The Knife Angel, made from over 100,000 seized blades, was created by the British Ironwork Centre to highlight the negative effects of violent behaviour and the need for change.

Councillor Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We hope the Knife Angel’s presence will spark conversations of knife crime and the devasting consequences on individuals, families and communities.

“The East Cambs Community Safety Partnership brings together partners to protect the local community from crime. Their work with schools in our district to raise awareness of knife crime and the implications is much respected and is replicated in other areas.

“The arrival of the Knife Angel during Knife Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity for a powerful message, highlighting the work happening every day to keep our young people safe. Impactful interventions from the CSP, police, youth professionals, parents, carers and communities can come together to create real change in young lives.”

Throughout the sculpture’s stay there is a heavy emphasis on education, with the East Cambs CSP working with local schools to facilitate visits, workshops and programmes supporting prevention and early intervention.

Lis Every, Chair of the East Cambs CSP said: “The students will gain a great deal from participating in these sessions and I know the CSP will continue to build upon their strong foundation with the heightened awareness of the Knife Angel.

“We are grateful that knife crime in Cambridgeshire is low compared to the national level, however, no one should underestimate the impact it has.”

The stunning sculpture will be located on Palace Green, opposite Ely Cathedral, from 20 May until 17 June. Fully accessible to the public throughout its stay, the sculpture is free to attend, seven days a week.

Anna added: “The sculpture has been on tour since 2018 and we are extremely proud to be the host for its first visit to Cambridgeshire; we would encourage everyone to visit while it is here and use this as a catalyst to start those difficult but essential conversations.”

The visit coincides with a knife amnesty, with the police encouraging people to surrender weapons safely, helping to prevent further harm.

Visitors attending the Knife Angel can find information for parking and toilets on the council’s website: https://eastcambs.gov.uk/services/parking-open-spaces-and-toilets/parking-travel-and-tourism

The post Knife Angel Sharpens Focus on Knife Crime in Ely appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

County to welcome “powerful” knife monument

Cambridgeshire is set to host a 27-foot-tall monument created to raise awareness of knife crime and its devastating impact on individuals, families and communities.

The nationally recognised Knife Angel will be at Palace Green, in Ely, opposite the Ely Cathedral from 20 May to 17 June.

It will be free to attend, open seven days a week and accessible to the public throughout its stay.

The opening ceremony on 20 May will see speakers including High Sheriff Frances Burkitt, Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston, Chief Constable Simon Megicks, Chief Fire Officer Matthew Warren and knife crime campaigner and spoken word artist Quinton Green.

The Knife Angel was created by sculptor Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre. It has been crafted from more than 100,000 knives and blades confiscated by police forces across the UK and serves as a powerful symbol of the human cost of knife crime and violence.

This will be the sculpture’s first visit to Cambridgeshire, which will coincide with a knife amnesty, encouraging people to safely surrender weapons and helping to prevent further harm.

Throughout the Knife Angel’s stay, there will be a strong focus on education and engagement, particularly with young people. Secondary school visits are scheduled for 2, 9 and 16 June, with workshops and programmes taking place on those days to support prevention and early intervention.

The project is being delivered by Soham Town Rangers Football Club in collaboration with partners including the Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Cambridgeshire County Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council and Ely Cathedral.

National Lottery funding has largely covered the costs of the Knife Angel and local businesses have also contributed, with recovery firm, Manchetts, transporting the Angel and local community group, Men’s Shed in Soham, making the picket fence which will surround it.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: “I welcome the Knife Angel to Cambridgeshire. Its message of anti-violence is clear and moving. Whilst we may not have the scale of knife crime that is seen in some parts of the country, sadly Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are not immune to these issues. Hosting the Knife Angel will illustrate to communities, in Ely and across the wider county, the devastating effect of knife crime. It’s also an opportunity to engage our communities, particularly young people, to make them more aware of the risks and consequences of knife carrying. I will continue to work with partners to support their efforts to prevent serious violence.”

Superintendent Paul Rogerson said: “Knife crime is thankfully low in Cambridgeshire in comparison with national levels. However, every single incident leaves lasting harm on individuals, families and communities and the Knife Angel is a powerful reminder of the real human cost behind every blade. By bringing the sculpture to Cambridgeshire, alongside a knife amnesty, we want to encourage people to think twice, surrender weapons safely and have honest conversations about how we prevent violence before it happens.”

The project will also support East Anglian Air Ambulance, who will be holding a range of activities throughout the Knife Angel’s stay in Ely. These will include delivering CPR and defibrillator training, as well as holding collections and opportunities for the community to learn more about the charity’s lifesaving work.

Tammy Swiderski, Community Fundraising Lead at East Anglian Air Ambulance, said: “We are honoured to have been chosen as the benefiting charity for the Knife Angel’s visit to Ely. The installation is a powerful reminder of the impact of serious violence and the role we all play in preventing it. As a charity, we bring the hospital to the patient’s side in the fastest time possible for the most seriously ill and injured people in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, so this message deeply resonates with our crews. With no regular government funding, every mission is made possible by public support and working with local partners on events like this helps raise awareness of the importance of keeping this lifesaving service flying.”

The Knife Angel’s visit aims to spark conversations, educate communities about the consequences of carrying knives, and reinforce the message that violence can be prevented through collective action.

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Shaped by public feedback, this year’s festival will feature a range of new additions alongside the much loved atmosphere that has helped make it one of the village’s best loved annual events.

Visitors can look forward to more choice, more fun and more festival in 2026, including a bigger drinks offering, a broader food line up, more for children and teenagers, a skate park takeover, live music all weekend and a few more surprises.

Alongside the usual selection of beer, cider, gin, prosecco and Pimms, this year’s event will also introduce a keg bar, lagers, wine, long vodka drinks and cocktails.

The food offering is being expanded too, with a wider range of vendors aimed at reducing queues and offering more choice, including more gluten free and vegetarian options.

Younger visitors are set to benefit from more affordable children’s activities and a range of free attractions, including an art competition, treasure hunt, graffiti workshop and the popular Connections Bus, packed with board games, games consoles, crafts and more.

New for 2026 is a skate park takeover across the weekend, complete with a coach on hand to help festivalgoers learn new tricks or show off existing ones. Scooters and skateboards will both be welcome.

Live music will once again be a major part of the weekend, with a strong line up of bands, acts and musicians booked across the festival.

Pete Hawkins, on behalf of the Haddenham Beer Festival committee, said:

“Haddenham Beer Festival has always been about bringing people together for a fantastic weekend while raising money for local good causes. This year we’ve listened carefully to feedback and are building on everything people already love about the event. There will be more choice, more for families, more entertainment and the same brilliant community spirit that makes the festival so special.”

The festival has now raised more than £100,000 for local good causes, with more than £10,000 typically raised each year. Organisers say that success would not have been possible without the support of sponsors, volunteers and the wider local community.

This year’s key sponsors are David Clarke, Team Sprayers, Haddenham Lawn Care, Sid Bibby, CD Hood, Oakes & Watson and Masters. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event are encouraged to email Shelley at info@haddenham.beer.

Local charities and good causes hoping to receive a donation from Haddenham Beer Festival this year are invited to email Nick at info@haddenham.beer by 28 June 2026. Early applications are encouraged.

The committee is also calling for more volunteers to help make the weekend possible. Volunteers are needed behind the bar, on the BBQ, and to help with setup on Thursday 25 June and take-down on Monday 29 June. Anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to email Suzie at info@haddenham.beer

Stall bookings are also now open for local businesses, charities and community groups wanting to showcase what they do to thousands of people across the weekend. Pitches cost £15 per day, with free pitches available for local charities and good causes. Anyone interested in booking a stall should email Alison at info@haddenham.beer

Further announcements about Haddenham Beer Festival 2026 will be made over the coming weeks.

The post Haddenham Beer Festival Returns This June With More Choice More Fun More Festival appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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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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

The post Ely Sinfonia Shines at Ely Cathedral with an Inspiring Concert of English Music appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

On Thursday 25 September 2025, members of the Rotary Club of Ely gathered at Ely Bowls Club to hear an insightful talk from Sharon Kindleysides, Trustee of the Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum.

An engineer by profession, Sharon works in Intelligent Transport Systems and shared a fascinating look into the story behind the drainage of the Fens — from its early beginnings to the technological developments that transformed the landscape we know today.

Dating back to the reign of Henry VIII, the monasteries once provided the manpower needed to keep rivers clear. Following their dissolution, drainage became an ongoing challenge. It wasn’t until the 17th century, when Dutch engineer Cornelius Vermuyden introduced innovative land reclamation techniques, that major progress was made. His work included straightening rivers and creating new channels and washes such as the Bedford Level, dramatically improving water flow.

The introduction of steam power in 1831 led to the first pumping station at Prickwillow, fuelled by coal brought up the river from King’s Lynn — a journey that took an entire day to reach full steam pressure. Diesel engines arrived in 1924, followed by electricity in 1958, which remained in use until 1982.

Today, the Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum continues to preserve and celebrate this important part of local history. The museum has expanded over the years and now houses a wide collection of historic engines. To raise funds for its future, the museum hosts a range of popular community events, including engine birthdays, Science Day, tractor runs, classic car shows and educational visits for schools.

Although the museum closes during winter due to heating costs, it reopens at Easter, and visitors can travel there on the Tiger on Demand bus from Ely Market Square. The service runs Monday to Saturday for just £2 per journey or free for senior citizens with a bus pass. Bookings can be made via the museum’s website.

The Rotary Club of Ely regularly welcomes guest speakers to its meetings and always encourages new members to join.
To find out more, email info@rotaryclubofely.co.uk

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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 apples, arranged by club member Chris Lee, were gathered by Rotarians Richard Tyler, Viv Doji, Richard Riley, Mike Axford, Kate Devine, Phil Smith, Lilian Umeakunne (who also took the photos), and Benard Arnold. They were joined by Caroline and Bill Hammill, making it a real community effort.

Once picked, members set to work peeling, stewing and bagging the apples ready for freezing. These will later be thawed, filled into individual trays, and topped with pre-cooked crumble to create the much-loved apple crumbles sold at the Fayre.

Ely’s Apple and Harvest Fayre (previously known as Apple Day) takes place on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October 2025, from 10am to 4pm each day. Visitors can look forward to a true taste of Ely, with the famous Rotary apple crumbles at the heart of the celebrations.

Rosemary Westwell, on behalf of Ely Rotary Club, said:

“This annual tradition brings our members and the community together in such a positive way. It’s hard work, but the results are worth it when we see the smiles on people’s faces enjoying a slice of Ely’s autumn harvest.”

New members are always welcome to join the Rotary Club of Ely, although, as members joked, “it’s unlikely they’ll be asked to pick 100 kilos of apples more than once a year!”

For more information or to get involved, email info@rotaryclubofely.co.uk

The post Ely Rotarians pick 100 kilos of apples for famous Apple and Harvest Fayre appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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 rich heritage, and the team will be working closely with specialist contractors experienced in historic building preservation to ensure the eventual closure is as short-term as possible. The service will still relocate to Sessions House (Ely’s Court House) and a date will be released in due course.

Please note all tours and admissions to Oliver Cromwell’s House will now resume, with winter hours starting November 1^st (11am – 4pm). The Visit Ely team will continue to offer visitor support, provide local information, and retail experiences as normal.

Anna Bennett, Manager of Oliver Cromwell’s House, said:

 “Whilst it is disappointing that the work couldn’t take place when anticipated but appreciate the reasons for the delay.  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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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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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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The day will honour the momentous end of the Second World War and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by service personnel from Ely, Cambridgeshire, and across the Commonwealth.

A Full Day of Reflection and Commemoration

The programme will begin at 10.45am with a ceremonial raising of the VJ Day 80 Flag, followed by a Service at Ely’s War Memorial, where civic dignitaries, veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces, and residents will gather to remember those who served in the Far East campaign. The service will include the laying of wreaths, prayers, and to honour peace restored and lives lost.

At 12.00 noon there will also be a National Silence for 2 minutes.

The city will then come together once again at 6pm at St Mary’s Church, Ely, where the Royal British Legion and St Mary’s Church will be hosting a VJ Day tea party.  Then, at 7pm, St. Mary’s Church will deliver a poignant evening service of remembrance and thanksgiving. The service will include readings, music, and reflections in memory of those who never returned home.

The day will conclude with a Beacon Lighting Ceremony, part of a coordinated national initiative to symbolise the light of peace emerging from the darkness of conflict. Sing! Choirs will be joining the community to provide musical entertainment to mark the occasion.  The beacon will be lit at approximately 7.45pm by command of the Mayor of Ely, accompanied by members of the Royal British Legion and local cadet forces.

The Significance of VJ Day for Ely and Cambridgeshire

While VE Day marked the end of the war in Europe, it was VJ Day that brought global peace after the long and harrowing campaign in the Asia-Pacific region. For the people of Cambridgeshire, and Ely in particular, VJ Day holds special significance. Local men and women served with distinction in the Far East, enduring extreme hardship as prisoners of war or in active combat. Many families across the district still carry the legacy of loved ones who served in Burma, Malaya, and beyond.

David Martin, Chair of the Royal British Legion Ely Branch said 

“We will be remembering all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice has always been important to us.  The local cost of war to bring an end to World War 2 and the war in the Far East has especial significance to us with many serving in the Cambridgeshire Regiment at the fall of Singapore and who suffered unimaginable pain as prisoners of war.  We honour those individuals and all who have served and continue to serve their Country.”

 Anna Bennett, Visit Ely Manager added

“The City of Ely Council warmly invites residents and visitors to take part in this historic day of national significance. This is an opportunity to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from our local region, across the UK and the Commonwealth. It has been an honour and a pleasure to organise these thought-provoking events throughout the year”

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Stagecoach East’s drivers have an outstanding reputation for helping vulnerable customers, but not all specific needs are obvious or visible, so a Journey Assistance Card can give the information to make sure you get the extra assistance that you need. The cards read:

• Please be patient I am visually impaired
• Please give me time to sit in case I fall down
• Please speak slowly and face me to help me hear better
• Please count my change for me
• Please be patient I am deaf
• Please tell me when we reach my stop…
• Please speak slowly I am hard of hearing
• Please be patient I have a hidden disability
• Please be patient I have difficulty speaking
• Please scan my pass for me
• Please help me find a seat
• Please let me know when we get to…

If you are, or if you know, a bus passenger who would benefit from an Assistance Card, they can order them online and they are completely free. Just look up “Stagecoach Journey Assistance Cards” in a search engine, or else go to: https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/journey-assistance-cards

Darren Roe, Managing Director of Stagecoach East, said: “Our Drivers pride themselves on offering the best possible service, but we know that sometimes our customers can be nervous to explain what they need, so our Journey Assistance Cards can really help to make the journey that bit easier.

“Don’t forget: we’ve got you – get on board with an assistance card and we will give you the help you need to have an effortless and comfortable journey.”

To find out whether you are eligible for over-60’s bus pass and to apply for one, go to: https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/concessionary-travel-over-60s-bus-pass

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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

The post Spotted in Ely, Announced as Official Media Partner for New Cambridgeshire Business Expo – BNX Expo 2025 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

For just £29.50, The Ely Passport offers discounted entry to four of the city’s must-see attractions: Ely Cathedral, Ely Museum, The Stained-Glass Museum, and Oliver Cromwell’s House. With just one ticket, visitors gain access to an immersive experience of Ely’s extraordinary history, architecture, art and culture – all within a convenient 48-hour period.

The Passport has been created with both value and flexibility in mind. Whether you’re in the city for a day or a weekend, the 48-hour window allows ample time to explore each venue at your own pace, while still leaving room to enjoy Ely’s charming cafes, independent shops, riverside walks and welcoming pubs. Multiple entry to Ely Cathedral is also available, just in case you miss something and want to return during your stay.

“The Ely Passport is a fantastic way for visitors to experience the very best of our city in an easy, affordable and enjoyable way. By working together, our attractions are offering not just great value for money, but a joined-up visitor experience that encourages people to stay longer, explore more and discover everything Ely has to offer – from its heritage and culture to its shops, cafes and riverside walks.” Anna Bennett, Tourism Manager Visit Ely

The launch of the Ely Passport marks a milestone in collaborative tourism for the city. Ely Cathedral, Ely Museum, The Stained-Glass Museum and Oliver Cromwell’s House have worked closely together on the initiative, highlighting the power of partnership to enhance the visitor experience and support the local economy.

Each attraction offers a unique perspective on Ely’s rich and diverse story, from the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cathedral and the vibrant artistry of The Stained-Glass Museum to the engaging historical narratives found in Ely Museum and Oliver Cromwell’s House. Together, they provide a captivating picture of a city steeped in heritage and alive with culture.

The Ely Passport can be purchased at any of the participating attractions and is valid for 48 consecutive hours from the first use. It’s ideal for individuals, couples and families seeking a cost-effective way to discover the highlights of Ely without the hassle of multiple bookings.

With summer just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to discover, or rediscover, what Ely has to offer. The Ely Passport is your key to unlocking the best of the city on one simple, great-value ticket.

For more information, including pricing, opening times and where to buy the Ely Passport, please visit the links

To buy on-line  https://shorturl.at/YGwqo

To purchase in person: https://www.visitely.org.uk/the-ely-passport/

The post Explore More, Spend Less: Ely’s Top Attractions Join Forces to Launch the Money-Saving Ely Passport appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Ely Cathedral welcomes the Philharmonia Orchestra for a performance of Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Thanks to your incredible support, we’re one step closer to reopening The Maltings Cinema!  At our second public meeting, 64 attendees joined us to share their enthusiasm and ideas, proving how much our community values this cherished venue.

Exciting Progress: Reopening Early in the New Year

We’re delighted to share the next steps in saving the cinema:

• Babylon Arts is transferring management of The Maltings Cinema to the Dawe Charitable Trust (DCT) under the new name Ely Community Cinema.
• The City of Ely Council has agreed to transfer the venue to the DCT.
• With full cooperation from Babylon Arts, we aim to reopen the cinema early in the New Year.

Volunteers: The Heart of Ely Community Cinema

We couldn’t do this without you—our amazing volunteers!  To ensure smooth operations, we’ve organised volunteer teams into five groups:

1. Public Facing
2. Screening Technical
3. Marketing & Ticketing
4. Administration
5. Friends of Cinema

Working with Peter Dawe and Linda Neate, each group will manage day-to-day activities.  We’re setting up Google Accounts for these groups and will get in touch with you soon; if you’ve volunteered but have not heard from us or want to join one of our teams, email lindaneateely@gmail.com.

What’s Next?

We’ve got our heads down right now, getting on with the transfer, but we’re already planning for the future.  Within three months of reopening, we’ll host a public meeting to gather ideas for improving Ely Community Cinema and ensuring its long-term success.

Get Involved and Stay Connected

If you have questions or suggestions or want to help, contact lindaneateely@gmail.com.  Together, we’re saving The Maltings Cinema and giving our community a cultural gem to treasure for generations to come.

Thank you for your incredible support!

Linda Neate & Peter Dawe

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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

The post The Stained Glass Museum celebrates a major redisplay appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Community Fundraising at Its Best

The completion of Malcolm’s Retreat has only been possible thanks to the incredible efforts of the community. The funds have come from:

• The Annual Dorset Walk, now in its 17th year
• A variety of amazing events, including netball tournaments, marathons, pool and golf competitions
• Generous financial donations, free materials, and countless hours of volunteered time

A huge thank you to the Ely students, families, and local businesses who have supported TMWF’s fundraising events over the years. Your efforts and generosity have been truly inspiring and have made this project a reality.

What Malcolm’s Retreat Offers

Malcolm’s Retreat provides a safe, tranquil space designed to support those affected by cancer. The lodge offers:

1. Free Respite Breaks for families dealing with cancer
2. Free Wellbeing Breaks for those who provide care and support

Register Your Interest

To find out more about Malcolm’s Retreat or to register for a stay, visit:
Register Your Interest

On the website, you’ll find:

• Full details about the lodge and how a stay works.
• The available dates.
• Guidance, including the terms and conditions.

Help Us Spread the Word

We need your help to reach as many people as possible. Please share this announcement widely so that families and carers who could benefit from Malcolm’s Retreat know it’s there for them.

For further information or any questions, you can contact us via:

• Facebook: The Malcolm Whales Foundation
• Email: themalcolmwhalesfoundation@gmail.com

Thank you for your continued support in helping us to make a difference.

About The Malcolm Whales Foundation
The Malcolm Whales Foundation is a charity dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer. Through fundraising events and projects like Malcolm’s Retreat, TMWF provides vital help to families and carers when they need it most. For more information, visit tmwf.co.uk.

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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.

The post ‘Small, but perfect’ returns to Babylon Gallery appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ann’s gallery in the visitor centre is the perfect introduction to what you can hope to experience once you take to the hides and trails to soak up the highlights that wetlands offer this season. Relax to the whispers of willow and reed swaying in the breeze, marvel at the autumnal sights and sounds and you too may even be inspired to capture your unforgettable moments in sketches or journals. 

Ann Biggs says of her inspiration taken from Welney: “Living as near to the Welney reserve as l do, it has always been my ‘go to place’ to watch and draw, recording the scenery and wildlife which in turn inspires the work that you will see in this exhibition.” 

“I love the seasons particularly winter where water battles with the land and provides an endless source of material for my work. Watching a trio of hunting peregrine on an icy, wind-swept morning is one of my most treasured memories. I hope visitors enjoy looking at my work and I look forward to meeting people at my ‘meet the artist’ sessions.”

You can meet Ann herself and find out how she creates her fantastic works with Meet the Artist days at WWT Welney:

Sat 14 September, 10am-2pm

Sat 12 October, 10am-2pm

Emma Brand, Events & Marketing Officer at WWT Welney, said: “Autumn is a fantastic time to explore the widest reaches of our wetlands before the water levels rise in winter. Making the most of late summer wildlife like dragonflies, swallows, and hobbies; whilst taking in the many changes as new wildlife arrives and colours turn across the landscape makes for an awe-inspiring season.”

“Our team are busy across the wetlands caring for the habitat and making preparations for winter, and beyond. Our volunteers are vital to not only help with these tasks but also share the seasonal splendours with our visitors.”

“We always hope that the weather will be kind and give us time to enjoy low water levels, just splashes here and there to benefit the wildlife, but not overwhelm the habitat. Right now, there is so much to experience and soak up, benefitting our physical and mental wellbeing before we head towards the shortest days of the year.”

Enjoy the last of the summer sun whilst embracing the cooling breeze of autumn by exploring the hides, summer walk, tansy trail and Lady Fen routes. With an enthusiastic team of volunteers and staff ready to share their love of wetlands in autumn, there are a range of opportunities to enjoy a helping hand if you are starting out as well as plenty of trails to find time and space to enjoy quiet moments. 

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

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Amy Wormald is an award-winning artist based in Ely. Drawing inspiration from the world around her home, her work captures the essence of wildflowers and flora in vibrant, colourful paintings. With a distinct painting style, she uses a combination of spray paint and acrylic to evoke a feeling of joy in these exuberant forms.

In her third solo exhibition at Babylon Gallery, Amy offers moments of joy and connection, using nature’s power to inspire, uplift and connect us to the world around us. The title, ‘WILD’, refers to both the unrestrained aspects of nature, and the freedom and spontaneity of the artist’s creative process.

“This exhibition is perfect for anyone wanting to feel uplifted by colour and inspired by the
energy in nature,” says Amy Wormald.

For World Sight Day on Thursday 10th October, 10:30am – 4pm, Amy will be in the gallery to talk about the exhibition, describing her paintings for those with visual impairments, and giving an insight into her creative process. Alongside this, visitors will be invited to make their own clay ornaments inspired by plants and flowers. While the day is planned for visitors with visual impairments, all are welcome to come along.

WILD is on from Wednesday 2nd October at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 3rd November 2024

Babylon Gallery is open 12 – 4pm Wednesday – Friday and 10am – 4pm Saturday and
Sunday, with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Amy Wormald’s solo exhibition is a colourful celebration of nature. appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Local photography club celebrates 50 years! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Babylon Gallery’s Summer Open Exhibition returns for another year! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Focusing on a metaphorical ‘cabinet’, it will explore the transformation of seemingly mundane materials into new forms whether in paint, found objects or mixed media pieces.

Helen uses mostly natural and organic materials, including old artworks, torn paper, metal dregs, twists of plant fibre, slate, shells, small animal bones, dried gorse, clay and tiny pebbles. They are collected by the artist who describes them as treasures that can be found everywhere.

During the process of reworking these materials possible new identities emerge, with each artwork becoming a miniature theatre in which characters and narratives can be interpreted by the viewer. The work is intended to be a playful signpost in which numerous stories can be found. The artworks themselves are often created in a grid format.

Helen works byapplying layers of materials over individually painted squares using tweezers. She aims to evoke a mood or atmosphere in the objects, to create an intuitive understanding for the viewer.

Referencing the words of Miro, “It is signs that have no exact meaning that provoke a
magic sense”.

“This exhibition is dedicated to my mum with huge love and gratitude,” says Helen Murray,

“She was a very wise and playful woman, as well as being a wickedly funny mimic, and full of love […] I have treasured memories of our time together and I hope very much she would have enjoyed this show.”

Helen is a self taught artist, and lives near the Suffolk coastline, which she finds a source of inspiration in her work. She has worked previously as an illustrator and in 2009 set up Artbox (now Artboxarts CIC) which offers art sessions for adults with special needs.

Stories from my Mother’s Cabinet is on from Thursday 4th July at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 28th July.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Playful Exhibition from Artist Helen Murray Hopes to Spark Your Imagination appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Museum have been working on their latest exhibition, Back to Nature ready for the summer. With input from the Ely Nature Friendly Farmers and conservation organisations such as the RSPB and the National Trust at Wicken Fen, the exhibition champions the environmental initiatives that are taking place across our fenland landscape.

The Fens are truly unique and support an incredible range of wildlife including specialist species that are found nowhere else in the UK. A landscape that has changed dramatically from wetlands to a drained fenland creating farms to provide food for us. As technologies changed and farms have become increasingly reliant on chemical inputs on large scales, biodiversity has continued to decline. But here in a pocket of the Fens are the Nature
Friendly Farmers of Ely, using innovative techniques to support traditional values in going back to nature.

The Ely Nature-Friendly Farming Zone was started in the winter of 2017/2018 to show how modern farming and wildlife can work side by side. By joining together, the group of farmers represent an area covering over eight-thousand hectares, in Ely and the surrounding villages.

“As a group, the Ely Nature Friendly Farming Zone are committed to creating a profitable, sustainable farming landscape.

Supporting increasing levels of fenland biodiversity, we want to inspire others by sharing best practice in nature-friendly farming locally and nationally.”

Ely Nature Friendly Farmers

From marvellous minibeasts to fruitful flowers. The exhibition includes several activities for children and family visitors including a roleplay vegetable patch and a craft table to make your own butterfly to add to the museum display. A new Back to Nature trail around the museum will also be available, so start the Summer Holidays with some family friendly fun!

“It has been wonderful to see how the farmers and conservation organisations are working together to make such a difference to the biodiversity in our local area. We are really looking forward to welcoming visitors in to explore the exhibition.” Rosie Amos, Senior Project Officer at Ely Museum.

Back to Nature will be open from 20th July to 30 November 2024.

The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10.30am – 5pm and Sundays, 12pm – 5pm.

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Ely Museum Goes Back to Nature appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Giant postcards, designed by children’s illustrator Ella Beech, share personal messages from nine animals who live in wetland habitats around the world.  Dotted across 1.4km of trail exploring part of our 1,300 acre wetland centre, those on the adventure trail at WWT Welney use a trail map to find the postcards and discover new wetlands and the animals that thrive within them. 

Created to offer an unforgettable experience, the postcard trail will encompass all corners and habitats of the WWT centre, so not only will explorers read what’s happening in wetlands across the globe, but see, up close and personal, the interesting species enjoying the summer months at WWT Welney. 

This includes close up views of our high flying summer visitors like swallows and house martins nesting and caring for chicks at our main hide. Watching mute and whooper swan families with their ‘ugly ducklings’ on the pools and waterways viewed from our hides and trails. Making contact with otherworldly creatures at our moth mornings (Tuesdays each week), spotting day flying moths and colourful butterflies whilst bug hunting throughout our wetlands. Getting eye to eye with dragonflies and damselflies, some of them daintily flying over the grasses and wildflowers, whilst others find a sunny spot to perch and await a mate.  The wealth of insect life is a vital part of the wetland ecosystem, both above the water’s surface and below. 

Families completing the trail will have a WWT Welney postcard, so they may share their amazing experience and what they’ve learnt about wildlife and nature with a loved one.

Emma Brand, Events & Marketing Officer at WWT Welney, said: “We love sharing the wonder of the wetlands with families and can’t wait to welcome them this summer for a truly memorable day out. The postcard trail offers a real opportunity for them to explore nature and learn more about wildlife, both here and around the world.  It’s a completely unique experience families simply won’t find anywhere else.” 

The postcard trail is part of an on-going programme of summer 2024 activities at WWT Welney that includes pond dipping, exploring nature with play, getting up close to insects whilst bug hunting, meeting otherworldly creatures at moth mornings and other activities. Families who want to get involved just need to pick up a trail map at the visitor centre.  More information about this activity and all the exciting and educational things to do at WWT Welney can be found at www.wwt.org.uk/welney

Participating in WWT Welney’s postcard trail is included with an admission ticket or is free to WWT members. 

The trail will run from Saturday 20th July until the end of the school summer holidays, full details can be found at https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney/whats-on/summer-postcard-trail-6 

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

The post WWT Welney Promises a Summer of Wonder with New Postcard Adventure Trail appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

EAST was formed in 1995 when founder member, Carol Dixon, created a group for textile artists in East Anglia who wanted to develop their creative skills and build an awareness of the beauty and power of textile art amongst a wider audience.

The group has since exhibited across England in galleries and museums. EAST exhibitions usually have an enigmatic title, with members carrying out in-depth research and preparation into their artwork.

Over the previous year, members of the group have pondered the role of women both past and present. Each of them has undertaken research across a diverse range of topics, focusing on either an individual story, or on societal trends that reflect how women’s lives have changed.

The resulting work is inspired by women who, despite their circumstances and the challenges imposed on them due to their gender, have forged a path and a way forward for themselves for others to embrace. “When viewing this exciting new exhibition, one may surmise that EAST has become the bridge – the link between our ‘women of inspiration’ and the wider audience that views the final work” says a member of EAST.

Bridging the Gap is on from Tuesday 4th June at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 30th June.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post East Anglian Stitch Textiles present an exhibition that celebrates“women of inspiration” appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

To mark the anniversary of Their Majesties’ Coronation, the outcome of this review has
been announced, and The Stained Glass Museum is amongst the charities to be
retained.

As HRH The Prince of Wales, His Majesty became Patron of The Stained Glass Museum
in 1999. His Majesty has visited the museum twice, first in 2000 to mark the reopening
of the museum’s new gallery, and most recently in November 2018 to mark the
museum’s 40th birthday.

Members of the Royal Family are proud to maintain close associations with more than
1,000 charities, military organisations, and professional and public service bodies, both
in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth. Royal patronage highlights the vital work of these organisations and allows their many achievements and valuable
contributions to society to be more widely recognised and promoted.

Jasmine Allen, Director of The Stained Glass Museum, said:
“We are delighted to share the news that His Majesty King Charles III is retaining his
Patronage of The Stained Glass Museum. His Majesty has a keen interest in the preservation of heritage crafts and his ongoing support as Patron of The Stained Glass Museum will help us keep the art of stained glass in the public eye. This is especially important at this present moment in time when traditional stained glass making has recently been listed as an endangered craft in the UK.”

Over 1,000 different patronages were reviewed carefully and individually as part of the review. A recommendation based on the history of Royal connection, the organisations’ prominence in their field, and how they align with themes of His Majesty’s work, was then put to His Majesty for agreement.

Press release from The Stained Glass Museum

The post His Majesty King Charles III retains his patronage of The Stained Glass Museum 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.

When he left teaching Art and Design to produce his own work, Mark chose to paint things he likes. Having lived in East Africa, he loved the animals, the gardens, and the big leafy tropical plants. Struggling to invent a complex arrangement of leaves, he decided to make them from paper to gauge the effects of light and shadow. This was an intuitive process for him having trained as a product designer, but he describes the moment he shone a light on these paper leaves as a revelation.

With a ‘black box’ arrangement on the wall of his studio, Mark uses paper, string, clay and
all sorts of rescued items to make plants, birds and animals. He then paints these vibrant wildlife scenes emulating the style of late 17th- and 18th-century Dutch Still Life paintings.

This exhibition will include animals and scenes that can be found right outside the doors of Babylon Gallery.

Mark has spent a lot of his life around the rivers of East Anglia and has painted many swans. One particular painting called ‘Family Swansemble’ shows two swans and a cygnet, and gives the impression of being right on the river…

“…It is the relationship between the three swans that creates the intrigue, and for that you have to create your own story,” says Mark Ward about ‘Family Swansemble’,

“This I hope is true for all my pictures.”

Birds, Beasts and Even More Bendy Stuff is on from Wednesday 1st May at Babylon
Gallery until Sunday 2nd June.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Vivid Paintings of Paper Wildlife Scenes will Fill this Exhibition from Artist Mark Ward 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.

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.

The Young Curators’ Club at Ely Museum have been working with the museum team on a temporary exhibition to celebrate 50 years of Ely’s history. Ely’s city status was only officially confirmed in 1974 and as this anniversary approaches, the museum felt it would be a good time to look at how Ely has changed with the help of the fresh eyes of the next generation. 

For the past two years, the Young Curators’ Club at Ely Museum has collaborated with the staff through monthly workshops after school. Students aged 12-16 have the chance to explore behind the scenes, discover more about our local history and help to shape museum activities. This exhibition has been an opportunity to further develop their skills.

Janine Fairlie, Learning and Engagement Officer at Ely Museum says:

“It was such a wonderful opportunity for our Young Curators to get involved in the organisation and planning of a temporary exhibition. As Curators they worked alongside museum staff to choose objects, write text and plan the layout and design.  It was lovely to see them all so engaged and to see how proud they were with their end result.”

With the challenges of the past few years, we have been more conscious than usual that we have been living through a period that will be recorded in the history books. But some of the most fascinating stories in history are those of everyday lives.

‘Our Ely at 50’ looks at the last 50 years of history in Ely and the immediate area and is a great opportunity to take a trip down memory lane. It also gives visitors the space to reflect on, and share, their own Ely memories. 

We would love to hear from you about your thoughts and memories of the last 50 years in Ely and there is a book of memories in the exhibition gallery where you can record and share your thoughts about Ely’s recent decades.

A new ‘Celebrate Ely’ trail around the museum will be available from Good Friday, 29th March, so start the Easter Holidays with some family friendly fun!

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Ely Museum Proud to Celebrate Young Curators’ Exhibition appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

It features a range of poetry and artworks reflecting the artists own, sometimes bizarre, experiences over a busy and eventful year.

This upcoming exhibition at Babylon Gallery will showcase the artist’s work over the past
year. Mack Mathod began 2023 by setting himself the daunting task of writing a poem every day throughout the year. Combining the outcomes of this with illustrative work, ‘Poems, Pictures and Poppycock’ seeks to reflect the changing aspects of the world through an artist’s perspective.

Mack has had an exciting career in comedy and the arts, with a focus on the production of surreal and absurd work, whether written, performed, or visual. From touring with his own comedy troupe and appearing on TV and radio, to working with professional theatre groups, being a scriptwriter for a top comedian, and teaching art and drama in a secondary school.

Throughout his work, Mack’s ideas attempt to amuse and brighten an artistic experience,
challenging the sometimes over serious sobriety of contemporary artistic methodology. His recent exploits have involved repurposing old photographs with an absurd point of view, surreal collages, short performances, and poetry on social media.

“The main premise of absurdity is to undress the truth and replace it with clothes that do
not fit,” says Mack Mathod.

Through absurd humour coupled with serious observations, this artist has created an interesting and unusual body of work that aims to amuse and challenge through words and images.

Poems, Pictures and Poppycock is on from Wednesday 27th March at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 28th April.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post A Wonderfully Absurd Exhibition Comes to Babylon ARTS this April. appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

From a visit from the Secretary of State for Culture to a wonderful turnout for the official
opening event, this exhibition is off to a great start.

On Friday 1st March, Sensing Nature opened at Babylon Gallery. This multi-sensory
exhibition comprises of a variety of artwork, including sound pieces, tactile artworks that
visitors are invited to handle and touch, and visual artworks, some of which have been
translated into raised drawings. Elements of the exhibition also explore scent and taste. An
audio guide has been created for the exhibition, which guides visitors around the displays, with detailed descriptions of specific artworks.

The Secretary of State for Culture, Lucy Frazer paid a visit to the gallery on its opening day and spent time looking around the exhibition and talking to the Babylon ARTS team.

“I enjoyed meeting the team at Babylon ARTS – led by CEO Michael Corley – and exploring
the beautiful variety of creative work on display!” Lucy Frazer posted on Facebook.

On Saturday 2nd March, an official opening event was held. This was attended by composer Tom Adams, artist Kaitlin Ferguson, and many other artists who were selected from the open call. The day was a celebration of the hard work put in by so many people throughout this project, with talks given by Michael Corley, CEO of Babylon ARTS, and by two members of Basecoat Collective, the group of young curators who curated this exhibition.

“We all agreed very early on that we wanted the exhibition to have a multi-sensory aspect
to it,” said Bethany Haysom, Young Curator and member of Basecoat Collective:

“We were determined to make it a fun and accessible experience that extended beyond the traditional visual confines of an exhibition.”

Sensing Nature is part of a wider project called Inspired by Nature, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Babylon ARTS are working in partnership with Ely Museum, RNIB and the National Trust’s Wicken Fen Nature Reserve to develop creative approaches that facilitate connection and engagement with nature for people with low vision, children, young people and the wider public.

Sensing Nature is on from Friday 1st March at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 24th March.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Sensing Nature exhibition, curated by local young people, has a hugely successful opening weekend appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The acquisition was made possible thanks to funding from Art Fund and The Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.

Beauty Tricks is a commentary on notions of beauty, body image and representation in modern society. It was made in 2017 by Pinkie Maclure (b. 1966), a contemporary Scottish multidisciplinary artist and musician based in Argyll, Scotland.  

The “beauty of stained glass allows you to talk about the ugly” – Pinkie Maclure

Maclure’s artworks explore a range of personal and contemporary social issues including addiction, insomnia, and humanity’s destructive nature often in relation to the environment. Beauty Tricks speaks to contemporary issues including body image, eating disorders and body dysmorphia, surgical modification, the cosmetic industry, fast fashion, capitalism and the environment.  

Beauty Tricks (2017) depicts a young blond-haired woman wearing a decorative pink dress and purple cloak. Her arms are outstretched in a pose deliberately mimicking an image of the Virgin Mary known as the Madonna of Mercy from an Italian Renaissance altarpiece. Yet this religious icon is transformed by Maclure into a contemporary image of a willing victim of the beauty and fashion industry, with a halo of Botox needles and scalpels, and her torso marked for plastic surgery. The vivid bright blue, pink, yellow and purple colour palette is an unusual combination in stained glass, but deliberately chosen by the artist to reference not only the Virgin Mary but also the so-called colours of femininity.  

Around this central image are various images, motifs and slogans associated with the construction and representation of beauty and knowledge, including a young woman shooting at a mirror, a grandma knitting barbie dolls, flowers in various stages of bloom, discarded beauty products, palm trees and snails (from which ingredients for some beauty products are derived). The artwork critiques the human and environmental impact of the beauty industry and the pressure women sometimes place on themselves and each other.  

Jasmine Allen, Director of the Museum said: ‘We are delighted to have acquired this contemporary stained glass artwork with the generous support of Art Fund and the Arts Council/V&A Purchase Grant Scheme. Beauty Tricks is a visually compelling and seductive work which continues the long-standing tradition of storytelling in stained glass, and explores themes of beauty, judgement and self-worth, inviting us to reflect on a range of issues. It is a wonderful addition to our growing collection.’

Beauty Tricks was made in 2017 for an exhibition entitled Art of Glass, held at the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, and presented in partnership with The National Centre for Craft & Design, 6 April – 16 September 2018. It was shortlisted for the John Ruskin Prize and featured in their ‘Agents of Change; exhibition in Manchester in 2019. Beauty Tricks was also exhibited as part of Pinkie Maclure’s solo show at the CCA, Glasgow, 17 June – 9 September 2023.

Beauty Tricks is now on display in the main gallery of The Stained Glass Museum, inside Ely Cathedral. Standard admission to the museum is £6.00 for adults, accompanied under 16s are free. Tickets are valid as annual admission passes for one year from date of entry. Entry is free for National Art Pass holders.  

Press release from The Stained Glass Museum

The post ‘Beauty Tricks’ – Stained Glass Museum Acquires New Contemporary Artwork by Artist  Pinkie Maclure appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Curated by Basecoat Collective – a group of 18-25 year olds – the exhibition invited people to contemplate how they connect with nature, and includes new artwork from composer Tom Adams, artist Kaitlin Ferguson, and a selection of artworks from an open call to the local community.

Sensing Nature is part of a wider project called Inspired by Nature, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Babylon ARTS are working in partnership with Ely Museum, RNIB and the National Trust’s Wicken Fen Nature Reserve to develop creative approaches that facilitate connection and engagement with nature for people with low vision, children, young people and the wider public.

Sensing Nature encapsulates the project aims, with the exhibition celebrating nature, with
inclusivity and accessibility considered throughout. It features a sound piece created by composer Tom Adams in collaboration with participants from CamSight and Vision Norfolk; 3D printed fossils from artist Kaitlin Ferguson used in a whole-school project with pupils from Highfield Littleport Academy; and a range of multisensory artworks from an open call to the public. The exhibition has been curated by Basecoat Collective, a group of young artists and creatives from the local area aged 18-25 years.

“Inspired by Nature has been a wonderful project where creativity has been used as a vehicle to better understand, celebrate and be inspired by the unique Fenland landscape,” says Lucy Wheeler, Project Coordinator for Inspired by Nature,

“From imagining Wicken Fen in the pre-historic age with school children, to making soundscapes inspired by Fenland folklore with participants from CamSight and Vision Norfolk. Basecoat Collective have curated Sensing Nature – an intelligent, thought-provoking exhibition that has involved so many people of all ages.”

The exhibition will include access to an audio-tour, exploring some of the artwork through audio description, and raised drawings where possible, to provide further access and engagement to the 2D artworks.

Sensing Nature is on from Friday 1st March at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 24th March.
Babylon Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Local Artists and Community Come Together to Create a Multisensory Exhibition that Celebrates the Fenland Landscape. 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.

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

The post Swan Spectacle Makes for a Wild Winter at WWT Welney appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Museum is delighted to announce the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their project to increase access to their historic collections and to develop and grow the exhibitions and events that they hold for the community. 

Faced with growing operational costs and the cost of living crisis, Ely Museum has planned an ambitious new strategy to explore the current historic collections and the stories behind them. This will allow people to learn more about their local heritage and for the museum to hold a variety of fun and interesting opportunities for local people and families to explore their interests, ensuring heritage is preserved and shared for generations to come. 

A blacksmith’s bellows, an accordion, a sailor’s collar and the clock from the public rooms: museum staff are really looking forward exploring what stories these objects tell us about Ely’s past. As part of the research and organisation of the stored collection, the museum also anticipates being able to actively collect items to better represent and tell the stories of our diverse communities.

Elie Hughes, Curator at Ely Museum says:

“We’re really excited to have the opportunity to share our collection more widely with local people and visitors and are planning all sorts of great events over the next couple of years. We are very thankful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for their support”

As well as working on the collection, Ely Museum will be undertaking a Green Audit to create a path to net zero carbon emissions and will be exploring ways to operate in a more sustainable way. 

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Ely Museum receives grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop collections, events and new exhibitions appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

There will also be an opportunity to create ‘Fen Textures’ of your own, with a family activity in the gallery.

Carol and Bob Banks have been exhibiting at Babylon Gallery for over 10 years. This year they are delighted to be joined by Violet Shaw, Carol’s daughter. Violet is a potter in Margate, but grew up in Soham, where her late father, Peter Prigg, was a potter. Violet works with clay to produce rustic stoneware pieces that can be used and loved.

This collection of work is a journey through her memories of the flat fenland of her childhood, incorporating textures of the earth and plants in her work. One of the glazes used is from a recipe from her late fathers glaze book.

This will also be on display in the gallery, where she is happy for people to make a copy and use it in their own work.

Carol Banks grew up in the Cambridgeshire fens, and spent her childhood outside. She has always collected natural objects and uses them to influence her work. Bog oak is included in some pieces of jewellery, in a celebration of this natural occurring phenomena to fenland areas.

Bob Banks has returned to traditional drawing and painting, after a career in animation. He enjoys working quickly, using oils, pastels and iPad sketches, to capture the local landscape.

Together, their work comes together in a harmonious celebration of the fen landscape.

Fen Textures is on from Tuesday 31st October 2023 at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 26th November 2023.

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

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Local Artists Deliver a Family Exhibition Inspired by the Fen Landscape 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

The post Art Unequalled returns to The Maltings this November appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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 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

The post Ely’s Window Wanderland is back! 3rd-5th November 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Nancy has taken the universal topic of food, and translated it into a delicious exhibition, featuring a selection of artists who work in a variety of styles, exploring this theme. Along with the artists’ work, the exhibition will include submissions from the recent Sunday Lunch competition, where the public will be able to vote for their favourite. From still lives, to giant sculptures, she hopes that it will be engaging to all.

“Food can be used to unify, celebrate and entice, evoking memories, smells and tastes. Life’s great meals are unforgettable – delicious home-cooked food shared with those we love is an essential pleasure,” says Nancy.

“Food can be a reflection of self, family, memories and heritage. For me a table of amazing food shared with loved ones is one of life’s great pleasures!”

Nancy is an Ely resident and has a background in Fine Art Photography. She was selected as a Babylon Young Curator earlier this year. As a curator, she is passionate about attracting new audiences to an artistic environment that connects and inspires.

The Babylon Young Curator programme offers an opportunity for young people to develop their skills and experience in bringing together exciting and innovative exhibitions with support from arts professionals.

Babylon Arts are able to run the Young Curators project due to the generous support of Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grants. To help Babylon Arts to keep offering projects like this for our local community they are calling for the community to donate to their charitable work via the Babylon Arts website.

A Matter of Taste is on Thursday 5th October at Babylon Gallery Sunday 29th October. Babylon Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Babylon Young Curator brings us a visual feast appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Conservation Charity Celebrates Regional Revival of Rare Wading Bird with Free Event 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.

Oliver Cromwell’s House today, announced it has been recognised by TripAdvisor as a 2023 Travelers’ Choice award winner for a Visitor Attraction. 

The coveted award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveler reviews on TripAdvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on TripAdvisor globally. Anna Bennett, Manager said “We are delighted to be awarded this award and recognition for being one of the key attractions in Ely.

The Historic House, once the home to the Cromwell family prides itself on telling the story of Oliver’s journey, through family life, politics, power, and religion which led him to be one of the greatest leaders and military men of all time. We have specific tours for families, groups, and adults available, with a tourist information desk for visitors, and a delightful souvenir and local craft shop.”

“Congratulations to the 2023 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winners,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “The travel resurgence we’ve seen throughout the past year has even further heightened the competition. Earning a Travelers’ Choice Award demonstrates that you have provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests. With changing expectations, continued labor shortages, and rising costs, this is no easy feat, and I am continually impressed with the hospitality industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Cheers to another successful year!” 

Check out all the reviews, and discover more about Oliver Cromwell’s House https://rb.gy/ihttps://rb.gy/iwyyk

Press release from Visit Ely

The post Oliver Cromwell’s House is Recognised as Tripadvisor® 2023 Travelers’ Choice® Award Winner   appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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. 

The post Experience Incredible Wildlife on a Night Time Adventure appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

As summer temperatures look set to soar, the charity has launched its Mini-wetlands campaign in a bid to provide a host of creatures with places to live, as well and feed, drink and cool down from.

Hoping to help reverse the devastating decline in biodiversity, WWT is urging everyone to create their own wetlands that can fit into any outside area, no matter how small or how built up an area is.

New research, launched this month, shows that people are keen to help, with over half of the population currently gardening to attract more wildlife. However, one in three of these nature-lovers are missing out on one of the single most effective ways to help nature because they feel they don’t have enough space to create a small wetland like a pond.

But with a creative approach, even the smallest spaces can be used to provide a haven for wildlife. To help as many people as possible create mini-wetlands, WWT has created a series of guides and how-to videos showing how anyone, for less than £20, can upcycle an old washing up bowl or pot, add pond plants and have a mini-wetland with the potential to attract frogs, dragonflies and even bats to a garden or balcony – the perfect project for the summer holidays.

And for more inspiration, WWT’s Wetland Centre in East Anglia is holding pond dipping sessions across the summer holidays to encourage people find out more about the insects, animals and birds that benefit from having a water source nearby, while also providing visitors with expert advice on how to make their own wetland at home.

Leigh Marshall, Centre Manager at WWT Welney, said: “Nature needs all the help we can provide at the moment and one of the best ways of helping at home is by creating a mini-wetland. Wetlands support more life than any other habitat on Earth and it’s something we can all get involved in.

“People automatically think that means they need a big space to create a pond but there are so many options for small areas, like buckets and balcony ponds, that can be so beneficial for countless species, from beetles through to birds.

“And not only is it great for the species you help, having your own wetland also provides a fascinating insight into a world we don’t often see.”

The charity is also encouraging people to get together with neighbours and community groups in East Anglia to create networks of mini-wetlands to help water-loving species move around the region.

WWT’s mini-wetland advice pages cover everything from where to create your mini-wetland, which type would suit you and your space best and tips on how to fund larger community projects.

WWT Welney Wetland Centre is open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm. To find out more about special pond dipping sessions and what else is on throughout the holidays visit https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

The post National Charity Calls for East Anglian Nature Lovers to Create Watery Havens for Wildlife appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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.

The exhibition which is held at the Babylon Arts Gallery in Ely, defines the philosophy of Ubuntu, derived from the Bantu languages of Africa, highlights the importance of showing compassion and humanity towards others.

Within the exhibition, Bethany Haysom included artwork from artists such as Madhu Manipatruni with a colourful piece penned “Arranged Marriage” which the artist says was “Drawn on inspiration from [my] roots in India.”

Other artists chosen by the young curator include Rosa Kelly and Alban Haysom. Describing the chosen works as “beautiful,” Bethany Haysom aims for her audience to “explore various interpretations of the title.”

The exhibition also hosts a walled drawing board where members of the public are given the opportunity to draw a pair of eyes, representing each individual in humanity. Weekend Duty Manager at Babylon Arts Theatre Susan Harrison said “The eyes are a clear way of getting people involved. They really sum up the exhibition. It’s a whole piece of artwork in itself. When asked how the exhibition educates newcomers to the notion of Ubuntu, Susan added “It speaks to people on different levels. It’s a beautiful concept.”

Encompassing the importance of celebrating the people around us, the exhibition brings with it a variety of different genres, which help to piece together the story of Ubuntu. 

The exhibition is held at The Babylon Arts Gallery until 23rd July.

More information can be found on the Babylon Arts official website: https://www.babylonarts.org.uk/gallery/view,i-am-because-we-are_24128.htm 

The post Young Curator’s “I Am Because We Are ” Exhibition Launched at Babylon ARTS Gallery appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The calibre of staff and volunteers was also very high, leading to a nomination in the Welcome Accolade for a second year running. 

WWT Welney balances conservation as a working wetland site in the heart of the Fens, with providing incredible experiences for visitors to connect with the landscape and the wildlife. Throughout the seasons the team work to bring visitors closer to fantastic wildlife spectacles, and tell the story of these wetlands, their history and how we can all play a part in helping nature now. 

Accessibility for visitors to enjoy as much of the site as possible is a key part of the provision made at WWT Welney. The fact that the café and gift shop have also been recognised and scored highly, reflects the whole experience to be had on a day out exploring the Welney Fens.

Centre Manager, Leigh Marshall at WWT Welney said: “A massive congratulations to everyone within the team at Welney for continued hard work, dedication and support. It’s really positive and great to see as our summer audit being judged as comparable to our swan season, with both ends of the year show casing wetland conservation.”

Feedback from the visit was outstanding with the marker saying: “Wildfowl and Wetland Trust – Welney continues to offer an excellent visitor experience for all ages and levels of interest. As well as the wide variety of birds and wildlife regularly sighted at Welney, other positive aspects include the excellent shop and the very good café.”

The summer season at Welney features a more varied cast of species as wildflowers and insects join the bird and mammal species adding to the sights and sounds of our wetlands. Access is also increased for visitors with the summer walk, tansy trail and Lady Fen walk being accessible in addition to the hides and viewpoints along the footpaths. Out of hours events such as bat & barn owl evenings offer a chance to explore more summer wildlife, taking in nocturnal species including moths, bats and owls. 

Press release from WWT Welney

The post WWT Welney Top Score by Visit England as a Great Experience appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Archaeology in Action:  Family Fun Day at Ely Museum appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

It’s a destination to be explored, a naturally immersive experience to be enjoyed; a place where sophisticated shopping, inclusive hospitality and untamed nature meet. Mark your calendars for an unmatched retail experience, where the service is second to none. 

A Day-Trip To Remember

Ben’s Yard redefines a traditional shopping and leisure experience. A champion of local businesses and quintessentially British brands, the Ben’s Yard retailers offer everything from meticulously curated homewares to independent British fashion.

In need of rest and relaxation? On-site hairdressing services take care of your hair, while the Ben’s Yard Restaurant (modern British and international classics) and the Ben’s Yard Café (nutritious salads, snacks and sandwiches) offer inclusive but memorable hospitality. With an enclosed outdoor terrace, even the notorious British weather won’t put a dampener on a day out at Ben’s Yard.

But, it’s more than just shopping and outstanding hospitality – Ben’s Yard is a sensory and holistic experience. Guests will be able to explore the wildlife trails meandering through woodland, fenland and wildflower meadows and catch a glimpse of a Buzzard, Lapwing or Roe Deer. A thoughtfully created two-kilometre stretch designed especially for wheelchairs, bikes and buggies makes this experience accessible for all. And, if the children still have energy, they can run and climb in the enchanting Ely Cathedral-inspired adventure playground. 

Make a Date in the Diary

With a commitment to local businesses, Ben’s Yard is more than just a destination – it’s a lifestyle. So, put a date in the diary; lace up your walking shoes, slip on wellies or dress up to celebrate a special occasion, and get ready to spend quality time with loved ones eating, shopping and being at one with nature.  Prepare for a unique, immersive experience – at Ben’s Yard, there is something for everyone.

Press release from Ben’s Yard

The post Ben’s Yard Opens 30th June 2023: Discover Shopping, Hospitality and Untamed Nature appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Throughout the partnership, “Drawn to Water: Quentin Blake at WWT”, WWT Welney will run three seasonal trails with guides using selected little seen before illustrations of watery nature from Quentin Blake to help inspire visitors to view the wonder of wetland nature in a different way.

Each of the trails, Spring/Summer, Autumn, and Winter, will highlight the amazing nature that arrives each season, showcasing new life, sparkling water and visiting birds, helping everyone experience nature in new, unexpected ways through Quentin Blake’s work. These trails will run alongside a range of art and illustration activities to inspire all ages and abilities, helping everyone experience nature in new, unexpected ways. Experience spring/summer seasonal treasures from swallows joining you in the hides to wildflowers coming out in bloom, all highlighted by the Quentin Blake trail.  

Commenting on the partnership Quentin Blake said: “I am delighted to be sharing my pictures with WWT sites and their visitors through the Drawn to Water experience. This project appealed to me because I have a lifelong fascination of drawing wetland wildlife, especially birds.

“I can’t quite explain why but it may be because like us, they are on two legs and have expressive gestures. The drawings you will see are from my own personal archive, and many have rarely been seen in public before.

“Through Drawn to Water I hope that seeing my artwork in places where these creatures are thriving will allow new audiences to enjoy wetland wildlife as much as I do, perhaps prompting a few people to pick up a pen, pencil or even a quill and do their own drawing.”

Emma Brand at WWT Welney said: The design of this trail is so that people can have a very personal connection to the highlights of each season.  Whether it be through sight, sound or the feeling of being in these handpicked locations, our wetlands will provide inspiration for art or a chance to slow yourself down and connect with the flow of the natural world.

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

The post Quentin Blake Art Draws People to WWT Welney appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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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The Stained Glass Museum is celebrating its ties to the British monarchy by opening to visitors for free all day on Coronation Day, Saturday 6 May.

To commemorate His Majesty King Charles III’s Coronation, visitors will be able to explore the museum’s permanent gallery of stained glass windows, many of which have a royal connection.

With stunning examples of stained glass windows from the medieval to the modern from across the UK and Europe, there is something for everyone to enjoy, whether your preference is for the traditional, modern or both!

The Stained Glass Museum will be open 10am until 5pm on Saturday 6 May. Ely Cathedral is also open all day for free and will be showing the Coronation ceremony in the nave on the big screen. Families can also enjoy a special free Coronation trail to explore the Cathedral and the museum.

The Stained Glass Museum and Royal Patronage

The Stained Glass Museum is located on an upper level of Ely Cathedral, and has a strong association with King Charles III. In his role as the former Prince of Wales, His Royal Highness had the role of Patron of The Stained Glass Museum. He has visited the museum twice, once in 2000 to reopen the new gallery, and most recently he made a special visit in November 2018 to mark the museum’s 40th birthday.

The Stained Glass Museum’s Royal portraits

The museum’s collection contains several stained glass windows with direct connections to the British monarchy for visitors to explore too.

Royal portraits in the museum’s collection include a large and glowing 18th century painted glass portrait of King George III (reign 1760-1820) in his Coronation robes, today on loan to The Stained Glass Museum from the Royal Collection. Once housed in the royal residence of Windsor Castle, this portrait was a major feature in the King’s Dining Room. King George III is depicted seated in the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey, wearing robes of State and holding the sceptre.

This is the same Coronation Chair that King Charles III will sit on in Westminster Abbey during the Coronation Ceremony on 6 May. The Chair has been used at the coronation ceremony since Edward II’s Coronation ceremony in 1308 and for Crowning of monarchs since at least 1399 when Henry IV was crowned whilst seated in the Chair.

Another portrait on display at the museum, by the artist Hugh Arnold, depicts Queen Victoria (reign 1837-1901) and her successor Edward VII (reign 1901-1910). Until the reign of the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Victoria was the longest reigning British monarch. In this window she is shown in her Coronation robes carrying her sceptre and wearing the Order of the Garter. Edward VII is shown in his Knight of the Garter robes and holding the crown.

The Stained Glass Museum’s permanent gallery displays over 130 windows from its collection, from medieval to modern, so there is much to explore. We look forward to welcoming visitors to celebrate this occasion with us.

Press release from The Stained Glass Museum

All photos © The Stained Glass Museum

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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

The post Ringing for the King and St Etheldreda appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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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The new go-to destination is halfway between London and Norfolk, making it the perfect stop-over for Londoners heading out of the city. With universal access, Ben’s Yard plays host to retailers including local businesses and great British brands. On the estate will also be the signature Ben’s Yard Café serving modern British and international classics, with contemporary botanical interiors and dishes created using seasonal and locally produced food. 

Ben’s Yard retailers include:

Freda & Bert The team behind the Manor Gift Shop will be opening a new exclusive shop called Freda and Bert. The new store will be the ideal place to secure the perfect unique gift including scented candles, unusual gadgets, men’s grooming products, colourful children’s wooden toys, charming stationery alongside beautiful cards and gift bags.

Love Lane by Abi A haven for discovering beautiful, timeless homewares. Love Lane by Abi’s philosophy is to offer an elegant, simply styled range which can transform a house into a home. Their inspiring workshops include topics such as interior styling, where the team will be encouraging, guiding and increasing their customers’ knowledge and confidence in home development.

Something about Rose The long established brand Something about Rose will bring their unique take on women’s wear and offer a different and fantastic personal shopping experience. Visit the store for everything from wardrobe updates and advice, to outfits for events and holiday pieces. Products include fashion, footwear, beachwear, accessories, jewellery and ladies gifting.

Spoke and Motor  Spoke and Motor sell high quality electric bikes for people who want to enjoy the outdoors on two wheels. They give a supportive and personal service so that you end up with the right bike for you.

Thatch & Roses This gorgeous independent florist will be offering everything from retail floristry, funeral, wedding and event flowers to floristry workshops at Ben’s Yard. Their shop will also offer a selection of botanically related accessories with a focus on locally sourced and handcrafted items.

The Hair Company  This independent salon is a British hairdressing business awards finalist which provides passion, experience and a chance to escape from daily routines. Visitors can relax and unwind in the comfortable Ben’s Yard Salon, whilst the friendly team delivers an exceptional experience. Stylists will consult, combine and create, taking clients on a journey of transformation so that they can step out feeling confident and beautiful.

Ben’s Yard Café Ben’s Yard Cafe offers relaxed yet sophisticated all day dining with an eclectic menu. The cafe-restaurant is open seven days a week, welcoming all ages, offering something for everyone whether in heels or wellies, pulling up a barstool or slouching into a comfy armchair. Delicious dishes on the menu include their flavoursome Roast Chicken Breast (Lemon & Thyme Roast Chicken Breast, Jumbo Cous Cous Tabbouleh, Sumac, Harissa Yoghurt) and the tasty Seared Seabass with ingredients grown at Ben’s Yard (Warm Pea, Bacon & Stuntney Estate Potato Salad, Rocket Pea & Herb Sauce). 

Ben’s Yard Larder: For those looking to grab and go, Ben’s Yard Larder will be the ultimate one stop shop, selling food to go and food gifting items, as well as luxury, seasonal and novelty food favourites. 

With more retailers to be revealed, Ben’s Yard will be the perfect destination for visitors to  spoil themselves, find that perfect gift and explore new experiences.

Those who enjoy the outdoors will be able to take full advantage of an iconic Ely Cathedral themed playground and a multi-acre event space with marked trails through woodland, fenland and wildflower meadows, all beautifully landscaped on the idyllic 2,500 acre Stuntney Estate. 

Ben’s Yard seamlessly combines their shopping experience with nature as visitors are able to take full advantage of the stunning Stuntney Estate whilst doing some serious retail therapy from sustainable and local retailers.

Press release from Ben’s Yard

The post Ben’s Yard: Visit Local British Businesses at New Retail Village appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

East Cambridgeshire District Council has teamed up with Visit Ely and the City of Ely Council to install 13 digital information points which go live in June.

They’ll use smart touchscreen technology – linked to the free public wifi and a dedicated Visit Ely app – to benefit residents, tourists, businesses, and the environment.

As well as navigating people through the beautiful city using web mapping platforms like Google Maps, users will be able to easily search for the latest information on local shops and businesses.

Details of key events will be available to view at a glance and, if push notifications are requested, businesses can use the app to offer discounts and promotions.

Interesting facts and information will be uploaded by Visit Ely, enabling people to follow new historical routes around the city centre.

And a gamification feature will provide an element of fun with treasure hunts and quizzes.

The new technology is being installed by East Cambridgeshire District Council with a £240,000 grant from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority designed to help boost the local economy.

Once the digital signs and the accompanying mobile apps for Android and Apple are up and running they will be officially handed over to Visit Ely, which is managed by the City of Ely Council.

Cllr Anna Bailey, leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We are delighted to be part of this amazing Medieval Meets Modern project which uses the latest smart technology to help showcase and promote our historic city.

“Research shows that many people who visit Ely tend to do so for one thing – such as visit the Cathedral, attend Ely Markets, or walk along the riverbank – and then go home again. Yet there is so much more to our beautiful city.

“This new technology is easy to use and also fully accessible to people who do not have mobile phones or tablets.

“Visitors will be able to use it to explore all areas of the city and find out more about the businesses and services we have on offer, while finding out more about our rich cultural heritage.”

Anna Bennett, manager of Visit Ely, which is part of the City of Ely Council, said: “We are delighted to support and manage the “Medieval meets modern” project which enhances and highlights both those very words!

“The team, which is based at the Tourist Information Centre, is very proud as we move forward into modern times to enhance and expand every visitor experience and, of course, benefit our local community at the same time.”

The signs, which have been located in collaboration with the Conservation officer, will be available for public use in June. The supporting app is currently being pre-loaded with essential information about the city but it is expected this will increase over time.

If the app is successful it has the potential to extend the boundary to include other areas of the district.

Help us shape Ely’s new app

Would you like to have the opportunity to be one of the first users to tell us how you would like the app to be shaped?

We’re asking local residents – those who really know and love Ely – to help create content for the new app.

In particular we are encouraging local shops and businesses to submit information about their premises.

You may also have ideas about information that can be included on the app, for example such as highlighting where defibrillators are located or where to access disabled toilets.

It may be that you know an interesting fact or have an exciting story you want to share.

Or it may be that you are a keen local photographer and would like to share some of your images.

Whatever your ideas, please get in touch to discuss how we can make them a reality.

Email: app@visitely.org.uk

Where possible we will use the information to enhance the app for the benefit of all members of the community.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

The post Medieval Meets Modern appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Soham Carnival – 70th Anniversary Great Family Fun Day appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Commissioned by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) and originally unveiled in Bristol on 2nd February 2023, the mural highlights this year’s World Wetland Day theme of wetland restoration.

Members of the public can interact with the mural by standing on the jetty, sitting in the boat or snapping a photo as they plant a shoot in the saltmarsh, symbolising the regeneration of wetlands.

It shows a degraded wetland transforming into a flourishing habitat, filled with thriving wildlife and highlighting the incredible potential of wetlands to capture carbon, clean our water, protect us from flooding, provide a home to wildlife and boost our health and wellbeing.

A staggering 45% of people in the UK do not know what a wetland is [i] and this large-scale artwork by 3D Joe and Max is designed to help significantly increase the number of people aware of these types of habitat and the challenges they face. 

WWT Campaigns Manager Laura Williams said: “Hundreds of people took their photo with the mural on World Wetlands Day, learning more about the amazing powers of wetlands to tackle the nature, biodiversity and health and wellbeing crises and we are very excited to be able to take this on tour to other places – from cathedrals to shopping centres and conferences to visitor centres.”

This stop on the tour was made possible thanks to a collaboration between WWT and the Church Commissioners – members of the Blue Recovery Leaders Group, a diverse range of organisations championing wetlands. The mural will also visit other Church Commissioner sites this month, including the Hyde Park Estate in London on 1st March and Metrocentre in Newcastle on 10th March.

The Very Revd Mark Bonney, Dean of Ely said: ‘We are delighted to be engaging with the WWT 3D mural. Wetlands are a significant part of the landscape and environment of the area in which the Cathedral is situated. As together we look to meet the challenges of climate change goals their recovery and sustainability has an important part to play.’

WWT Welney Centre Manager Leigh Marshall said: ‘We are thrilled to be bringing our interactive wetland mural to Ely.  At Welney we witness how vital wetlands are for vulnerable species and human wellbeing.  Creating new wetlands like Lady Fen after centuries of wetland loss is essential for wildlife and people, and we know from experience how quickly wetlands can recover, when given the chance.’

Featuring iconic British species like curlew and kingfishers, otters and dragonflies, this mural is a vision of Britain’s ‘blue recovery’. This is a possible future if Britain chooses to revive its lost wetland ecosystems and invest in creating more wetlands.  You can visit the mural at Ely Cathedral 10am-4pm Saturday 4th March or 12.30-4pm Sunday 5th March. 

As the mural tours the UK, WWT is calling upon government, business and wider society to help restore and create 100,000 hectares of wetlands in the UK to combat the climate, nature and wellbeing crises.

You can show your support by signing the Wetlands Can! campaign pledge.

Key facts:

• The most recent research shows that the UK has lost around 75% of its wetlands in the last 300 years – half the wetlands in Europe have been lost in the same time period. (Nature)

• Coastal wetlands like the saltmarshes at WWT Steart Marshes store more carbon per hectare than other habitats such as forests. Steart Marshes is burying organic carbon at a rate of approximately 70 tonnes of carbon dioxide (equivalent) per hectare (per year)[ii].

• 22,000 hectares of restored saltmarsh would mean an extra 1.5 megatons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year would be captured and stored [2] This is equivalent to taking 770,000 cars off the road for one year. 

• Wetlands are among the most biologically diverse places on earth. Every year 200 new species are discovered in freshwater wetlands and 40% of the world’s plants and animals depend on wetlands.

1. According to 2022 research data by NFP Synergy CAM

2. Rapid carbon accumulation at a saltmarsh restored by managed realignment far exceeds carbon in site construction.  Mossman HL, Dunk RM et al. BioRxiv preprint server. 19 October 2021

Website: https://www.wwt.org.uk/world-wetlands-day/picture-this-thriving-wetlands/

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

The post Giant 3D Wetland Mural to Visit Ely Cathedral on UK Tour appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Close to local amenities, yet delightfully rural and secluded, it is perfect for holidays, business travel, family and friend celebration weekends and mini-breaks.

Dog, wheelchair and child-friendly, Gravel Farm Cottages range from a cosy one-bed to a large and contemporary ‘celebration’ eco-house sleeping ten, in superking beds and can be booked together sleeping a total of eighteen. All four cottages offer supreme comfort and luxury with high-quality mattresses, stylish bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens and light and airy interiors along with excellent levels of cleanliness and care all delivered at good value.

Nestled alongside the River Great Ouse with wonderful views across the wildly tamed Fenland landscape, acres of private space for dog-walking and birdwatching as well as instant access to the river for fishing and other activities, there is no need to leave!

Renewably powered and heated by the latest solar and air technology, the four cottages come fully equipped inside and out each with their own secure private garden, high-speed internet connection, a dedicated workspace for home-working and a brand-new hot tub for hire. Offering you a relaxing home-from-home, Gravel Farm is an ideal base from which you can explore and access the Ely area as well as the rest of Cambridgeshire.

For more information and booking information (including longer term and work travel related rental discounts), please visit our website at www.gravelfarm.co.uk, call Davina on 07723 016 965 or email her at davina@gravelfarm.co.uk.

Gravel Farm Cottages, Gravel Farm, Newmarket Road, Stretham, Ely, CB6 3LJ

The post Style and Comfort at Gravel Farm Self-Catering Cottages appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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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There’s a warm welcome and the offer of tea or coffee, toast and biscuits and WiFi for anyone wanting to browse the internet, do some work in a beautiful light space, or just sit and read the newspaper.

“We identified Warm Hubs as a clear and obvious need in Ely,” said Phil Marsh, St Mary’s Team Vicar, “ACRE, which is running 12 Warm Hubs on behalf of East Cambs District Council, had no capacity for a further project, so we decided to press on ourselves, offering a Warm Space from 9am-12.30pm each Wednesday.”

Four or five of a team of 20 volunteers are on hand to keep the coffee flowing and ensure a warm welcome.

Every Wednesday over the past month an increasing number of people have called in, some just for a cuppa, a slice of hot toast and a chat, others have found a comfortable seat and logged on to do a morning’s work while others have played board games.

“There are all kinds of reasons for using our Warm Space,” said Phil, “ two mums with toddlers met for a play date, three homeless individuals called in, someone newly-bereaved just wanted a conversation while others were people meeting up with friends or wanting somewhere warm to sit awhile.

“Nobody needs or is asked for the reason why they’ve dropped in. The church has just completed a transformation into a beautiful warm space and we want to see it shared with as many people as possible.”

Press release from St Mary’s Church, Ely

The post St Mary’s Church offers ‘Warm Space’ welcome appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Spring Programme of Talks and Workshops Announced appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

The post Burial of a Princess Exhibition at Ely Museum appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Hana Loftus from HAT Projects said; “The Civic Trust Awards are rigorously judged through in-person visits, and set a high bar for projects that genuinely contribute to their communities. We are thrilled that the Museum project is a finalist and the hard work of all the team is recognised in this way.”

Since re-opening last year the museum building has provided a welcoming and inspiring space for everyone to engage with heritage and enjoy the collections. The museum also offers great facilities, with a room available to hire.

Civic Trust Awards are given to projects that make an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment. Award level schemes demonstrate excellence in architecture or design, whilst being sustainable, accessible and providing a positive civic contribution.

The Selwyn Goldsmith Awards are selected by a specially convened panel of universal design experts, seeking to celebrate environments or buildings that are responsive, flexible, welcoming, easy to use and occupy; allowing all to use with dignity and equality, aiming to promote and applaud “those schemes which have gone beyond the building regulations, putting people at the heart of the project and showing exemplar design.”

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Ely Museum is Selected as a Regional Finalist for a Civic Trust Awards appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Museum is delighted that our much loved, traditional Father Christmas Grotto is returning to the museum again this year!
We look forward to welcoming Father Christmas to our beautiful Aedwen Room at the museum, a space created during our redevelopment, and we’re sure his elves will enjoy exploring our fantastic new, interactive exhibitions too.

We have an excellent weekend planned & we are looking forward to welcoming the children of Ely back to meet Father Christmas. Children will be able to meet Father Christmas, share their wish-lists and receive a special gift too, thanks to the generous elves at the City Cycle Centre.

There will also be a special elf trail to explore the museum with and a tombola try your luck on throughout the weekend!

Emily Allen, Community Engagement Officer at Ely Museum said; “After what has been a difficult year for many, we hope that a visit to Father Christmas at the museum will be the perfect kick start to the festive season! Alongside meeting the main man, there will be lots of fun to enjoy on the day too. We trust that everyone has been on their best behaviour for Father Christmas and are excited to share their Christmas wish lists with him!”

The grotto takes place on Saturday 10th December and Sunday 11th December, between 10:30am – 1pm and from 1:30pm – 4pm. There is no need to book, tickets are £5 per child and are sold on the door.

To find more information about the grotto please visit www.elymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/father-christmas-at-ely-museum

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Father Christmas to Visit Ely Museum appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

“The building has become the beautiful, accessible, sustainable, flexible and functional space we’d hoped for,” said the Rector, the Rev Chris Hill. “Please do come along and take a look. Imagine how your group or organisation might like to use it. Whoever you are, wherever you are from, you are welcome here.”

The “open doors” event is on Sunday 27th November from 11am-4pm as part of Ely Festive Fair. There will be refreshments and an exhibition.

The Grade 1 Listed building which dates back 800 years has been closed for nearly a year as a team of specialist builders and engineers worked inside.

The floor has been levelled and a stone floor laid with underfloor heating. Air source heat pumps will reduce the building’s carbon footprint and secondary heating, new lighting, electrics and audio visual equipment have been installed.

“This has been a magnificent team effort,” said the Rector. “I’d like to thank all those whose generosity and hard work contributed to getting to this point, Archangel architects, Coulson and Son contractors, the members of the church who donated and the grant providers.”

Already booked is a “Sing Together” Dementia Choir community event on Saturday 3rd December at 11am and Ely Choral Society will stage their Christmas concert on Saturday 10 December at 7.30pm. 

While the church has been closed Sunday services have been held in the former Bishop Woodford House in Barton Road which is now part of King’s Ely. The congregation will return to St Mary’s for a celebratory first service on Sunday 11th December at 10am.

Fund raising for the project began six years ago attracting generous support from local and national charities including the Amey Community Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, Beatrice Laing Trust, Joseph Rank Trust, Thomas Parsons Charity, as well as East Cambridgeshire District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy fund. The major contribution came from church members.

Press release from St Mary’s Ely Building Transformation Project

The post Everyone’s Invited to see St Mary’s Church Transformation appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Following two years of uncertainty, cancellations and extra precautions due to Covid, this popular event is back with some exciting new  developments.  The Festive Village in the Cathedral grounds has expanded to host over 75 outside exhibitors and around 50 food vendors. Decorated with festoon lights and the vintage carousel, the outside areas in the grounds will complement the main event located inside Ely’ magnificent Cathedral. 

Joss Palmer, Event Manager at Ely Cathedral said, “We have expanded the outdoor areas to ensure those who were unable to get tickets to the main event inside the building, can still come and experience the fair, do some shopping and enjoy all the tasty treats from food vendors.  This event has been running for eight years and, for many it is a picture-perfect start to the festive season. Obviously visitor wellbeing is a major consideration so we have several  measures in place, including plenty of lighting and limiting tickets to access the exhibitors inside the building, to ensure everyone is safe and comfortable and can focus on enjoying themselves”. 

As always, the Christmas Fair is about enjoying time with family and friends. The beautifully restored Victorian carousel will be located on the Cathedral green providing nostalgic rides on an original fairground horse.  Outside, the festive food village will host a great selection of gourmet artisan food and drink vendors including The Little Mobile Bar, Norfolk Hog Roast, Bijou Bebidas, Bitesize Bakehouse, New York Dehli and Chocolate Chocolate. 

It is worth noting that remaining tickets for the main event inside the Cathedral are limited, and, while the Thursday morning and Saturday afternoon sessions are completely sold out, other sessions are still available but need to be booked online.

A full list of exhibitors and stallholders is available on the website. The event runs from 17th – 19th November 2022.

Tickets: https://www.elycathedral.org/events/christmas-gift-and-food-fair-2022

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Christmas Gift and Food Fair Set to be a Sell Out! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Festive Food & Gift Markets will take place every Friday from 18th 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, except for 25th November when there will be a special extended late-night opening until 6.30pm. This late-night shopping evening will also feature a festive performance by local dance school 4th Dimension from 5pm onwards.

“Our Festive Food & Gift Markets are back again for 2022,” says Julia Davis from Ely Markets. “This year we’ve got even more craft and food stalls – plus a large covered seating area. We’ll have different traders every Friday, plus entertainment from local schools and community groups. On 25 November, we’ve extended the opening times to 6.30pm for late-night festive shopping.”

On Friday 23rd December there will be a Festive Craft & Farmers’ Market, followed by a Christmas Eve Craft & Farmers Market on Saturday 24th 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 23rd and 24th December are your last chance to shop for Christmas,” says Julia Davis. “Our farmers always pull out the stops at Christmas and this year you can expect to see artisan cheese, locally-grown vegetables and the finest game, venison and Aberdeen Angus beef. You’ll even find Christmas trees, wreaths and flowers to decorate your table.”

In addition to their special Christmas Markets, Ely Markets also runs large markets every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – plus the 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 Food & Gift Markets:
Friday 18th November, 10am-4pm
Friday 25th November, 10am-6.30pm *special extended opening times! *
Friday 2nd December, 10am-4pm
Friday 9th December, 10am-4pm
Friday 16th December, 10am-4pm

FESTIVE CRAFT & FARMERS’ MARKET – Friday 23rd December, 8.30am-3.30pm

CHRISTMAS EVE CRAFT & FARMERS’ MARKET, Saturday 24th December, 8.30am-3.30pm

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

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

Press release from Ely Markets

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

Families can test their bravery as they explore the eek!citing and mysterious world of wetland nature  this October half term at Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust WWT Welney Centre in Norfolk.

From the feathered and furred to the slimy and scaly, there are some truly weird and wonderful creatures that call wetlands home – and all are ready and waiting to be discovered by visitors as they make their way round the sites keeping eyes peeled and ears pricked for a truly exciting eek!sperience.

With spooky interactive activities and a scary trail to follow, visitors to WWT Welney this October are being dared to put their hands into an eel box, grab a photo op with a bat or listen out for toads.

There’s also plenty more for the whole family to discover across our site this Autumn, whether they’re looking for a fright or not – such as taking a relaxing walk along the summer trail; fishing out wild wonders and uncovering underwater life in our ponds; or taking a closer look at what owls have eaten by dissecting owl pellets.

WWT Welney’s Marketing & Events Officer, Emma Brand: “For a half term experience with a difference, our eek! weeks event gives families the chance to connect with nature and enjoy a fantastic, fun wildlife learning experience.

“Autumn is such a special time to visit Welney and the interactive eek! weeks trail and nature-based activities on offer are a brilliant way for children to get outdoors and use all their senses to explore and connect to nature this half term”.

The eek! weeks interactive trail is included as part of the centre admission price (free for WWT members and under 4’s).

To find out more about the eek! weeks event at Welney, visit https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney/whats-on/eek-week-7.

Press release from WWT Welney Wetland Centre

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Forming part of the new temporary exhibition now on display at Ely Museum is the story and medals of three brothers from the Parker McGee family from Stuntney, who, in a cruel twist of fate, all died on the same day in the First World War. Still complete with the packaging and envelopes that they were delivered in, the medals form a powerful visual reminder of one local family’s loss and grief from over 100 years ago.

A Pause to Reflect: the 1922 Unveiling of the War Memorials in Ely examines the creation of two of Ely’s main war memorials – the Market Place memorial and the County Memorial in Ely Cathedral. The display includes original documents and objects relating to the days the memorials were unveiled, as well as medals, poignant letters, paperwork and objects that help to tell the stories of some of the men recorded on the memorials. Included in the display is a selection of enlarged photographs taken during the unveiling ceremonies, showing many of the local people in attendance in fascinating detail.

Felix Jackson, from Ely Museum, states: ”From a fragile handwritten ledger listing those from the area who volunteered in 1914, to hurriedly written letters from the front carrying the first news of the death of a family member, A Pause to Reflect provides a link to the individual human stories behind the names on our memorials.

First unveiled 100 years ago this year, both memorials are now familiar landmarks to residents and visitors to Ely a like, however few people are aware of the stories behind their creation and the names that they commemorate.”

A Pause to Reflect is on display at Ely Museum until November 27th and is included in standard entry to the museum or free to annual pass holders.

On Saturday, November 5th, Ely Museum is also holding a Military Family History Day. Visitors will be able to chat to experts on local military history who will also assist with any research questions. People are also invited to bring along any old family military medals, photos, uniform or paperwork that they would like to discover more about. 

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Remembering the Stories Behind Ely’s War Memorials appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Organised by the National Farmers Union, this family event brings together local organisations and agricultural businesses to showcase the best of farming including high quality produce grown locally in the Fens.  Exhibitors consist of some of the leading names in agriculture locally including G’s Fresh, Cambridgeshire Beekeepers, Tompsett Growers Ltd and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany. 

Some sheep supplied by farmers Mark Drew and Frances Cook from Rampton, will be taking temporary residence inside the Cathedral over the weekend, alongside the produce and flower displays. Born in February, Alcroft Celine and Alcroft Camilla are prizewinning pedigree British Galway ewe lambs and are fresh from being successfully shown at the Gransden Show. 

This theme this year is ‘Harvest Home’ with a spotlight as much on the farmers, as the food they produce.  For the first time this year, there will be a display featuring six Fenland farmers talking about their harvest memories and what harvest means for them, their families and the community. Also new to this event is a special ‘pledge tree’ inside the Cathedral where members of the public can send messages of support to the farming community, after what has been a particularly challenging year for many. 

This year’s event will also acknowledge the war in the Ukraine, and the impact it is having on farming families there, with a blue-and-yellow-themed floral display. Money raised from the event will go to Ukraine Crisis Appeal.

There is no charge to come into the Cathedral over the weekend to experience the Harvest displays and decorations. For further information please visit www.eltcathedral.org

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Bringing the Harvest Home to Ely Cathedral appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

October 8th will see many stalls including Street food, cider, hand crafted delights, apple crumbles, pies and more!

Taking place on the iconic Palace Green from 10am, this free festival of fun and flavours celebrates the long and rich history of the orchards and harvest in Ely and surrounding areas.  

With activities including the much loved and fiercely competitive “Longest Apple Peel” competition, the riotously funny Apple and Spoon race and so much more, this is a truly family friendly event.

To make is even more fun this year, we have special guest appearances from the cast of ‘Cinderella’ the much loved KD Theatre Panto that kicks off 9th December 2022 – and to tempt you into booking your tickets!

Once again the day is made possible by the sponsorship of Watergull Orchards, who have supported the Apple Day in Ely for many years, providing prizes and much more to make sure the event continues to bear fruit.

Anna Bennett, Manager of Visit Ely said of this year’s event “We were thrilled to see the huge reaction the event received last year, making it extra special as we co-ordinate the event with Ely Cathedral’s Harvest Festival, so we can’t wait to see what 2022 brings. This is truly one of our favourite events of the year.“

Press release from Visit Ely

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For over 30 years, the Cathedral has hosted this event in aid of local and national animal charities. In previous years they have welcomed many types of animals and pets including cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, alpacas, donkeys and even a tortoise.   

This is a family friendly service and blessing, and a celebration all creatures, great and small, with whom we share this planet.  The Service will be led by the Right Revd Dagmar Winter, Bishop of Huntingdon, and her lurcher, Tilda, plus Tilda’s friend, Charlie, a whippet.  This is the first time Bishop Dagmar has been involved in the Animal Service at Ely . “I’m looking forward to my first ever animal service and am wondering how many different creatures there will be! It will be fun to bring along Tilda, she is my 5 ½ year old rescue lurcher. As it happens, we are currently also having an old four-legged friend staying, Charlie, a 15 ½ year old whippet, so he will come along too. Prince William was heard saying last week how comforting he found his spaniel during sad times and I’m sure all those attending on Sunday will join me in giving thanks to God for our pets.”

All animals are welcome. This year the Cathedral is asking everyone to ensure the service is the right environment for their pet. A spokesperson for the event said, “We are aware that some animals can feel very stressed in a strange or unfamiliar environment. If you have a pet that is over-anxious, please do bring a photograph instead. The emotional wellbeing of animal is an important part of their care.”   

This very special service, which has been featured on BBC’s Songs of Praise, takes place at Ely Cathedral next Sunday, 25 September at 2.00pm. All proceeds will benefit local animal charities.

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post Annual Animal Service Returns to Ely Cathedral appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Now, told for the first time through ballet, the story will be performed at Ely Cathedral this September, famously the setting of one of the novel’s most memorable scenes. 

Produced by Sussex-based dance company Frankly Speaking Productions, this original open air production first toured the UK in 2021, where it achieved widespread acclaim for its magical retelling of one of Cambridgeshire’s most beloved stories.

The show is choreographed by Gareth Mole, who grew up locally in Doddington and achieved several world champion titles in Line Dancing before going on to train as a professional dancer. 

“Tom’s Midnight Garden is an unforgettable story from so many of our childhoods,” says producer Frances Livesey. “It’s simply one of those stories we fall in love with again and again.

“The show is perfect for children of all ages, and for adults too. It’s a show designed to be loved regardless of your age. Moreover, the story, from its epic ascents to the ever-memorable scene where Tom and Hatty skate through the frozen Fens, almost seems made for ballet — and yet has never been told through dance before. So this feels like a really special project.”

The critically acclaimed piece of post-war literature tells the story of Tom Long, a young boy exiled to his aunt and uncle’s apartment while his brother recovers from measles. Stuck inside with only his aunt and uncle for company and no garden to play in, Tom fears that his holidays are doomed. However, as he lays awake at night and hears the old grandfather clock bizarrely strike thirteen, the gloomy building reveals a multitude of enchanting secrets full of magic and adventure.

Tom’s Midnight Garden has previously been adapted for film in the 1999 motion picture directed by Willard Carroll, as well as for TV in 1968, 1974 and 1988 by the BBC, and for the stage in 2001 by David Wood.

Dates and Times: Saturday 17th September — The Dean’s Garden, Ely Cathedral, Ely, CB7 4DL, 2pm and 4pm

Tickets available online at https://www.elycathedral.org/events/toms-midnight-garden

Press release from Frankly Speaking Productions

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Ely Museum is continuing, for the third summer, to share the creative fun, and our love of the fens, with children across East Cambridgeshire with our creative ‘Museum From Home’ packs for the foodbank again.

Initially begun in 2020, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic as the museum delivered online activities and virtual school visits, the museum quickly realised for those with squeezed household budgets, craft materials were probably not top of the shopping list, and that’s where we could help!

Whilst the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 were challenge for everyone, as the cost of living continues to rise, some households are hit harder than others, and the need for foodbanks is greater than ever.

Thanks to funding from Cambridgeshire County Council, the museum is able to provide these fun packs to the foodbank which are filled with activities to enjoy all summer and can be handed out with their usual food parcels.

These themed activity packs include all the things a family needed to have fun, whether they are making some insect and nature themed crafts, or trying one of our fun activities or scavenger hunts.

We are especially pleased this year, thanks to the funding we received from Cambridgeshire County Council to also be able to include a free annual pass to the museum in the packs, so families can enjoy free visits to the museum all year!

Emily Allen, Community Engagement Officer at Ely Museum, said “We are delighted to be working with Ely Foodbank again this summer to provide these new craft packs, inspired by the collection at Ely Museum and the fens. We hope the packs will be enjoyed by families across Ely this summer and beyond with their free admission ticket. A big thank you to Cambridgeshire County Council for their support in making these possible”

To find out more about Ely Museum, which was recently shortlisted for a national ‘Family Friendly Museum’ award, and is filled with exciting, interactive galleries and fun for all ages, visit: http://www.elymuseum.org.uk.

To find out what donations the Ely Foodbank are most in need of at the current time, please visit: https://ely.foodbank.org.uk/ and donate where possible.

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Ely Museum Provides Ely Foodbank with Craft and Activity Packs to Spark <br>Creativity this Summer appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely Brick Show was created by father and child duo Duncan and Kayla, who sought to bring the magic of Lego shows to Ely. This is its third year – the first year was hugely popular and raised £1500 for the charity Ely Christians Against Poverty. The pandemic resulted in a virtual show in 2021, which showcased a wide variety of builds. This year, Duncan, Kayla and a team of over 20 enthusiasts will be bringing the magic back in-person with a much larger show than before! 

From Star Wars and Harry Potter to Great Ball Contraptions and Flying Saucer Cafe, there will be a plethora of creative builds to view, conjured from the imaginations of these talented creators.

Extras that add to the show include a Spot the Minifig competition, speed build, special guests from a Galaxy far far away and Lego and Duplo play area.

For advance tickets from £2, and more information go to http://www.elybrickshow.co.uk

and don’t forget to follow Ely Brick Show on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/elybrickshow

Press release from Ely Brick Show

The post The Ely Brick Show is Back for 2022 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The fabulous summer of hats continues at Ely Museum! 

Have you ever looked at a fascinator in a shop and thought, ‘I quite like this, but fancy it in a different colour’? Or perhaps you’ve wondered ‘how do they make that’? 

Children aged 7 – 12 can book on to our ‘Craft your own Cap’ workshop on Thursday 18th August. Have a go at decorating two different kinds of hats and wear them home. 

Ely Museum is working with Mill House Millinery to offer a programme of hat related events. Adults who fancy making their own headwear can come along to two workshops on making fascinators. ‘Make a Pick and Mix Straw Fascinator’ is on 10th August, 7 – 9.30pm, and ‘Make a Vintage Style Felt Fascinator’ on 7th September. 

Over the course of 2 ½ hours you will be guided through making your own fascinator. Learn how to make three different shapes, a curl, a twist and a flower out of straw-like sinamay on 10th August. Or learn about felt shaping, and the additions of ribbon, flowers, feathers and trims on 7th September. Use the skills you’ve learned and the pieces you’ve made to create something unique to you.

Before you start your own creation, you’ll be able to try on some examples, so you can pick out what suits you. Do you like clean simple lines in one colour, or a more freeform mix and riot of colour? Do you prefer one big statement piece or something smaller and understated? 

If creating your hat seems too ambitious or you are interested in the process of hat making, come along to Susan’s talk on 14th September and learn about how she got into hat making and all about the various materials and techniques that can be involved in making a hat. 

Ely Museum Curator, Elie Hughes, says, “If you’ve been inspired by trying on the many hats in our exhibition then we have lots of opportunities for you to learn more about hat making and have a go at making your own.” 

Fun for the whole family at Ely Museum this summer, with the Hold On To Your Hat! Exhibition running from To find out more about visiting the museum, please visit www.elymuseum.org.uk

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Create Your Very Own Hat at Ely Museum this Summer appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

From craft workshops to dressing up, Victorian fun to marvellous mosaics, there’s loads of family fun to be had at Ely Museum. Family tickets cost just £12 and you can visit as many times as you like for a year! 

Our drop in holiday craft activities are taking place on Thursday 4th and Thursday 11th August. Running from 11am – 3pm, let your creativity run free with Stomping Stegosaurs (4th) and Buzzing Bugs (11th). Craft tickets are £3 per child with an admission ticket or annual pass. 

Get even more crafty with our Marvellous Mosaics on Thursday 25th August: pre-book a ticket to learn about the ancient Roman art of creating pictures from tiles and make a real ceramic mosaic tile to take home with you. 

Magnificent hats are a bit of a theme at Ely Museum this summer, with our family-friendly exhibition Hold On To Your Hat!, running until 18th September. As well as adding to our dressing up with extra hats to try on and pose, the exhibition features hats from the collection and historic photographs of local people in amazing hats. Try your hand at making your own hats too – Craft Your Own Cap is a pre-booked children’s craft session on Thursday 18th August at 11am where each child will leave with two different decorated hats. Adults can turn their hands to hat making too with our two fascinator workshops on the evenings on 10 August and 7th September, see our website for more details. 

If you like to see history in action, come along to our Living History Day on Saturday 13th August to learn more about life in the Victorian times. 

Sara Adderson, Assistant Curator at Ely Museum says; “This summer holiday is a great time to visit Ely Museum. Your ticket allows you as many visits as you want at a bargain price and we have loads of activities to do. Try our trails and Explorer Kit, peek in the windows in the cases, dress up, hear stories, play with our veg and don’t forget to check out the mammoths on the floor.”

Newly shortlisted in the Best Small Museum category for the national Family Friendly Museum Award run by the charity Kids in Museums, Ely Museum is an ideal place for a family day out in Ely.  The galleries are designed to be interactive, colourful and fun and there’s things to see and do for everyone from babies to grandparents. To find out more about visiting the museum, please visit www.elymuseum.org.uk

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Lots to do at Ely Museum<br>this Summer Holidays appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Fun for the whole family at Ely Museum this summer, with the Hold On To Your Hat!  Exhibition running from 16th July to 18th September 2022. Alongside a fantastic range of historic hats from work and play, there are fun hats to try on and pose with, fascinating hat facts to learn, and glimpses of past Ely residents in resplendent headgear to see. 

The exhibition brings a bit of quirky entertainment to a visit to the museum and is great for all ages. Newly shortlisted in the Best Small Museum category for the national Family Friendly Museum Award run by the charity Kids in Museums, Ely Museum is an ideal place for a family day out in Ely. 

Find out what a chef’s hat has to do with cooking eggs, how hats are made, and even what sort of hat you might have to wear if you were at school or working in Ely during the last century.

Sara Adderson, Assistant Curator at Ely Museum says; “This light-hearted and fun exhibition has a bit of something for everyone, including a sculptural contemporary silk hat by East Anglian milliner Susan Widlake of Mill House Millinery. Hats were an important part of anyone’s outfit, whether that was formal, informal or part of a uniform. Alongside being interesting pieces, they tell us a lot about the lives of the people who wore them.  There’s also the chance to try on lots of different hats and strike a pose!”

Across the school summer holidays there will numerous activities for families at Ely Museum, including the popular craft events. On Thursday 18th August, children can make two hats and decorate them at the ‘Craft your own cap’ workshop. Pre-booking is required and can be done via the museum website. 

August will also feature the opportunity for adults to have a go at hat making, with two artisan craft workshops for adults, taught by Susan Widlake of Mill House Millinery. Make your own felt fascinator or a sinamay sculpture to take home and wear.

The permanent galleries at Ely Museum tell the story of the lives of the people of Ely and the surrounding fens from prehistory to the modern day. Hands-on objects, dressing up, activities and trails make Ely Museum a fun visit for the whole family. 

Look out for children’s crafts and a fantastic Victorian themed living history day this August too.

To find out more about visiting the museum, please visit www.elymuseum.org.uk

Press release from Ely Museum

Photo Credit: Ely Museum

The post Put a Feather in Your Cap at Ely Museum this Summer  appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Every year, Tripadvisor celebrates attractions that consistently deliver amazing experiences with a Travellers’ Choice Award—and this year Ely Cathedral is named amongst them as well as being acknowledged as one of the top 10% of attractions worldwide.

The award celebrates businesses that have received great traveler reviews from travellers around the globe on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the past year was, Ely Cathedral stood out by consistently delivering positive experiences and a warm welcome. 

Sally Porter, Visitor Experience Manager at Ely Cathedral is delighted with the news. “The team here should all be very proud of this achievement. The Cathedral welcomes around 150,000 visitors a year and while this does not make us major attraction in terms of numbers, we do offer a warm welcome alongside unusual and interesting experiences for visitors in the form of face to face tours, innovative events and fascinating exhibitions.  Everyone who comes to the Cathedral, whether as a visitor, pilgrim or worshipper, helps us secure the heritage and legacy of this building to be enjoyed by future generations.” 

“Congratulations to the 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Winners,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor. “The Travelers’ Choice Awards recognize the best in tourism and hospitality, according to those who matter most: your guests. Ranking among the Travelers’ Choice winners is always tough – but never more so than this year as we emerge from the pandemic. Whether it’s using new technology, implementing safety measures, or hiring outstanding staff, I’m impressed by the steps you’ve taken to meet travelers’ new demands. You’ve adapted brilliantly in the face of adversity.” 

Tickets for all events, tours and activities taking place at Ely Cathedral can be booked online, in advance from the Cathedral website: http://www.elycathedral.org. 

Press release from Ely Cathedral

Donate to Ely Cathedral

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With this latest release – the last of the project – over 200 headstarted birds will have been released onto the Ouse and Nene Washes in Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, where most of the remaining breeding pairs in the UK are found.

Data collected by a five year partnership between the RSPB and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) called Project Godwit, shows the number of new birds added to the population is around five times higher than it would have been without these urgent measures.

The great news is that many of the birds released in previous years have successfully migrated to southern Europe and Africa and then returned to the Fens to breed. Evidence gathered by Project Godwit has shown that over 40% of all breeding pairs now include one or two headstarted birds, and the UK population is 40% larger than it would have been without this vital work.

But conservation experts are warning that all the good work could still be undone leaving a bleak future for the waders unless more of the vital healthy wetland habitat the birds need to survive is created.

Project Godwit uses a technique called headstarting – which involves collecting eggs from the wild, under licence from Natural England, and incubating them at a special facility at WWT Welney in Norfolk. After hatching, the chicks are reared in captivity before being released back into the wild when they are past the most vulnerable time in their life and old enough to fly and survive to breed.

Project Godwit was the first time headstarting was used as a technique to boost the population of an endangered UK bird while other methods to save them in the longer term were found. The method is now being trialled on curlews.

“We’ve worked incredibly hard over the past six years to hatch, carefully nurture, and release so many godwits and the success of this project is testament to the effort put in by people from both organisations involved,” said WWT Project Manager Eric Heath.

“But headstarting is just one part of a much wider picture of how we save the future of these much-loved birds, as well as many other ground-nesting waders, and 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.

“It’s really encouraging to see the results of this work, knowing that the numbers are definitely heading in the right direction. However, none of us are feeling complacent and we have a long way to go until we can say the black-tailed godwit is safe.

“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 releasing birds, the project has enhanced habitat, examined the threats the birds face, 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 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.

RSPB Project Manager Rebecca Lee said that the decline in wader species across Europe is a crisis that is worrying scientists, as well as governments and land managers.

“The UK is incredibly important for a wide variety of wading birds,” she said. “As well as hosting important populations of breeding waders, including the black-tailed tailed godwit, we are an internationally important place for many species during winter.

“There are huge concerns for our waders at the moment, but also many reasons to be hopeful. We have some very special habitats in the UK that waders need. For breeding godwits, its wet grasslands which might not sound particularly exciting – but they are! Wet grasslands support a vast diversity of birds and invertebrates, they play an important role in farming systems and flood prevention and provide an array of other benefits.

“Working together with government and local communities we have a real chance to save and restore this important habitat, bringing benefits not just for our birds but for people too.”

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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Following the success of Crowns and Gowns I, this follow up exhibition showcases even more fabulous costumes and jewels from major movies and TV, filmed on location in some of the UK’s most notable Cathedrals.

This visually exciting exhibition can be seen in Ely’s majestic Lady Chapel from the end of June until mid August. It showcases iconic dresses and outfits from well known productions including The Young Victoria, Wolf Hall, The Spanish Princess, The Other Boleyn Girl, The King’s Speech, Macbeth and The Crown.

These films bought globally recognised, award winning actors to UK Cathedrals including Cate Blanchett, Scarlett Johansson, Natalie Portman, Emily Blunt, Jenna Coleman, Tom Holland, Claire Foy, Damien Lewis, Michael Fassbender and Colin Firth.

Joss Palmer, Event Manager at Ely Cathedral says “We have been very fortunate to have Ely used as a location numerous times.  Several other UK Cathedrals such as Wells, Lincoln, Gloucester and York Minster have also provided authentic and truly stunning locations for the film industry. These films contribute greatly to the profile of our majestic Cathedrals both as places of worship and heritage sites which we hope to acknowledge and celebrate in this exhibition.”

Crowns and Gowns II runs from 30th June until 11th August. It will be open every day from 10am (Mon-Sat) and from 12.30 (Sun).

The exhibition is included in the Cathedral admission ticket which should be purchased in advance online. 

On Sundays, when there are no visitor charges for the Cathedral, there will be a £4 entry fee to access the Lady Chapel where the exhibition will be located.

Visitors are asked to check the website for any changes in opening times and ticket details. 

Press release from Ely Cathedral

Support Ely Cathedral here.

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Festival spokesperson Fionnuala Lennon said ‘We’re rolling up our sleeves now to get the new site ready for our first visitors on 8th July. The new festival site will provide a wonderful green backdrop to a great weekend of music, dance and fun. We’ve got a wonderful line-up of national and local folk and roots musicians, lots of activities and fun for younger visitors, and the colourful morris dance procession through the centre of Ely on Saturday morning. There is something for all members of the family to enjoy.’

This is the 36th Ely Folk Festival. The stellar line-up includes Lindisfarne, the Sharon Shannon Trio, Holy Moly and The Crackers, De Temps Antan, Heidi Talbot and Boo Hewerdine, Big Joe Bone, Steamchicken, and Gabriel Moreno and The Quivering Poets.

In addition to 10 concerts over the weekend, the festival will host three Ceilidhs, Morris Dance displays, children’s activities, workshops, a real ale bar and a food and craft trader area. 

The new festival site is located along the A142 Soham Road near Stuntney. A shuttle bus will connect the site to Ely Rail Station and the city centre. Camping is available on the site for weekend visitors.

Festival tickets are still available with adult weekend tickets costing £107 (concessions apply); and tickets available for individual days starting at £30 for an adult ticket for Friday.

Tickets can be bought in advance via the festival website www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk and will be available at the box office on the site itself from 13.00 on Friday 8th July. The Festival is dog friendly.

Press release from Ely Folk Festival

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It includes a variety of events for everyone to enjoy. Highlights include professional theatre company Impromptu Shakespeare, who present an improvised Shakespeare play in The Maltings on Thursday 23rd June and the ‘Jubilee Jamboree’ family day in Jubilee Gardens on Saturday 25th June. This is a free day of music, theatre and art, with food vans. 

The committee, working with Babylon Arts, are pleased to have received a grant from the Let’s Create Jubilee Fund from Arts Council England through Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, to support parts of the festival, including a ceramic Lion Trail across the city, documenting the reign of Elizabeth II and #PictureEly, a day of art on the market square.

The charitable organisation’s Chief Executive, Claire Somerville said “We’re pleased to be working with Ely Arts Festival to help create new opportunities for arts and culture across Ely, in celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee.”

There will also be a series of concerts taking place in the historic Sessions House from rising star musicians from the Royal College of Music and Guildhall School of Music. 

Artistic Director and Chair of Ely Arts Festival, Chris Parsons said “We’re really excited for this year’s programme of events and activities, and we hope that there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Our aim is to make the festival accessible and bring lots of high quality arts to Ely. The festival wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors, Lovewell Blake, Poets House, Bovingdons and East Cambridgeshire District Council, as well as collaborating with many wonderful organisations across the city. We look forward to welcoming you from Friday 17th June to Friday 1st July for an exciting two weeks of events.”

The festival culminates with ‘The Carnival of the Animals’, a community celebration in Ely Cathedral on Friday 1st July. It will feature 300 local school children singing animal-themed music, including medleys from The Lion King and Jungle Book and music by Saint Saëns, Mancini with a live orchestra and professional soloists. The concert will begin with a colourful carnival parade down the nave with school children wearing animal head-dresses created in workshops provided by the festival. The recently debuted ‘Eel-izabeth’ will also take part in the parade, giving residents another opportunity to view the new Jubilee inspired eel after the Eel Parade on Sunday 5th June. 

To find out more information about the Ely Arts Festival’s 2022 programme and how to book for events visit: www.elyartsfestival.org

Press release from Babylon ARTS  

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The exhibition explores the ‘Power of Stitch’, pursuing their own areas of interest, with a deliberate focus on stitch to interpret their creative journey.

Two years in the making, the group have been inspired by the English textile artist and embroiderer, Constance Howard who said, “You do not need to know hundreds of stitches, but you need to use the ones you know well.” The group has produced an exciting body of work that relies on the most fundamental of textile techniques – stitch.

EAST member Melinda Berkovitz said “EAST are delighted to showcase their exhibition in the beautiful setting of Babylon Arts Gallery.  Each artist pursues her own themes whilst celebrating the simplest of techniques, stitch! There is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Alongside the exhibition, members of the group are offering a series of talks and workshops, which encourage others to try stitch as a medium. The sessions are suitable for beginners, experts and anything in between. Stitch your own textile heart in memory of a loved one or as decoration, learn how to wrap and embellish a rock, or join qualified historical researcher, Janette Bright for a glass of wine and learn about ‘The Rise and Fall of the Tambour Hook’. To find out more, visit the Babylon ARTS website (www.babylonarts.org.uk). 

Claire Somerville said “Planning for this exhibition began just before the pandemic, and it’s been well worth the wait. The EAST members demonstrate the variety that stitch has to offer. I would highly encourage people to attend the workshops and talks on offer to give it a try for yourself!”

The ‘Power of Stitch’ exhibition is on until 4pm on Sunday 19th June. Babylon Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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The rain subsided just as the Eel Parade started from Ely Cathedral at 10.30am and wiggled its way down the High Street and Forehill to the river, where it came to a stop in Jubilee Gardens, where Visit Ely had organised food stalls and entertainment. 

Babylon ARTS commissioned artist Cary Outis to create the eel, with help from Year 5 pupils at Littleport Community Primary School. Over two days in May, 60 pupils got to work tie-dyeing three sections of five metres of cotton muslin to make up the body of the eel. 

Chief Executive of Babylon ARTS, Claire Somerville said “We would like to say a big thank you to Cary and the Kingfisher and Nightjar classes and their teachers at Littleport Primary School for all their help in making our new carnival eel.”

The students also used tie-dyeing on thicker cotton, which was used to create individual flags that the students proudly waved as part of the parade procession. The creation of ‘Eel-izabeth’ was thanks to funding from Arts Council England’s Jubliee Fund through Cambridgeshire Community Foundation.

Tourism and Town Centres Manager Anna Bennett said, “Eel-izabeth is the perfect example of co-working, partners coming together to create a lasting monument to the wonderful Platinum Jubilee Celebrations here in the City of Ely. What better than this beautiful Eel to celebrate the return of the Eel Parade after three years? Truly a moment that will live on in many memories.”

Eel-izabeth will make another appearance at The Carnival of Animals on Friday 1st July, an event which marks the end of Ely Arts Festival 2022. For more information, visit www.elyartsfestival.org.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

Photo credit: Babylon Arts and Spotted in Ely

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The first event, taking place on 11th and 12th June, will be a highlight of the attractions in Ely this summer. Art Unequalled, now in its 11th year, is unrivalled in the area for the quality of handmade crafts that it brings together at its friendly and welcoming events.

Whether you are simply looking for a way to spend an interesting few hours browsing, or you are looking for something unique for your home, yourself or a loved one, Art Unequalled is the perfect event to visit.

Set on the banks of the stunning Ely river, The Malting makes the perfect backdrop to host the range of high quality handmade works on display. Just a short stroll along the river from the train station, or with free parking across Ely, why not make a day of it!

At Art Unequalled, each maker will be presenting their work themselves and will therefore be on hand to answer any questions you may have about their work and inspirations. Most of the exhibitors also work to commission, allowing you to have something truly bespoke created just for you.

Art Unequalled is proud to present Artists and Craftspeople working in a wide range of media and is careful in the selection process to curate an event with a wide range of works. You will find works created from a wide range of media including painting, jewellery, prints, textiles, metal, ceramics, sculpture, illustration, glass, furniture, wire and wood.

Make a note in your diary of the dates today and we look forward to welcoming you!

For further information visit: http://www.artunequalled.co.uk or email event organiser Sally Dunham at info@artunequalled.co.uk

11th and 12th June 2022. Returning on 4th, 5th and 6th November as well.

Adults £2, concessions £1, accompanied children under 15 free.

Press release from Art Unequalled

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Designed by Bottisham school pupil Toby Milner, aged 14, the intricate walkways have been planted up with more than 5000 native hornbeam saplings.

A junior maze, aimed at younger children, has also been planted using the layout created by seven-year-old Jonathan Peeling, from Ely.

The smaller maze features wooden carved animals – an idea suggested by four-year-old Astrid McIntosh, from Ely and lovingly brought to life by Witchford-based chainsaw artist Lisa Langley.

They include a heron, a dragonfly, a hare and a frog, representing the wildlife it is possible to find in and around Ely Country Park.

The competition to design two new Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Tree Mazes was organised by East Cambridgeshire District Council as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy Project.

The trees in each maze will be logged on the Queen’s Green Canopy website, along with the hundreds of other trees planted or supplied by the Council during the Jubilee year.

Hornbeam is A-rated when it comes to storing carbon, and when fully grown it is expected to lock-in hundreds of kilograms of carbon, helping to support the Council’s aim to become net carbon zero, and increase biodiversity across the district.

Officially opening the maze, Councillor Alan Sharp, Chairman of East Cambridgeshire District Council said: “I am delighted to open the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Tree Mazes and especially pleased Toby and Jonathan could join us for the opening ceremony and to explore the new mazes for the first time. I am sure if Her Majesty was here then she would enjoy exploring the mazes too.”

The mazes will be officially opened to the public from Monday, 30th May and are free to explore.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

Photo credit: James Pearson

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The dress is an exact copy of the original, was famously worn by Claire Foy at Ely Cathedral for the sumptuous Netflix drama, The Crown. In 2020, the dress was also the headline exhibit as part of our popular Crowns and Gowns exhibition which attracted over 15,000 visitors.

In addition to the dress, there is a stunning array of floral tributes by the Cathedral’s Flower Guild and other local flower clubs. Each impressive display represents key events, interests and pursuits in the Queen’s life including her 1947 wedding, the Commonwealth, her love of horses, racing and the countryside, The Royal Yacht Britannia and of course, a floral tribute illustrating her service as Queen to the United Kingdom of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

The Cathedral will be extending visitor opening times, with additional activities including a guided Cathedral Tour followed by a celebratory ‘Jubilee Afternoon Tea’ with a glass of fizz at the Almonry Restaurant in the Cathedral grounds. 

Ely’s famous Octagon Tower will be lit red, white and blue for the duration of the bank holiday weekend as part of the commemorations. And there will be a special Service of Thanksgiving for HM The Queen at 10.30am on Sunday 5th June with music performed by the Choir. Everyone is welcome. 

For further information, and to book tours and tea tickets, please visit: www.elycathedral.org

Press release from Ely Cathedral

The post ‘Crowns, Gowns, Floral Tributes and Afternoon Tea’ as Ely Cathedral celebrates the Platinum Jubilee appeared first on Spotted in Ely.