding real ale bar with over 25 real ales and ciders, the return of the enormously popular gin bar and a wide range of mouth-watering food as well as plenty of tempting craft stalls and it’s clear to see why Ely Folk Festival continues to go from strength to strength.

Photo credit: Simon Weller

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“Very cool music played in a magical atmosphere – this will appeal to jazz novices as well as hardcore enthusiasts.” Three Weeks Magazine

Appearing at:

LITTLE THETFORD VILLAGE HALL
Fri 28th March 8pm

Ian and Dominic are unique in the UK Jazz community taking their blend of melodic jazz standards and original compositions to rural communities all over the UK. They use programmable lighting and table lights to create a wonderful intimate atmosphere for the music.

They tell stories of their travels in their Tour Bus – an old converted Yorkshire Ambulance, in an entertaining evening of creative music and enthusiastic joy.

“We are delighted to be performing all over the UK in a variety of venues with many sell out concerts and record sales in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival” says Ian

“We are now also making many return visits to venues up and down the country. Throughout lock down we called ourselves the Socially Distanced Duo now we’re getting out and meeting our audience again!” says Dominic

LITTLE THETFORD VILLAGE HALL, The Wytches, Ely CB6 3HG
Fri 28th March 8pm £15 doors open 7pm, Licensed bar
Accompanied under 16s free
www.ticketsource.co.uk/little-thetford-village-hall
graham@gjconsultancy.co.uk  tel: 07795 200447
Visit our website for our blog, videos, photos, reviews and our Concert Diary plus links to our Social Media accounts www.millarandspencer.co.uk

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IN CELEBRATION OF THE BEAST’S 25 YEARS WE ARE BRINGING BACK OUR PREMIUM RUNNING EVENT TO SUTTON.

ON SUNDAY 19TH OCTOBER WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT…

• THE BEAST’S ‘RUN 10 IN THE FEN’

An out and back 10k or 5k across the beautiful and (mainly!) flat Cambridgeshire Fens between Sutton and Chatteris. Every level of runner can take part

To enter at Early Bird 15% off prices and for all event info click the link below using promo code ‘ROAR’ at checkout for a further 10% off. This offer ends 8th Feb.

For groups of 4 to 8 a 10% discount is automatically applied!

Once entered use our ‘running mate’ referral link for further discounts. (10% for them, £2.50 off future events for you!).

ALL PROFITS GO TO ‘BREAST CANCER NOW’

ENTRIES ARE NOW OPEN

ADDRESS TO ENTER:

• https://www.suttonbeast.com/e/10-in-the-fen-12806

100% profits go to our charity ‘Breast Cancer Now’

England Athletics approved (license pending)

10k officially measured route (certificate pending)

Minimum ages: 5K -11 years / 10K – 15 years

Part of the Sutton Feast Committee’s 2025 programme of events

Event director, Martin Pickering says:  “The Sutton Beast’s events have been great to put on for the local community, and for them to support the events for 25 years is brilliant.  We are very excited to bring back our iconic 10K run this year to celebrate this milestone”

Organised by runners…for runners!

Sponsored by #Cheffins #ftrsuspension #Joys Café #Bretts Transport

HISTORY:

For the Millennium Celebrations of 2000, a 10k Multi -Terrain Run was organised and implemented in Sutton.

Named ‘The Sutton Feast Beast’, it established itself in the running calendar with great success. In it’s latter years the 10k was re-named ‘The Tony Robinson Memorial Run’ in memory and tribute to the organiser who passed away.

Alongside this main event was ‘The Sutton Mini Beast’, a 2.5k fun run aimed at non serious runners, children and families.

The last few years we changed things up. We rested our 10k and Fun Run’s but introduced a brand new event for all the family called The Sutton Beast’s Big Colour Blast, which was a morning of colour and mayhem, which is likely to come back in the future.

This year for our 25 year celebration we brought back the iconic 10K plus a new 5k option.

Our key aim has always been and continues to be for this event to be friendly, welcoming, and open to the whole community. Please show your support by entering or coming to support family and friends on the day.

We are non-profit making and all money raised after costs goes to our chosen charity ‘Breast Cancer Now’.  Last year we donated circa £1700

CONTACT:

For further information contact The Race Director: Martin Pickering on 07484079879

FB: Facebook.com/suttonbeast

Instagram: @Suttonbeast10

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The world-renowned Philharmonia Orchestra will be visiting Ely Cathedral to perform Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony alongside Cambridge University Symphony Chorus on Saturday 15 March 2025.

The collaboration also involves members of Cambridge college choirs, renowned soprano Sophie Bevan MBE, and rising star baritone Daniel D’Souza, an English National Opera Harewood Artist for 2024-25.

David Young, Director of the Cambridge University Symphony Chorus and the National Symphony Chorus of Ireland, will be conducting the performance.

Founded in the immediate aftermath of World War II, the Philharmonia is widely recognised as one of the world’s great orchestras. From its base at London’s Southbank Centre it tours the world – it is due to give performances as far afield as Japan, Spain, Estonia, Finland and the Canary Islands this year – while its numerous recordings include more than 150 film and videogame soundtracks and a recording of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 which is travelling through interstellar space on board the Voyager spacecraft.

Written between 1903 and 1909, A Sea Symphony was Vaughan Williams’ first large-scale piece of music. It is scored for soprano, baritone, chorus and a large orchestra, and its text is drawn from Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass, which were little known in England at the time.

University of Cambridge Centre for Music Performance Director Simon Fairclough says, “We’re thrilled to be bringing Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony to Ely in March. To have one of the UK’s finest orchestras accompanying the choral might of our University Symphony Chorus within the historic setting of Ely Cathedral will make for a truly special evening.”

To purchase your tickets, please contact Ely Cathedral Box office: 01353 667735 www.elycathedral.org/events/a-sea-symphony

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We had a hugely successful Repair Cafe back in January 2024. We fixed a total of 26 items, prevented 69kg of waste and 230kg of CO2 emissions – that’s like growing 4 tree seedlings for 10 years!

Repair Cafes don’t just save money and reduce waste, they also bring people together. Our repairers are keen to share their skills, stop things going to landfill and reduce the impact that buying new stuff has on the environment. 

We’re looking for general volunteers and repairers to help us on the day and at future cafes. Get in touch with us at info@elyrepaircafe.org.uk. 

Please note that our repairers may not always be able to fix things, but will try their best. 

To find out more about Ely Repair Cafe and to book your items in for repair visit https://elyrepaircafe.org.uk

Find out about other events in the Cambridgeshire Repair Cafe Network: https://cambridgecarbonfootprint.org/repair-cafes

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As part of the redisplay, over a third of the museum’s gallery was rehung, with fourteen recently acquired acquisitions placed on display for the first time and the number of works by women artists in the gallery also increased by more than a third. 

Amongst the new stained glass exhibits that can now be seen are artworks by Arts and Crafts pioneer Christopher Whall, Scottish modernist Douglas Strachan and leading Irish expressionist Evie Hone, modern post war German craftsmen such as Johannes Schreiter and Joachim Klos, as well as contemporary painter Hughie O’Donoghue RA and glass artist Grace Ayson. Supplementing the new 20th and 21st century displays are some beautiful 17th century domestic and heraldic pieces, enhancing the museum’s chronological permanent gallery which includes examples from the medieval period through to the present day.

The museum closed for a week in November to enable the redisplay, which was generously funded by The Headley Trust. The works were carried out by the museum’s small team of staff with carpentry assistance from local firm Coulsons, and bespoke metal frames provided by Neil Wilton of The Stained Glass Display Company.

Earlier this week The Stained Glass Museum marked this significant milestone in its history with celebration events and were honoured to have in attendance HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Mrs. Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Ely, alongside many Friends, volunteers and supporters of the museum.  Several artists and conservators who have designed, made or helped conserve works on display in the gallery were also in attendance. The Lord Lieutenant, Mrs. Spence, addressed attendees – and in her speech praised the efforts of the museum’s team and highlighted the museum’s importance and significance as a cultural asset.

The event also marked the official launch of an exciting new Collections Fund – and the ambition to reach £500,000 in gifts and pledges by 2029 to help care for and further develop these unique collections and ensure they are available for future generations.

The Stained Glass Museum’s collection has grown significantly in the last forty years since the museum first opened to the public. Since 2000 the collection has evolved to include many beautiful examples from a variety of secular and sacred buildings from across the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond. Many of these acquisitions were made possible with the support of the Art Fund, the V&A Purchase Fund, and many generous individual donations.

Jasmine Allen, Curator of The Stained Glass Museum says;

“This is the largest redisplay The Stained Glass Museum has undertaken since the present gallery opened in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral in 2000. We are really pleased to have been able to showcase some of the recent acquisitions we have made to enhance and diversify the collection. We now call on those who care about the future of this precious collection to consider donating or pledging to the new Collections Fund and play a part in ensuring its survival for the future!”

The Stained Glass Museum is delighted to have reopened its doors after a major redisplay of its 20th and 21st century collections. More works than ever before are now on display in the museum’s permanent gallery, located in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral.

As part of the redisplay, over a third of the museum’s gallery was rehung, with fourteen recently acquired acquisitions placed on display for the first time and the number of works by women artists in the gallery also increased by more than a third. 

Amongst the new stained glass exhibits that can now be seen are artworks by Arts and Crafts pioneer Christopher Whall, Scottish modernist Douglas Strachan and leading Irish expressionist Evie Hone, modern post war German craftsmen such as Johannes Schreiter and Joachim Klos, as well as contemporary painter Hughie O’Donoghue RA and glass artist Grace Ayson. Supplementing the new 20th and 21st century displays are some beautiful 17th century domestic and heraldic pieces, enhancing the museum’s chronological permanent gallery which includes examples from the medieval period through to the present day.

The museum closed for a week in November to enable the redisplay, which was generously funded by The Headley Trust. The works were carried out by the museum’s small team of staff with carpentry assistance from local firm Coulsons, and bespoke metal frames provided by Neil Wilton of The Stained Glass Display Company.

Earlier this week The Stained Glass Museum marked this significant milestone in its history with celebration events and were honoured to have in attendance HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Mrs. Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Ely, alongside many Friends, volunteers and supporters of the museum.  Several artists and conservators who have designed, made or helped conserve works on display in the gallery were also in attendance. The Lord Lieutenant, Mrs. Spence, addressed attendees – and in her speech praised the efforts of the museum’s team and highlighted the museum’s importance and significance as a cultural asset.

The event also marked the official launch of an exciting new Collections Fund – and the ambition to reach £500,000 in gifts and pledges by 2029 to help care for and further develop these unique collections and ensure they are available for future generations.

The Stained Glass Museum’s collection has grown significantly in the last forty years since the museum first opened to the public. Since 2000 the collection has evolved to include many beautiful examples from a variety of secular and sacred buildings from across the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond. Many of these acquisitions were made possible with the support of the Art Fund, the V&A Purchase Fund, and many generous individual donations.

Jasmine Allen, Curator of The Stained Glass Museum says;

“This is the largest redisplay The Stained Glass Museum has undertaken since the present gallery opened in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral in 2000. We are really pleased to have been able to showcase some of the recent acquisitions we have made to enhance and diversify the collection. We now call on those who care about the future of this precious collection to consider donating or pledging to the new Collections Fund and play a part in ensuring its survival for the future!”

Images © The Stained Glass Museum

About The Stained Glass Museum

The Stained Glass Museum, the United Kingdom’s only museum dedicated to the art of stained glass, is housed in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral. The museum houses an internationally significant collection of windows spanning eight centuries, illustrating the development of the art from the medieval period to the present day. HM King Charles III is the museums Patron.

For more information on the museum’s new Collections Fund, please visit https://stainedglassmuseum.com/collectionsfund

The Stained Glass Museum, South Triforium, Ely Cathedral, Ely, CB7 4DL

For more information visit www.stainedglassmuseum.com

About The Headley Trust

The Sainsbury Family Charitable Trusts run The Headley Trust for UK registered charities for projects in the following areas: arts and heritage UK, cathedrals and major churches, arts and heritage overseas, developing countries, education, and health and social welfare.Press Contact: For further information about this exhibition please contact 01353 660347 or email the Curator, Jasmine Allen curator@stainedglassmuseum.com

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The hub offers hot drinks, light refreshments, board games and, most importantly, a warm welcome. It’s open to everyone, whether you’re looking for some company, a fun game to play, or just a change of scenery.

Located at Jubilee Centre, 15A Silver Street, Ely, CB7 4JF, Warm has become a space for connection and support, bringing people together in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. No booking is needed – simply pop by on a Thursday morning and enjoy everything on offer.

For more information, please contact Jubilee Church at office@jubileechurchely.co.uk.

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In the midst of the festive season, this exhibition will be a celebration of the artistic talent in the local area. All pieces on show will be for sale with prices ranging from £60 to £150 and will be available to buy off the wall. The exhibition hopes to be a great opportunity for visitors to pick up original artworks as Christmas gifts for loved ones.

As the last exhibition at Babylon Gallery for a while, it will be a great celebration of the excellent artistic talent in the area, showcasing artists who have been part of Babylon’s journey for a long time, as well as some new names. Unfortunately, due to funding difficulties, Babylon ARTS has to pause its exhibition and cinema programme from January 2025. This pause will give the organisation time to assess the long-term viability of these programmes and explore new innovative ways to continue delivering a vibrant programme of cultural and artistic experiences.

The team at Babylon ARTS “want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff, volunteers, artists and local community members who have played a central role in the success of our gallery and cinema.”

‘Small, but perfect’ will include over 200 artworks, each no bigger than 160cm perimeter. Artworks will come in many different mediums, including paintings, drawings, collages, photography, and more. It promises to be a colourful and uplifting celebration of art, during the cold winter months.

‘Small, but perfect’ is on from Friday 6 December at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 22 December. Babylon Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm with free entry.

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Something like a toaster, kettle, lamp, bag, toy, jewellery, pair of jeans or computer? Bring it along to the Repair Cafe being held on Saturday 26th October from 11.00am – 2.00pm in Ely Library and get it seen to by an experienced volunteer repairer for free.

They will pinpoint the problem and try to fix it there and then for you, or let you know what spare parts to get for when you come back next time.

We had a hugely successful Repair Cafe back in January this year. We fixed a total of 26 items, prevented 69kg of waste and 230kg of CO2 emissions – that’s like growing 4 tree seedlings for 10 years!

Repair Cafes don’t just save money and reduce waste, they also bring people together. Our repairers are keen to share their skills, stop things going to landfill and reduce the impact that buying new stuff has on the environment.

We’re looking for general volunteers and repairers to help us on the day and at future cafes. Get in touch with us at: info@elyrepaircafe.org.uk

Please note that our repairers may not always be able to fix things, but will try their best.

To find out more about Ely Repair Cafe and to book your items in for repair visit:
https://elyrepaircafe.org.uk

Find out about other events in
the Cambridgeshire Repair Cafe Network:
https://cambridgecarbonfootprint.org/repair-cafes/

Press release from Ely Repair Cafe

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The Better leisure centres, run by GLL, a charitable social enterprise, have joined forces with Sporting Memories to bring these new sessions to local men and women who are sport fans in Cambridge and Ely.  They offer an opportunity to meet and make new friends while bonding over sporting memories and shared experiences.

Louis Green, Community Sport Manager, at GLL, said: “It’s an ideal activity for those in their fifties and beyond and we’re delighted to bringing these sessions to the area.  It will be a welcoming, inclusive space and we particularly invite those living alone, locals who have dementia and other long-term conditions, to come along.

“I’m sure there will be some fascinating stories about sport and local history shared and our aim is to make the sessions thought-provoking and stimulating. The first part of the Club session will be talking about sport and people’s memories of playing or watching sport with hot drinks for all, followed by a game of Boccia and light exercise.  Our aim is to make each session fun and exciting with quizzes, spot the ball and other interactive activities.”

Completely free to join, the individual Clubs will have two-hour weekly sessions.  The Sporting Memories Club held at Abbey Leisure Centre starts on September 10th and will have sessions every Tuesday from 12 – 2 pm.  While the club at Hive Leisure Centre in Ely begins on September 11th with sessions running every Wednesday, from 10 am 12 pm.

Locals in Cambridge and Ely are invited to bring along photographs and memorabilia from their sporting heydays to reminisce with other like-minded people and replay their beloved memories while making new memories at the clubs

Anyone wishing to join can contact Louis Green at Louis.Green@GLL.org or visit https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/ely/the-hive/news and https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/cambridge/abbeyleisurecomplex/news to learn more about the Sporting Memories Clubs.

Press release from the Sporting Memories Club

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The event, hosted by East Cambridgeshire District Council will be a fun day out with a focus on wellbeing. 

The aim is to encourage visitors to take steps towards a better lifestyle in a number of areas including:

• healthy living
• exercise and active lifestyles
• mental health
• financial wellbeing 

Among the attractions on the day will be:

• taster sessions and information on how to get involved in sports
• free climbing wall and smoothie bikes 
• cost of living advice 
• energy efficiency advice and how to access grants to insulate your home
• NHS Health Checks by Healthy You
• free bike servicing and maintenance advice
• craft activities
• information on clubs, workshops, fundraising, volunteering and careers

East Cambs Community Safety Partnership will also be engaging with residents on safety concerns and sharing advice on many topics including county lines and knife crime. 

The event is being supported by a diverse range of organisations including East Cambridgeshire District Council, East Cambs Community Safety Partnership, Healthy You, EMC Bike Repairs, Re-Imagine Resource Centre, The Kite Trust and Living Sport.

Cllr Julia Huffer, chair of the council’s Operational Services Committee, said:

“Our free Health and Well Fair is returning for a second year due to popular demand.  It’s a fantastic opportunity to find out what activities are taking place in the district and where to get help and advice when you need it. People can go along and have fun with the sports activities and events taking place on the day. But there will also be an opportunity to have more thoughtful conversations around cost of living advice, climate change, health and wellbeing and how to keep yourself safe. 

“So, whether you want to just have an enjoyable free day out with friends, or find out more about the support and services that are available – or both, it’s guaranteed there will be something for everyone.”

The event is taking place between 11am and 3pm.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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Ely Photographic Club began 50 years ago, in 1974. They are a friendly local club with
almost 50 members, all of whom have a passion for photography and varying levels of
experience.

The group have held several exhibitions of their prints over the years, including one at Babylon Gallery in 2022. Now they are returning to this riverside venue for the group’s anniversary.

The exhibition will feature work from several members of the group, spanning a range of
genres including abstract, architecture, landscapes, portraits and wildlife. These
photographic prints will be available to purchase, either framed or just mounted. In support of the exhibition, Ely Photographic Club have received sponsorship from Muse Fine ArtPrinting.

“We are delighted to be able to put on this exhibition to give members the chance to
showcase their work, and I hope that people will take the opportunity to visit us there to
help us celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary,” said Phil Lenney, Secretary of Ely
Photographic Club,

“This exhibition is the start of an exciting and varied season of events that we have
planned. We always looking for new members, and anyone interested can contact us via our website or please come along and chat to us at the exhibition.”

Ely Photographic Club’s 50th Anniversary Print Exhibition is on from Tuesday 3rd
September at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 29th September 2024. Babylon Gallery is
open Tuesday to Friday 12pm to 4pm, Weekends 10am to 4pm, with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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2024 is the 35th year of production of the world’s most popular sports car and the 30th anniversary of the MX5 owners club.

With approximately 90 cars booked to attend there will be plenty of examples to look at.

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Babylon ARTS Summer Open is an annual celebration of work created by artists from both the local area, and further afield. Following an open call for artworks, a selection panel anonymously selects works to create a balanced and varied exhibition.

This years selection panel included Jay Morally (Jay the Creator), an artist, writer and poet from South London; Madhu Manipatruni, a visual artist based in Peterborough, currently in residence at PARCA (Peterborough Asylum and Refugee Community Association); and local artist Stuart Green, who is also Babylon’s own exhibition installer and trustee.

With almost 300 artworks submitted for consideration, the panel had a difficult task. The final selection consists of 115 pieces from 83 artists, featuring both two and three dimensional works. These include portraits, florals, landscapes, abstracts, geometric patterns, wildlife and seascapes, in a wide range of styles and mediums, in an exhibition that promises to offer something for everyone!

Babylon ARTS Summer Open Exhibition 2024 is on from Friday 2nd August at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 1st September 2024.

Babylon Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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It has a great atmosphere and is now in its 20th Anniversary year. CRF24 is not what most people might think, as it is not a headbangers ball! This is put together each year by a keen group of volunteers who have grown from a group of friends, who give up their free time to stage the event. We support some local Charities including Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust.

With an emphasis on music we all know and love, CRF24 showcases the music of Rod Stewart, The Blues Brothers, Pink Floyd, Creedence Clearwater, Cream, Yes,  ZZ Top, AC/DC, Joe Satriani, Rory Gallagher, all performed by dedicated individual tribute bands and in some cases with original band members. There will also be quite a few original artists on stage during the four day event, so there will be plenty of new music for you to discover as well.

Many top notch beers, wines and farmhouse ciders complete the offer from behind the bar.

Foods available from our on site traders include Indian, Oriental, Greek, Pizza, Toasties, and Burgers.

Day tickets are available from £34, and our advance 4 day full festival tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can-afford basis (unique to Cambridge Rock Festival) on a sliding scale of £139 up to £159 to allow you to take advantage of our lower prices or provide some extra support to the festival if you can. (Carers get free entry). Camping tickets are also available on our website too.

www.cambridgerockfestival.co.uk/tickets

For our full line up and for a taster of the bands playing please see our website or social media. We can’t wait to see you!

Cambridge Rock Festival, Harlocks Farm, Adj Ben’s Yard, Stuntney Estate, Soham Road, Ely, CB7 5RT 

1st – 4th August 2024

Press release from Cambridge Rock Festival

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Highlights included the festival family fun day (despite the weather) which featured musical performances on the bandstand, circus skills, dance and art – all for free in Jubilee gardens. There were workshops to get involved in including Linocut, ceramics and samba drumming. Free lunchtime concerts at the Sessions House welcomed star performers from the Royal College of Music, King’s Ely and Royal Academy of Music, professional theatre in the Bishops Garden, a large scale community concert and a festival finale celebrating a number of local groups in St Mary’s Church. Many local artists and musicians were featured including Laura Pearson-Clark who painted live in response to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Cliff Ward with an atmospheric gig in the Crypt at Julia’s Tea Room and workshops led by ceramic artist, Louise Beale and linocut with Lizzie Ault (Tales of the Fen) 

Chris Parsons, Artistic Director of the festival says ‘It has been a brilliant festival and as a festival team, we are delighted with the interest and engagement in all the events. It shows how important the arts can be and we’re really excited about our plans moving forward. We are keen to reach the whole community and 40% of the events this year were free to attend. There was something for everyone with high quality classical music at the Sessions House, Ely’s hidden gem of a venue, comedy at the Maltings, workshops and lots more. We’re always keen to hear from individuals with new ideas! Huge thanks must go to the brilliant festival committee and all the wonderful local sponsors, without whom the festival would not be possible’ 

Plans are already in place for the 2025 festival and there may be some events appearing before next summer, to be announced very soon! 

Press release from Ely Arts Festival

The post Ely Arts Festival is a triumph with over 7000 people enjoying events across two weeks! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

From signing the Armed Forces Covenant back in 2021, the teams involved have meticulously planned and produced a fantastic day and are very proud that Ely is now part of the national celebrations.

There will be over 30 traders, many military vehicles, a short parade to include collective standards.  We welcome the Mayor of Ely, Cllr Chris Phillips to open the day. The Blue Skies Band are coming to Ely and start playing from 10.30 am and the City of Ely Military Band will continue from the afternoon before the closing ceremony which will be 2.30 pm

We are hoping the community will join us to celebrate the day, browse the stalls, chat to the military vehicle owners, enjoy refreshments and more!

“We are delighted to be able to bring the city, the community and visitors, a day to remember as we celebrate Armed Forces, past present and future. This year, we have increased our trader space for supportive charities and organisations linked to the armed forces Please do join us as we give thanks to those that have served, currently serve or perhaps looking for a military career” Anna Bennett, Visit Ely.

If you would like to attend this free event, the parade leaves Ely War Memorial at approx. 10 am marching to Palace Green.  If you would like any further information, please refer to our website: www.visitely.org.uk and keep abreast with our social media posts. 

Please note this event takes place one week efore the national day of celebration as there are other events happening in Ely

Press release from Visit Ely

The post Ely Celebrates Armed Forces Day 2024 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) is hoping its Lantern Summer Fair on June 15th is even more popular than last year’s event, which attracted over 1000 people and raised over £4000.

But keeping entry free, with affordable activities for the whole community to enjoy, was as important as raising funds, FOTLS chair Meredith Hux Atkins said.

Meredith added: “We know times are tough for many people – so we really want this to be something that everyone can afford. Most of our stalls will set you back just 50p to £1, our refreshments are mostly being done cheaply in-house and you can enjoy some activities without spending a penny. Of course we want to raise as much as possible for our amazing school! But we need to balance that with being inclusive and catering for all budgets.”

The fair will boast inflatables, face painting, traditional stalls and games like Hook a Duck, performances by The Lane Academy and Ely Dojo, arts and crafts, a raffle and tombola and even a chance to soak headteacher Anthony Aguda while he stands in the stocks!

Also planned are visits by a fire engine and G’s tractor as well as Stormtroopers from the UK Garrison 501st Legion (Vader’s Fist).

FOTLS have also planned to support local business, Ely’s City Cycle Centre, for its main raffle prize – a £300 voucher to be spent on anything within the store.

Meredith said: “Whether you’ve got your eye on a huge Lego set, fancy a splurge in the craft department or even want to buy a bike, some lucky person is going to win this incredible voucher!”

She added: “It was really important to the committee that we shopped local for our main prize – this way we are giving three times – to the prize winner, to the school and also to a local business that does so much for the local community. We are also very grateful for all the fabulous prizes that Ely’s generous local businesses have contributed.”

Seventy-five per cent of proceeds from this year’s fair will go towards providing Cost of Living Grants to classrooms at the school.

For the second year running, FOTLS have issued £100 Cost of Living Grants to each class at the Lantern this year – something they hope to expand on in future.

Teachers can choose how the money is spent – the only caveat is that it has to benefit all children. Grants this year have been used to subsidise trips to the Stained Glass Museum and Oliver Cromwell’s House, fund a nurture garden and beanbags and Yearbooks for Leavers – to name just a few!

Meredith said: “Imagine what your child’s class could do with even more funding? What might they create together? Where might they go to grow?”

Mother of two Sarah Follett, whose daughter Kara recently attended the Stained Glass Museum trip added: “We are so grateful that our children get to do amazing activities at school that take into account Ely’s history.

“The support FOTLS provides classes for their trips to places like the Stained Glass Museum is invaluable.”

Keep up to date with the Lantern Summer Fair on its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/300560223106178

Press release from Friends of the Lantern School

The post Community at the Heart of Lantern Summer Fair appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

On Wednesday 5th June, Steve Barbe will lead Bash Stuff and Save the World – a workshop where junk objects will be used to create music, play games and explore rhythm. Taking place on World Environment Day, the event is suitable for adults and families with children aged 4+. No drumming experience is required for the two hour workshop – enjoyment is the main aim!

On Saturday 15th June, author and artist Amanda Addison will share the story of a tiny bird that flies halfway around the world, looking for a place to nest, and a young girl from northern Africa who flees halfway around the world looking for safety. Boundless Sky: Storytelling, Writing and Art Workshop offers families with children aged 5+ the opportunity to create bird themed craft and written pieces together as a family. 

Like many of The Library Presents events, thanks to public funding through Arts Council England, tickets for both of these events are heavily subsidised.

Book a place on the Bash Stuff and Save the World Workshop for just £6 for an adult or £3 for a child.

Family saver tickets are available for the Boundless Sky: Storytelling, Writing and Art Workshop for only £8, or £3 for a child.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of these workshops. Tickets must be purchased in advance either in the library, or online: www.library.live/the-library-presents

Press release from Cambridgeshire Libraries

The post Two Family Friendly Workshops Coming to Ely this June appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Pea shooting enthusiasts and curious spectators alike will gather this summer for this eccentric annual event, taking place in Witcham, near Ely in Cambridgeshire, on Saturday, July 13th, 2024.

From humble beginnings over 50 years ago, the World Peashooting Championship has evolved into a celebrated tradition, attracting participants from around the globe and garnering attention from national media outlets, including coverage on BBC’s Countryfile and in publications including the Guardian Weekend Magazine.

As the championship enters its 51st year, organisers are excited to announce a new era of peashooting, embracing tradition while welcoming innovation. Under the theme “Back to our roots” the event will introduce a brand new category: the “Traditional Peashooting Championship”. This category is designed to level the playing field, allowing newcomers and one-off visitors equipped with basic peashooters to compete against similarly equipped opponents.

“We’re thrilled to embark on this new chapter of the World Peashooting Championship,” said Catherine Hill, chair of the Witcham Events Committee. “By embracing our roots and welcoming all participants, we hope to ensure that this cherished tradition continues to thrive for generations to come.”

This year organisers aim to further strengthen the event with more stalls, entertainment, and children’s activities, creating a family-friendly day out for all ages. Local charities can apply for a free stall and the competition is also seeking sponsorships from local businesses.  

Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making at the 51st World Peashooting Championship. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just a curious spectator there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this quintessentially British event.

Registration is now open. In addition to on-the-day registration, this year advance online registration is also available, making it quick and easy for individuals and teams to join in the fun!

For more information including full updated rules, sponsorship opportunities, charity stall info and updates, visit the official website at www.worldpeashoot.com. Follow us on social media for the latest news and announcements.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldpeashoot

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/worldpeashootingchampionship/

Press Release from World Pea Shoot Championship

The post 51st World Peashooting Championships – Enter today! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Six gardens are welcoming visitors between 12 and 6pm, including:

The entrance fee for all of the gardens will be £10, while are children free, and dogs are welcome.

Start your garden trail at any garden where you will be given a detailed map to locate them all. Plants will also be available to purchase. 

Refreshments available at:

• Methodist Church, Chapel Street, Ely, CB6 1AD – homemade cakes, hot and cold drinks.
• 1 Merlin Drive, Ely, CB6 3EA – cold drinks and cakes.

Please note that we can only accept cash payments when purchasing refreshments.

All sales support charities including the National Garden Scheme and Ely Methodist Church. 

You can find us on Facebook and Instagram or just search for @ely.gardens and give us a like.

Press Release from Ely Open Gardens.

The post Ely Open Gardens appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The fair is an entertaining day out for the whole family, showcasing a selection of over 50 tempting stalls featuring local crafts, foods, jewellery and gifts. 

In keeping with the tradition of this country fair, visitors will have the opportunity to try their luck with the raffle or tombola. Or they can sit back and enjoy the amazing surroundings with a glass of champagne or Pimm’s and a bowl of strawberries and cream.

Organised by a committee of chorister parents, all profits from the fair will go towards sending the Ely Cathedral boy choristers on tour to Northern Germany in May 2025.

Chair of the Ely Cathedral Boys Choir Tour Fund, Rebekah Mellor-Read, said, “The Etheldreda Craft and Food Fair is a real highlight of our fundraising year.  Falling at the end of the half-term holiday, it’s a fun-filled day out for all ages. With over 50 stalls to choose from, there really is something for everyone.” 

Etheldreda Craft and Food Fair – Saturday 1st June 2024, Palace Green, Ely 10am – 6pm

Press release from The Etheldreda Craft & Food Fair

The post Half-Term Fun at Fundraising Fair appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Soham’s exciting new family festival, SoFest, is set to offer local families huge value for money, with a range of activities worth over £68 per person.  A group of two adults and two children will save nearly £200 compared with having to pay for each activity separately, as everything is included in the entry fee.

The festival, taking place on 2nd June 2024 on Soham Recreation Ground from 11:30am until 6pm, is headlined by the 90s boyband FIVE.  Additional acts on the main stage include X Factor star Andy Abraham, 80’s revival singer Nancy Ann Lee, rock guitarist and singer Ed Cusick, and Sammy Magic and his magic show. The event will also introduce the new local group Viva Vocal Vibes.

As well as the main stage attractions, there will be two family theatre shows, including a ‘puppet petting farm’.  Five fairground attractions will be offering unlimited rides, including inflatables, bumper cars and trampolines.  

Festival goers will also be invited to take part in craft and creative activities, and crowds will be further entertained by balloon modellers, children’s character entertainers, musicians and face painters.

There will also be a selection of quality food and drink vendors on site.

Press release from Sofest

The post Soham’s fantastic fun family festival offers huge value for money! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Swishing group have been active for nearly thirteen years. Ruth has been running the group with a team of fabulous helpers for most of that time. ‘Team Swish’ have raised several thousand pounds and helped re-use at least a tonne of clothing.

Swishing is a great way to reduce ‘fast fashion’, swapping those ‘Sale Fails’ or items you just don’t love anymore for lovely ‘New to you’ things.

After fundraising for so many other causes, Ruth has decided to help a cause close to her own heart this time and raise funds for The Royal Papworth Hospital. 

In February, her husband suddenly had a heart attack at home. He was taken to The Royal Papworth Hospital, where he went straight to a ‘Cath Lab’, and underwent lifesaving treatment. He was home within a few days and is doing well with his rehabilitation.

The next event will be at FRESH. on Saturday 27th April. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Press release from Ely Swishing

The post Ely Swishing are Fundraising Again! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Curated by Visual Arts Advisor Jacquiline Creswell, the exhibition prompts reflection on the extent to which individuals may support each other and can be interpreted as an enquiry into one’s moral responsibility toward others. 

Sean Henry presents over 25 hand painted terracotta and bronze figures, which will populate the vacant plinths, tombs and niches situated throughout this ancient medieval Cathedral. 

His life like figures are of varying size from 38cm up to 3m in height, they capture the human form with compassion, depicting the emotions, struggles and joys that define us as human. Sean says ,“We don’t know who they are, and while the figures might seem familiar and, I hope, emotionally present, the ambiguity around their status is an important part of how and why we engage with them.”

Sean Henry’s work has been exhibited worldwide including Europe, Australasia and the US. Many of his sculptures have been installed in a number of locations across the globe from the Artic Circle in Norway to the South Island of New Zealand. Since 2015, his sculpture of Sir Tim Bernes Lee, founder of the World Wide Web, has been part of the permanent collection in the National Portrait Gallery. He has been represented by the Osborne Samuel Gallery in London since 1999.  

Am I My Brother’s Keeper runs from April 26th through to September 1st and is included in the Cathedral admission ticket. 

The exhibition will be formally opened by The Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC MP, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport in May. 

For further information and Cathedral admission tickets please visit www.elycathedral.org

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Ely Cathedral to Host Thought Provoking Exhibition by Celebrated Artist and Sculptor appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Edmund Aldhouse, Director of Music at Ely Cathedral said, “Seasons and Charms is a chance for our twenty  boy choristers to do something a bit different: as well as Easter favourites, the boys will be performing some songs very different from their usual sacred repertoire, including Jonathan Dove’s memorable and catchy  cycle, Seasons and Charms, and extracts from Benjamin Britten’s classic collection, Friday Afternoons” .

The proceeds from the concert will go towards the boy choristers’ planned tour to Germany in 2025. The Cathedral are keen to encourage youngsters (boys and girls) currently in years 3-4 who love to sing, to come along to the concert with their parents or carers, free of charge. Edmund explains  – “There are  still vacancies  in these year groups in the Cathedral Choir, and this concert is the perfect introduction to the amazing and unique musical training it offers, with benefits lasting a lifetime. If you are  interested in  becoming a chorister at Ely, we have a limited number of free tickets available, so you can enjoy first-hand the incredible sound of choristers in the stunning setting of the Cathedral”.  

If you are interested in knowing more about life as a Cathedral chorister or registering for up to two free adult tickets (entry for all under 18s is free), please complete this form  https://forms.office.com/e/8UXkNBGGBe or call 01353 660336

The concert, Seasons and Charms will take place in Ely Cathedral at 7.00pm on Friday 26th April. Tickets are £10 with under 18s free.

Concert tickets and further information is available online: https://www.elycathedral.org/evuents/season-and-charms

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Cathedral Choristers to Welcome Springtime in Song appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The festival runs until Sunday evening, so there’s still time to explore it for yourself.

Included in your ticket price there are a wide range of bands, talks, workshops, kids entertainment, yoga, dance, stargazing, sound baths, drumming and even a fancy dress competition on Sunday.

You can get more details on the website www.greenoaksgathering.co.uk

The event is being at the beautiful Mad Hatters and promises stunning views of the countryside.

We had a great time it was a wonderful atmosphere thank you Jobeth for the invitation.

The post Greenoaks Gathering at Mad Hatters appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

You’ll find the event team at Cross Green from 10 am, Saturday 4th May as they prepare the annual parade. Our crown adorned eel will and volunteers, followed by a samba band and six morris and molly dance groups, the parade will depart at 10.30 am.  Once arrived at Jubilee Gardens, the samba band will continue to play!  This will be followed with a short speech from the Mayor of Ely, Cllr Chris Phillips as he officially opens the show and commemorate 50 Years of the city of ely council, and official city status. It is a time for all of us to celebrate what a fantastic city we have.

The City of Ely Council event (organised by Visit Ely) is sponsored by the ely riverside quarter restaurants, Grovemere Property and The Old Warehouse – and we are proud to say this year is bigger and better than ever. The environment agency in attendance with their elvers tank, eels to throw in our famous competition (not real!), and to eat – fresh from the seafood/fish stall.

Appearing in the arena on Eel Day (4th May) you can enjoy many dance displays and Sing Choirs!, face painting, small fairground and of course eel throwing and more. We will also be entertained by various acts selected from Ely Folk Festival line up, so please come and along and support.

Sunday and Monday (5th and 6th May) we move up to Palace and Cross Green to continue celebrating the city of Ely with a Food, Drink and Craft Fayre! There is a few returning delights and many new and exciting traders attending the 2024 celebration. This is chance to browse, taste, purchase (we hope!) and relax in the lovely surroundings! There will be musical entertainment on both areas for you to enjoy, so pitch up your deckchair and have fun! 

Anna Bennett, Tourism and Events Manager has quoted ‘Once again we bring you this fantastic three-day event, full of things to see and do. Please do and come for the whole weekend and celebrate Ely with us, there is plenty to see and do! We have great train links to Ely, and of course free parking, but do remember to plan your journey in advance to avoid disappointment.’

For a full list of traders attending and what’s on, please refer to our website: www.visitely.org.uk and our social media channels, Facebook/Twitter/Instagram.

If you have any questions regarding the event, please send an email to info@visitely.org.uk

Press release from Visit Ely

The post Celebrating 50 years of City Status – Eel Day Festival 2024 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Tickets are £10 (+booking fee) and can be purchased online at ticketsource.co.uk/littleportplayers 

Press release from Littleport Players

The post Littleport Players Win NODA Award for Best Pantomime! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Now in its 71st year, The Soham Benevolent Association, organisers of Soham Carnival are looking forward to bringing you their great family fun day on Sunday 5th May 2024 at the recreation ground in Soham.

Main Arena: From 9am until 1pm is the renowned Heavy Horse Show. From 2.45- Jez Avery – stunt show, 2x Performances the ACF Drum Corps and Synergy Majorettes

The Parade of Floats commences from 1.00pm from Holmes lane in Soham, travelling through the town then onto the recreation ground for Judging by our Townsperson of the year – Jackie Hibbert.

On the Skate Park – Skate board workshops and demonstrations from 12.30-4.30. Bring your skateboard along if you want to have a go, you must get a consent form signed by a parent if you are under 16, which will be available on the day. 

Near the Skate Park – Graffiti with Kilo – workshops and Artwork piece.

On the Music Stage Akimbo, Tia and Kev, The Anecdotes, KD Theatre, SVC Performs (Soham village College)  Tzarina and DJ Greedy G

On the Small Arena – Kuk Sool Won will be demonstrating their skills. 

Near the Pavilion: KD theatre school will be offering free workshops throughout the afternoon, teaching singing and performance skills. Soham Comrades band will be playing outside the Pavilion from 11.00am – 12.30pm

Other Attractions  : Townsperson of the year, King and Queen Consort and Attendant winners, Bar, Stalls, funfair, Raptor foundation, inflatables, Mini Golf course, Food and trade stalls, local organisations, BBQ, ACF Marching band plus much, much more.

Please note: all stalls and pitches are now sold out.

Admission: Adults £3.50, Concessions £2.50, Children £0.50p Cash Only.

For more information: www.sohamcarnival.org or facebook.com/sohamcarnival

email carnival@soham.org.uk NO DOGS are allowed on the recreation ground except assistance dogs and disabled parking only.

Press release from The Soham Benevolent Association

The post Save the Date for Soham Carnival appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

This unique family orientated event is in aid of the Breast Cancer Now charity with all profits being donated.

The Colour Blast is a fun run with a difference.  Participants have to negotiate a crazy course with various tricky and fun obstacles and three ‘Blast’ stations where they Powder Ninjas cover everyone in colourful powder as they go by. 

As well as the Colour blast their will be music, entertainment and refreshments to ensure it’s a fun filled time for all.

The event is hosted by ITV’s very own Donovan Blake and is kindly supported by the local businesses below.  Sponsorship opportunities are still available for interested parties.

• FTR Suspension – head sponsor
• Bretts Transport  
• GVS – Godfrey’s Vehicle Services
• Tiddly Tots Day Care
• Connect Fibre Broadband 

Tickets

SUPER EARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE 

Buy before the end of February and gain entry for only £8 p.p

Plus enter a team 4 to 8 people for an extra 10% off

For all information and to buy tickets go to www.suttonbeast.com

Or search ‘suttonbeast’ on socials.

Press release from Sutton Beast Colour Blast

The post Colour Chaos Returns at The Beast’s Big Colour Blast 2024 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

An Enchanting Journey that Teaches Children about Friendship, Nature, and the Importance of Bees

Pegasus Publishers is thrilled to announce the release of Bumbly the Bee and the Day the Flowers Lost Their Music by Tia Colcomb. This delightful children’s book takes readers on a captivating adventure with Bumbly, an inquisitive bee with a heart of gold, as he embarks on his first big adventure to help his newfound friends and restore harmony to the world of Sonny the Sunflower and the flowers that have lost their music. Bumbly the Bee is a heart-warming tale of nature’s harmony.

Blurb: Bumbly, a small bee with a kind nature, discovers that the flowers, led by Sonny the Sunflower, have lost their music. As Bumbly befriends various characters on his journey, including a mysterious blue butterfly, readers are invited to follow the butterfly from page to page, witnessing its transformative changes. Tia Colcomb weaves a tale that not only entertains but also educates, fostering children’s understanding of plant growth, the interconnectedness of nature, and the vital role bees play in the ecosystem.

About the Author: Tia Colcomb, a passionate advocate for life, music, and literature, draws inspiration from her own experiences in running the children’s music group, Bumbly Bees. Despite facing several health conditions, including Addison’s Disease, Gastroparesis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, a hole in the heart, and a brain tumour affectionately named Phyllis, Tia lives life to the fullest. Her resilience is evident in her charitable endeavours, including completing a half marathon swim for The British Heart Foundation during the summer. Tia also shares her unique perspective through her podcast, “Diary of Tia: Nuts Alcohol and Other Ways to Pass Out!”

There will be a book launch on the 14th of March at Littleport Village Hall. Meet the author, get your copy of the book signed and hear a read through with Tia Calcomb.

Book Details:

• Title: Bumbly the Bee and the Day the Flowers Lost Their Music
• Author: Tia Colcomb
• Publisher: Pegasus Publishers, Nightingale Books imprint
• Size: 156 x 156
• ISBN: 9781838755980

Availability: The book is available for purchase through major retailers, including Amazon, WH Smiths & Blackwells. Also available to buy from www.pegasuspublishers.com 

Press release from Pegasus Publishers

The post Local Author Brings Bumbly Bee to Life in Children’s Book appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Medieval re-enactor Rory Gibson, who has gained quite a reputation for himself acting as the folk hero of the Fens in recent times, will be part of an event arranged between The Hereward Pub at 45 Market Street, Ely, and the WakeHereward Project to remember our local hero.

‘An Afternoon Remembering Hereward’ will be a three hour journey beginning at 3pm
which will tell the story of Hereward through exhibition boards installed in the venue,
PowerPoint presentations, a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry on display and folk music
songs and tunes as well as a rousing re-enactment of Hereward himself.

Historian and Host David Maile will analyse the Hereward legend against the backdrop
of the Norman Conquest and give his take on William the Conqueror’s eventual successful assault on the Isle of Ely.

David will introduce Mia Hansson who has been embroidering a replica of the Bayeux
Tapestry, with two nine metre lengths of the tapestry on display in The Hereward. Mia
will talk about her mammoth task, whereby during the past seven years she has embroidered over 40 metres of the 69 metre length. Mia has been featured in national
newspapers in the UK and around the world and is expecting to complete her epic masterpiece within the next five years.

Providing music throughout the afternoon is the talented Singer and Songwriter Gemma
Parker who performs under the name of The Dark Bardess. Gemma is one of the few
people in the country who are proficient at playing the old Anglo-Saxon instrument the
Lyre. She will be performing well known medieval tunes such as ‘The Harvest Dance’
and ‘The Bear Dance’. She will perform her rendition of the Anglo-Saxon epic poem, ‘Beowulf’ as well as sing Viking Saga songs in the Old Norse (Viking) language.

Gemma has also written songs and ballads about Hereward especially for the
WakeHereward Project events and her adaptation of Iron Maiden’s ‘Run to the Hills’
into a medieval folk song has an air of reality to it when one considers the fate of those
at Ely when William the Conqueror’s forces eventually set foot on the Isle.

With the whole afternoon being a tribute to Hereward there will be two performances
from the incredible actor Rory Gibson, one ‘The Heroes Journey’ is an acting monologue of Hereward’s life as a soldier and the events as they unfolded from Exile to Ely and the second performance is a display of the weaponry that Hereward would have
been acquainted with and used in his defence of the folk on the Isle of Ely.

So why not join us for a late lunch and drinks and a great Sunday afternoon as we go back to the dark days of the Norman Conquest and hear the amazing story of the Folk Hero of the Fens, Hereward ‘the Wake’.

WakeHereward Project – herewardthewake.co.uk/herewardely

Seats and tables can be reserved by phoning The Hereward on: 01353 772050.

Or book your own table online at: greatukpubs.co.uk/Hereward-ely

Press release from WakeHereward Project

The post An Afternoon Remembering Hereward appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Research has shown that just ten minutes in a wetland setting, spaces like a marsh, lake or river, is enough to boost your mood, and WWT wants to share the stress-busting power of wetlands with as many people as possible this year.

To get more people visiting blue spaces WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, has announced that for the World Wetlands Day weekend (2-4 Feb) any paying visitor or WWT member visiting their sites, including WWT Welney will be able to bring a friend for free. 

WWT Welney have an array of activities available for people visiting on World Wetlands Day and the weekend. Connecting people to wetlands and wildlife through guided opportunities as well as a helping hand to explore alone or with friends and family.

Activities include:

World Wetlands Day, Fri 2nd February

• World Wetlands Day guided walk – 2-3pm
• Meet local artist – Tales from the Fen, Lizzie Ault 10am – 2pm
• Commentated swan feeds – 12noon & 3.30pm
• Family activities available in our Pond Room

Sat 3rd February

• Meet local artist – Tales from the Fen, Lizzie Ault 10am – 4.30pm
• Commentated swan feeds – 12noon, 3.30pm & 6.30pm
• Storytelling and eel craft with local author Elaine Macdonald, 1.30-2.30pm
• Guided hare walk – 2-3pm
• Family activities available with a guide – build a bird feeder, owl pellet dissection and crafts

Sun 4th February

• Commentated swan feeds – 12noon, 3.30pm & 6.30pm
• Family activities available in our Pond Room
• Guided Wetland Walk – 2-3pm

WWT Welney will also encourage visitors to share their experiences on site by writing down how wetlands make them feel as part of a participatory word cloud. 

More widely WWT will be recommending some of the UK’s other best wetlands and sharing the sights and sounds of wetlands digitally for those who can’t visit a blue space in person over the World Wetlands Day weekend.

Emma Brand at WWT Welney said: “At WWT we celebrate wetlands 365 days a year, but World Wetlands Day helps us bring even more people to our sites to share the beauty and serenity of these super-powered habitats. 

“With the theme of World Wetlands Day this year focusing on wetlands and human wellbeing it’s the perfect weekend to share a moment of calm with your friends and loved ones.”

World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on 2 February, aims to raise awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and planet.

To find out more about what WWT Welney is doing for World Wetlands Day offer click here: https://www.wwt.org.uk/discover-wetlands/world-wetlands-day/ 

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

The post Duck the Stress this World Wetlands Day and Visit WWT Welney for a Moment of Calm appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Three stages and 35+acts plus workshops and meet and greet sessions.

Ely Folk Festival returns to showcase a wealth of local and global talent celebrating folk, roots and acoustic music over a full weekend in July.

As ever there is an eclectic range of musical styles for all tastes and ages, including folk rock, Americana, blues and roots as well as traditional folk acts. Alongside headline acts on the open air Peregrine Stage the 2024 programme includes a series of concerts across two other stages including a local music showcase, ceilidhs, instrumental and dance workshops, ‘meet and greet’ sessions with some of the festival’s leading artists, jam sessions and kids entertainment, all on one site at the beautiful Stuntney Estate.

One of the most anticipated events is a performance from Eddi Reader on Sunday evening on the main stage. Winner of a Brit Award for Best British Female, holder of a doctorate for her musical work and an MBE for services to the arts, Eddi is one of the country’s finest singers and her music, as Folk Radio UK said “is a colourful, constantly changing, fascinating mix of styles” while Lonesome Highway rightly observed that “you can never tire of hearing her sing. She will play with a full band including festival patron and acclaimed songwriter Boo Hewerdine.

Other headliners include fiery Celtic fusion band Peatbog Faeries, multi-award-winning contemporary folk band Breabach, acclaimed duo O’Hooley & Tidow, whose “boundless songwriting and exquisite harmonies that truly shine” (Guardian) are guaranteed to light up the Kingfisher stage and veteran singer-songwriter Jez Lowe, a man of
whom Living Tradition rightly say “he has never written a bad song”.

Additional highlights include performances from folk legend John Kirkpatrick, powerful and award-winning Fleetwood Mac-esque live act Morganway, The Fugitives, who will join the festival from Canada, veteran troubadour Rory McLeod and exciting folk-rockers Rusty Shackle.

On the dance front veteran outfit Kegs and vibrant ceilidh band Stumpy Oak will keep everyone’s feet moving while David Gibb and Nick Parker will provide a family folk show and a children’s ukulele workshop respectively as well as performing separately in their own right.

There’s also a distinct East Anglian flavour on display, including local favourites the Barefoot Doctors, who include former Status Quo drummer Jeff Rich and Chris Newman on guitar, promise to fire things up with theirsupercharged blues, rock and funk, rising folk duo Christina Alden and Alex Patterson and The Shackleton Trio, who will both make appearances separately as well as performing together as Kitewing. Add in Hannah Sanders & Ben Savage, Guise, The Wilswood Buoys and many more and you have a line-up that truly has something for everyone.

Special mention should be made of a unique one-off Patrons Concert, curated by festival patrons Boo Hewerdine and Brooks Williams. Known to many through his work with Eddi Reader, which includes writing the hit single Patience of Angels, Boo is one of the country’s most feted songwriters, while Brooks, who holds a place in the Top 100 acoustic guitarists in the world, has worked and recorded with numerous folk luminaries on both sides of the Atlantic to much acclaim.

The concert will see the pair invite some of their favourite performers to take the stage alongside them for never-to-be-repeated performances and collaborations.

Ely Folk Festival also offers a platform for up-and-coming performers. As well as the already mentioned local acts showcase, it holds an annual band competition, open to artists everywhere, with the prize being a slot at the festival and the ‘club tent competition’ held on the Nightingale stage. This has been running for many years and offers the opportunity for the winner to open the Sunday evening concert on the Peregrine Stage. In 2015 Rusty Shackle won and this year they’ll be closing the Peregrine stage on Sunday. Many other artists have gone on to greater things following their debut on Ely’s main stage, including Jade Rhiannon of Cambridge contemporary folk band The Willows and Iona Fyfe, the 2021 Musician of the Year at the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards. The festival also encourages anyone attending to bring their instruments and join in with the many sessions around the festival site and in the bar.

Fionnuala Lennon, the festival’s Marketing Director, said “Over one glorious weekend in July, we will celebrate the best in folk& roots music as part of our 38th festival. It’s a fabulous way of catching nationally acclaimed and talented local acts up close in the relaxed surroundings of Stuntney estate and we look forward to welcoming everyone“.

Press release from Ely Folk Festival

The post Eddi Reader, Peatbog Faeries, Breabach, Jez Lowe and O’Hooley & Tidow Headline this year’s Ely Folk Festival appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Crown and Coronation is a spectacular immersive light and sound show on tour in the UK. 

Following its highly acclaimed launch at the Tower of London in November 2023, Ely Cathedral will be one of the very first venues to host this spectacular show, which celebrates the spectacle, significance and inspiration of the Crown Jewels and the Coronation ceremony.  

The project was created by Historic Royal Palaces in partnership with Luxmuralis, the artistic collaboration of artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper.

Joss Palmer, Event Manager at Ely Cathedral says “We feel very honoured to be one of the first venues in the UK to showcase this event. We have always admired Peter Walker’s work, and his creativity and talent in producing large scale light productions is legendary. This particular project, in partnership with Royal Historic Palaces, promises to be an amazing experience using the Cathedral as the most stunning backdrop for his latest work, Crown & Coronation.” 

The entire Cathedral will be fully immersed in this dazzling light and sound exhibition. Visitors will experience a journey through history, from Wiliam the Conqueror to Queen Victoria, as large scale, colourful imagery of jewels and royalty are projected across the interior walls of Ely Cathedral. 

Tickets are bookable in 15minute intervals and visitors are advised to book in advance online www.elycathedral.org

CROWN AND CORONATION will run from 06th  – 10th February 2024 between 6.15pm – 8.45pm. 

It is anticipated the experience will take approximately 1 hour. 

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Crown and Coronation Sound and Light Show at Ely Cathedral appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Since its launch in 2018, The Library Presents has grown in both popularity and appeal, attracting audiences of more than 30,000 and consistently delivering a diverse arts programme of high quality. 

You can make your voice heard and help to choose the events that will be part of this year’s exciting and varied programme by responding to a survey at your local library, or online, between 11th January and 9th February.

Thanks to partnership support and £570,826 of public funding provided by Arts Council England over 3 years, standard ticket prices are heavily subsidised. 

Helping everyone access the arts is one of the programme’s main focuses, so where possible barriers of opportunity and wealth have been removed. On average, tickets cost under £5 or less, thanks to a variety of concessions for children, students, senior citizens, the unwaged and disabled, family savers, and in some cases ‘pay what you think’ options. 

Over the last six years, the programme has delivered an estimated 900 hours of entertainment to audiences of all ages. It has also provided employment for around 220 performers and workshop leaders, almost half of whom of reside in the Eastern region, giving a much-welcomed boost to the county’s cultural economy.

“The Library Presents feels like a really well thought out initiative, offering great support for artists and bringing shows into the community.  We’d welcome the opportunity to work with TLP in the future.” – Sarah Simpson, The Wagon of Dreams, Jellyfish Theatre.

Putting the programming power into the hands of the local community and asking them to choose the artists they want to see is an important part of The Library Presents. Past seasons have featured everything from mind-blowing magic and hilarious alternative comedy, to cutting-edge drama, incredible music and inspirational workshops.

The Library Presents selection menu is always eagerly anticipated and the latest season is no exception. The big question is now: which artists will gain the public’s support and earn a coveted place on The Library Presents Spring 2024 Season? 

Councillor Tom Sanderson, Chair of the County Council’s Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee said: “I’m delighted to see the return of this highly successful programme, which continues to attract new audiences year on year.”

“Those artists and performers who have been shortlisted for inclusion in this new programme of events are some of the best working in their fields today. I’m really excited to see who will get a ‘Yes’ this time round. It is now up to the great Cambridgeshire public to choose!” 

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “We were delighted to continue our funding for The Library Presents through our 2023-26 National Portfolio, supporting them to programme a huge variety of creative and cultural events that communities across Cambridgeshire can enjoy. It is hugely powerful to see that local residents have played such an important role in choosing the performers and events that they want to see.”

Have your say between 11th January and 9th February 2024 by simply picking up a form from one of the county’s libraries or go online and share your views. Library Live | The LIbrary Presents 

The Library Presents team will spend time in our local communities, introducing The Library Presents programme and talking through the selection menu, to find out what interests them most. If you would like to know more please contact: thelibrarypresents@cambridgeshire.gov.uk

Participating Libraries:

Alconbury Weald, Arbury Court, Barnwell Road, Bassingbourn, Cambourne, Cambridge Central, Chatteris, Ely, Histon, Huntingdon, Littleport, March, Northstowe, Ramsey, Sawtry, St Ives, St Neots, Whittlesey, Wisbech.

Press release from Cambridgeshire Libraries

The post Let us entertain you! Public invited to help choose the line-up for popular Cambridgeshire arts programme appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Bring it along to the Repair Cafe being held on Saturday 27th January from 11.00am – 2.00pm in Ely Library and get it seen to by an experienced volunteer repairer for free. They will pinpoint the problem and try to fix it there and then for you, or let you know what spare parts to get for when you come back next time. 

Repair Cafes are a great way to save money – with households spending about £35 a week on items that can be repaired including clothes, furniture, computers, electrical items. They are great at reducing waste and emissions by extending the life of items. The average Repair Cafe saves 450kg CO2, about the same as driving from Land’s End to John O’ Groats and back again.

Repair Cafes bring people together. Our repairers are keen to share their skills, stop things going to landfill and reduce the impact that buying new stuff has on the environment. In the UK we produce the second highest amount of e-waste per person in the world.

We’re looking for repairers to help us on the day and at future cafes. Whether you’re an electrical repairer, a keen sewer, or someone who likes fixing things and wants to learn from more experienced repairers, we would love to hear from you. Get in touch with us at info@elyrepaircafe.org.uk. 

Please note that our repairers may not always be able to fix things, but will try their best. 

To find out more about Ely Repair Cafe and to book your items in for repair visit: https://elyrepaircafe.org.uk/

Download a poster or Facebook image to help spread the word. Find out about other events in the Cambridgeshire Repair Cafe Network:

https://cambridgecarbonfootprint.org/repair-cafes/https://cambridgecarbonfootprint.org/repair-cafes/

Press release from Cambridgeshire Repair Cafe Network

The post Repair Cafe in Ely Library will Help You Save Money and Reduce Your Impact on the Environment appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The performances will take place in the Main Hall of Witchford Village College from Thursday November 30th to Saturday December 2nd.

Individual tickets cost £12 or £40 for a group ticket.

Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

There is also a 2pm performance on the Saturday.

Tickets: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/witchford-amateur-dramatic-society

Press release from Witchford Amateur Dramatic Society

The post A Bit of High School Musical from Witchford Amateur Dramatic Society Youth Group appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

To celebrate this migratory miracle, the wetland site is putting on a range of events to allow people to get closer to the swans and witness what is widely believed to be one of the season’s most spectacular events in UK nature.

Whooper swans from Iceland far outnumber the much rarer Bewick’s swans from Arctic Russia, but this is one of the few places where these winter travellers can be seen side by side along with our native mute swans. After spending their summers in the far north, pairs who have successfully bred have now shown their cygnets the migration for the first time.

Along with daily commented swan feeds, there will also be weekend events where visitors can watch these beautiful birds in a very special setting.

On Saturday and Sunday evenings, the site is hosting Floodlit Swan Feeds where, from the comfort of a warm hide, people can witness the birds flying in at dusk to have their last meal of the day. And on selected dates throughout winter, early risers can watch the birds waking up on the wetlands with one of the reserve’s wardens.

The events are a perfect pre and post-Christmas experience and a fantastic opportunity to leave the screens at home and explore the wildlife on your doorstep, taking in the sights and sounds of migratory birds arriving from distant lands.

Whilst the swans are the stars of the show, there is so much more to enjoy. From flocks of red-headed pochard ducks, to shoals of wading birds like godwits and plovers and the captivating views of birds of prey with harriers and owls. Take a walk with a guide to encounter charismatic hares and deer that also call these wetlands home. Not forgetting the landscape itself with huge skies, expanse of reed beds and the glorious trees which change from day to day during the winter months.

Emma Brand, Events and Marketing Officer said: “Winter is such an incredible time for the wetlands at WWT Welney. Thousands of birds arriving for winter mean it is the busiest time of year for numbers of wildlife.

“The daily coming and going of swans as they fly out to fields and return to roost is a familiar routine for the people living and working around the Ouse Washes landscape. Sharing this spectacle with visitors is a huge part of the work the staff and volunteers enjoy most about this time of year.”

Welney is open daily 10am-4pm Monday to Friday, 10am-7.30pm Saturday and Sundays for winter. Only closing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 

Dates for the diary (wwt.org.uk/welney/whats-on/):

Swans awake morning events:
Sat 16, Sun 17 December
Sat 20, Sun 21 January
Sat 3, Sun 4 February
Sat 17, Sun 18 February

Swan feeds:
1 November – 29 February, 12noon & 3.30pm daily
4 November – 25 February, 6.30pm on Saturdays & Sunday only.

Find out more: wwt.org.uk/welney

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

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“Last year we were overwhelmed by the response of individuals and organisations who got behind the idea and this year we want to help even more parents who find it hard to afford presents for their children,” said Peter.

Once again he has the backing of St Mary’s Church which will be the main drop-off point for new gifts or pre-loved toys suitable for children up to the age of 15.

The church will be open to receive gifts from 4-14 December during office hours 11am-3pm.

Peter, a former City of Ely councillor and founder director of King’s International Study Centre, is well known in Ely for his philanthropic efforts supporting an orphanage and school in Cambodia.

“Working in international education I am very familiar with the poverty in south east Asia but my time as a city councillor, in a comparatively affluent part of the country like ours, brought me into contact with so many families struggling with the cost of living crisis and Christmas puts them under extra pressure.”

The Toy Bank at St Mary’s Church will open to anyone in need on Thursday 14th December 3pm-8pm, Friday 15th December 1.30-6.30pm and Saturday 16th December 11am-4.30pm.

You can follow Ely’s Santa’s Xmas Toy Bank on Facebook. Peter Harris can be contacted via email: pjhely@gmail.com or by phone: 07889100357 or 07814558120.

Press release from Ely’s Santa’s Xmas Toy Bank

The post Ely’s Santa’s Toy Bank Gets Set to Help Families appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

It’s family fun and tickets are £11 each and can be bought at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/littleportplayers.

Dates: Fri 1st Dec 7pm,

Sat 2nd Dec 1pm & 6pm,

Sun 3rd Dec 1pm

Press release from Littleport Players

The post Littleport Players Invite you to Alice in Wonderland appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Festive Food & Gift Markets will take place every Friday from 17th November, 10am-4pm. These markets will feature a wonderful selection of unique gifts and crafts to suit all budgets. Visitors will find lots of delicious seasonal street food, coffee and treats. These markets will take place on Fridays from 10am-4pm at Ely Market Place.

On Friday 24th November our Festive Food & Gift Market will be a special extended late-night opening until 7pm. From 1200 there’s a chance to visit the Re-Imagine Christmas Community Eco-Grotto with crafty ideas for a more sustainable eco-friendly Christmas celebration.  Plus, festive entertainment from local choirs around the enchanting lights of the Christmas tree and a special dance performance from 4D Dance Group.

“Our Festive Food & Gift Markets are back again for 2023,” says Julia Davis from Ely Markets. “This year we’ve got even more craft and food stalls, we’ll have a variety of different traders every Friday, plus entertainment from local choirs and singers.  Our special extended market on Friday 24th November until 7pm offers later gift shopping and a chance to take in the glow of the Christmas Tree and town centre bright lights.”

On Friday 22nd December there will be a Festive Craft & Farmers’ Market, followed by a Christmas Eve Craft & Farmers Market on Saturday 23 December. These markets will include popular stalls from Ely Farmers’ Markets featuring everything you need for your festive table.

“Our Christmas Craft and Farmers’ Markets on 22 and 23 December are a great place to shop for Christmas,” says Julia Davis. “Our producers offer a fantastic range of locally grown and sourced fare plus more exotic fare for your festive table.  You will also find Christmas trees, wreaths and flowers to decorate your home for the season. Our Christmas Eve Sunday Market gives you another chance to pick up any last-minute gifts or just relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.”

In addition to their special Christmas Markets, Ely Markets also runs large weekly markets every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – plus Ely Farmers’ Market on every second and fourth Saturday. Each of these markets has a mixture of craft, food and vintage stalls – plus fresh produce, meat, fish and more.

“During the festive season, every market is a Christmas Market,” says Julia Davis. “On Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays there is always a wonderful mix of arts and crafts by local makers sitting alongside local produce and artisan food. We’re well known for our street food from around the world and there’s plenty of space to sit and relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.”

Whether you’re after a Christmas tree, unique gifts, local produce or some laid-back street food, make Ely Markets your festive destination this Christmas season!

All the dates you need:

FESTIVE FRIDAY FOOD & GIFT MARKETS:
Friday 17th November, 10am – 4pm

Friday 24th November, 10am – 7pm *special extended event with festive entertainment*

Friday 1st December, 10am – 4pm
Friday 8th December, 10am – 4pm
Friday 15th December, 10am – 4pm

FESTIVE CRAFT & FARMERS’ MARKET – Friday 22nd December, 8.30am – 3.30pm

CRAFT, FOOD & VINTAGE & FARMERS’ MARKET, Saturday 23rd December, 8.30am – 3.30pm

CHRISTMAS EVE SUNDAY MARKET, 24th December, 9am – 3pm

PLUS:

Charter Market, every Thursday, 8.30am – 3.30pm

Saturday Craft, Food & Vintage Market every week, 8.30am – 3.30pm

Sunday Market, weekly 9am – 3pm

Ely Farmers’ Market, every 2nd and 4th Saturday, 8.30am – 2.30pm

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

Photo credit: Spotted in Ely

The post Ely Markets at Christmas appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Sally wanted to create an event that brought together independent artists and craftspeople creating handmade work to the highest standards at a friendly and welcoming event. In October 2010, Art Unequalled was held for the first time at the Maltings and Sally is proud of the reputation  it has gained as a high quality event. 

This years show returns on 4th and 5th November, and is still held at the same location of The Maltings in Ely. The rustic building with a high vaulted ceiling along the stunning riverside provides the perfect backdrop to the art you will see. 

Sally strongly believes that Art should be accessible to all and for all budgets. At Art Unequalled you will find individually handmade work presented direct from the makers to suit all tastes and budgets, from Christmas stocking fillers, to investment pieces. All the artists will be on hand to talk to visitors about their work and making process, with a selection also demonstrating their techniques during the event.

For the past 8 years, Art Unequalled has been proud to have raised £1000’s for Cancer Research, running a raffle at the show, with prizes very generously donated by the exhibiting artists. The raffle will be running again this year and there is always some fantastic prizes to win, tickets are £1 and available to purchase at the event. 

This years event brings together 46 makers from across the country; so whether you are looking to start your Christmas shopping, are searching for a piece of art for your home, or are just looking for somewhere interesting to visit over the weekend, Art Unequalled shouldn’t be missed!

You can find out more at www.artunequalled.co.uk or contact Sally Dunham on info@artunequalled.co.uk or 07850 286566

Admission is £2 for adults, £1 for concessions and accompanied children under 15 are free.

Press release from Art Unequalled

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As the nights draw in and the winter chill enters the air, there’s plenty of festive fun to be had at Ely Museum. From traditional festive crafts and traditions to a visit from Father Christmas himself, we have lots of upcoming dates for the diary. 

On November 11th we will be holding a Christmas Willow Weaving Workshop with artist Karen Bek. A chance to learn the traditional local craft of willow weaving and make some fantastic festive decorations to take home and include in Christmas decorations for years to come. Learn how to make a range of stars and a large willow angel and show of your creative talent to the friends and family who gather for the festive season. A full day workshop from 10.30am to 4pm, including all materials. To find out more and book your place, visit www.elymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

For those with a more gastronomic interest, we are delighted to be hosting food historian Dr Annie Gray on the evening of 28th November. She will be sharing fantastic facts about the origins of our favourite Christmas foods and talking through 500 years of changing food traditions from medieval masques to more recent innovations. Annie Gray is one of Britain’s leading food historians and the author of several well-received books including At Christmas We Feast: Festive Food through the Ages, which will also be on sale. Tickets can be booked at: www.elymuseum.org.uk/whats-on – but be aware they are selling out fast! 

Then, the highlight of our Christmas season, Father Christmas will be visiting Ely Museum on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th December, from 10.30am – 1pm and 1.30pm – 4pm. Tickets do not need to be pre-booked and can be bought on arrival. Each child costs £5 and accompanying adults are free. Come along and meet our traditional Father Christmas and soak up some of the Christmas spirit on a fun family-friendly weekend hosted with the support of the magic elves at City Cycle Centre. 

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Festive Events Coming Soon at Ely Museum appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The Babylon Young Associates will select artworks to be exhibited in the Sensing Nature Exhibition, which will run from 28th February – 24th March 2024. All submissions will also be showcased in a virtual gallery for the duration of the exhibition. The deadline for submissions is Friday 1st December 2023.

The Babylon Young Associates are curating a multi-sensory exhibition inspired by how we
experience nature through our senses, as part of Inspired by Nature, a National Lottery
Heritage funded programme supporting more people across the Fens to get creative in
nature. Selected works will be exhibited in the Sensing Nature exhibition, which will be an immersive experience, engaging all the senses, to consider our relationship with the natural world.

The Sensing Nature Open Call invites people to participate in one (or all) of the three
challenges: Listen, Touch and Look. Submissions are encouraged in a range of styles and techniques, and from all ages and experience levels. To find out more about the challenges, please read the submission guidelines at: https://www.babylonarts.org.uk/news/view, sensing-nature-open-call_25168.htm

The exhibition theme has been conceived by the Babylon Young Associates – a group of
young creatives living locally, aged 18-25 years, who work with Babylon ARTS on projects, installations and community engagement via the arts.

Inspired by Nature is a Babylon ARTS project, in partnership with Ely Museum, RNIB and the National Trust’s Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, and has been made possible with the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, Babylon ARTS will deliver an 18-month programme developing creative approaches that facilitate connection and engagement with nature for people with low vision, children, young people and the wider public.

The deadline for entries for The Sensing Nature Challenges is Friday 1st December 2023.

Babylon ARTS will contact successful applicants by Monday 18th December if their work has been selected to be part of the Sensing Nature exhibition at Babylon Gallery next Spring.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Sensing Nature Open Call appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The event titled ‘Fen Authors and Explorers’ is organised by Fascinating Fens, a local group that brings people together across the Fens through projects involving heritage, nature, creativity, wellbeing, and accessibility.  

The event will feature an introduction from Karen Merrison, who created Fascinating Fens, and is author of ‘Secret Fens’, and the ‘Muscovy and Eeli’ children’s story books.

Benjamin Langley, who is a local author who writes truly amazing scary stories, some of which are based in the Fens will also give a talk, his popular works include ‘Dead Branches’ and ‘The Fen Witch of Goosefeather Split’.  Meanwhile James Bowman, writer of the book ‘The First Celebrities: Five Regency Portraits’, will talk about his passion to design and produce a flag for the Fens, to unite the whole area.

Away from writing, Veronica in the Fens who uses that name on social media to share her beautiful photos of Ely and the Fens will talk about how the local area inspires her photography.

The speakers will be providing copies of their books or photos to buy at the event, which will be hosted by local Sports Journalist and Writer, Andrew Dunn.  Tickets and further details are available from fascinatingfens@outlook.com

Press release from Fascinating Fens

The post Fen Authors and Explorers: An Afternoon of Talks appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Local organisations such as press houses, the media and local business gathered in droves in the heart of Ely to watch the engaging presentation.

The Christmas Pantomime which will see the cast Paul Cassaro (Robin Hood), Elisha Hancock (Little Joan), Maid Marion (Nancy Doubledee), Tommy Carmichael (Silly Willy Scarlett), Rob Stevens (Auntie Dolly), James Sterling (Sheriff of Nottingham) is one not to be missed this Christmas. 

The Mesmerising show, which will run from December 8th to January 3rd, has already made circles in Ely where an impressive 50% of tickets have already been sold. It is estimated that over 10,500 people are expected to take their seats to watch the fabulous cast; making 2023 a Christmas to remember.

Ely’s greatest Pantomime adventure presentation saw KD Theatre owners Daniel Bell and Katherine Hickmott alongside the full cast. When asked what Robin Hood has to offer from other Pantomimes, Daniel said: “It’s brand new and written for Ely audiences. We’re celebrating local.” Daniel added, “I’m most looking forward to the public seeing the set and costumes. They are visually stunning. We’re also welcoming new cast members to this theatre production.”

Austen Dack, PR and Marketing representative for KD Theatre Productions, who led the presentation  and has seen KD Theatre deliver six pantomimes, said: “This year at KD Theatre we’re seeing family dynamics changing every year. The population of Ely has increased, and we’re promoting at Ben’s Yard, and we’ve been doing a leaflet drop.”

With its loyal local sponsors such as the Prince Albert, Apex Coffee House, The Maltings and Poets House among others, and its 80,000 strong social media reach last year alone; Robin Hood has local support for its magnificent local production. 

For businesses eager to become part of this magical experience and support the Robin Hood pantomime, please contact Austen Dack at austen@chippychat.co.uk.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the magic this Christmas. Tickets for Robin Hood are selling fast and can be purchased online at kdtheatre.co.uk5 or by calling 01353 725 026.

The post Robin Hood in the City: Ely’s Spellbinding Christmas Pantomime Makes for the Perfect Gift this Christmas appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

This year, with the kind permission of Ely Cathedral, we were able to use Cross Green. This allowed over 80 traders to showcase their produce and crafts.  From the moment the event opened at 10 am, the crowds were there in abundance, and the footfall just grew throughout the whole day.  

There was a fabulous mix  of charity/food and craft stalls, and each and every stall had an ‘Apple’ theme which made the day extra special.

Visit Ely would like to express their thanks to Thorlabs, Waterfull Orchards, and Spotted in Ely Radio for sponsorship and support. The Mayor and Mayoress of Ely, Cllr Chris Phillips and Lady Mayoress, Mary Rone opened the event and browsed the stalls, engaging with traders. Apple and Spoon races, and longest peel certainly drew a crowd with the longest peel this year of over 3m. The folk dancers joined in the community fun, and the cast of Bugsy Malone also performed in the arena.

Anna Bennett, Manager of Visit Ely and Tourism commented, “it’s been quite a week for Ely, from Oliver Cromwell’s House winning an award for the Visit England Hidden Gem tourist attraction, to a hugely successful Apple and Harvest Fayre.  We are very proud to be able to organise this annual event and as we promised, this year was bigger and better than ever before. I would like to thank the team behind the scenes, and all our traders in attendance for making it an extra special day!”

One trader said “We would just like to send you all a personal note to say thank you for this Saturdays Apple Harvest Fayre, we had a fantastic day trading and meeting so many new people, we sincerely hope all the other traders that attended had a good day like we did.  As you know we do many markets across the region and please pat yourselves on the back as the organisation from start to finish was spot on… Thank you again and keep it going”.  Chilli Freaks.

Press release from Visit Ely

Photo credit: Visit Ely

The post Apple Day and Harvest Fayre 2023 was a Huge Success! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The Window Wanderland festival has now been a part of UK communities since 2015, with over 25,000 windows decorated across the nation in hundreds of events. Ely has been part of this for the past 3 years and will be hosting its fourth event with the backing of The Stained Glass Museum and Babylon ARTS, to encourage Ely residents and businesses to transform the streets by making an illuminated window display as part of the Window Wanderland event this November.

Window Wanderland is a fun family-friendly event that sees communities create illuminated displays in windows. People can use the street-facing windows of their home, business, school, nursery, car, shop, or even their front door. A map showing the locations of illuminated window displays is then created to form an after-dark walking trail and community event, transforming local streets into galleries.

Ely’s first Window Wanderland was held in October 2020. Since then, more than 350 homes and businesses have now participated in this event, lighting up their windows with some amazing creative displays.
Feedback from last year’s event was fantastic, and was enjoyed by all ages, so we are delighted to bring the event back for it’s fourth year.

Jasmine Allen, Director & Curator at The Stained Glass Museum commented:
“We were so impressed at the amazing and creative window displays the people of Ely created for last year’s event, and we would love to get even more people involved in this year’s event. Taking part is free and the event over the last three years has been so enjoyable for children and adults alike!”

If you’re planning on transforming a window for Ely Window Wanderland please sign up on our Window Wanderland event page:
www.windowwanderland.com/event/ely-cambs-2023/ so that we can create a map of participants on our website. Then get planning your window display! If you have any questions, please refer them to: elywindowwanderland@gmail.com, also
you can follow us @WindowWanderEly on social media to keep up to date.

Thank you to the City of Ely Council for their generous grant which allows events such as Window Wanderland to continue.

For ideas and inspiration explore Window Wanderland Ely go to the Window Wanderland website:
https://www.windowwanderland.com/gallery/

For tips go to:
https://www.windowwanderland.com/make/

Some of the nice things local people said about previous Window Wanderland
events in Ely;

● “Such a brilliant idea! Great to get involved in, to view the work of others too, to get families out walking together, & encourages a feeling of belonging to our community!”

● “Was a really lovely event, thoroughly enjoyed it and it was accessible and appropriate for all ages brilliant!”

● “This was a fantastic event! The opportunity to do something as a community was wonderful and uplifting… The variety of window displays was truly inspirational and we would love to see this added to the list of regular annual events in Ely”

● “I thoroughly enjoyed taking part and, as a new resident, it was lovely to explore lots
of new-to-me areas of Ely too. What a wonderful community!

Press release from Babylon ARTS and The Stained Glass Museum

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The wetland site will be opening its doors at 6.30am on Sunday, September 24 to celebrate the success of Project Godwit, which has been a labour of love for the team at WWT who have worked in partnership with the RSPB, local communities and nature enthusiasts to reverse the decline of the bird. 

Proving the power of partnership working, which involved over 2000 local residents and schoolchildren who were given the title of Godwit Guardians, the project released 206 black-tailed godwits and the event will be a celebration of the work with a free open day that includes nature talks, off-road safaris and a range of family activities. 

“We’ve worked incredibly hard throughout the project and the success seen is testament to the effort put in by people from both organisations involved,” said WWT Project Manager Eric Heath.

“The shared expertise and skills this partnership brought together has given black-tailed godwits a lifeline. But it is clear that one thing we need to do is restore more of the wetland habitat they need to breed and survive over the long term. 

 “This is why we are working with farmers, landowners, local communities and others to create bigger, better and more connected wetlands to help the godwits and many other species thrive.”

As well as rearing and releasing birds, the project has enhanced wet grassland habitat providing the right conditions for godwits to breed, examined the threats the birds face, followed the fortunes of individually marked godwits as they travel between England and west Africa using sightings sent in by members of the public, and trialled other conservation techniques to increase the survival of eggs and chicks. 

Breeding success in the wild, however, remains too low to support a stable population. The UK’s breeding black-tailed godwits are struggling like many other wading birds due to loss of habitat, unfavourable land management, unsustainable predation rates and the impacts of climate change. 

So, to help secure the future of the black-tailed godwit population in the UK, a 10 year action plan will be launched at the WWT Welney godwit open day, that will guide future work helping this species to thrive in the future. 

Hannah Phillips, RSPB Area Manager said: “When over 80% of the UK’s breeding Black-tailed Godwits bred in just two locations – Ouse Washes and Nene Washes, and those breeding pairs were critically low in number, we knew we had to do something to help.  Enabled by a range of conservation activities delivered in partnership with WWT, the project has helped to shore up this vulnerable bird’s future. We are pleased to be able to celebrate this success, but this is not the end, it is just the beginning, as we now jointly look to build on the work done and put in place an action plan to guide the next 10 years of conservation work for the Black-tailed Godwit in England.” 

WWT Centre Manager, Leigh Marshall said of the event: “This is a fantastic opportunity to experience wetlands and find out more about one of the most unique species of birds in the Fens. 

“The teams of staff and volunteers who have been championing black-tailed godwits across the Ouse Washes and Nene Washes have dedicated their lives to working for these birds, the habitats they rely on and the communities involved in the wider landscape.  

“These special birds and their story is so inspiring, to know that they travel from Africa to breed here each summer, arriving at healthy wet grasslands to raise the next generation, in turn who will return for decades to come.

“Black-tailed godwits only spend part of their year in the Fens, but the habitat is home for thousands of species year-round. We hope that people from local communities will come and see what we are all about and enjoy the range of activities, talks, walks and access we are putting on for this special occasion.”

The celebration event is a last opportunity to engage with Project Godwit, but also a fantastic chance to get inspired about wetlands and the future of black-tailed godwit conservation. 

Full details of the Project Godwit celebration event at WWT Welney can be found here:
https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney/whats-on/wetland-celebration-open-day 

Project Godwit is a partnership between the RSPB and WWT with major funding from the EU LIFE Nature Programme, the HSBC 150th Anniversary Fund, Natural England, the Montague-Panton Animal Welfare Trust and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, through the Back from the Brink programme. 

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

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This event has been a feature in the Ely calendar for over two decades and this year promises to be the same brilliant and vibrant event but this year, it’s going to be even bigger!

Visit Ely is thrilled to announce that this year the event will take place over two sites – Palace Green and Cross Green! With the traditional selection of entertainments including the Apple and Spoon Race, the “Find the Golden Apple” Competition and the hotly contested “Longest Peel” competition to, alongside an incredible range of street food vendors, arts, crafts and charity stalls, a bumper harvest of fun awaits everyone on 7th October!  

Many of the street food vendors and traders have taken up the challenge of having something Apple themed and we can’t wait!

The expansion of the event has been made possible by the sponsorship of ThorLabs, one of Ely’s largest employers who will also be in attendance to reveal the wonderful opportunities this organization has to offer.

Anna Bennett from Visit Ely said, “We are so thrilled to be able to expand this fantastic community event for 2023. It’s certainly the perfect family day out. Remember, if you are coming to Ely that day, arrive early and grab a free parking space”

Ely’s Apple and Harvest Fayre will take place on 7th October 2023 between 10am and 4pm on both Palace and Cross Green in the centre of Ely.

For more information visit: www.visitely.org.uk

Press release from Visit Ely

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Baroness Brown is a highly respected engineer, who sits in the House of Lords where she chairs the Select Committee on Science and Technology and is the incumbent chair of the Carbon Trust. The event starts at 6.30pm on Tuesday 12th September. Entry is free and will be livestreamed via YouTube.

The Ely Cathedral Environment Memorial Lecture was set up in honour of The Revd Dr Jenny Gage, the Cathedral’s Social Justice Minister, who died after a short illness in September 2022.

Jenny was transformative for the Cathedral’s environment programme and goals, and it is very fitting that this lecture should be part of her enduring legacy. 

For information about the lecture, please visit Ely Cathedral website www.elycathedral.org

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Ely Cathedral Environment Lecture with Baroness Brown appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

 www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting

Press release from Visit Ely

The post Heritage Open Days 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Profits from the show are being donated to the East Anglian Air Ambulance in support of the wonderful life-saving work they do.

As one of the 60s and 70s most iconic British bands, The Hollies continue to sell out UK & European tours today. A total of over 30 chart hits, including 19 Top 20 hits, 17 of which were Top 10 and 2 No.1s makes them one of the most successful bands of their time, both in the UK, the US as part of the “British Invasion” and beyond. In addition to their world-wide No.1 hit, ‘He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother‘, there are so many other songs  – ‘Just One Look’, ‘Bus Stop’, ‘The Air That IBreathe‘ – the list goes on. Their place in music history was recognised in 2010 when they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame by the E Street Band’s Steve Van Zandt. A back catalogue and legacy like this guarantees a hit-packed evening.

The Hijacked Hollies play theatres, Holiday Park Sixties weekends, Butlin’s Sixties-themed weekends, Warner Leisure Hotels, clubs and private functions around the country from Cornwall to Carlisle.

Tickets are available here: The Maltings

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Just as many of us are finishing our day and thinking about turning in for the night, there are a range of mammals, birds and insects who are stirring and about to make the most of the darkness.

Bats experience the world in a totally different way to us, emerging from roosts after the sun goes down and making the most of the hours we are not naturally equipped to explore. Eight of the 18 UK species of bat have been recorded at Welney and by using specialist equipment during bat and barn owl evenings we can listen in on the different calls the bats are making. Bat detectors pick up the echolocation used to navigate the skies in their search of prey, and turn it into sound patterns that we can hear. The skies are at their busiest August and September as young bats have taken to the skies, females desert old nursery sites and adults to try find suitable mates before winter.  A clear evening out in the Fens means you can enjoy seeing the silhouettes of the bats flying as well as listening to their calls.

All our species of bat are insectivores, and some of their diet is many up of the thousands of species of moth found in the UK. Over 800 of the larger species of moths display a huge range of shapes, colours and sizes dispelling the myth that they are brown and boring when compared to butterflies.  By using light and scent methods to attract the moths, a range of species can be explored and marvelled at throughout the evening.  Some species do have fantastical names like the setaceous hebrew character, whist others describe what you see like the red underwing. 

Owls are the classic bird of the night, and we are fortunate in the Fens to have the beautiful barn owl as a resident species. Experiencing these ghostly forms swoop by is incredibly special and no wonder that they are one of the UK’s most popular birds.  During the summer months, any owlets that have been fed successfully are at the point of taking their first flights out across the open landscape. Whilst the sight of them is a stunning addition to the evening sky, the sound of them is less endearing as they make spooky shrieks, squeals and wheezes. 

Emma Brand, Events and Marketing Officer said:

“All nocturnal wildlife is fascinating and strange to us because these creatures use totally different ways navigating their world and finding the food they need to survive.

“These evening events are a fantastic way to start exploring for night-time wildlife with guides on hand to help point out the sights and sounds of these incredible creatures. 

“Wetlands provide resource rich areas where many species can exist together, add to that our fantastic Fenland skies with minimal light pollution and you are in for a real treat. The wider scoundscape of an evening at Welney makes the most of your senses with crickets strumming, daytime birds coming in to roost and the movement of deer or nearby cattle through the vegetation.”

There are just a few spaces remaining on the bat & barn owl evenings coming up this season.  Booking is essential through the website, £15 per adult, £7 per child. 

Dates available:

Sat 12th August, 8.30-10.30pm

Sat 16th September, 7.30-9.30pm

Find out more: wwt.org.uk/welney

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

Images credits: Bat detectors in use WWT, Pipistrelle bats in a bat box WWT, Barn owl Nick Bowman, Swallow prominent moth Kim Tarsey, Red underwing showing camouflage Kim Tarsey, Red underwing with underwing visible John Marrow. 

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 The event, hosted by East Cambridgeshire District Council will be a fun day out with a focus on wellbeing.

 The aim is to encourage visitors to take steps towards a better lifestyle in a number of areas including:

• Healthy living
• Exercise
• Mental health
• Financial wellbeing

Among the attractions on the day will be:

• Taster sessions and information on how to get involved in sports
• Free climbing wall and smoothie bikes
• Engaging with residents on safety concerns, and sharing advice on many topics including county lines and knife crime
• Cost of living advice
• Energy efficiency advice and how to access grants to insulate your home
• NHS Health Checks by Healthy You
• Free bike servicing and maintenance advice
• Information on clubs, workshops, fundraising, volunteering and careers
• Climate change and what you can do to help the environment
• ARC games, such as Jenga, Limbo and Giant Connect 4

 The event is being supported by a diverse range of organisations including East Cambridgeshire District Council, EMC bicycle repairs, Neighbourhood Watch, VCAEC (Voluntary & Community Action East Cambs) and Wood Green.

Cllr Julia Huffer, chair of the Council’s Operational Services Committee, said: “We’re out speaking to residents in East Cambridgeshire all the time and they are always keen to know what activities there are to do and where they can go to get help and advice if they need it.

 “Our Health and Well Fair is bringing these two things together. People can go along and have fun with the sports activities and events taking place on the day. But there will also be the opportunity to have more thoughtful conversations around cost of living advice, climate change, health and wellbeing and how to keep yourself safe.

 “So, whether you want to just have an enjoyable free day out with friends, or find out more about the support and services that are available – or both, it’s guaranteed there will be something for everyone on the day.”

 The event is taking place between 11am and 3pm.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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Following the success of the inaugural event in 2021, and the unexpected cancellation in 2022 due to the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Ely Cathedral’s annual Green Fair is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever.

Over 80 trade stands, exhibitors, local organisations and environment groups will be taking part in this free event on Saturday 5th August in the grounds of Ely Cathedral. 

Demonstrations will be taking place throughout the day and will include: wood turning, weaving, flower arranging and needle felting plus children’s creative workshops by Re-Imagine. 

Visitors can enjoy wandering around the many artisan craft stalls. Food will be a major feature with several local producers alongside street food traders providing a feast of delicious options including Falafel & Halloumi Wraps, New Deli Street Food, Vegan Wraps, Asian Steamed Buns, Wood Fired Pizza, Cakes, Brownies, and locally brewed beer from the Three Blind Mice Brewery.  

National and regional organisations, dedicated to supporting our local communities and the environment, will be on hand to share their knowledge and views including The Wildlife Trust, Cam Cycle, South East Cambs Badger Group, ECDC Climate Change, Therapy Dogs and the RSPB.   

Live entertainment will be provided by Littleport Brass Band, The Riot Border Morris Dancers and Spotted In Ely Radio.  

This free event, which is expected to attract thousands of visitors, takes place on Cross Green and Palace Green on Saturday 5th August from 10.00 a.m. 

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Ely Cathedral Green Fair 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Cambridgeshire’s premier brass dectet, Prime Brass, is to join 100 young American singers in Ely Cathedral on Tuesday 4th July for an Independence Day concert to celebrate the special relationship between the US and the UK. 

The concert, to include cathedral classics such as Zadok the Priest as well as American and British folk songs, will be conducted by Craig Jessop, former director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and Stan Engebretson, artistic director of America’s National Philharmonic Chorale both of them well-known figures in US music.  

This is the second big Independence Day concert in Ely Cathedral to be organised by concert promoters Music Celebrations International, who bring choirs, orchestras and bands from the USA to perform in Europe during the summer every year.  The previous concert, in 2018, commemorated 100 years since the end of World War 1. 

Prime Brass will open the concert with its own version of the overture from Rossini’s The Italian Girl in Algiers, arranged by Paul Garner.  Included in the programme will be old favourites from the UK such as Parry’s I was Glad, Stanford’s Beati Quorum and Vaughan Williams’ O Clap your Hands, as well as US favourites such as Randall Thompson’s Last Words of David and Stephen Paulus’ Pilgrim’s Hymn.    Prime Brass will also perform George Butterworth’s The Banks of Green Willow.

Crowning glory will be An Atlantic Bridge, a magnificent compilation of British and American folk songs for six soloists and choir, arranged by Mack Wilberg, director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.  His works have been performed by a host of internationally known artists, such as Renée Fleming, Frederica von Stade, Bryn Terfel, the King’s Singers, Madeleine Albright, Walter Cronkite and Claire Bloom. 

The concert will finish with Somewhere from West Side Story, and An Irish Blessing arranged by James E Moore Jr.

The singers will come from some of the US’s premier choirs, including the National Philharmonic Chorale, the Peninsula Singers and the Providence Singers.

Ely Cathedral, Tuesday 4th July 2023, 7.30pm

Premium tickets cost £15, including preferential reserved seating and a glass of wine during the interval.  Other tickets £10 (unreserved). Concessions £8 in £10 seats. 

They are available from Ely Cathedral Box Office (Tel 01353 660349),

email: box.office@elycathedral.org or online from https://www.elycathedral.org/events.

All profits will go to East Anglian Air Ambulance

Press release from Ely Sinfonia

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These interactive wellbeing events are an opportunity to find out what’s going on for young people in the district and where to go to get more information about the things that matter to them.

As well as fun activities such as a climbing wall and a bouncy castle, there will also be the chance to find out more about the clubs, organisations and support networks available for under 18s.

Among the attractions are:

• A taster session and information on how to get involved in sports
• Details of National Citizen Service, which offers a range of experiences away from home, in the local community and online
• Engaging with young people on safety concerns, and sharing advice on many topics including county lines and knife crime
• Cycle marking and free bike servicing and maintenance advice
• Information on clubs, workshops, fundraising, fostering, e-learning, volunteering and careers (Soham and Littleport events)
• How to join the East Cambridgeshire Youth Council as an ambassador
• Climate change and what you can do to help the environment
• ARC games, such as Jena and Giant Connect 4

The events are being supported by a diverse range of organisations including East Cambridgeshire District Council, Cambridgeshire Constabulary, East Cambridgeshire Community Safety Partnership, Living Sport, Woodgreen Animal Shelters and EMC bicycle repairs.

Rhianna Regan, a youth ambassador for East Cambridgeshire Youth Council, said: “We’re out speaking to young people all the time and they are always keen to know what fun activities there are to do and where they can go to get help and advice if they need it.

“These Youth Fusion days are literally “fusing” these two things together. Young people can go along and have fun with the sports activities and events taking place on the day. But there will also be the opportunity to have more thoughtful conversations around climate change, health and wellbeing and how to keep yourself safe.

“So, whether you want to just have an enjoyable free day out with friends, or find out more about the support and services that are available – or both, it’s guaranteed there will be something for everyone on the day.”

Drop in from 11am to 3pm:

Soham Rec and Scout Hut                         Wednesday 26th July 2023

Bottisham Sports Centre                            Wednesday 9th August 2023

Littleport Youth and Community Centre   Wednesday 23th August 2023

You can find out more about the Youth Fusion Days, together with lots of handy hints and tips for young people on the youth pages on East Cambridgeshire District Council’s website.

Press release East Cambridgeshire District Council

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In addition to the culinary delights, Ely Arts Festival has organised various free activities for both adults and children to participate in, adding an artistic touch to the event. This presents a wonderful opportunity for individuals of all ages to engage in creative experiences and explore their artistic interests.

The live music performances at the event will be headlined by Big Smoke Brass, Cliff Ward and Jade Rhiannon, and will include a Ceilidh by Stumpy Oak. These talented musicians are sure to provide an entertaining backdrop to the festivities, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Julia Davis, of Ely Markets, said, “We look forward to hosting the grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival at Ely Markets Foodie Friday. This will be a great occasion for the community to come together and take part in a variety of free activities, enjoy delicious food and drinks provided by local small and independent businesses and listen to fantastic live music. This event will be an unforgettable experience and a great way to start the summer.”

Moreover, attendees don’t want to miss out on a surprise live performance that will take place during the event and a chance to add their artistic touch to the community mural! With a diverse range of activities, delicious food and drinks, and captivating live music, the grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for the community.

Julia Davis, of Ely Markets, said, “We look forward to hosting the grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival at Ely Markets Foodie Friday. This will be a great occasion for the community to come together and take part in a variety of free activities, enjoy delicious food and drinks provided by local small and independent businesses and listen to fantastic live music. This event will be an unforgettable experience and a great way to start the summer.”

Ely Markets encourages visitors to take advantage of the ample free parking available within a short walk from the market. For those who prefer cycling, bicycle racks are conveniently situated around the Market Place.

To stay up to date with the full line-up and receive regular updates, individuals can follow Ely Markets on social media.

Press release from Ely Markets

The post Festival Foodie Friday at Ely Markets – Today’s the day!  appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Vaughan Williams, the English twentieth century master, stands next to Beethoven, the early romantic titan.  Between them is Bob Chilcott, one of the most prolific and celebrated choral composers of today.

What could be more different than Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Greensleeves and his Serenade to Music, the first combining two traditional English songs and the second an exquisite piece written in 1938 to celebrate Henry Wood’s jubilee as a conductor?

Beethoven’s 8th Symphony is happy, bouncy, humorous and enigmatic, poking fun at convention from its start through to its triumphant ending.   Described as “one of the shortest, weirdest, but most compelling symphonies of the 19th century” (The Guardian), it certainly fulfils Beethoven’s promise in a letter to a friend that “music ought to strike fire from the soul of a man”.  

Bob Chilcott’s gentle, prayerful Canticles of Light shows the influence of ancient plainchant, echoing Ely’s historic monastic worship.   Ely Youth Choir will add a direct link to those medieval days singing atmospheric quasi-plainsong melodies. 

Finally, Beethoven’s Choral Fantasia couldn’t be a more marked contrast to the other choral works of this concert.  We revisit the praise of music in an unashamedly ebullient fantasy for piano, chorus and orchestra.  It could be a sketch for the finale of Beethoven’s Choral (9th) Symphony preceded by a cadenza stolen from one of his piano concertos, played by virtuoso pianist Natalia Williams-Wandoch.

Tickets start at £10 and are available from Ely Cathedral Box Office (Tel 01353 660349)

email box.office@elycathedral.org or online from https://www.elycathedral.org/events.

Further information from https://www.facebook.com/events/3391168831168731.

By kind permission of the Dean and Chapter

www.elysinfonia.co.uk Registered charity 1161642

Press release from Ely Sinfonia

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The aim is to bring people together to take part in various events and activities taking place across the Fens of Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Lincolnshire, and Suffolk, to celebrate everything about the Fens.  

The celebration was created by Fascinating Fens, who believe in bringing people together to explore and promote the Fens through creativity, heritage, nature, wellbeing, and accessibility. The Fens are inspiring, beautiful, mysterious, and fascinating.  

A big thank you to everyone already getting involved by organising the many planned activities. These include nature trails, bell ringing, displays, arts and crafts, workshops, guided tours, virtual events, heritage walks, exhibitions, pop up galleries, Fen Edge Trails, and workshops. The weekend will officially launch on our Fen Folks Friday free zoom event, consisting of music, special guests, and poetry.

Organisations involved so far include Cambridgeshire Geological Society, Chatteris Little Acre Pocket Park, Crowland Abbey, Spalding Gentlemen’s Society Museum, New Life Old West (Cambs Acre), The Great Fen (The Wildlife Trust), Fenland Flag, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire Libraries, March Society, Kings Lynn Town Guides, St. Germans Pumping Station, Wisbech Community Hub at Octavia Hill, Boston Ramblers, Transported Community Arts, Boston Stump, Creative People and Places Marketplace, Whittlesey Big Bash and Discover Downham. Activities are mostly free to participate with donations very welcome and some need to be booked in advance. 

Our Fenland hero Hereward the Wake will also be visiting Ramsey, Thorney and Crowland. 

You may also wish to do your own thing in the Fens on the weekend, such as a self-guided tour, go on a picnic, go camping, be inspired to write a poem or story in the Fens, go rambling, running, cycling, or flying your Fenland Flag. Whatever you do, please use our hashtag #CelebrateTheFens on social media to share with us your adventures, videos, and photos. Our 2024 calendar competition will make a return, so please send in your photo entries. 

If you would like to stay up to date with activities and events happening on ‘Celebrate the Fens’ Day/weekend, and for more ideas, please follow our blog, or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.  More information can also be found on our website http://www.fascinatingfens.com. We would love schools and businesses to get involved too. 

Press release Fascinating Fens

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The honour was championed by the late Mike Rouse, a former Mayor and long-serving councillor, and follows a ceremony in April when the City of Ely Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant which is a pledge that those who serve, or have served in the armed forces, and their families, will be treated with fairness and respect by their community.

The day will begin at 9.30am with a specially commissioned Cry by Ely’s Town Crier, Cecilia De-Boer, followed by an opening address from the Mayor, Cllr Chris Phillips.

The Royal British Legion, Soldiers’, Sailors’, and Airmen’s Families Association (SSAFA), are among the organisations who will set up information stands and there will also be food and drink vendors. 

Breckland Brass Band will play at 2pm and at 3.30pm the Mayor will preside over the ceremony to grant the Freedom of the City to the Army and Air Cadets.

The day will end with a Drumhead Service conducted by the Rev Alan Jessop, Cambridgeshire county RBL chaplain. The service will take place on Cross Green beside Ely Cathedral – a poignant and appropriate setting because a Drumhead Service is a traditional ecumenical service conducted “in the field” during an armed conflict when regimental drums are placed on top of each other to form an altar.

City of Ely Royal British Legion branch chairman, David Martin said: “Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for everyone to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces; from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. We hope that plenty of people from the city and beyond will find time to drop by during the day.”

Press release from Ely Branch Royal British Legion

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Wilburton Beer Festival is the longest running festival of its kind in the Fen area, taking place within the beautiful natural setting of our oak tree encircled village green, overlooked by an Elizabethan Manor, on the weekend closest to the summer solstice. The committee has been working hard over the last few years to make sure that we enjoy the outdoor setting whilst being as green as we can be. Recycling and reusing wherever possible, and stopping single use plastics.

Following the success of last year, the programme will be running on Friday 23rd and Saturday the 24th of June.

We will be celebrating our shared way of life with a selection of beers and ciders from the local region, and hope you will join us again this year. The Wilburton beer festival committee has been hard at work sampling, with over 60 beers and ciders now planned for inclusion! You can expect to find all your old favourites, but also to discover some new ones.

Wilburton Beer Festival has always been an event for the whole family. Wrist bands for the kids give them unlimited play time on a range of outdoor activities. We are planning for the usual bouncy entertainment on both days – with children able to come and join the fun straight from school on the opening Friday.

The very best of local produce will be on offer, with a range of great food provided by local businesses. This year we will have Al Chile Mexican Street Food, Zapiekanki – Polish Street Food, Pizza Passione, Caipira Brazilian, Scotties Scotch Eggs, Hill Farm Ice Cream and the ever-loved Scout group BBQ and Chile! As always, the music will come from bands living in the local region.

Headline bands are already booked with The Casuals headlining on Friday night and Blue Thunder, Sabertooth Timmy and Max Headroom filling the dancefloor on Saturday.

It’s going to be another party to remember, with all profits going to great causes. We hope to see you there!

Press release from Wilburton Beer Festival

The post Wilburton Beer Festival is back for its 23rd year in 2023! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Bouncy castles, face painting and a performance by the Ely Hero Award-winning Lane Academy are all on the agenda, as well as numerous games and stalls – including the chance to soak Lantern School headteacher Anthony Aguda with a wet sponge while he stands in the stocks!

The fair on June 24th is free to enter and activities have been kept as cheap as possible to accommodate all members of the community, Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) chair and mother-of-six Meredith Hux Atkins said.

“We know times are tough – so we wanted to ensure no one missed out. Many of the activities will set you back just 50p to £1. We want to raise money for our wonderful school while keeping things affordable for our community.”

For the first time, the fair is offering a tantalising array of external food vendors, with Cambridge Samosa Company, Pig-Cassos, Pimp My Fish and Tipsy Trotter Gin ‘n’ Fizz Bar confirmed – as well as a refreshments stall run by event hosts FOTLS.

People will be able to take part in a tombola and a super summer raffle, with prizes including a Nintendo Switch, vouchers for Horsley Hale Farm Glamping, Church Farm, Treetops, South Angle Farm Park, Barracuda Activity Day Camp, The Hive, Grain Culture and Cineworld, as well as numerous toys, gifts and handmade items.

Mother-of-three Fiona Williams, who organised the raffle, said: “Our local businesses, artists and makers have been incredibly generous. We are very grateful for their support in donating such wonderful prizes, especially in such tough times. Every penny we raise from this fair goes directly to the school – so we really appreciate it.”

Those attending the fair will be able to look inside a fire engine, and for the first time, a tractor from G’s will be on site for young and old to enjoy.

This is the first Lantern Summer Fair since 2019.

Meredith said: “Many of the younger kids at the school have never been to one of our fairs. It’s so lovely to be able to put events back on again – not just for our kids but for the whole community. This is traditionally our biggest fundraiser of the year, so please do come along and support it.”

FOTLS would like to thank Tesco in Ely for providing some of the refreshments and Pocock and Shaw for sponsoring our advertising billboards.

The Lantern Summer Fair runs from 12pm to 3pm on June 24th at the Lantern School, Nene Road, Ely.

For more information see www.facebook.com/events/217736164329638 

You can buy raffle tickets at https://friends-of-the-lantern-school.sumupstore.com

Press release from FOLTS 

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Whether you want to dress up as an archaeologist and take a selfie, handle some real artefacts that archaeologists have dug up, or meet archaeologists and learn about all the different jobs they do – there is lots to try at our Family Fun Day!

Elie Hughes, Curator at Ely Museum says;

“We hope lots of families will come along to what promises to be a fun and interactive event – there will be something for everyone to enjoy! Archaeology is not just digging, so please come along and find out more. I would have loved an event like this when I was a teenager ”

Discover how archaeologists find out about the environment in the past and how they record what they find on a dig.

If you are a Brownie, why not come along and work towards your Archaeology badge too?

Join us on the day between 10:30am and 4pm, just drop in.

All activities are included with museum admission ticket or annual pass.

The event is supported by Oxford Archaeology. 

Press release from Ely Museum

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The four artists who make up the Fierce Tales Collective have created a show that explores the female experience within the fenland landscape. The group covers multiple artistic disciplines including traditional oil painting, printmaking, mixed media and expressive intuitive painting. Each artist has a story to tell of art, faith, growth intertwined with their sense of mortality, all of which weave beautifully back into the seasons, whether personal or within nature herself.

Lizzie Ault @talesfromthefen

Explores female folk narratives and histories within the fenland landscape with her intricate, illustrative lino cuts, drypoint etchings and collages. From swan maidens to pagan goddesses she has painstakingly researched the folklore of the region and found stories that reflect the feminine experience and a connection with the natural world that has long been lost.

Kristin VG Bailey @notestotreasure

Using mixed media, Kristin explores faith using colour through meditative intuitive painting. Not shy of colour, the layers of paint and mark making combine to collate expressive vibrant abstract paintings. Celebrating the founding of the city of Ely, her stylised, iconastasis interpretation of Etheldreda entitled St Audrey, cradling a pink cathedra, reminds us that this city is founded on the faith of a woman. While alongside this she seeks to connect back to our locality through landscape, using bold marks and colour which is synonymous throughout her work.

Laura Pearson-Clark @artintheburrow

Observes and exaggerates the decorative patterns and bold colours found in the details of nature to create unique mixed media compositions. There’s a distinct fusion of different cultural influences seen within her work from previous travels overseas and a playful conversation between Art and Science. Nature intertwining with the recurring theme of motherhood alongside her own creative narrative does not go unnoticed.

Ella Wolfnoth @ellawolfnoth

Works in oil paint on panel, primed with traditionally made gesso. Paintings are inspired by cthe fragility and beauty of nature, weaving stories and tales into her work, with painted words, and symbolic meanings from dark fairy tales. Working in veil like layers building up the transitions of paint, from grisaille to final colour layers.

The artists have all produced individual bodies of evocative, intricate and beautiful work which on one level are deeply personal but also resonate universally. The show promises to give a unique view of life in East Anglia exploring history, nature, folklore, magic and the feminine. It is certainly one not to be missed.

Fierce Tales, Group exhibition, Wednesday 7th – Sunday 25th June (closed Mondays)

Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU,

T: 01353 616991

Website: www.babylonarts.org.uk,

FREE ENTRY, Accompanying free events as part of the Ely Arts Festival, www.elyartsfestival,org for full listings.

Press release from Babylon Arts

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We’re delighted to present the Ely Arts Festival 2023! We have a jam packed couple of weeks with lots of exciting events to enjoy for all the community! There’s lots of free events including 2 of our highlights with our family day full of activities and music at Jubilee Jamboree on Saturday 24th June and our big finale in collaboration with Ely Markets on Friday 30th June. Come and take part in a ceramics workshop (with a beer in hand!) at Drayman’s Sons or paint our community mural sponsored by Spotted in Ely which is popping up at various points during the festival. We’d love to see you! 

There’s also a chance to enjoy professional theatre with a performance of Robin Hood in the beautiful Bishops Garden and performances in Sessions House, Ely’s hidden gem of a venue! Family theatre will also take place in Haddenham and Ely College with a production based on Roald Dahl’s books

There are 11 participatory events to choose from this year! We have a special Father’s Day event with a Samba drumming Workshop, two professional theatre shows and, of course, our Jubilee Jamboree Free Family Day is back by popular demand. It will even feature TWO performance spaces this year! Did we mention over half our events are FREE?

The festival simply would not be possible without the generosity of all our sponsors and we’re extremely grateful for their ongoing support. 

After the success of our community concert last year, we’ll be delivering singing and art workshops to over 400 school children culminating in our Space themed concert in Ely Cathedral to open the festival with a bang including an eclectic mix of music by David Bowie, Elton John, Gustav Holst and John Williams. 

Press release from Ely Arts Festival

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On the day itself the sound of the bells will be heard at 10am for an hour before the start of the Coronation ceremony and again as dusk falls over the city, following the lighting of Ely’s Beacon. Festivities begin on St Mary’s Green at 7pm and will feature Sing! Choirs and the City of Ely Military Band before the beacon is lit at 8.30pm.

This year also marks 1,350 years since St Etheldreda first established a monastery in Ely and an even more ambitious peal of 1,350 changes will be rung on Bank Holiday Monday 1st May to mark the anniversary.

The bells of St James’ Church, Stretham, will also be rung on Coronation day and on Bank Holiday Monday, 8th May, the Stretham ringers will lead a tour by local ringers to Ring for the King at four churches in the Ely diocese whose bells are without a regular band of ringers.

St Mary’s is extending a warm welcome to those who would like to watch the Coronation on big screens in the church, which will be open from 10.00 am. Tea and coffee will be available, and those who wish to do so are welcome to bring a packed lunch. There will be a Community Celebration in the afternoon with tea and cakes served in the church gardens from 2.30-4.30pm.

Press release from St Mary’s Church, Ely

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As one of the most iconic, and largest buildings in East Anglia, Ely Cathedral will be leading the way in celebrations over the Coronation weekend with a live screening of the event. 

On Saturday 6th May, BBC coverage of the event will be broadcast live from a large-scale screen inside the Cathedral. Entry to the Cathedral and Stained Glass Museum will be free all day on Saturday with free drinks for everyone coming to participate in the celebrations.  The live screening and refreshments have been made possible thanks in part to funding from the Combined Authority via a grant from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), to provide an opportunity for communities across East Cambridgeshire to come together on this historic occasion.

Ely’s famous Octagon Tower will be lit red, white & blue and parts of the Cathedral will be decorated with  bunting. A magnificent, 1.2m diameter flower arrangement of the Coronation emblem, will be on display over the weekend as a special floral tribute to the new King and Queen.  For those wanting to celebrate further, tickets can be booked to attend a Coronation Tea Party which will be taking place in the Cathedral’s beautiful medieval Lady Chapel, directly following the live broadcast, 

In addition to a special evensong on Friday 5th May, there is a Service of Thanksgiving for the Coronation on Sunday 7th May at 4.30pm. Everyone is invited to attend this celebratory service with the Cathedral choir singing the National Anthem, alongside other famous pieces of music associated with Coronations including Handel’s Zadok The Priest and Parry’s, I was glad. 

The Very Revd Mark Bonney, Dean of Ely said “ Everyone is warmly invited to join with us as we celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. This is a historic moment for our nation and we pray for God’s blessing on them both. We look forward to seeing you at the live-streaming of the Coronation itself on a big screen in the Cathedral and be part of a joyful community celebration. There are also other services and events over the weekend – Everyone is very welcome and we would love to see you.”

For further information about the weekend, including details of free entry, services or to book tickets for the Coronation Tea Party, please visit www.elycathedral.org

Press release from Ely Cathedral

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A relaxed afternoon with tea and cakes. A mixture of easy listening tunes from Leroy Andersons’s Belle of the Ball to ELO’s Mr. Blue Sky.

Still tickets available from Burrows Newsagents, by ringing 01353 721782 or by contacting Secretary@elyband.co.uk

Not been before? Come and find us!

From The City of Ely Military Band

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Featuring some of the most delicious food vendors from across the region, there will be something for everyone at Foodie Friday with a fantastic food and drink line-up alongside live music from local artists from 4pm-8:30pm.

Julia Davis, of Ely Markets, said: “We are very excited about the return of Foodie Friday this year, it is a great place to meet with friends and family whilst trying out all the fantastic independent food traders that will be on offer.”

Foodie Friday has an eclectic menu of flavours to try, with everything from meat, veggie or sweet waffles from Waffle + Co, salt beef beigls and savoury momos to authentic Spanish paella from Azahar Foods and vegan choices from Samu Kitchen. There’s also fresh wood fired Pizza and luscious cakes and puddings, all accompanied by a tipple of choice from one of the many drink vendors available onsite.

Following the launch event, the next ‘Foodie Friday’ is scheduled for April 28th.

For the full line-up and regular updates, follow Ely Markets on social media or check out the website at www.elymarkets.co.uk

Press release from Ely Markets

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This year is special for two reasons. For the first time since before the pandemic, the Food, Drink and Craft Fayre is returning to being a two-day event, meaning that for three whole days Ely is celebrating!  The invaluable City of Ely Estates team are at the ready to hang the bunting and our shops have been briefed to decorate their windows with all things regal!

Not only are we celebrating Eels but also the Coronation of King Charles III by theming the entire weekend around this historic moment. Even the Eel will have a crown as it parades down Ely High Street!

Ely’s Coronation Eel Day will take place on Saturday 29th April beginning with the Eel Parade which will depart from Cross Green at 10.30am, the parade will wiggle its way down Forehill, via the Riverside before arriving at Jubilee Gardens for 11am to begin the festivities.

Once the parade arrives, it’s participants will be greeted by a wonderful range of food and drink sellers, crafters, community groups and more! There is also a full programme of entertainment in our Eel Arena too, right though until 4pm.

Once Saturday’s excitement finishes, it’s time to look to the Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. The incredible range of sights and smells, tastes and experiences await you.  The Coronation Food, Drink and Craft Fayre will take place on Palace Green and St Mary’s Green.  With over 70 traders offering a huge range of street food, artisan produce and incredible craft, the excitement to see this event return to its traditional two-day nature is truly lifting. 

Our final event to round off the Coronation is the Beacon Lighting which takes place on St. Mary’s Green May 6th from 7pm. We are working with St Mary’s Church we can mark this historical moment.

Anna Bennett, Tourism and Town Centre Manager, said “We are thrilled to bring the Eel Festival weekend back to its much-loved three-day format. It’s been an incredible journey bringing this much-loved event back to its full form. With musical entertainment over all three days, wonderful street food, remarkable traders and that fabulous atmosphere that has made these events such a big part of the Ely calendar, this promises to be a jewel in the crown of the year!”

Anna further commented ‘We would also like to thank all our sponsors for supporting these community events, without them the events, and the support of the City of Ely Council, these memorable occasions would not go ahead’  

Our sponsors for 2023 are Urban Fresh Ely, The Cutter Inn, Riverside Bar and Kitchen, Grovemere Property, Lovewell Blake and Warren Access.

Ely’s Coronation Eel Day takes place on Saturday 29th April 2023 from 11am until 5pm on Jubilee Gardens

Followed by Ely’s Coronation Food, Drink and Craft Fayre taking place on Palace Green and St Mary’s Green from 10.30am until 5,30pm on April 30th and May 1st 2023.

Further information is available at www.visitely.org.uk and our social media channels.

Press release from Visit Ely

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We are very fortunate to have the London Welsh Male Voice Choir, which was recently seen entertaining the crowd at the start of the Welsh Six Nations match. They will be joined by Waterbeach Brass Band, which has an excellent reputation among the brass band fraternity.

This concert is taking place in the magnificent setting of our Cathedral here in Ely to raise money for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. Tickets can be obtained through the Ely Cathedral Events website.

From Ely Rotary Club

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From 9am until 1pm in the main arena is the renowned heavy horse show.

The parade of floats commences from 1.00pm from Holmes lane in Soham, travelling through the town then onto the recreation ground for Judging.

Confirmed as the main event, from 2.45 pm is Dangerous Steve. It’s a non-stop, thrill-a-minute with Dangerous Steve’s Fire and Chainsaw Juggling, Giant Unicycle, Ladder Balancing and Blindfold Motorcycle Riding in a hilarious and dynamic act full of sensational stunts. Audience participation, knockout comedy, crazy balancing and a thrilling fire-juggling finale.

On the Skatepark Stan Hickish from RASE, and friends, will be demonstrating their Skateboard and Scooter skills from 12.30-4.30. They will be holding workshops at certain times of the day, so bring your skateboard along if you want to have a go, you must get a consent form signed by a parent if you are under 16.

Performing on the music stage are The Offbeats bringing their upbeat sound of Ska, reggae and soul, The Anecdotes, Freefall band, Stevie, Tzarina, The RBL band competition winner, and DJ Greedy G.

On the small arena are Vouge Athletics, Kuk Sool Won will be demonstrating their skills. KD theatre school will be offering free workshops through out the afternoon, teaching singing and performance skills. Soham Comrades band will be playing outside the Pavilion from 11.00am – 12.30pm

Other attractions include: Townsperson of the year, King and Queen Consort and Prince and Princess winners, Bar, Stalls, funfair, Raptor foundation, inflatables, bygones, Food and trade stalls, local organisations, BBQ, ACF Marching band plus much, much more.

ALL STALLS are now sold out but there is still time to ENTER A PARADE FLOAT- Whether you are a School, Pub, Club, Band or an Organisation, get involved and enter a float at this year’s carnival. There is prize money to be won!

VOTE FOR THE SOHAM TOWNSPERSON OF THE YEAR: please look out for the boxes that will be displayed in local shops and fill out the form to vote. You can also send us a message on Facebook or email with the person you think should win and what they do for the community of Soham.

Our main beneficiary this year is Soham and Ely Food bank- All other money raised is distributed to local charities , organisations, schools and clubs. 

NO DOGS are allowed on the recreation ground except assistance dogs and disabled parking only.

Admission: Adults £3.50, Concessions £2.50, Children £0.50p

EVENT SCHEDULE 2023

Main Arena:
9.00-1.00 – Heavy Horse Show
1.45-2.30 – Judging of Parade Floats & Prize Presentation
2.30-3.15 – Dangerous Steve
3.15-3.45 – ACF Marching Band
3.45-4.30 – Dangerous Steve

Skate Park:
12.30-4.00 – Performances, Workshops & Competition

Small Arena:
2.30-4.30 – Vogue Athletics & Kuk Sool Won

Outside Pavillion:
10.00-11.00 – Free Yoga with Natasha Goldson – On the lawn on Pavillion Way
11.00-12.30 – Soham Comrades Band
12.00-4.00 – KD Theatre Productions – Have a go at Performance Art

Music Stage:
12.45-1.00 – Stevie
1.00-2.00 – Freefall
2.00-2.15 – Stevie
2.15-3.15 – The Anecdotes
3.15-3.30 – Tzarina
3.30-3.45 – Stevie
3.45-4.45 – The Off Beats
4.45-End – DJ Greedy G

For more information: sohamcarnival.org or facebook.com/sohamcarnival

email: carnival@soham.org.uk

Press release from Soham Benevolent association

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The evening event is being hosted by Community Safety Partnership (CSP) – which is made up of local councils, police, fire, NHS and other local organisations – on Monday 13 March.

Residents who apply for a free ticket, on a first come first served basis, will also be given the opportunity to submit questions in advance about the Community Safety Partnership to Cambridgeshire Police Chief Inspector, Paul Rogerson.

The event will feature a number of presentations to share what organisations are doing to help keep the public safe and support wellbeing.

They include a presentation on SisterSafe, which offers free self-defence classes for women and a talk on drink spiking from the Stamp Out Spiking Campaign.

Harriet Sugg, Community Safety Support and Anti-Social Behaviour Officer for the CSP and Lizzie Wales, the County Council’s Youth and Community Co-ordinator for East Cambs will give a presentation on the CSPs ever popular court experience days for students.

Talks will also be given by Sergeant Mat Lupton-Pike from East Cambs neighbourhood policing team and Frances West, substance misuse coach from Ely Primary Care.

The following organisations will also have stalls at the event:

• ECDC Community Safety Partnership
• Federation of Small businesses
• Sanctuary Housing
• Think Communities
• SisterSafe
• Police – Hate Crime Awareness
• Neighbourhood Watch
• Burwell Parish Council – Burwell Safety Campaign
• Housing and Community Advice
• Ormiston Families
• Frances West – Drugs/alcohol
• VCAEC (Voluntary and Community Action for East Cambs)

Lis Every who chairs the Community Safety Partnership and is an East Cambridgeshire District Councillor, said: “This is the first time we have brought so many organisations involved in community safety together literally under one roof. It will be a fantastic opportunity to find out more about what each individual organisation does and to share new ideas. We are also very grateful to Chief Inspector Paul Rogerson who is adding his support to the evening and I would encourage anyone who has a question about the Community Safety Partnership to submit it online in advance.”

The event is on Monday 13th March from 6:30pm to 9pm, in the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral. Free tickets are available on a first come first served basis and can be booked via Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/east-cambridgeshire-community-safety-partnership-showcase-event-tickets-514810300467

Questions can be submitted to Chief Inspector Paul Rogerson in advance here: “Ask the Community Safety Partnership” (office.com

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“We are very fortunate that we have a dedicated band of ringers and in the last few months we’ve attracted some new recruits, and we are even hoping the 11-year-old son of one of our team will eventually join us,” said John Mitchell, St Mary’s tower secretary.

“We are always keen to welcome anyone who would like to learn to ring and I hope ‘Ring for the King’ will prompt more interest. ”

After the frustrations of lockdown and social distancing, last year was one of highs and lows for St Mary’s ringers. Although the church was closed while builders transformed the interior, they were able to access the bell tower to mark the 70th anniversary of HM Queen Elizabeth’s Accession and the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June.

“Little did we know that, in September, we would be ringing our eight bells muffled when the Queen died,” said Simon Smith, tower captain.

As well as the Coronation on 6th May, this year marks 1,350 years since St Etheldreda first established a monastery in Ely and the Cathedral is staging a programme of special events and St Mary’s ringers also plan to  celebrate the anniversary.

Simon and John are keeping plans under wraps for the time being, but 50 years ago two  peals of 5,040 changes were rung as part of Ely’s thirteenth centenary celebrations.

A magnificent gilded board on the bell tower records the names of those who rang on St Etheldreda’s Day on 17th October 1973 and the second to mark HM Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Ely on 23rd November. 

• St Mary’s bell ringers practise on Friday evenings. Anyone interested to learn more can contact: ringers@stmarysely.org

Captions: 

Press release from St Mary’s Bell Ringers

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This half term the bird hides have become hideouts with activities available to take part in and the enthusiastic team at Welney on hand to help you discover the joy of birdwatching.  All the family can enjoy spotting birds from hides and viewpoints, taking inspiration from birds and getting creative as well as having fun making things to look after your birds at home.  Experts on wetland nature will be on hand to help you discover many of the birds that flock to the centre from around the world in the colder months.

Families will be able to borrow binoculars and telescopes to see wildlife up close from the comfort of a bird hide from Sat 11th – Sun 19th February. Families with young children can collect an explorer backpack complete with binoculars, winter birds spotter sheet and id chart to introduce the hobby of birdwatching.  Parents, adults and older children can collect a winter bird spotter sheet which has more detail on the species, and hire binoculars from the gift shop.

As well as The Big Hideout there’s lots of other wild and wonderful activities for the whole family to discover this winter such as our at the commentated feeds – lookout for swans and diving ducks – trails to find out more about winter wildlife, relax to the soothing sights of flocks of waders and the opportunity to warm up with a hot drink.

Commentated swan feeds are at 12noon and 3.30pm daily with additional 6.30pm floodlit feeds on Saturdays and Sundays.  The Big Hideout activities are available everyday of half term with some special activities taking place on specific days. 

These are:

• Mon 13th Feb – Truck tours at 11am and 2pm
• Tues 14th Feb – Paint a bird box at 10.30am and 1.30pm
• Wed 15th Feb – Be part of the weekly bird log with the reserve team
• Sat 18th Feb – Storytelling and book signing by Rachel Lawston, author of Mia Makes a Meadow and Finn’s Garden Friends

Emma Brand at WWT Welney said, ‘Welney is the perfect place to discover incredible winter wetland wildlife and it’s amazing what you can see when you hide in the right place. We’ve turned our bird hides into Hideouts for February half term to welcome families and help them experience the joy of bird watching, get away from screens and soak up the wild this winter. Take a peek at birdlife like you’re never seen it and enjoy the awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of winter birds or have fun in our pond room with creative ways to share your love of birds with building bird feeders, planting sunflowers and more. Whatever you choose to do, it’s a great way to discover something new, have fun and make memories.’

Families can share their adventures by using #WWTBigHideOut to show off their best photos and experiences. To find out more about what’s happening at WWT Welney this February half term visit https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney/whats-on/the-big-hideout-3

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

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Countless resolutions are made to kick off each new year, as we promise ourselves we’ll learn or try something new. At Ely Museum this spring, there are lots of opportunities to do just that!

With a programme of evening talks and craft workshops, ideal for beginners and for those with more experience under their belts alike, there is lots to enjoy.

Inspired by the museum’s newest temporary exhibition “Burial of a Princes? Treasures from a Saxon Cemetery in Ely” join us for three expert talks this spring. From finding out more about what we can learn from skeletons, the of role women and their use of botanics to hearing from an archaeologist who worked on the excavation this exhibition is based on.

Taking place in the museum’s beautiful Aedwen Room, these evening talks will be the perfect opportunity to find out more about Ely’s Saxon past, especially in this anniversary year as we commemorate the 1350th anniversary of Etheldreda founding the religious house in Ely, that later became Ely Cathedral.

Also this spring, enjoy three hands on, practical workshops exploring three traditional crafts: willow weaving, calligraphy and Coptic book binding. Each workshop is taught in a small group, and suitable for all skill levels. Leave each workshop with your new creation, or skill in tow and enjoy
ticking off ‘tried something new’ from your resolution list!

Emily Allen, Community Engagement Officer at Ely Museum says; “We’re really excited to be bringing this programme of talks and workshops to Ely this spring! With some really interesting talks lined up, given by fantastic speakers, plus some brilliant hands-on workshops where you’ll be able to make something to be really proud of, there’s lots of fun to be had.”

Tickets are already selling fast, so do book online early to avoid disappointment at
www.elymuseum.org.uk/whatson, our first workshop is on the 11th February, where you can enjoy making a willow birdfeeder at this half-day workshop.

Dates for the diary:

11th February 2023 – Half Day Willow Birdfeeder Workshop.

11th March 2023 – Full Day Modern Calligraphy Workshop

13th March 2023 – Botanical Women: An Evening Talk by Katie Childs

11th April 2023 – Bringing Skeletons Out Of The Closet, What We Can Learn About Life From
Death: An Evening Talk by Dr Trish Biers

8th May 2023 – Burial of a Princess? Excavations at Westfield, Ely: An Evening Talk by Dr Sam Lucy

17th June 2023 – Full Day Coptic Book Binding Workshop

Press release from Ely Museum

Photo credit: Ely Museum

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Over 13 centuries ago in the south-west corner of Ely, a young woman was buried. Who was she,  and was she a princess? 

It wasn’t until, on a cold winter’s day in 2006, the grave was discovered, adorned with beautiful  treasures. 

Archaeologists discovered an inhumation cemetery from the Anglo-Saxon period, located between the A10 bypass and Witchford Road, to the south-west of Ely city centre. 

One of the graves contained the skeleton of a young female, buried with gold, silver and other precious items. Could she have been a Princess? 

This exciting discovery was made by the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, who had been brought in by Taylor Woodrow Developments Ltd to excavate the site in Ely, in advance of a housing  development. Following the excavation, the finds were cleaned, recorded and conserved and archaeologists published a report on the site, exploring its significance. Later this spring, Ely Museum will host a talk by Dr Sam Lucy who played a key part in the publication of these reports. 

The site has been dated to the late seventh century, which brings it intriguingly close to 673AD, the date when Etheldreda founded the religious house in Ely, that later became Ely Cathedral.

Elie Hughes, Curator at Ely Museum said,“Ely Museum is excited to now be able to display the grave goods from the two female burials for  the first time. The exhibition will showcase the stunning objects and explore what they can tell us about who these people were and how they may have related to Etheldreda.” 

The exhibition runs from 21st January – 18th June 2023 and admission is included with a museum ticket or annual pass. Alongside the exhibition, there will be a series of talks and events for the whole family to enjoy. 

Press release from Ely Museum

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When 2022 started we were all still navigating our way around and through the pandemic, unsure of what was in store and so hopeful that we could resume socialising, meeting with friends and helping others.  

Litter picks, tree planting, craft-bombing, friendship bouquets, coffee mornings, diners club, afternoon teas, guest speakers, craft workshops…. Just a few of the different things we have all enjoyed.  Not to mention our usual monthly meetings of course!

The year certainly went from strength to strength, thanks to our members and quite rightly has been nicknamed “2022:  A lot to do!”.

Coining the phrase “2023: Who’s with me?!” allows us to fulfil our plans for some exciting events and projects for everyone to enjoy in the coming year.  We are very aware of the economic restraints that many of us may have which is why we aim to plan affordable activities.

With lots already planned for our upcoming pogramme including voting for new resolutions and initiatives to support, celebrating the King’s coronation and having a go at some exciting craft activities; there’s no time to look back.  Only forward!

If you are new to the area or would just like to get out and meet new people, then we would love to meet you.  However you would like to get involved with Ely City WI we’d be happy to tell you more.

Our next meeting is on Monday 9th January 7.15pm at The Old Dispensary, St Mary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4ER.  There’ll be a Quiz, a bring and share Buffet, raffle, book blind date and unwanted gifts bring and buy table.  What’s not to love?!  Why not start off in 2023 by meeting new people and having some fun?

You can visit our website: https://wielycity.wixsite.com/home or find us on Facebook and Instagram (just search Ely City WI).  You can also email us at elycitywi@yahoo.com

Press release from Ely City WI

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