Training sessions will run every Monday evening from 6:30–7:30 pm (during term time) and are open to young riders aged 5–16.

The club’s junior programme is designed to support riders of all abilities – from those just starting out to aspiring Cyclocross racers. Sessions focus on building skills, improving confidence, and most importantly, having fun on two wheels.

Programme highlights include:

• First session FREE
• £5 per session thereafter (pay-as-you-go)
• Run by British Cycling qualified, DBS-checked coaches
• Open to all abilities (riders must be able to cycle independently)

“Our junior sessions are a brilliant way for children to get active, learn core cycling skills, and enjoy cycling in a safe and supportive environment,” said Neil Bowman. “We’re excited to welcome both new and returning riders to our new venue in Witchford.”

Parents can register their child online at www.elycyclingclub.com/juniors or find out more by contacting:

• Neil: 07393 251 949
• Mark: 07903 333 467

The club also encourages families to join the Ely & District Cycling Club Juniors Facebook group for updates and community news. Ely & District Cycling Club Juniors | Facebook

Ely & District Cycling Club Juniors are proudly supported by B & T Motor Repairs.

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The not for profit community business aims to restore access to everyday services while providing a welcoming space that supports village life. All profits generated by the hub will be reinvested back into the local community.

The hub is located in a cabin within the car park of the Wilburton Flame pub and restaurant and is open 7am to 7pm, Monday to Friday.

Bill Hunt, district councillor for the Stretham Ward which includes Wilburton, said:

“The new hub offers residents and passing motorists a service that has been lacking in the village since Covid.
East Cambridgeshire District Council was delighted to be able to provide a £7,000 grant to help get plans off the ground, and it has been a pleasure to attend the opening ceremony and see those plans come to fruition.”

The hub officially opened its doors on Monday 12 January 2026, with representatives from organisations and groups who supported the project attending the opening.

John Attrill, a member of the community hub management committee, said:

“As a community business, all profits will be returning to the village, making this a fantastic asset to the community in more ways than one.

We have been aided by donations and grants, with wonderful support from the Plunkett Foundation, who support community businesses nationwide, a grant from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, as well as funding from East Cambridgeshire District Council.

We truly appreciate the support we have received and look forward to serving our village and the wider community.”

The opening of the hub marks an important step in strengthening community connection in Wilburton and ensuring essential services remain accessible for residents and visitors alike.

The post New Wilburton Community Hub Opens to Serve Village Residents appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Teams from Ely St John’s Community Primary School, Ely St Mary’s Church of England Junior School, Isle of Ely Primary School, Robert Arkenstall Primary School and Wilburton Church of England Primary School competed in a lively round-robin football tournament for Years 5 and 6.

Ten Young Leaders from Ely College supported the event, helping with refereeing, scoring and warm-up sessions, adding to the professional feel of the morning.

There was plenty of skill and sportsmanship on display from all teams. The tournament came down to the final match, with Ely St John’s securing the win against Robert Arkenstall to claim the Ely girls’ football trophy. Isle of Ely Primary School finished runners-up, narrowly ahead of Robert Arkenstall in third place.

Medals and the winning cup were presented to Ely St John’s, while one player from each school received a Player of the Tournament medal for outstanding teamwork and spirit.

It was a brilliant morning of primary school girls’ football in Ely, celebrating teamwork, friendship and community sport.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Among the attractions on the day will be:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Celebrating 49 years of singing together, the Isle Singers are looking forward to their 50th anniversary later this year. Over the decades, they have performed in a variety of venues, from Trinity College to Ely Railway Station at Christmas in support of the NSPCC.

While members have changed through the years, the group continues to perform beautiful two- and three-part harmonies. They rehearse weekly and enjoy bringing music to audiences across the area, most recently providing the music for an Evening of Music and Poetry at St Andrew’s Church.

For more information, contact rjwestwell@hotmail.com.

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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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Located just three miles from Ely in the village of Little Downham, Ely Dog Field has been open for less than a year. Despite being a newcomer, the field was voted for and won top place. The competition, which saw dog fields across the country voted for by the public, highlights the growing popularity and community impact of these safe, enclosed spaces for dogs.

Ely Dog Field has built a strong and supportive community of local dog lovers on their social media. Customers regularly engage and enthusiastically support the field’s fundraising events for charities and local causes, something they do regularly. There is  also a community notice board to support other dog related businesses with advertising.

The field was also recently voted Best Dog Field in Cambridgeshire by readers of Cambridgeshire Live.

Ely Dog Field’s owner, Becky, said “We are delighted to have won this award, so soon after launching our dog field. We pour our hearts into making the field a great place for dogs and their humans, and this award makes all the hard work feel so worthwhile. We thank everyone in our team who helps keep things running smoothly.”

Spanning six acres, the fully enclosed field offers private hire sessions of 25 or 55 minutes, making it ideal for dogs that are nervous, reactive, or unable to be let off-lead in public spaces. The field features a wide range of agility equipment suitable for dogs of all sizes, a wooded area with jumps, a large sandpit in winter, and a gated splash pool for summer.

Additional amenities include:

• On-site enclosed parking
• Peaceful countryside surroundings with views of Ely Cathedral
• Outdoor seating and undercover shelter
• A community notice board

Time slots are available to book 7 days a week, and pre-booking is essential via the field’s easy-to-use online system.

For more information or to book a session, visit:  www.elydogfield.co.uk

The post Ely Dog Field Wins Top Regional Award and Heads to UK Finals appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The post Witchford Community Comes Together for a Sizzling Summer Craft Fair at St Andrew’s Church appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

We specialise in a wide range of beauty and wellness treatments, including:

• Japanese Head Spa (includes scalp analysis and blow dry)
• Swedish & Hot Stone Massage
• Pregnancy Massage
• Microdermabrasion Facials
• Waxing & Tinting
• Manicures & Pedicures
• Lash Lifts and more

Prefer to relax at home? We offer mobile beauty appointments across Littleport and surrounding areas.

Gift vouchers available
Pamper packages and private events can be arranged
View our full treatment list below

Follow us on Facebook or call 07548 677770 to book.

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In May 2024, the care home applied for a grant aimed at helping independent care homes lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage. Their successful bid secured them just under £100k in funding, which they matched, allowing them to install triple-glazed windows, solar panels, rainwater harvesting and air conditioning. These upgrades not only reduced energy consumption but also improved comfort for residents.  

Specialising in bariatric care, dementia support and complex care needs, Soham Lodge Care Centre serves residents of all ages and backgrounds. With varying temperature preferences amongst residents, eco-proofing the facilities was essential to maintain comfort while controlling costs. Cooler temperatures have been beneficial for bariatric patients, encouraging mobility, participation in activities, and progress to achieving their weight loss goals. 

The savings from reduced energy consumption have also enabled the care home to re-invest in its future. Soham Lodge Care Centre has hired 10 additional staff members, expanded its facilities to accommodate more residents and boosted morale among both staff and residents, ensuring a thriving and supportive community.  

Mayor Dr Nik Johnson, said: 

“I’m pleased that we’ve been able to support Soham Lodge Care Centre to cut costs by an impressive £30k per year and reduce their carbon footprint.  

“From speaking with residents and staff, it’s clear to see the positive impact the grant funding has made to not only improve operational efficiency but also enhancing their living and working conditions.” 

David Lidford, Owner of Soham Lodge Care Centre, said: 

“This funding has made a huge difference to our carbon footprint and has massively reduced our overheads which lets us re-invest to keep offering top-level care to our residents. 

“As a result of the CPCA Climate Change Grant I believe our care home is probably one of the most sustainable in the region. 

“A huge thank you to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for giving us the opportunity to eco-proof our facilities for the future.” 

Pictured from left Judy Cable (Resident Manager), Philip Hope (Facilities Manager), Combined Authority Mayor Dr Nik Johnson and Zara Reynolds-Peirce (Activities and Events Manager).

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Funded by the Mayoral Precept, the new routes will provide important extra connections to towns and cities for bus users across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. 

The following routes were put out for tendering: 

• Tiger 1 – Huntingdon to Cambridge 
• Tiger 2 & 3 – Cambridge North and South connections 
• Tiger 4 & 5 – Soham to Cambridge & Newmarket to Cambridge 
• Tiger 7 – Chatteris to Wisbech 
• Tiger 9 – Peterborough Orbital 
• Tiger 12 – Sutton to Longstanton Park and Ride 

The standstill period for the tenders, a short waiting period after a contract decision to allow any final queries from bidders, expired at midnight on March 17 for most routes. 

The standstill period for Tiger 4 and 5 has been extended while a bidder’s query is addressed. The Tiger 9 (Peterborough Orbital) has yet to secure a suitable bidder, meaning its contract remains unawarded for now. The Combined Authority will now review the tender for the Tiger 9 before deciding on the next steps.  

The Combined Authority aims to launch the other Tiger routes in May/June this year. 

Tiger 1 will be operated by Whippet, Tiger 2 and 3 by Stagecoach, Tiger 7 by Stagecoach East Midlands, and Tiger 12 by A2B. 

Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “Securing these contracts is a big step forward in delivering better bus services for our region. We know how important these routes are to communities and we’re committed to getting every Tiger service up and running as soon as possible.” 

The Tiger routes are part of the Combined Authority’s wider work to reform the area’s buses. This includes the current £2 fare cap, the £1 fare Tiger pass for under 25s, improving existing bus routes, and launching new Tiger on Demand flexible services to reach more rural communities.  

Further updates on the launch dates will be given in due course. 

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The Combined Authority’s Market Towns Programme is investing back into high streets, community buildings and outside spaces to support a sustainable future for these historic towns.

The latest funding commitments include £927,500 for the Littleport Business and Community Centre, which will create a multi-use facility to support local businesses, remote workers, and community groups.

The centre will serve as a hub for meetings, training sessions, workshops, and events, while also hosting outreach services for healthcare, wellbeing, education, and employment support.

The Combined Authority has worked with Littleport Town Council and East Cambridgeshire District Council on the project, with further funding secured for all of the £2.2 million cost. It is planned to open in October/November 2026.

Littleport Town Council Chairman Clive Webber, said: “This is a significant development for the residents of Littleport. The Council is delighted to have secured this funding to provide a community hub which aims to support local businesses, health services and host further educational providers, creating a centralised space which will enhance local services and resources for the residents of Littleport.

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We’re seeking £1,000 per season to cover new kit and essential equipment. In return, your business logo will be featured on all match kits and coaching gear, giving you valuable brand exposure at matches, tournaments and across social media.

Why Sponsor a Football Team?

We know businesses need measurable value from sponsorships. Here’s why this is a great investment:

• High-visibility advertising – Your logo will be seen at matches across Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Essex, reaching hundreds of local families and potential customers.
• Digital marketing boost – Get regular social media mentions and local press coverage as our valued sponsor.
• Community-driven branding – Build goodwill by supporting youth football sponsorship and demonstrating your commitment to local sports development.
• Networking & B2B opportunities – Connect with local business owners, families and community leaders who value brands that support grassroots football.

“Youth football is about more than just the game. It gives kids confidence, a sense of belonging and memories that last a lifetime. A quality kit helps them feel like a team. That’s why we need a sponsor who believes in supporting young players.” – Marcus Hobbs, Coach

Long-Term Sponsorship = Two Years of Brand Exposure

A grassroots football season runs from September to May. By sponsoring Ely Crusaders U9s Blue for two seasons, your business will benefit from two years of brand awareness and community recognition.

Act Now – Limited Sponsorship Opportunity

We’re looking to confirm sponsorship as soon as possible so our new kit is ready for the upcoming season.

Want to support local football and get your business seen? Email marcusjhobbs@gmail.com to secure this opportunity.

Your support means more than just a logo on a kit—it helps young players develop their skills, confidence and passion for football while giving your business a high-impact local advertising platform.

The post Sponsor Ely Crusaders U9s Blue – A Powerful Local Business Promotion Opportunity appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The awards were judged by industry experts using a unique secret shopper method, examining their websites, social media profiles and reviews from the perspective of a potential client. The applicants were assessed on four main areas of their business – Inclusivity & Accessibility, Sustainability, Customer Service and Uniqueness.

Tom Juggins is a wedding videographer based in Soham near Ely and after filming special milestones shared with his family, owner Tom fell in love with turning memories into motion. His goal when creating wedding videos is always to create something that each couple will want to relive over and over. Tom covers eastern counties, including Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, and is willing to travel throughout England, Wales and Scotland. For more information visit: www.tomjuggins.co.uk

The Quirky Wedding Awards are the only alternative Wedding Awards in the UK and are run by Quirky Weddings, who also run the Quirky Wedding Fayre and Quirky Weddings Magazine. The awards were created for the sole purpose of acknowledging the amazing alternative wedding community, who are often overlooked for more traditional wedding awards, for not only offering something unique, but also for championing inclusivity and accessibility, and helping to create a zero-judgement wedding industry.

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Although it was a frosty start to the morning, the pitch at Ely Outdoor Sports Association soon thawed and with Young Leaders from Ely College refereeing, matches got underway.  Split into two groups, the teams from Ely St John’s Community Primary School, Ely St Mary’s C of E Junior School, Isle of Ely Primary School, Isleham C of E Primary School, Mepal and Witcham C of E Primary School and Wilburton C of E Primary School played matches against all the schools in their group.  In the semi finals Ely St John’s played Isleham 2s and Ely St Mary’s played Isleham1s. In a closely contested final, Isleham 1s beat Ely St John’s to win the tournament cup.

As well as medals being given to the winning team, one player from each team was awarded ‘Player of the Tournament’ for showing great team spirit and sportsmanship.

Caroline Morton of ActivePlay Education said ‘It was fantastic to see so many teams taking part in the tournament and the children really enjoying playing Tag Rugby.  With 3 girls having to be on pitch at any one time, it was great to see both boys and girls working together as a team. There was some really skilful play.’

The post Inter Primary School Tag Rugby Tournament appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This event showcased the creative work completed by the students and artists involved, while also offering further creative activities and reflection
on the project.

In 2023 Babylon Arts was fortunate to secure funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for an 18-month project entitled ‘Inspired by Nature’, working with partners at The National Trust’s Wicken Fen site and Ely Museum. The aim was to develop creative approaches that enabled connection and engagement for people with low vision, young people and the wider public, thereby improving access to arts and heritage for more people. And we were also delighted to be able to involve Highfield Littleport Academy in a later hands-on, creative phase which culminated on Thursday 6th June.
All children at the school benefited from practical workshops in February and March 2024 with three professional artists, Lead Artist, Kaitlin Ferguson and Assistant Artists, Amy Wormald and Lyn Pryor, experimenting with a variety of printmaking techniques using natural inks from blueberries, beetroot and bark and taking into consideration nature, whilst
referencing fossils and those we may leave behind!

A significant and magnificent truly co-created artwork, ‘Deep Time – Imagining Ely’s Prehistoric Landscape and Ocean’ comprising of 4 printed wall hangings on muslin that incorporate imagery provided by the artists and the children has been installed at an impressive height in the school hall to serve as a legacy and a reminder of the fruitful and creative interactions that took place in the school during the residency by the artists.

On Thursday 6th June a Celebration Event brought together all the young participants, several parents and carers, teachers and the artists to enjoy the fruits of their labours and to engage in some further creative activity and evaluation.

The main highlight was that the children saw the finished artwork, ‘Deep Time’ for the first time and were very excited to
see some of their own drawings incorporated and all the pupils credited on the wooden plaque alongside! Other highlights of the project adorn the walls of the school where you can see framed prints made by the children and fired handmade clay fossils are on display in
the hall. During the event, children were given access to a Sensory Room where they enjoyed Kaitlin Ferguson’s film about Wicken Fen, accompanied by scented oils to stimulate their senses, a fossil digging station where they played amateur archaeologists, unearthing some 3D printed wooden fossils and a printmaking table where they produced a largescale
communal print by using fossil stamps that they had made themselves during the project.

“The finished artwork is fantastic, it depicts the students sensory and learning experiences perfectly,” said Yvonne Skillern, the Headteacher of Highfields Littleport Academy,

“It is great that every student from the most sensory learner to some of our artists of the future have been included in the project. It has been of huge benefit to our learners and we would love to repeat this sort of project again. A huge thank you to Babylon Arts for making
this possible”

The children and parents even provided creative feedback on their experience of the project on sugar paper leaves with which they could adorn a tree or via dinosaur footprints that could be placed on a pathway through nature, printed using real leaves and plants! Some of their comments included: “I want to be an artist”, “It made me feel proud of myself” and “This was the best day ever”.

Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and to National Lottery Players for making this possible.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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Young pupils from The Rackham C of E Primary School submitted their work along with over 21,500 students aged 4-19 from across the UK.

The artwork is judged by a panel of artists and arts professionals who select those to be displayed at The Royal Academy of Art – one of the world’s leading galleries.

Winston loves to paint, draw and model with clay at home and was very excited when he heard his painting had been accepted for both the online exhibition and to be displayed to the public on-site at the Royal Academy.

“When my dad told me, I started running around the house screaming madly!” Winston says.

Using poster paints, she mixed a very muddy brown then created the scene using a sponge. “I love playing rugby for Ely Tigers,” Wren says. “My favourite way to paint is crazy and it makes me feel happy.”

Wren’s work will join approximately 500 other curated pieces to be displayed in the Royal Academy online exhibition.

Now in its sixth year, the RA Young Artists’ Summer Show is a free, open submission exhibition for pupils studying in the UK.

Once their school has registered, students can submit just one piece of artwork along with a short description.

28 pupils from The Rackham Primary School in Witchford submitted work in a wide variety of forms including still life, portraits, textiles, mixed media and collage. The Rackham After School Club also entered with a collaboratively created quilt.

Assistant Headteacher and Art Lead at The Rackham Primary School, Mrs. Stephanie Deery, believes art is vital in allowing children to express themselves and explore ideas in creative and visual ways.

“Creating opportunities for the children to see that they are already ‘real artists’ is hugely important. Wren and Winston have really impressed us with their unique pieces of work. They had very different ideas and inspiration which shows that art can be about anything. We hope their success will inspire even more children to give it a try next year.”

Head Teacher Miss. Georgina Turner added:

“It has been a source of great pride to witness the enthusiasm and artistic talent that is abundant throughout The Rackham student population.

Joining this competition has enabled our pupils to broaden their understanding of potential careers within the creative industry. Congratulations to everyone who took part!”

Local Authority and Art Link Governor at the school Mrs. Emily Chase is thrilled to see pupils engaging with an internationally renowned gallery.

“It is so exciting to see the school value and provide creative opportunities that raise the aspirations of pupils. Taking part in the Royal Academy Young Artists’ Summer Show is such a great experience for all and an amazing achievement for those selected. I’m looking forward to seeing all the work submitted and viewing those selected at the exhibition!”

The exhibition will open at the Royal Academy of Art in London on Tuesday 16th July and will also be available to explore online at: www.youngartists.royalacademy.org.uk. All entries submitted by The Rackham pupils will also be displayed in the school hall.

“Submitting work at this level is such a brave thing to do,” says Mrs. Deery. “We are super proud of all our children who submitted work for putting themselves out there and giving it a go!”

Press release from Rackham C of E Primary School

The post Local Young Artists Join the Royal Academy appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Press Release from World Pea Shoot Championship

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

Witchford Under 12s girls have won the league playing football the right way, in a positive environment, and we have had other league managers message congratulating the girls as, “the best team in the league that play football with a smile on their face and a positive attitude”.

Overall, coaches Jamie Mott and Craig Finbow are just incredibly proud of the girls for their hard work, team spirit, and amazing football attitude towards learning and bettering themselves. It’s fitting this season has ended with a trophy!

They clinched the title by winning 1-0 at home against 3^rd place Netherton, with a goal with 15 seconds remaining, to top the U12B league with 2 games left to play. A superb year in their first season of competitive football, having only played friendlies before reaching this age group.

They have won every home game so far, only losing 2 league games all season and have not lost since before Christmas.

Its an amazing achievement from the girls, having scored 48 league goals and only conceded 13. Their defence has been an amazing foundation but Hattie Ashton has lead the attack as top scorer with 34 goals in 19 games.

Congratulations girls, keep it up.

The post Witchford Under 12 Girls – League Winners 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.

Cambridgeshire County Council has been involved from the start. Lizzi Wales and Cal Easey from the Communities Team have been working with the Road Safety Squad and applied for funding from the East Cambs Community Safety Partnership to pay for the merchandise to be used in the campaign.

Parish council Chairman, Stephen Thompson, introduced proceedings saying that the parish council is “passionate about road safety”. He explained that the poster designed by a school pupil called Noah, will be the road safety brand and shared some of the results of the recent work. He also thanked AG Wright, EJ & RE Clark and MLH as fine examples of commercial vehicle operators who always drive safely and observe the speed limits.

Cambridgeshire County Councillor Bill Hunt said “Haddenham has a smashing parish council,” and regarding the road safety initiative, “It’s working.” There are still some issues with speeding vehicles on the steep and narrow Station Road (the A1421) and this is an area under ongoing review. Cllr Hunt explained that Cambridgeshire County Council voted unanimously on his motion to include the A1421 in the first tranche of A-road safety reviews. East Cambs is naming a new fleet of bin lorries and Cllr Hunt asked if the Road Safety Squad would like to suggest some names.

Lizzi Wales introduced the 6 members of the Road Safety Squad who are all from year 6 at the Robert Arkenstall Primary School. They delivered a presentation covering:-

• Their aim from Hettie “To help make sure everyone has a safe journey to and from school”.
• Joseph thanked the Parish Council for their support and for organising a school visit from
  hauliers Turners of Soham.
• Charlotte acknowledged “A grant from the Community Safety Partnership to fund the
  project.”
• Holly thanked local businesses and farmers for their support and displaying the poster on
  vehicles.
• Leila explained that “We are providing free wheelie bin stickers to every family in school
  and pre-school who live within the 20 mph zone.”
• Emily explained parents may sign up to a “Parent Pledge” and read out the pledge – “As a parent I promise to drive slower, be safe, be more aware, to use my eyes and not to take risks. I promise not to use my phone when driving and to respect lives.”

This initiative is a great example of collaborative working between 3 different council entities, local businesses, schoolchildren, parents and villagers with a shared aim to make our roads safer for all.

Press release from Haddenham Parish Council

The post Haddenham Launches the 2024 Slower is Safer Campaign appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Soham Town Council has been awarded a £4600 Pride of Place grant to buy trees, wildflowers, hedging and bug hotels for Drayton Meadows.

The money will also pay wildlife information boards and a wildlife camera so the community can watch the day and night activity of wild animals and birds via a digital link on the council’s website.

Soham Town Council purchased the 3.25 acre site, located alongside a public footpath which runs behind The Butts, last year.

The town council is in the process of clearing the land of agricultural buildings with the aim of helping existing plants and wildlife, such as bee orchids and yellow rattle to thrive, and encouraging new animals, plants and insects to populate the areas.

When complete, the town council hopes the new site will form part of a green loop around Soham which also includes the town’s five commons, its Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) mainly located at Wet Horse Fen, wetlands and established protected green sites.

Cllr Rosemary Aitchison from Soham Town Council, said: “We are really excited to be working on this project for the benefit of the wildlife in Soham and for local residents. While the area is currently open to the public we have lots to do in terms of enhancing the meadows over the coming months and I hope as many people as possible will get involved in supporting us during this time.

“Soham is already rich in beautiful green spaces and biodiverse wetlands. The location of the meadows close to the town centre forms a vital piece of the jigsaw when it comes to creating a green loop around the town which will help nature to survive and thrive.”

Lucius Vellacott, Soham South’s District Councillor, said: “I am delighted this really worthwhile project has been awarded a Pride of Place grant. Being able to link up green spaces is vital for supporting biodiversity and this will provide a real asset for the people of Soham. It is already one of the areas I love to visit and I very much look forward to seeing the impact of the improvements over the coming months and years.”

Under its Pride of Place initiative, East Cambridgeshire District Council is making up to £15,000 available for environmentally friendly projects that create, tidy up or enhance somewhere special in local communities.

Applicants must either be a parish council, or a non-profit group or organisation which is either based in East Cambridgeshire or benefits East Cambridgeshire residents.

For full terms and conditions visit the Pride of Place page on the council’s website

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

The post Funding for Wildlife Area Will Help Create a New Green Loop for Soham appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The community garden has been awarded £13,414 towards the cost of building the 15 metre pond which will boost the environment for a broad range of aquatic invertebrates, pollinating insects, birds and mammals.

As well as boosting biodiversity, the pond will bring interest and pleasure to the 100s of visitors to Peacock’s Meadow and become a learning resource for youth clubs, Scouts, Guides, pre-schools, early years groups and organisations which support disabled children.

It will also help counteract the catastrophic loss of natural ponds in Cambridgeshire, which have declined 95% in 40 years.

 Deb Curtis, committee chair at Peacock’s Meadow, said: “Peacock’s Meadow is the only volunteer-managed open space in Littleport and we have long wanted to create a ‘legacy wildlife pond’ within the community garden and we are so excited and pleased we now have the funds to do so.

 “Based on our observations of our small pools, we anticipate that within six months the pond will be rapidly colonised by amphibious reptiles such as frogs, toads and newts.

“It will also provide a water source for wildlife such as birds, deer, foxes, hedgehogs, and even snakes, andcreate a breeding habitat for aquatic insects, such as dragonflies, damsel-flies and water boatmen.”

She added: “This will bea true community enterprise, involving our local Scout/Guide group, local youth club (The PORT) and our body of ‘Friends’ volunteers.

 “We have found these communal garden projects enormously beneficial in strengthening community bonds across different age groups, ethnicities and backgrounds, who as well as enjoying the nature can also go pond dipping and learn about the importance of biodiversity.”

The pond will be fenced to meet health and safety requirements and have a varying depth up to a maximum of 1.25 metres. Wildlife ladders will also be installed.

Littleport district councillor, Christine Ambrose Smith said: “We are delighted to be able to support the Friends of Peacock’s Meadow with this exciting project.

 “The pond will provide a pocket sanctuary for local wildlife and enhance this wonderful community space, which I know has been dubbed the “Jewel in Littleport’s Crown.”

Work on the pond should start next month and be completed by July 2024.

Under its Pride of Place initiative, East Cambridgeshire District Council is making up to £15,000 available for environmentally friendly projects that create, tidy up or enhance somewhere special in local communities.

Applicants must either be a Parish Council, or a non-profit group or organisation which is either based in East Cambridgeshire or benefits East Cambridgeshire residents.

For full terms and conditions visit the Pride of Place page on the council’s website.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

The post Peacock’s Meadow Receives Funding for Eagerly Anticipated Wildlife Pond appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Living Sport is an independent charity focused on improving the health, happiness, and wellbeing of the people of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. They work collaboratively with partners and communities to support more people to be active in a way that works for them. Living Sport’s vision is of lives and communities improved by people being more active.

The partnership between Living Sport and Soham Town Rangers U16 Girls has been inspired by the recent This Girl Can campaign ‘closing the Enjoyment Gap’.

This Girl Can carried out research that revealed 2.4m more men than women strongly agree that they enjoy sport and physical activity. Identifying that 2.4m women are missing out on the opportunity to relieve stress, build connections and improve self-esteem, this is known as the Enjoyment Gap.

Over the last year, Living Sport have visited and engaged with the U16 girls’ team and worked with them to understand their needs and ambitions. They shared they needed warmer and more suitable training kit, for the colder months. Living Sport worked collaboratively with the team to choose the kit and sponsored it. This consultation is continuing this season, with open communication around the reasons girls drop out of sport and what can be done to reduce this alongside closing the enjoyment gap.

Since the creation of the partnership earlier this year and the support from Living Sport, Soham Town Rangers have gone on to develop a second girls’ team, which has allowed them to create further opportunities for girls to be involved and experience the sport.

Lucy Frazer quoted….
“Living Sport are incredibly active in my constituency, sponsoring and delivering a range of projects that help people keep fit, learn new skills and build community.

It was my pleasure to speak with fifteen of their beneficiaries, the Soham Town Rangers U16 Girls team, about their enjoyment of the game and their progress this season.

I am delighted that charities like Living Sport are complimenting the government’s work to invest in better football facilities and widen access to the sport”.

Living Sport CEO Samantha Hyde quoted,
“It was great that Lucy as a role model and MP came to visit our Girls U16s football team yesterday, it makes such a positive impact. To have the recognition that our targeted focus on addressing need, drawing together powerful collaborations, is supported, means a lot.

As an organisation we have grown by over 50% in a year as we strive and stretch our capacity to respond to growing need. People want choices and to know how to be active and are seeking direction and change. Living Sport as a charity, for the investment we have, gives that tenfold.

We can do so much more of course and have the determination and drive to support the places and communities with the resource we have.”

Press release from Living Sport

The post Lucy Frazer Attends Soham Town Rangers U16 Girls Training to Discuss Local Sport and Physical Activity with Living Sport appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Notable performances were made by students of all abilities including Jason Angove; Thomas Assheton; William Botcher; Ella Brown; Logan Bye; Sarah Cross; Danny Dean; Tabitha Dyer-Stephens; Freddie Emms; Elsie May Enrico; Madison Ford; Emily Franklin; Finley Froment; Callum Hardy; Louise Hardy; Noah Jewkes; Leah Johnson; Phoebe Lupton-Pike; Noa Matsushita; Jessica McGrath; Ceri Moseley; Max Orpwood Coyle; Zofia Parada; Leo Peberdy; Jacob Trangmar and Bethany Wood, who achieved the top grades across all of their subjects.

Headteacher, Jon Hampson, said, “We are delighted that students of all abilities have received excellent results which reflect their hard work and commitment. We congratulate them and wish them every success for the next phase of their education or training.”

Press release from Soham Village College

The post Soham Village College GCSE Results 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The wall is 2.5 metres high and 4 metres wide and incorporates a number of fun games and sporting activities all designed to help people get fit, encourage teamwork, and improve co-ordination and movement.

A laptop, or gaming console can also be plugged into the wall so that it can be used for seminars, presentations and movie nights. Littleport Town Council is also keen to work with adult educational providers so that training courses can be run to improve employment opportunities for residents.

The wall will primarily be used as a positive means of engaging with young people in the town.  Combining community activities with the use of the interactive gaming wall will offer an opportunity for ‘cross-generational’ projects, as well as a form of gentle exercise for less mobile residents.  The variety of games makes the wall suitable for use by disabled children, and those with special educational needs, making all activities completely inclusive.

The wall was part funded by an £8,500 Facilities Improvement Grant from East Cambridgeshire District Council. 

Littleport Town Councillor Jo Webber, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to install this equipment into our new building and are very grateful to both East Cambridgeshire District Council and Sanctuary Housing for seeing the potential benefits to our community and providing us with the grants.

“Having the equipment will allow us to run a much wider range of activities at the building which many children and older residents in our town would not normally have the option to experience.

“The wall will also be used to encourage young people to take part in creative projects that will benefit the community.  For example, litter picking followed by interactive games and team play.

“We also plan to use the wall to carry out intergenerational activities, as it is important to break down the barriers that are often created between the younger and older generations.”

Facilities Improvement Grants of up to £10,000 can be applied for to help village halls, community centres, sport and leisure centres, play facilities and public open spaces protect and enhance the quality of life for residents within East Cambridgeshire.

To apply or find out more information, go to the East Cambridgeshire District Council website.

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

The post Gaming wall plugged in at Littleport Youth and Community Centre appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

East Cambridgeshire District Council’s next Youth Fusion event takes place at Littleport Youth and Community Centre on Wednesday 23 August 2023.

Anyone aged 18 or under is invited to attend the event which takes place between 11am and 3pm. 

This interactive wellbeing event is an opportunity to find out what is going on for young people and the things that matter to you. 

As well as fun activities such as a climbing wall, games and a bouncy castle, there will also be a chance to find out more about the National Citizen Service and the clubs and organisations operating in East Cambridgeshire.

Cambridge Constabulary will be there to offer bike marking and there will also be the opportunity to have push bikes repaired for free.

The team from East Cambridgeshire District Council will be on hand to help with financial, employment or housing advice or signpost you to the Youth Pages on its website which contains everything young people need to know, whilst East Cambridgeshire Community Safety Partnership can offer advice and information about keeping safe and what to do if you are concerned about drugs or crime. 

The climate team will also be asking people to vote for which local endangered animal they would like the council to prioritise for support as part of its Species Recovery Programme.

Residents are being asked to choose between otters, hedgehogs, bees, bats, toads and owls, all of which need help. The animal which receives the most votes will be officially incorporated into the council’s Environment Plan and measures then put in place to enhance and protect their habitats.

Rhianna Regan, a youth ambassador for East Cambridgeshire Youth Council, said: “Whether you want to just have an enjoyable free day out with friends, or find out more about the support and services that are available – or both, it is guaranteed there will be something for everyone on the day.”

Attendees are advised to take their own water bottles for refills on the day. 

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

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

The post Littleport hosts free Youth Fusion event appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

This investment will enable Haddenham Parish Council to provide new grass pitches, a pavilion, car park and access road at Newtown Road, Haddenham. The site will be used by Haddenham Rovers Colts teams for training and matches, with additional recreational space available to the whole community as a result.

These new facilities represent a significant extension on the existing sporting facilities in Haddenham, which are not able to cope with the demand from such a successful Colts Club. The Club currently has 11 teams playing across just 3 pitches with many children having to travel outside of the village to play on hired pitches.

The wider community will benefit from this additional space by way of a further 6.5 acres of recreational land for public use outside match times. A circular walk connecting the west side of the village to existing rights of way on the south will be popular with many residents.

This project has been supported by an additional £305,000 from East Cambridgeshire District Council. With funding also forthcoming from Haddenham Recreation Charity, Haddenham Rovers Colts and Haddenham Parish Council itself.

Katie Critchley, Football Development Manager for Cambridgeshire FA
said:

“Haddenham Parish Council and Haddenham Colts Football Club have worked tirelessly to provide an additional facility to enable sustainable growth of the village sports and activities. This new facility is much needed in addition to the recreation ground and we’re extremely pleased and very grateful that the project has been successful with a funding application to the Football Foundation. Congratulations and well done to all involved! We look forward to working with you to bring the project to life.”

Lucy Frazer MP for South East Cambridgeshire and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Haddenham Parish Council has been successful in its bid to the Football Foundation for a new pavilion and grass football pitches.”

“As the local Member of Parliament, I threw my support behind this bid because I could see the significant benefits this project would create for the entire village sports community, including more space for existing teams to play, higher quality training sessions and less pressure on the recreation ground, which is shared with the village cricket club.

“This grant also means that the village will have the necessary resources available to accommodate future talent, as it has done consistently over the last few years.”

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said:

The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country.

“Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities.

“This grant award to Haddenham Parish Council towards developing new grass pitches and a pavilion is fantastic news for the local community and will help give more people access to a great place to play.”

Grayham Roper, Chairman of Haddenham Rovers Colts Football Club, said:

“I am delighted that this funding has been secured. The additional pitches and quality facilities, will allow the Club to flourish and grow, providing more local children with the opportunity to play football. I’d like to thank the team behind the application for their hard work and dedication throughout.”

Press release from Haddenham Parish Council

The post Haddenham Parish Council<br>Awarded Funding to Provide New Football Facilities appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Press release from Wilburton Beer Festival

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

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.

From Reception to Year 6, the school (which is part of Meridian Trust) had Matildas, Dumbledores, Christmasauruses and everything in between! The children delighted in explaining their clothes and accessories, and some lovely conversations occurred where children introduced others to new books and new ideas for things to read. 

In classes, the event was celebrated by a range of activities. Year 6 Picasso class designed and wrote book recommendations for their favourite authors. Year 5 Da Vinci class took part in the official World Book Day Live Lesson, in which Michael Rosen explained the processes he goes through when creating a new story. Year 3 Hockney class drew maps and then created multiple different stories using the map to show how powerful they can be in storytelling. Taylor Shaw – the school’s catering company – joined forces with DFPA to provide the children with a ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ themed lunch, which proved very popular. 

At the end of World Book Day, during the whole school assembly, the School Council celebrated costumes that they thought were especially well thought-out – well done to everyone at Downham Feoffees Primary Academy!

Press release from Little Downham Feoffees Primary School

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Examples of projects that will be considered include minor structural or aesthetic repairs to frontages, new or improved signage (not illuminated), street furniture, glazing, painting, planting, improved awnings and improved access into and out of premises.

Interested organisations have between Monday 6th February and Friday 10th March 2023 to submit bids between £500 and £20,000.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) ringfenced £1 million of funding for each of its market towns to deliver interventions identified in their Masterplan documents, which are designed to increase economic growth. Members of East Cambridgeshire District Council allocated £75,000 for Littleport and £20,000 to Soham to its Market Towns Programme Fund at its Finance and Assets Committee Meeting on Monday 23 January to support small improvement projects.

Councillor Anna Bailey, leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “Carrying out small improvements such as fixing broken signs, planting up shop fronts or replacing street furniture make a huge difference in enhancing our market towns and this will encourage residents, shoppers and visitors to spend more time here, which in turn will benefit the local economy.

“We realise with the cost of living crisis many businesses and organisations do not have the extra funds to carry out improvement works.

“This grant is designed to help anyone who has responsibility for buildings in Littleport and Soham.

“It really is a case of small changes being able to make a big difference.”

Grant funding under this scheme will cover the cost of improvements (capital expenditure) and is not intended for work such as surveys, advice or other costs that might be considered non-capital expenditure.

All applications will be assessed following the closing date and funds will be allocated to those which most closely match the funding criteria.

For more information about the grants visit our website:

Littleport High Street Renewal Grant

Soham High Street Renewal Grant

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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“I was shocked how little of the road immediately around the vehicle can be clearly seen, although the driver has mirrors and cameras to help” says Parish Councillor Stephen Thompson. Quite apart from giving children access to the truck being a lot of fun, the truck visit served as instructive for two campaigns relating to road safety in Haddenham.

“Lorry Watch” was started by Haddenham Parish Council during 2022 and Phase 1 of this involved observing the number, speed and the style of driving of HGVs short-cutting through the village on the A1421. Haddenham PC have applied to the County Council to have a weight limit put in place on the road. After representations from the parish council several haulage companies have agreed to stop using the village as a short cut from the A142 towards Newmarket and Cambridge, including Turners (Soham) Ltd.

“Phase 2 of Lorry Watch includes calling on the help of the children of the village,” explained Stephen Thompson. “We have identified six main roads in and out of the village and will be monitoring HGV vehicles using the A1421 so we can fully understand where they are coming from and where they are going to.” Thirty-four people have signed up as volunteers and when children are involved, they will be accompanied by an adult. The study will run throughout February and after that the parish council will analyse the results and use the data as part of the application for the weight limit through the village.

The school is pushing forward with its own road safety initiative, they have appointed six pupils as “Junior Travel Ambassadors”. Activities include a competition for the best designed road safety poster and seeking safety pledges from parents. They are also making a community safety film and have applied for funding from East Cambs Community Safety Partnership. The six Junior Travel Ambassadors helped show their fellow pupils the truck and shared their learning about safety:-

“You must never overtake a lorry on the inside on your bike or walk out in front of a lorry, they won’t be able to see you,” said the Ambassadors. When asked what they think about the safety initiative one said, “It’s really important and I am very proud we can help keep children safe walking to school.”

Stephen Blackmore, Haddenham resident and Fuel and Driver Safety Manager from Turners, explained that they are working with seven local villages to avoid village centre short cuts and using telematics they can track where their drivers are and what speed they are doing. Stephen answered lots of questions from pupils including where drivers sleep, how the cameras work and how far they drive. Two teachers, two teaching assistants and a volunteer, along with Lizzi Wales Youth Co-ordinator from the County Council supervised the children’s “hands on” experience of the truck.

Press release from Haddenham Parish Council

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Mark Hugo, Parish Councillor and past Chair of Haddenham Community Land Trust, spoke briefly to a gathering of 40 people. Rachel Watts was instrumental in helping tenants of HCLT settle in their new homes and acted as Housing Manager for the Trust until her tragic death in 2022, aged 46. Mark said Rachel “tackled everything with huge enthusiasm, determination and just damn good common sense”, he went on to point out that Rachel had also performed similar roles for Stretham and Wilburton CLT and for East Cambs CLT, “where she also performed her magic.”

Rachel’s daughters Ruby (17) and Isabel (15) cut a ribbon to mark the opening of the park and her mother Janice Holmes and step-father Alan Holmes and husband David Watts were also present. Mum Janice explained how much the CLT meant to Rachel, “She really got alongside the tenants and understood their various situations. She cared about families and saw the importance of having places for children to play,” said Janice. Ruby and Isabel are proud of their mum’s achievements, work and professionalism but also talked about her “funny laugh and she made us all giggle.”

The play park is sited in the middle of Ovins Rise which is a 54 home development, 19 of which are HCLT owned or held under shared ownership. The objective of the CLT is to
provide affordable homes for local people, delivered in collaboration with Palace Green Homes, Haddenham Parish Council and Homes England and with the support of East Cambs District Council and the Cambridgeshire and the Peterborough Combined Authority. The Parish Council adopted the play park land and funded the play equipment. The playpark design was developed in consultation with the children of the local Robert Arkenstall Primary School.

Among the gathering of people at the opening were parish councillors, HCLT Trustees, friends and family of Rachel and residents of Ovins Rise. HCLT tenant Rebecca Fox said “I
was going through a lot of difficult stuff at the time and Rachel helped me massively when I was moving in. It’s great we have named the park after her.”

The last word goes to the children who benefit from this Parish Council asset “It’s fab having this on our doorstep, we play there all the time,” says Ruth Asanga aged 9.

Press release from Haddenham Parish Council

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The new station, on the Ipswich to Peterborough line, was built to give residents and local businesses of the east Cambridgeshire town better connections to the wider area and saw passenger services restart for the first time in 50 years.

The original Soham station was demolished in the mid-1960s.

The latest Greater Anglia ticket sales data shows that around 50,000 journeys have started or ended at the station since it was officially opened to the public in December 2021.

The station, which cost £18.6 million to build, was funded by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and delivered by Network Rail.

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia’s managing director, said: “We knew that re-connecting Soham to the passenger rail network for the first time in 56 years would be a great occasion.

“We’re pleased that it’s been so well used during its first year and we look forward to see how it continues to grow in the future.”

Deputy Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Cllr Anna Smith, said: “This is a fantastic start to a growing service which is life-changing for many people in the Soham area.

“The new station points towards the future of greater and greener connectivity for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, at the heart of an active travel and public transport network which will give people the option of leaving the car at home for many commuting or leisure journeys.”

Soham station has a single 99-metre platform, a waiting shelter, lighting, information screens and a public address system.

The car park has 50 spaces available, including four for blue badge holders. Cycle parking and ticket machines are available on the forecourt.

A footbridge connects the station to an existing public footpath – while making it fit for the future by allowing space if a second platform were ever constructed.

Press release from Greater Anglia

Photo credit: Greater Anglia

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HCLT now owns 17 rental properties and have 2 further properties under shared ownership on the 54 property development at Ovins Rise, just off the A1123 near Haddenham village centre. 19 local families now occupy a mix of 1,2 and 3 bedroomed houses at Ovins Rise through HCLT and this includes 17 children.

New tenants Heather Smith and her daughter Calliope aged 2 were welcomed to their new home. “We are very excited, I was born in Haddenham and my sister, parents and grandparents live in Haddenham and Aldreth,” says Heather, “I am so pleased to be able to come back to Haddenham, to be near family and Calliope’s nursery, in this fabulous house.”

Samuel Males moves in next door with his daughter Erin aged 4. He is very familiar with Ovins Rise because his brother was one of the first HCLT tenants, and as Samuel works for Openreach, he visited the site during digital network installation. “Erin is more than excited to move here as she thinks she will have her own personal play park,” says Samuel, “I have watched the site develop and am very impressed with the quality and high spec of the houses.”

Centrally located in Ovins Rise, the Parish Council owned play park has been recently installed to provide a safe play area for local children.

Haddenham Community Land Trust is a not-for-profit community benefit society, working in partnership with property developers Palace Green Homes and with the support of Haddenham Parish Council, Homes England, East Cambs District Council and the Cambs and Peterborough Combined Authority.

“We are local people, working with the support of local institutions to help local people stay local,” says Chairman Stephen Thompson, “We have ensured from the start that our houses are let to people with a strong connection to Haddenham/Aldreth through the school, family or work. I have only recently become involved in this project and must acknowledge the fantastic work done by past Chair Mark Hugo and his team over the last 6 years.”

For more information see the website www.haddenhamclt.org.uk

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The academy, which is part of The Active Learning Trust (ALT), is an area special school co-located with Littleport and East Cambs Academy (LECA), providing education for pupils aged two to 19 with significant and complex learning difficulties. 

The curriculum is different to comprehensive schools and tailored to the needs of students who all have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), many of whom will have physical, behavioural, sensory, communication or medical needs.

Oliver Woods, a student at the school was given the opportunity to study a GCSE at Littleport and East Cambs Academy (which is also part of ALT), becoming the first student to complete this significant achievement.

Oliver is now going to Cambridgeshire Regional College – Huntingdon campus with his first day on Monday 5th September. He is studying a Supported Learning Entry Level course which will improve his English and Maths skills as well as preparing him for adulthood.

Yvonne Skillern, Head of School for Highfield Littleport Academy, said: “We are so proud of Oliver’s monumental achievement!

“Oliver began studying Maths at LECA as part of his tailored timetable nearly four years ago. Despite his additional learning needs, a leg surgery and the disruption caused by the pandemic, he has worked extremely hard and achieved a grade 3 GCSE in Maths and was very close to a grade 4.

“All of the staff are delighted with Oliver’s success and wish him well at college. Oliver has realised the true vision of the academy and we look forward to supporting other students with opportunities like these and working even more closely with LECA in the future.”

Craig D’Cunha, Acting Chief Executive Officer at The Active Learning Trust, said: “On behalf of the Trust, I would like to extend my congratulations to Oliver and the school for this excellent achievement. 

“To do this under normal exam circumstances would have been a significant achievement, but to do this after the last few years of disrupted learning and changes to exams makes it extra special.

“We continue to be so impressed by all the students and team at Highfield Littleport Academy which has created strong links with our fellow Trust schools. This has promoted a high-quality education provision so that all students can maximise their potential for learning irrespective of their different needs.”

In its first Ofsted inspection since opening in September 2017, Highfield Littleport Academy was rated ‘Good’ in all areas.

For more information about the school, please visit: www.highfieldlittleport.org/

Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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If successful, the Council’s bid will support the creation of 270 new jobs and inject £19 million into the town’s economy.

It will also support the development of a 4.3km cycle path to help link up the businesses in the west with residential areas, the town centre and train station.  

The proposals will help with levelling up the area which has one of the highest unemployment rates in East Cambridgeshire and lower levels of life expectancy. It also forms a key milestone in the wider Littleport Vision 2030 which includes the development of a country park to provide more green spaces for the town, and investment in the marina and riverside areas.

Specifically, the bid is seeking to improve and expand the E-Space North Business Centre into a dynamic hub to support the formation and growth of new and existing businesses.  The proposed 3,325sqm facility is essential to address the shortfall in employment opportunities, reduce the number of people commuting out of the town to work and the lack of commercial work space in the town and will support approximately 270 workers.

Operating as a business growth zone by day, the hub, will also tap into the day-to-night economy, with the vision to become a training, arts, culture, heritage and community centre for the benefit of the local community.

The Council is also seeking to develop Littleport’s first dedicated cycling and pedestrian route. This is essential to help connect employment areas with residential communities, Littleport Train Station and surrounding green and open spaces.

As well as encouraging a shift to greener, active travel, this will provide health and wellbeing benefits through greater access to green space and surrounding nature.

Taken together, the two projects are designed to stimulate even more investment into Littleport by generating new jobs and providing greater opportunities.

The bid has the full backing of Littleport MP, Stephen Barclay, who said: “I welcome the efforts of Littleport Vision 2030 in my constituency, which are looking to address the key levelling up themes of transport, regeneration and culture. Littleport has one of the fastest-growing populations in East Cambridgeshire. It is vital that employment opportunities, commercial space and sustainable transport infrastructure keep pace with the needs of young families coming into the area. This funding will help Littleport evolve as a thriving and successful community. I very much hope that they are successful in their application for funding and I fully support this bid.”

Councillor Anna Bailey, leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, added: “I wholeheartedly support this Levelling Up Fund bid. A relatively small investment to reinvigorate our already successful business growth hub, E-Space-North, and create a 4.3km cycle path, will help unlock Littleport’s huge potential. On a practical level, this bid has the potential to generate 270 new jobs, promote active travel, support wellbeing and inject £19 million into the town’s economy.  But perhaps more importantly it will inspire much-needed confidence in the town and provide the key to further funding streams, which in turn will enable Littleport to deliver its vision for 2030 for the huge benefit of everyone who lives there.”

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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It will feature live music from great bands such as Max Headroom, Special Groove, The Routine and many more!  Our headline bands are So 80’s on Friday and Scooted n Booted on Saturday.

We have family entertainment and activities during Saturday and Sunday, along with stalls from local groups.  Food will be available from various outlets all weekend with BBQ, Pizza, Thai, kebabs and delicious ice
creams.

Our bar will feature over 50 beers and ciders, mostly from local brewers, along with an extensive Gin bar offering a wide range of flavours and mixers, plus Pimms and Prosecco.

We have frozen our drinks prices at Ł3 for a pint or a G&T which is the same as we charged in 2015!  Daily entry is Ł5 or Ł10 including a commemorative pint glass and a couple of tokens for your first drink.

More details can be found at https://we.drink.haddenham.beer/ and
https://www.facebook.com/WeDrinkHaddenhamBeer

Cheers!

Press release from Haddenham Beer Festival

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One of Witchford’s coaches, Emma Smith, is also the Ambassador for Her Game Too at Cambridge United FC. “I was so pleased at the enthusiasm that my club Witchford Colts showed for partnering with Her Game Too. The partnership promotes such an important message that girls and women, who may have faced negativity for being female and loving football, will be fully supported by the club.”

Her Game Too has almost 50 Ambassadors around the country, most of whom are affiliated with professional football clubs.

As well as spreading awareness of sexism and misogyny in the world of football, the campaign also champions the many positive stories of female players, fans, coaches, officials, staff and volunteers.

The HGT team hope their campaign will help shape a future environment and culture in the football world where women and girls are welcomed and respected equally.

To find out more about the campaign, and its recent extension into the cricket world, and to discuss a Partnership for your grassroots club, send Emma an email to hergametoo@hotmail.com 

Website: https://www.hergametoo.co.uk/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/HerGameToo 

Written by Emma Smith Witchford Colts FC Coach

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It will be held in our beautiful and historic church of St Andrew, Witchford. A concert to celebrate Summer, it promises to be lively and enjoyable – with songs familiar and new, as well as a reading from veteran thespian, Roger Rix, and a guitar-accompanied solo from talented local singer, Katrina Myers. 

We are fortunate to live in a village with a great community spirit and you will meet many members there in spending a lovely evening with us – a wonderful opportunity in particular for people new to the village. 

So, book your place now and support our thriving village and the Friends of St Andrew’s charitable work, by taking a trip to the church on Tuesday 28th June!  

Refreshments will be available afterwards – tea/coffee and delicious homemade biscuits – and we do have a loo on site.  Do check out the poster for further details.

Press release from Isle Singers

The post Summer Concert in Witchford appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The successful applications, made by East Cambridgeshire District Council under the Combined Authority’s Market Towns Programme,  and sees a total sum of £470,000 invested by the Combined Authority into the town.

The first project nets £145k to boost activities at Soham’s Eastern Agritech Innovation Hub – already home to five start-ups and supporting another seven businesses – with new conferencing facilities to help showcase innovation and attract business visitors and new firms.

The second proposal receives £325k to further expand Spencer Mill, already a vibrant  theatre, to help attract more weekend and evening visitors to Soham. Spencer Mill is next to the town’s new railway station, itself funded by the Combined Authority, and opened last month by Mayor Dr Nik Johnson,  and the fresh funding will develop business, training, and re-training facilities in what is a strategically placed community hub.  

The two Soham proposals came in the seventh funding call for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Market Towns Programme.  Combined Authority funding of £13.1m has been allocated across the market towns, with district councils able to bid for capital funds for each town. 

Proposals needed to show how projects would help bring to life each town’s Masterplan and drive good growth and regeneration in a post Covid-19 pandemic economy.

To date, there have been six funding calls under the Programme, with 44 projects being approved by the Combined Authority Board. It has awarded a total of £10,497,850 in grant funding – and bringing in an additional £11,755,295 of partner match investment.

One final funding call is scheduled for March 2022 with the aim to get the remaining £2,132,150 fully allocated by the end of this financial year. 

Members of the  Combined Authority Board also agreed to reprofile the Market Town budgets. Following delays caused by the pandemic, much of the approved spend will not be achieved in the financial year 2021/22 and the Board agreed to extend spending on into the financial year 2022/23 and March 2024 in the case of St Neots.

Press release from Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority

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Shelley Davies, who had been the Postmaster for Witchford for 16 years, wanted to move to larger premises for her village shop, Post Office and a sandwich bar. 

When the Chapel came up for sale the Postmaster contacted the Baptist Union. As a charity they had to manage the value of the premises and benefit for the community. Many residents supported the idea for a village shop and Post Office and contacted the charity to show their support and the bid was successful. 

There are now new opening hours: 

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 8.30am – 1pm and 2 – 5.30pm;

Thursday: 8.30am – 1pm;

Saturday: 8.30am – 12.30pm.

This is earlier opening for the convenience of customers.

Press release from The Post Office, London.

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The independent charity Crimestoppers and Openreach, the UK’s largest phone and broadband network, have joined forces to appeal for information after a series of recent cable thefts which affected hundreds of homes and local businesses.

The reward money is being offered by Openreach, through the charity Crimestoppers, for information given anonymously about the thefts, which left emergency services, residential premises and businesses without the use of phones, broadband or TV streaming services.

Large sections of live cable were dragged from the underground network using 4×4 vehicles on Witchford Road, Ely, between 6pm and 9.30pm on Sunday 2 January, and also on Fen Drayton Road, Swavesey, overnight on Tuesday 4 January, between 9.30pm and the early hours of Wednesday 5 January at 2am. There was also previous damage to the network and subsequent disruption in Witchford before Christmas.

Despite swift action by Openreach engineers, who replaced hundreds of metres of cable in both locations within just a couple of days, the damage still caused major disruption for hundreds of households, including essential emergency services. Significant damage was also caused to street furniture, farmland and the RSPB nature reserve in Swavesey following cables being dragged through the protected land.

Openreach has a partnership with Crimestoppers that offers rewards for information given anonymously to the charity about cable thefts that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. If you have any information on these incidents, please contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Annabelle Goodenough, South East Regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “The reward amount on offer by Openreach for these extremely disruptive cable thefts reflects the huge amount of damage caused to services and the local environment, and the importance they place on the issue. This is not a victimless crime. With essential emergency services also being severely impacted by this, the potential devastating effect on human life cannot be underestimated.

“We urge anyone with any information on those behind these thefts to speak to Crimestoppers completely anonymously. We know that some people feel unable to speak directly to authorities, which is why our independent charity is here to help. You can tell us what you know while protecting your identity and staying 100% anonymous. Always. This promise has been kept since we began in 1988.”

Richard Ginnaw, Head of Security Services for Openreach, said: “These incidents have severely impacted the day-to-day lives of people across these areas of Cambridgeshire, and this is why we are offering this reward. Did you see any suspicious people or vehicles in or around the areas targeted, on the dates and times of the incidents, or in the days leading up to the thefts?

“We are working closely with the police to catch those who are responsible and have deployed additional security enhancements across the area, but we also need your help. Please be vigilant, and if you saw anything suspicious on or around the time of the incidents, please report it. If you prefer not to speak directly to police, contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously.”

If you have any information about these incidents, please contact Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111 or through the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org 100% anonymously. Always.

Press release from Crimestoppers

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Lauren, who will be taking up her new position in March 2022, will be joining the team at Littleport and East Cambs Academy with a wealth of experience in the education sector. 

Lauren has seventeen years of teaching experience, working in schools across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. This includes five months serving as an Interim Head of School at Barclay Academy, Stevenage, and Vice Principal at Milton Keynes Academy. 

Lauren holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and has just been awarded the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

Speaking on the new appointment, CEO of The Active Learning Trust, Stephen Chamberlain, said: “We are delighted that Lauren will be joining Littleport and East Cambs Academy as the new Principal, where her leadership skills and expertise will be highly beneficial to students and the wider community. 

“Lauren has an outstanding track record of growing and developing schools and being engaged in the whole school community. The enthusiasm and passion Lauren has shown for delivering a high-quality education and learning opportunities to young people is inspiring, and we believe she will be extremely well placed in leading the school on its continual growth journey.

“We wish Lauren the best of luck upon starting her new role and greatly look forward to working alongside her and seeing how this appointment will build on the school’s existing strengths and successes.”

Alongside her teaching career, Lauren has a range of interests which include singing with several different choirs. In the past, Lauren has also sung with the Philharmonia Chorus in London and has performed in major venues across Europe.

Lauren will replace Colin Taylor, the current interim Principal at the school.

Stephen added: “A big thank you to Colin Taylor who is doing a fantastic job. Colin’s relentless commitment and professionalism ensure that each and every one of our pupils has a safe, engaging and creative education.”

Lauren will be visiting the academy throughout this school term and is looking forward to getting to know the community in preparation for the start of her new headship in the spring.

Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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The capsule includes contributions from pupils at Robert Arkenstall Primary School, Haddenham Parish Council, Haddenham Football Club and Haddenham Community Land Trust (CLT) – the community-based partner of the site.

Palace Green Homes has involved the local community throughout much of its development so far, from the 19 community owned homes that will be delivered via Haddenham CLT as well as inviting the community to the site to observe the archaeological dig that took place.

In 2019, pupils from Robert Arkenstall were welcomed onto the site to learn more about the excavation that took place on an open area that encompassed a 1st century AD Romano-British farmstead. As the excavation progressed, the archaeologists aimed to understand how the settlement was formed and why, what was carried out there, as well as understanding the abandonment of the site. The pupils were invited to draw sketches of how they imagined the settlement would have looked, as well as taking part in a competition where they had to bake a mock settlement out of cake and biscuits.

The time capsule, which was buried on Thursday 21st October, includes artwork from pupils at Robert Arkenstall Primary School; the October 2021 Village Voice magazine contributed by Haddenham Parish Council; the Haddenham Parish Council – Clerks and Councillors 1895 – 2020 booklet; a newsletter about the affordable homes on site from the Community Land Trust; photos of Haddenham Football Club from the 2020/2021 season; a face-mask to reflect the Coronavirus pandemic; and a sales brochure for West End Gardens from Palace Green Homes, which helps readers find out more about the development and the local community.

Paul Remington, Chairman of Palace Green Homes, commented: “The progress we’ve made on the site at Haddenham, despite the effects of the pandemic, has been testament to the hard work of our team and Haddenham CLT. It is fantastic to see members of the existing community living in the affordable homes on site already, and we are delighted to welcome even more members of the community onto the site to observe this time capsule being buried, helping to capture a snap shot of the current year.”

To find out more about the site in Haddenham, please visit https://www.palacegreenhomes.co.uk/developments/west-end-gardens/

Press release from Palace Green Homes

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“Whilst organising a funeral for my brother, we (my niece and her uncle) spoke to a lovely lady called Shirley Jenkins who is the Warden of St Leonard’s Church in Little Downham, near Ely. St Mary’s church in Ely is closed for renovation so we were lucky enough to find this church was available.

We were going to live stream the funeral to family and friends (some are in Scotland and France) but we found out that we couldn’t as there wasn’t any Wi-Fi in the church.

Also we heard that Shirley wanted to modernise the weekly Sunday church services to encourage the younger generation to play more of a part. The internet could play a major part in this to provide live-stream, videos, hook up to other churches etc.

All they need is a phone line, a router and an internet provider and a little money to start with. Shirley said they find it difficult to fundraise and so I thought I could help a little by spreading the word.

The church will be busier next year as St Mary’s is closed so this could be very helpful to people using the church in the future.

The Go-fund-me page is below, thank you. Any donations (however small) are gratefully received.”

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-to-get-st-leonards-get-internet

The post Local Church Fundraiser for Wi-Fi Connection appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The 29-year-old sales consultant from Cambridge will be competing in the 13.1-mile race on Sunday 17th October in memory of his late grandmother Marina.

Damien is aiming to raise £500 for the charity, which supports end-of-life care for more than 4,100 people in Cambridgeshire every year who are living with an advanced serious illness or other life-limiting condition.

He has so far raised £222, thanks to donations from friends, family members and colleagues at Peterborough-based Vistry East Midlands, part of Vistry Group which comprises Linden Homes, Bovis Homes and Vistry Partnerships.

Damien, who is currently based at Linden Homes’ Laithwaite Gardens development in Sutton, said: “This hospice is close to my heart as my late grandma received care from them towards the end of her life. I was inspired to run this half marathon in memory of her and to raise funds for such a crucial local charity which relies on donations to continue providing the services they do.

“The work the staff do at the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity is admirable and, as I’ve seen what they can do for people first-hand, picking this charity was an easy decision to make and I am honoured to be raising awareness of its cause.

“I also wanted to set myself the personal challenge of running a half marathon, as I’ve never run this distance before despite being a sporty person. Some of my friends are also taking part, so I’m looking forward to us taking on the challenge together.

“I’m grateful to my colleagues at Vistry East Midlands who have fully backed my efforts and have been so supportive with their donations to my fundraising total, and I’m hoping more people will also be prepared to do so.”

The TTP Cambridge Half Marathon, which is usually held in the spring, will be marking its 10th Anniversary when it takes to the streets of the city in October.

In celebration of this milestone, organisers have teamed up with Muscular Dystrophy UK to hold The Cambridge Festival of Running the day before (Saturday 16th October), in which the Town and Gown 10k and junior 3k races will be taking place.

Nic Chapman, sales and marketing director for Vistry East Midlands, said: “We are proud of Damien for taking on this half marathon to raise money for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, a vital local hospice which provides support for so many families across Cambridgeshire every year.

“Setting yourself a challenge like this is not easy and takes a lot of preparation, so we look forward to cheering Damien on every mile of the way and celebrating with him at the finish line.”

To donate to Damien’s fundraising total, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/damien-crosby.

For more information about the new homes being built by Vistry East Midlands, visit bovishomes.co.uk and lindenhomes.co.uk/eastmidlands.

Press release from Vistry East Midlands

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As well as an injection of new subjects, Witchford Village College will be welcoming new teachers to its modern foreign languages faculty, strengthening its teaching staff. Elliot Elstob will join as a Latin and Classical Civilisation teacher and Elizabeth Catterall will join as a MFL teacher. 

Bessie Owen, Headteacher at Witchford Village College says: “We are extremely proud to be part of the 12.9% of state schools that will be offering Latin to our students from September. Children who study Latin gain an advantage in multiple other academic areas. We are excited to also be offering Classical Civilisation, which will provide students with a greater understanding of the world. It is important for us, at Witchford Village College, to continue to expand the range of subjects we offer in order to prepare our students for a diverse range of opportunities in their future careers.”

Witchford Village College is a wholly inclusive secondary school which values diversity and provides its students with the opportunity to progress and develop through lifelong learning while embracing creative freedom.

Owen said: “This is a very exciting time for our whole community. At Witchford Village College, everyone from the students to the teachers is dedicated to their work and inspired by the work of those around them. We are looking forward to building a better world through education and are excited to embark on this next chapter.”

If you wish to find out more about Witchford Village College, there will be an Open Evening on 30 September. Further details to be announced.

Press release form Witchford Village College

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“For us it’s a new lease of life, as we first walked in, it instantly felt like home,” says Kayleigh, “We have waited for a new home for 7 years. Living in our previous home was mentally draining; it was damp, noisy and cramped. I am a Haddenham girl, living here all my life and was eager to stay here. Our new home is peaceful, perfect and spacious.”

“We have so much more room, loads of power points, the kids have their own rooms, the garden is nice and safe for the kids and there’s plenty of space for when my other son visits;” adds bricklayer Tony, “For the first time we have a dining room table and can eat family dinners together.” As a builder himself Tony is impressed with the quality of the properties and the site layout.

Kay-Di is delighted with the privacy of her own room. Kayne says his room is “excellent”, he can play with his Xbox by himself and when asked what else he has in his room his answer was ”a ton of lego.”

Meeting them underlines just how worthwhile the HCLT has been in helping hard-working local families stay local in lovely new homes.

Shared ownership offers a slightly different opportunity to residents of Ovins Rise. Scott Cheetham was eager to stay in the village he has always called home, he used to work at the local shop and has been involved in supporting community sports, cricket and football. He has worked in cancer research at Addenbrookes for several years but despite looking for a way to buy his first home, he was struggling to find suitable local properties. He did not want to move away from the village he grew up in. Haddenham Community Land Trust provided Scott with the perfect opportunity to buy his own home. “The house is really spacious and well designed. Shared ownership with HCLT at Ovins Rise gave me the opportunity to get on the property ladder, stay local and continue to support the local community,” said Scott.

For more information see the website:  www.haddenhamclt.org.uk

Press release from Haddenham Community Land Trust

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Shortlisted with seven other local charities, The Hygiene Bank is vying to receive a share of a £10,000 donation from the award-winning housebuilder. The three causes with the most public votes will receive donations of £7,000, £2,000 and £1,000 respectively.

Alison O’Connor, Project Co-ordinator for The Hygiene Bank Soham and Ely said, “The vote is a fantastic opportunity for us to galvanise support from local residents for our work. We welcome any additional funding and should we be awarded the £7,000 donation it will make an enormous difference to local families in crisis.  The lockdown has had a devastating affect on local families and our public donations of hygiene products simply can’t keep up with the demand.  A grant of any size enables us to buy the essential hygiene items that most of us take for granted.”

Joshua Hopkins of the Hopkins Charitable Fund said: “Covid has had a significant impact on the work of charities, both in terms of their levels of fundraising and the increase in demand for their services.  Throughout the pandemic we’ve been working with charities throughout East Anglia to help them continue some of the essential services they offer in the community. The vote is an opportunity for the public to choose which charity they would like to see receive an extra funding boost. All the shortlisted charities offer important services to their communities and I wish them all the best of luck.”

For more information and to vote for The Hygiene Bank visit  https://www.hopkinshomes.co.uk/charity-cambridgeshire-vote/

Launched Monday 28th June, the vote will run until 5pm Friday 16th July and the results will be announced soon after. 

Press release from The Hygiene Bank Soham and Ely

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To further our application we need supporters to like our project page by the 7th July. Projects receive 1 point for every like or share and 10 points when someone donates. When public supporting ends on 7th July, projects with the highest scores from each funding category will go through to the finals. Please help us to become a finalist.  Follow the below link to see what our young people have to say and to register your vote.  

Can you help 1st Sutton Scouts to deliver a recreational space for young people of the village and local community groups?   

https://communityfund.calor.co.uk/scouts-community-activity-recreation-field-fund

1st Sutton Scout Hut Squad have worked hard for a number of years to provide a secure future for our ever growing group of young people.   Ultimately we aim to provide a purpose built safe and welcoming environment for both the Scouting family in the District and the wider community who are looking for facilities in our beautiful rural idyll.

Having secured planning permission for the building we are now forging on to purchase adjacent land to be able to offer outdoor recreation facilities which will appeal to all young people but will increasingly appeal to our teenage members and thus encourage longer term commitment to Scouting, giving us better opportunity to support young people in developing skills for life.

Quarter Master Ben, “is excited to be able to bring kit out of storage to be utilised by the group and the wider community such as our archery – which not only is hugely popular with our young people but helps to engage with families on open days.”

Group Scout Leader Ali Wells points out that, “Scouts have an expectation of camping, and we want to be able to offer this opportunity without the children and their families having to leave the County.  This land purchase would enable us to offer local nights away benefitting not only our group but also the wider district of Scouting in Ely.   Additionally, having lost local facilities we can open up the facilities to school groups for DofE practice and forest schooling.”

For further information about Scouting in Sutton please email sutton@elydistrictscouts.org.uk

Press release from 1st Sutton Scout Group

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The HCLT have already welcomed tenants to 7 houses and 2 more move in next week. When the development is complete in 2022/3 HCLT will own 17 homes let to local people at affordable rents and will have shared ownership of 2 further properties alongside tenants/co-owners. The Trustees of HCLT are all unpaid volunteers and have worked hard in these challenging times to deliver affordable housing alongside various parties the Parish Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and Homes England.

The site is being developed in collaboration with Palace Green Homes and will when complete, comprise 54 new homes and a children’s play area set in landscaped surroundings. 

Lucy Frazer was shown round one of the HCLT homes which is ready for tenants moving in next week.

“I am very impressed with the Ovins Rise development and the role Haddenham Community Land Trust have had in providing affordable housing to local people. Housing can be expensive in Cambridgeshire and it’s heartening to know young couples and families have moved into lovely new homes here. The CLT was formed by local people working together for the benefit of the local community. I congratulate all those involved. “

Lucy Frazer visited The Robert Arkenstall Primary School during her Haddenham visit, Headteacher Kate Bonney is also a Trustee of HCLT.

“I see a real need for high quality affordable housing for families and teachers in the communities around local schools. I frequently hear about people’s struggles with access to the housing they need and it’s wonderful that the HCLT has helped to deliver this great resource in Haddenham.”

Press release from Haddenham Community Land Trust

Photo Credit: Haddenham Community Land Trust

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The show home, furnished and designed by local interior company Angel and Blume, is now available for potential buyers to view. The home featured will show residents three bedrooms and a fully fitted kitchen, living area and spacious garden.

West End Gardens is a thoughtfully designed development, which will see 54 striking homes set within landscaped green spaces. The development will offer a range of 2- to 4-bedroom houses, with spacious home-working areas and generous gardens for the whole family to enjoy.

With seven designs available on the site, Palace Green Homes has ensured that there is a home suited to anyone, whether you’re looking for a first home, need more space for a family or are looking for your forever home.

West End Gardens will feature a central play space and plenty of carefully designed landscaped green areas. The village of Haddenham, and the wider area, is home to a variety of footpaths to explore the green spaces, quiet country lanes and lots of wildlife. Historic Ely, with its magnificent cathedral and architecture, is a ten-minute drive away, and provides rail connections to London, the Midlands and northern England.

Paul Remington, Chairman of Palace Green Homes said: “We are delighted to be able to invite potential home buyers to our highly anticipated West End Gardens development. We have been really pleased to see our first residents move onto the site and hope that we can continue to welcome and delight new community members with our homes on this site.”

Richard Booth, Director at Cheffins, says: “West End Gardens has already proved a popular location with a number of successful sales in recent weeks and the launch of this stunning show home ought to go some way to help potential purchasers to envisage what life could be like in one of these new homes on the site. 

“As Ely and the surrounding villages is seeing consistent demand from buyers at all price levels and demand far outstripping supply, we would encourage buyers to book a viewing at West End Gardens without delay.”

If you would like to book an appointment to view our show home, please contact Cheffins Ely on 01353 654900 or ely@cheffins.co.uk

For further information about West End Gardens, please visit https://www.palacegreenhomes.co.uk/developments/west-end-gardens/.
If you are looking for homes via the Community Land Trust, more information regarding Ovins Rise at West End Gardens can be found at http://www.haddenhamclt.org.uk/

Press release from Palace Green Homes

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Following a recent survey of parents, where 91% voted in favour of the introduction of the scheme, the school is providing every student with their own personal iPad. Students will have these devices throughout the school day to aid in-classroom learning, and will also have the opportunity to take them home, having access to countless resources for all homework tasks.

Bessie Owen, Head of School, Witchford Village College, said: “Digital literacy is essential in the modern world and we have a responsibility to equip students with the skills they need to thrive. iPads provide an amazing opportunity for students and we are confident the scheme will enhance existing practice and create additional learning opportunities in the classroom and at home, whilst improving digital literacy and developing student’s ability to collaborate and problem solve.”

As well as providing opportunities to enhance students overall learning experience, the 1:1 iPad scheme has the potential to encourage students’ independence, personalise learning, grow engagement in lessons and positively increase students’ attitudes to school. Each iPad will be fully equipped with all of the relevant learning apps and required safety features, including a protective case and screen, so that parents can be confident that their children are able to work online safely in lessons and when at home.

Owen continued: “For our scheme to work, we need to work together as a school community and generate enough funding to provide for all. We will be asking for a donation of £10 per month from parents for the time that their child is a student at Witchford Village College. In return for supporting the scheme, we will ensure that every child that attends our school has a fully working iPad.”

Witchford Village College is grateful for all and any support it receives for the new scheme. If you would like to donate, please visit: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/16275#!/DonationDetails.

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Well pupils of St Andrew’s C of E Primary School are no different. Our beloved Head Teacher, Mr Harrison, is leaving us this term! He came to work at St Andrews after working at The Weatheralls Primary School, meaning he has taught in Soham for 16 years!!

Now Mr Harrison made one crucial mistake when he told St Andrew’s PTA that he was leaving, he told us that he would do ONE LAST fundraising event for us…that’s not the crucial mistake though… He told us to DO OUR WORST!!

So, for Mr Harrison’s final PTA fundraising event, he will be having a bath…WITH A TWIST! Pupils at St Andrew’s C of E Primary School have been voting all week by donating coins into a double-sided collection box – one side labelled BEANS and the other side labelled CUSTARD.

On Friday 16th April, the coins were counted and the box that raised the most money was… BEANS!! So, on the last day before we break up for May half term, Mr Harrison will be having a BEANS BATH! For every tin of beans used, we will make a like-for-like donation to our local food bank.

Although the monetary voting at school has ended, you can still help raise money for St Andrew’s PTA by donating to our JustGiving page.

If you knew Mr Harrison from The Weatheralls, St Andrew’s or maybe you are a neighbour of his and would like to leave a message of gratitude, support or even share a memory you have of him, we would love to be able to pass these onto him for you.

We would really appreciate if you could leave donation to St Andrews PTA in his memory as well. Mr Harrison is an AWESOME Head Teacher, and we wish him all the best for the future. Let’s show Mr Harrison how grateful we are to him for his 16 years of service to Soham.

From the PTA at St Andrews Primary School, Soham

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The Mighty Haddenham Rovers go marching on!! Unbeaten in a league fixture since being established two years ago.

The first 45 was rather frustrating. Lacking in final quality, saw several chances go begging. Some quality link up play between Ben Marshall, Luke Mansfield and George Rayner saw the Pymoor back four doing shuttle runs, but we couldn’t find that finishing touch. We just truly thought, would it be one of those days??

Pymoor didn’t really create much going forward due to excellent defending from John Falconer, Jordan Emms, Shaun Eldridge and Harry Tietz sweeping up anything they had to offer, gave our keeper Tom Upshaw very little to do.

We dictated the play in the middle of the park, Joe Murfitt and Ben Harnwell orchestrating some decent moves together but nothing come of it.

Half Time – Haddenham Rovers 0 – Pymoor Park Rangers 0

After a relaxed halt time team talk from Manager Eddie New, basically emphasising that “we haven’t played together in almost four months and we are very much on top of the game. Do not get frustrated!!”.

The second half saw Rovers shift up the gears and compose some very fluid passing moves. Scoring two disallowed goals, which arguably should have been given. It was a matter of, “The goal is coming”.

The defence were once again solid as ever. Winning every 50/50, picking up the second and third balls. Setting the standard to echo through the pitch.

All we needed was someone to step up and have that little bit of magic. Substitute Joe Robinson came on and brought more positiveness to our passing and threaded through a perfect ball to Mansfield. He took it around his man and got wiped out inside the box. Referee gives the Penalty with five minutes left.

Haddenham slotted the penalty away passed Evan Jeckells and got the goal they thoroughly deserved!!! Goal scorer Charlie Tunnell

From this goal, it was very much game management and keeping the ball in the corner until the time was up. The final whistle blew and the mighty NarmyArmy go marching on.

Full Time – Haddenham Rovers 1 – Pymoor Park Rangers 0

Match Report From Haddenham Rovers
Photo Credit: Sophie Housden

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This Easter marks a year since our special video message to pupils, shared shortly after our nation’s first coronavirus lockdown in March last year.

With this date in mind, and in celebration of our full return to school, staff put their dancing shoes on and attempted the Jerusalema Dance Challenge!

We hope our pupils enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it. Can you spot your teacher?

From Rackham C of E Primary School

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After just one week back at the school following lockdown home-learning, the concert was created and arranged as a way of bringing the school’s close-knit community back together in celebration, before breaking up for the Easter holidays.

Naomi D’Cunha, Assistant Principal and Lead Teacher Performing Arts, Witchford Village College, said: “When we first put the plans in place for our end of term virtual concert, we had no idea that the majority of the opening term of 2021 would be taking place via online teaching. Regardless of this, our students all worked extremely hard to practice and rehearse ahead of the show. We would like to thank everyone for taking part; this concert is a celebration of the determination, resilience and talent of our students. It was a pleasure to watch.”

The end of term virtual performance is just one of the ways that students at the school have been able to showcase their creativity during the past year. Another exciting initiative that students took part in, that focused on building confidence and inspiring students through creativity, was the #WVCGetCreative project. When students were unable to physically attend lessons, Witchford Village College launched a virtual creativity festival.

As part of this festival, staff at the school encouraged students to share something creative relating to their lockdown experience. With submissions from all members of the school community, video clips included: a student playing Somewhere Over the Rainbow on the ukulele on their street during Clap for NHS, a virtual ensemble collaborative rendition of Stand by Me, a lockdown monologue and a documentary film which was edited to music.

Bessie Owen, Head of School, Witchford Village College, said: “We believe that a well-rounded education is crucial for young people and it is for this reason that we place emphasis on the arts and performing arts. I am thrilled that the end of term performance was able to take place. It was brilliant to see all of the students come together and showcase their talents. I am looking forward to the next one!”

Press release from Witchford Village College

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The Harbour School, in Wilburton, near Ely, caters for a full role of 89 boys with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs from Year 2 to Year 11, under the leadership of Mrs Lise Sugden, who joined the school in September 2019.

Upon joining CMAT in January of this year, the school became the second educational provision to look after pupils with Special Educational Needs, following Martin Bacon Academy, in Northstowe, who joined in 2020.

Headteacher Lise praised the pupils and staff for the way they have reacted to the national lockdown and said the new partnership with CMAT was already realising a range of benefits with lots more positivity to look ahead to.

Lise said: “The impact of joining CMAT could be seen immediately at the start of the term with investment in our Information and Communications Technology (ICT) allowing us to support any remote education we needed to take place during lockdown. We also have plans to help future-proof the school’s infrastructure and facilities including a new school roof.

“We have managed to keep the school open throughout the lockdown, due to the needs of our pupils, and our staff have been integrated into the Trust with introductory meetings with colleagues in CMAT’s other schools. This peer-to-peer learning and sharing of experiences will be a big advantage for our staff.”

CMAT runs 17 schools in Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire. These include Ely College and Downham Feoffees Primary Academy. Ely College, who joined the Trust in 2016 in Special Measures, was rated as Good with Outstanding Leadership and Management last year, a real source of pride for the local community.

Lise added: “It has been a busy and productive term all round. We had a monitoring visit from Ofsted held remotely which went very well. We have even introduced a new puppy in to the school, with Guss the Cockapoo visiting twice a week. The pupils really love having him here.

“Outside of educational lesson time, the pupils really enjoy getting active and we get them involved in a variety of sports including cycling, canoeing and fishing.”

Lise said: “the school was well supported by the local community, with Cambridge taxi company CamCab donating six laptop computers for the school to use when the country went into lockdown. The school regularly use CamCab to look after pupils who need support travelling from their home to the school site.”

Executive Director of SENDV at CMAT Mary Rayner is herself a former headteacher at The Harbour School.

Press release from Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT)

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Palace Green Homes welcomed the new residents to their home last week, marking the exciting future of the highly anticipated West End Gardens development. The residents were welcomed by flowers and fizz from local florist Wild Clover Flower Company. 

The new residents, Mr and Mrs Couling, commented: “We are delighted to have moved into the West End Gardens development. It’s great to be some of the first people to move onto the site, and we’re excited to see the community grow over the comings months and years.”

West End Gardens is a beautifully designed development, which will see 54 striking homes set within landscaped green spaces when complete. The development will offer a range of 2- to 4-bedroom houses, with spacious home-working areas and gardens for the whole family to enjoy.

The development has already welcomed its first residents through the Haddenham Community Land Trust; a local scheme that provides affordable homes to existing community members. The new private buyers will join the 6 residents that are already making themselves at home in West End Gardens.

Paul Remington, Chairman of Palace Green Homes said: “We are pleased to welcome the first private buyers to the West End Gardens development. It’s been an exciting project to work on and we’re delighted to bring some new life and character to such a welcoming community. We really hope our first and future residents enjoy their new homes.”

Mark Peck, Director, Head of Residential Division at Cheffins, shared: “Cheffins is delighted to have been involved in the sales of these homes at West End Gardens. We’re looking forward to more of these fantastic properties coming onto the market and welcoming buyers to their new homes soon.”

West End Gardens will feature a central play space and plenty of carefully designed landscaped green areas. The village of Haddenham, and the wider area, is home to a variety of footpaths to explore the green spaces, quiet country lanes and lots of wildlife. Sited 10-minutes away from Ely, with its magnificent cathedral and architecture, and rail connections to London, the Midlands and northern England.Palace Green Homes is soon to be launching their show home for the site for future private buyers.

For further information about West End Gardens, please visit https://www.palacegreenhomes.co.uk/developments/west-end-gardens/

Press release from Palace Green Homes

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There are many benefits to having a sensory room, many that support children’s Mental health and emotional well being. Other benefits include; improving a persons emotional state, including increased happiness and relaxation and decrease levels of anxiety, distress, agitation and aggression, and physiological stress.

Some of the resource’s we are hoping to raise money for are, fibre optic lights, bubble tubes, light projectors, light up kits, UV kits, music system and more.

In the month of March the staff at The Shade Primary School are getting ACTIVE!! We are aiming to walk, run or cycle 1000 miles by the end of March. That’s 100 miles for every year The Shade has been open and an extra 300 bonus miles.

To donate click here: Just Giving page here

From The Shade Primary School, Soham

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Members of all ages filmed themselves at home singing and dancing, and using some clever technology they have been brought together in a rousing and emotional performance, promising ‘we will come back home…’

The original backing track was performed by professional musicians who all gave their time to the project for free.

Viva! Founder Dan Schumann comments:  “We have all missed live theatre over the last year, and we have all missed our Viva family.  So we wanted a project that would give us a focus, a chance to perform and that feeling of creating something really magical.  This project has delivered that in spades!  We are hoping that it will be shared far and wide and viewers will be moved to support our new theatre through online donations.”

Viva Arts and Community Group is converting the old mill on Spencer’s Drove in Soham into a community arts and theatre centre.  Work has continued on the site throughout the pandemic, but the lockdowns and social distancing rules have delayed the project and costs have increased considerably.  

Dan explains:  “Donations from the Greatest Showman video will go to the renovation fund to enable the project to be completed in time for lockdown to be finally lifted, hopefully in the summer.  Then we can finally ‘come back home’.”

The group’s next project will be a virtual radio play of Frankenstein, again all filmed remotely and using the latest editing software to create a unique theatre/radio fusion experience. 

Spencer’s Mill is being transformed into the Viva Theatre using funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, East Cambridgeshire District Council, Power to Change, The Arts Council, Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, Amey Vespa and many others. 

Press release from Viva Arts and Community Group

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This lockdown, teachers at Witchford Village College, a secondary school on the outskirts of Ely, have been working hard to ensure that as many of the school’s extra-curricular clubs and activities can continue to take place as possible. 

One of its most popular clubs that has made the transition online is The Female Lead, a club that engages female students across all year groups in important and inspirational discussions.

The Female Lead is an educational charity dedicated to making women’s stories more visible and offering alternative role models to those ever-present in popular culture. The charity highlights the breadth of female achievement in order to offer inspiration for future generations. Witchford Village College started its after-school club in order to get its female students involved and engaged in the conversations surrounding important topics such as representation of women in the media and gendered language, and to challenge traditional gender expectations and perceptions of women. As part of the club, students and teachers recount and discuss the remarkable stories of women from all backgrounds and careers, with an aim of showing girls that anything is possible.

Charlotte Doswell, Lead for KS3 English and Parental Engagement and leader of the club at Witchford Village College, said: “Running such an important club and engaging female students throughout our whole school is a fantastic experience and one that I’m glad we’ve been able to continue while students are studying from home. I have been blown away by the group’s self-determination and enthusiasm for the project and can’t wait to get stuck into the key themes and topics that we’re set to cover over the coming weeks.”

As part of the extra-curricular club, students have been tasked with choosing an inspirational female who they subsequently spend the following weeks researching and exploring the challenges they may have faced. So far, as a group they have considered focussing on the following: the suffragettes, Ada Lovelace, Sienna Mae Gomez, Malala Yousafzai, Emma Watson, Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks and Florence Nightingale. The group has also discussed the problematic nature of “the marriage plot”. Often, in literature when a female protagonist marries her narrative subsequently closes, a topic which the students have been keen to explore in more detail.

Bessie Owen, Head of School at Witchford Village College, said: “Our wide and varied extra-curricular clubs programme ensures that there is something for everyone, meaning that we are able to offer our students a fulfilling and well-rounded experience so that each student can reach their full potential. The Female Lead is a real asset to our College, with each session allowing participants to engage in meaningful discussions, challenge apathy and discover the interconnectivity of many aspects of life and career. I am proud of both staff and students for how effortlessly they have made the transition to online working and glad that important clubs such as this can be maintained.”

Press release from Witchford Village College

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As schools across the nation respond to the latest lockdown measures, Eastern Learning Alliance, a multi-academy trust in East Anglia, has risen to the challenge of transitioning to remote learning and continuing face to face provision for the children of essential workers, earning praise and positive feedback from the parent communities of its five schools.

The five Eastern Learning Alliance trust schools, including Impington Village College, Chesterton Community College, Witchford Village College, Downham Market Academy and Girton Glebe Primary School, all switched to remote provision for the majority of students within 24 hours of the latest lockdown announcement, delivering a timetable of learning with such speed and efficacy that it inspired parents to share feedback including:

“I just wanted to extend a huge thank you to the Witchford teachers’ response to Lockdown #3! The introduction of an online timetable has introduced focus and structure and I know Toby has responded well to this. The focus on wellbeing during tutor time was also impressive and much needed given the news re exams and the uncertainty and anxiety this has caused. It helped to open up conversations at home. I know that everyone is juggling and I know that teachers are going above and beyond during this time, whilst also balancing their own personal circumstances. So, a huge thank you to you and the team for all that you are and will continue to do.” – Witchford Village College Parent

“The live lessons are absolutely amazing, I don’t need to be my child’s teacher this time, the teachers are there at all times throughout the lesson to support his learning which he is able to do much more independently this time, with more confidence. This is much less stress on me as a parent, and him as a child.” – Downham Market Academy Parent

“Brilliant start and very easy for students to follow via the calendar. Well done!” – Impington Village College Parent

“We are very grateful for the time and energy that all teachers have put in to their planning for online classes, and for the support and care that they have shown to the children.” – Chesterton Community College parent

To ensure as many students as possible engage in remote learning, schools across the Trust also provided the technology required to suit different needs. Students in need of devices from Downham Market Academy were provided with iPads from which to access learning every day, technology the student community is familiar with due to their frequent use in school lessons.

Parents responded with feedback including: “The use of the iPads has meant my child isn’t struggling with loading screens and lags before he can even start any work.”

Impington Village College students were provided with Chromebook laptops in order to access remote learning, and every student was surveyed to confirm whether they had the connectivity, hardware and software they needed to successfully transition to remote provision.

As well as transitioning the majority of students to remote learning, schools in the Trust have also implemented the required Covid-19 on site testing for staff, and for students who are remaining in school as they are vulnerable or the children of key workers. On site testing since the announcement has seen every staff member and student tested regularly, in a process staffed entirely by volunteers.

Lucy Scott, CEO of Eastern Learning Alliance, commented: “The way in which each school across our Trust family has risen to the challenge of the latest lockdown is nothing short of heroic. The feedback from parents praising both the collective and individual efforts of staff is fantastic to receive and I know it is going a long way to help motivate our staff as we all navigate the challenges of this time. Across our entire community of students, staff and parents, the perseverance and positivity in the face of persistently challenging circumstances has made a significant difference in our abilities to continue to deliver the best possible education for our students. We are confident that our approach to our remote learning timetable and the safety measures we have in place for those continuing face to face learning are providing our students with the best possible education the current circumstances allow, while keeping disruption to a minimum.

“We are also thrilled that our efforts so far have been recognised by the Department for Education and, by request from the Regional Schools Commissioner, we have produced some short videos on how we have implemented the safety and remote learning requirements for our students. Our hope is to share what has worked for us, so that it might help other schools at this difficult time.”

More information here and here

Press release from The Eastern Learning Alliance

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A charity providing help for homeless people in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk has received some Christmas cheers thanks to a kind-hearted donation from Littleport and East Cambs Academy.

Staff at the Academy visited The Purfleet Trust to drop off a number of boxes which contained essential items including groceries and toiletries.

The boxes had been filled with items bought from the proceeds of a non-uniform day held at the Academy, which is part of The Active Learning Trust.

Krystal Sturman, Young People’s Worker at the Academy, came up with the idea of donating to The Purfleet Trust as one of her friend’s parents works for the charity and knows just how vital the support is to homeless people.

Krystal said: “We would like to thank everyone involved with the school who donated for our non-uniform day as the total of £882 was a superb amount for us to use to make this offering to The Purfleet Trust.

“Christmas is a time for giving and we wanted to do our bit to help bring some festive cheer to those homeless people who rely on The Purfleet Trust, particularly at this time of year with the longer, colder nights.

“At the school we encourage and support our students to positively contribute to the modern world so learning about the amazing work charities and community organisations in our area do day in, day out is an important aspect to this.”

Two students, Theo Hatton-Winters and Noah Swain, who helped to pack up the boxes visited the charity to drop off the gifts. They were also able to hand over dog food donated by local company Jurassic Bark for the pets of the homeless people to have.

The Purfleet Trust, based at Austin Fields, King’s Lynn, was set up as a charity to provide help for single homeless people in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk who were not eligible for help from the Council. Its services include housing advice to help people find accommodation, support to help them maintain their tenancies, a rent deposit scheme and a day centre providing a daily hot meal and the opportunity to gain some essential life skills.

Paula Hall, CEO of The Purfleet Trust, said: “We are really privileged to be based in such a supportive local area and we are very grateful for this donation from Littleport and East Cambs Academy.

“This has been a very challenging year for everyone, not least the homeless people we support, and I am sure they will appreciate having something to open on Christmas and make their day a little brighter.”

Press release from The Active Learning Trust

Photographs copyright to the Active Learning Trust

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Two Cambridgeshire charities, Lighthouse Ely and Sutton Parish Council, have received a welcome and timely boost towards their support for older and vulnerable individuals this winter, thanks to a donation from Hopkins Homes.

Hopkins Homes donated the money to support the charity’s work through its Hopkins Charitable Fund – a half a million-pound fund distributed to charities and community groups across Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire, over the course of five years.

Sutton Parish Council, which is working in collaboration with the Sutton Timebank and Sutton Helping Hands community organisations, distributed the £2,500 it received from the fund to help those in self-isolation with shopping, post office trips and picking up prescriptions, particularly vital during these shorter days and longer nights.

Lighthouse Ely similarly received over £4,300 from the fund to go towards the cost of a dedicated coordinator, who will oversee a program which connects local volunteers with 100 elderly people to tackle the issues of isolation, medicine and food delivery.

Joshua Hopkins, of the Hopkins Charitable Fund, said: “Staying at home at the moment is the right thing to do to ensure that members of our communities who are most at risk are kept safe, particularly in these colder months, however for vulnerable people this can lead to feelings of loneliness and negatively impact their mental health. 

“The ongoing pandemic has intensified these issues and it highlights the need for this vital work in our society. The money from the grants will help fund the ongoing delivery of contact and specialist support to those who need it most.

“Hopkins Homes has been part of the East Anglian landscape for over three decades and we are committed to leaving a positive legacy on our built environment to enhance the Cambridgeshire community we are part of. We are delighted to have been able to offer support and look forward to hearing more about the extraordinary things these organisations in Sutton and Ely are doing in the future.”

The coronavirus outbreak brought new challenges for the two charities and staff needed to quickly adapt to the sudden change. Most noticeable was a significant increase in people needing to access the services both charities provide.

Rosie Hughes, Parish Clerk at Sutton Parish Council, said: “The donation from Hopkins Homes is a fantastic, well needed contribution and helps us deliver vital support to older people who feel acutely vulnerable, especially at the moment.

“When lockdown hit, Sutton Time Bank had only been operational for less than a month and needed to urgently rethink how it delivered the service to ensure the safety of staff and service users. Throughout lockdown the group has maintained daily contact, either by telephone or doorstep visits and successfully delivered essential groceries and prescriptions.”

Giles Cornell, Senior Pastor at Lighthouse Ely, said: “At Lighthouse Ely, we help older and vulnerable people with a range of services, such as a friendly phone call, food delivery, prescription pick up and an occasional hot meal to keep the community fighting fit in these cold winter months.”

“We are so grateful for this crucial support from Hopkins Homes which helps members of our community who would otherwise feel forgotten about and isolated.”

Hopkins Charitable Fund is working with the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation through its coronavirus fund to support charities and community organisations in the county.

For more information about Hopkins Homes please visit www.hopkinshomes.co.uk 

Press release from Hopkins Homes

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Highfield Littleport Academy has opened a brand-new sensory garden, providing pupils with a place to learn and relax, following a generous £9,760 donation from St James’s Place Charitable Foundation. 

Following the donation, Natalie Pearce and Mary Gambrill, both dedicated Teaching Assistants at the academy in Littleport, near Ely, worked tirelessly throughout the lockdown period to prepare the sensory raised beds, clear the space of weeds, and coordinate contractors to complete the project.  

The outdoor space was transformed thanks to kind-hearted support from Ely based, Daniel Bonnett and his team at DK Patio’s and Fencing. 

The academy, which is part of the Active Learning Trust, is a special educational needs (SEN) provision school for students with specific needs.

Head of School, Yvonne Skillern, said: “We are thrilled to have opened our well needed, brand new sensory garden which will give our pupils here a safe, secure and stimulating place to learn. 

“At Highfield Littleport Academy our aim is to provide an energising environment where learners are confident, happy and achieve to the best of their ability. Our pupils now have access to a sensory garden that is carefully designed to engage and develop children and support their learning.

“Daniel Bonnett and his team at DK Patio’s and Fencing did a superb job and completed the work through wind and rain. They truly saved the day!” 

The sensory garden comes complete with musical instruments and a walkway comprising of different textiles such as brick, rubber, grass and timber. 

CEO of the Active Learning Trust, Stephen Chamberlain, said: “We wanted a sensory garden that was more than just an aesthetic feature and we’ve certainly achieved that. There’s no doubt it will make a huge difference to the pupils here and ensure a calm and purposeful learning environment.

“We are so thankful we can finally get the pupils in to benefit from the immense learning opportunities it has to offer. A huge thanks to all of the staff, contractors and volunteers who made this project possible.” 

The application for funding was kindly completed by volunteers Jo and Andrew Pearson who have also supported the academy in various other projects.

Formed in 1992, the St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation has been supporting those in need and making a positive and lasting difference to people’s lives. The Foundation supports organisations by awarding grants to assist them with the incredible work they do every day. So far, the charity has raised and distributed £100 million.

To find out more about Highfield Littleport Academy, visit: www.highfieldlittleport.org/ 

Press release from Highfields Littleport Academy

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Local Soham charity, Viva, is fighting back following the COVID-19 lockdown. Thanks to the herculean efforts of its dedicated volunteers, Viva will be opening their new and fully refurbished shop in a bid to keep the charity alive.

Viva Arts and Community Group, Soham are delighted to open their new shop on Thursday 3rd December 2020 at 9am and are asking for as much support from the community as possible.

Peter Lawrence, Viva Shop Manager along with his team of volunteers look forward to hosting a
grand re-opening to welcome back customers old and new.

Viva opened its first shop in 2006. The start of national lockdown saw the final days trading at the Viva Centre, 7 Churchgate Street in Soham.

The local community organisation now looks forward to opening its doors once again at a newly refurbished premises – just across the road!

Thanks to a huge effort on behalf of Viva Volunteers, much refurbishment has taken place at 14 Churchgate Street, Soham, formerly Trade It and Special Thoughts. It is now a bright, modern, COVID-compliant community-led shop stocked with plenty of bargains and Christmas fare. The new shop even boasts a courtyard where the Charity plan to serve tea, coffee and cakes from Spring 2021 and offer a place for people to meet and socialise. The Viva Shop offers an exciting array of affordable, quality merchandise including toys and games, women’s wear, accessories, homewares, men’s wear, kid’s clothes, books, bric-a-brac and gifts all at affordable prices. In addition there is also a ‘Fancy Frock’ rail for big label enthusiasts and fashionistas!

Viva exists to provide cultural, community and heritage projects to people throughout East Cambridgeshire regardless of their age, situation, abilities or circumstances. Its heart and home is in Soham and is run by and for the community. Viva’s projects and activities are designed to improve people’s quality of life, help increase creativity; build confidence; widen perspectives; combat social exclusion and loneliness; encourage a sense of community; encourage volunteering and inspire and motivate people to learn and take a more full and active role in society.

By using the Viva Shop members of the local community and beyond can help save the planet by reusing and recycling – part of a more sustainable lifestyle.

Viva’s Shop Trustee, Peter Leonard, says; “2020 has been a difficult year for so many of us, but one thing we have all learnt is the importance of community. And as we begin to “unlock”, we face the future with a new awareness of how we must use the resources of our fragile world in a more sustainable way. Our aim in creating the new Viva shop is to provide a social hub for the people of Soham, somewhere they can meet, chat over a cup of tea, and of course enjoy a bit of retail therapy.”

Press release from Viva Arts and Community Group

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Year 7 students at Witchford Village College, a secondary school on the outskirts of Ely, have impressed well known artist Sarah Graham with their latest art project, after teachers shared colourful images of the project on social media.

Influenced by Graham and her impressive photorealism techniques, art teachers at the College set the new Year 7 cohort a project which asked students to create their own colour drawing of a piece of Graham’s art. Beginning with creating a baseline drawing assessment of a sweet of their choice, this was then followed by students carrying out their own research and, depending on their confidence with the necessary technique, finally creating a series of colour drawings.

Andrew Carruth, class teacher in Photography & Art at Witchford Village College, said: “Starting at a new school in what has been an extraordinary year hasn’t been an easy feat for our new Year 7 cohort, therefore we have been keen to provide them with exciting and challenging art lessons in order to drive their creativity. The art work created as part of this project has been fantastic and it’s been a joy to see the students so engaged and excited about refining their techniques.”

Once the students had completed the work, a montage image of all of the drawings was shared on the College’s social media channels, which was picked up by Graham who praised the work of the group. Graham said: “I thought the students’ observations and interpretations of my work were brilliant. I am very impressed and I hope that they are inspired to go on their own artistic adventures.”

Graham is a British painter who works almost exclusively in oil on canvas. Her paintings have been displayed in private collections across the world and in 2012 was commissioned by the Kaiser Chiefs to paint the album cover for their singles collection ‘Souvenir’, which was released worldwide.

Carruth continued: “The fact that the artist who this project was influenced by noticed the students’ artwork created a real buzz in the classroom; we’re looking forward to progressing the drawings even further!”

As the community at Witchford Village College continues to grow and evolve from its connection to Eastern Learning Alliance, students are offered excellent academic and extra-curricular opportunities and access to the arts and performing arts. Eastern Learning Alliance and its schools are proudly international and internationally minded, serving a diverse community with a broad, specialist and inclusive provision.

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Soham Village College parkrun will be one year old on 23rd November 2020.

To celebrate this, the Event Directors and Core Team want to encourage a covid-safe celebration!

To keep the parkrun community engaged during the pandemic, parkrun came up with the idea of (not) parkrun. The concept is that people can run 5K when they want and where they want, but not at their parkrun location at 0900 on a Saturday morning. People can log their (not) parkruns on their parkrun profile.

Soham Village College parkrun wants people to celebrate its 1st birthday by getting out there and running 5K, but with a hat theme! Please wear any kind of hat!

People should be mindful of the current Government guidelines and should not arrange to run in groups. Alone, with one other person from another household, or with members of their household only: social distancing applies! Please don’t participate if you have any of the symptoms associated with covid-19.

From the week commencing 23rd November 2020, people can run their (not) parkrun 5K, and then share a selfie, in their hat, to the Soham Village College parkrun Facebook page! They can share their Strava entries also if they like!

Let’s see those runs week commencing 23rd November, and let’s see those hats! There will be a prize for the best hat selfie!

Please see this link regarding (not) parkrun and a few safety points.

https://www.parkrun.org.uk/notparkrun/

Please see the link to the event.

https://fb.me/e/1GOD95PIW

From Soham Village College parkrun organisers

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Witchford Village College, a secondary school on the outskirts of Ely, has unveiled its three recently renovated on-site science labs, significantly improving science facilities at the school and creating a vibrant and dynamic learning space for everyone to use.

Following a successful bid for funding of over £200,000, the work also included the building of the school’s very own large storage room, used for holding equipment for the in-class experiments, and refurbishment of a preparation room and Lab 5. These projects were carried out and completed by the resident site team over the summer holidays.

Newly refurbished, the science labs allow for easy cleaning between lessons and space for social distancing, adhering to COVID-19 guidelines. Part of the refurbishment work included brand-new benches with wipe-clean laminate surface and a new layout of the lab, enabling greater flexibility to complete group work and giving students the chance to section off into their own bubbles.

Bessie Owen, Head of School, Witchford Village College, said: “Despite the unusual circumstances that 2020 has brought to education, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that our students are met with the best possible experience as they continue to integrate into the ‘new normal’ of school life. These refurbishments reflect our new way of teaching and operating and I’m extremely proud of how our site team pulled together to make this possible”.

As well as the project being developed with the school’s safety guidelines in mind, everything has been refurbished to ensure the highest quality learning experience for the students. This has included: new natural daylight LED lighting, which has been built into the ceilings to ensure better lighting conditions for students to focus, new blinds which will allow effective blackout for practical work on topics such as the properties of light, measuring the rate of photosynthesis or flame tests, and new state of the art 86-inch interactive screens to allow all students to proactively follow the lesson and also interact with the boards themselves.

Owen continued: “The science labs have not been refurbished or modernised since the school was built, so it’s been fantastic to see the students making the most out of our new facilities this term. At Witchford Village College we are committed to providing a learning environment in which all of our students have the ability to realise their potential. These new labs will do just that”.  

These changes come at an exciting time for Witchford Village College, as the community continues to grow and evolve from its connection to Eastern Learning Alliance. Eastern Learning Alliance is a purposeful family of schools, each with its own distinct identity. Each school within the Trust offers academic rigour, excellent extra-curricular opportunities and values the arts and performing arts. Eastern Learning Alliance and its schools are proudly international and internationally minded, serving a diverse community with a broad, specialist and inclusive provision.

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Our students, their experience, their wellbeing and their needs are at the centre of everything we do at Witchford Village College. The attention we give to ensuring our students are safe and well cared for is a key priority for the College. 

With everything that is going on in the world, now, more than ever, our students need to feel well looked after and supported. During the period of home learning earlier in the year, our experienced staff were on hand to speak to students, guide them through any concerns that they had (and still might have) and this support has been mirrored as they have re-entered the school environment. 

Discussions take place in tutor time, where students can speak about how they’re feeling in an intimate group setting and help one another with their worries, seeing that they are not alone and that we will all get through this together. 

Our dedicated team supports and encourages all of our students. No matter what their background or needs are, we ensure that all of our students have the opportunity to achieve and succeed both academically and personally. We monitor and support student wellbeing and progress within the house system and do our upmost to enable our students to reach their potential.

Witchford Village College is divided into four houses – Lancaster, Meteor, Stirling, Wellington – led by a Head of House who provides guidance, support and challenge to the students under their care, right from day one.

Through detailed monitoring, in conjunction with subject teachers, they liaise closely with parents and outside agencies to ensure that any barriers, or potential barriers, to learning and progress are addressed. House competitions form an integral part of the House system and, in being part of the House structure, students form friendships and good relationships with other year groups ensuring a safe and welcoming feel to the College.

In this time of COVID-19, our Heads of House have particular oversight of a year group in order to ensure consistency and a permanent point of contact for students and families. However, students remain in their houses and we expect to return fully to the house system next academic year. 

By Bessie Owen, Head of School

Press release from Witchford Village College

All photographs were captured pre-COVID-19.

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The extra-curricular offering at Witchford Village College kicked off with a bang this term, with students having the opportunity to try an array of different clubs and activities.

Staff at the school have been working extremely hard and creatively in order to provide the students with a diverse and vibrant programme, ensuring that there is something for everyone and meaning that we are able to offer our students a fulfilling and well-rounded experience so that everyone can reach their full potential.

Something that unites our student community is the love of reading and this year our students have been taking part in the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) Carnegie Medal Shadowing Group. A national and international reading for pleasure initiative, the CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Awards Shadowing scheme engages thousands of children and young people in reading books on a shortlist. 

Every spring, CILIP invites reading groups from libraries, schools and homes to get involved with the scheme. The young people taking part are known as ‘shadowers’ as they ‘shadow’ the judging process for the CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Awards; they read, discuss and review the books on each shortlist, engage in reading related activity which they can share online and vote for their favourites to win the Shadowers’ Choice Awards.

Our excellent group of shadowers were first given the shortlist of books in March and were able to take them away to read and review during lockdown and over the summer holidays. Now that all of the books have been reviewed, our group will meet to discuss and decide which book they think deserves to win the grand prize.

Alongside this reading group, we have also rolled out a form time reading challenge. Every Friday, each form reads their given text together as a group, ranging from Year 7’s much loved classic, When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, to Year 11’s dystopian whirlwind Never Let Me Go. Tutors and students clock up pages read, which translate into reading miles, with totals being mapped every fortnight to track where our furthest read is travelling to. Recently, form 8.4 clocked up the most miles, reading 34 pages of The Salt to the Sea, which landed them in Saffron Walden. To celebrate, each form member received a famous Fitzbillies Chelsea Bun, marking their passage through Cambridge on their journey. 

As our community continues to grow and evolve from our connection to The Learning Alliance, as do our extra-curricular opportunities, we are excited to continue to promote an excellent reading culture across our school and engage our students in the love of the written word. 

By Bessie Owen, Head of School

Press release from Witchford Village College

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This week marks the official launch of the new multi-academy trust, The Learning Alliance (TLA), which Witchford Village College is a proud member of.

What makes TLA so very different is that it is born out of an alliance between two existing successful and ambitious trusts – Cambridgeshire Educational Trust (CET) and Morris Education Trust (MET) – not out of a need for one school to grow. The Trust’s joint commitment is to being proudly international and internationally minded, serving a diverse community of families from Cambridge, across the UK and overseas, facilitated by a host family network, with a broad, specialist and inclusive provision. 

TLA is a small purposeful family of schools, each with its own distinct identity which, combined, offer more choice than any other group of schools, enabling every student to pursue their dreams and passions. Together, CET (which included Chesterton Community College and Downham Market Academy) and MET (which included Impington Village College, Impington International College and Witchford Village College) now offer the widest range of subject and qualification options of any non-selective secondary school or sixth form in Cambridgeshire. These include GCSEs, A Levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme, and BTECs.

For Witchford Village College, being part of TLA will connect us with a strong coalition of schools in the local community, opening up a greater resource and enabling our College to thrive through improvements and future successes.

We have a network of teachers and staff across the Trust who we will collaborate with and learn from about best practice, schemes of learning and more. By improving teaching and learning standards throughout the College we will enthuse students, engage them in their learning and encourage intellectual challenge. 

All schools within the Trust will be working closely together, now and into the future, and will benefit from the enviable wealth of teaching and school improvement experience from the Trust’s team.

We are looking forward to the journey ahead and to working with the community, families and students to deliver the very best educational experience for all.

By Rolf Purvis, Executive Headteacher

Press release from Witchford Village College

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It’s an exciting time for Witchford Village College, as we grow our College community through our connection to The Learning Alliance.

The Learning Alliance is a purposeful family of schools, each with its own distinct identity. Each school within the Trust offers academic rigour, excellent extra-curricular opportunities and values the arts and performing arts. 

Our wide and varied extra-curricular clubs programme at Witchford Village College ensures that there is something for everyone, meaning that we are able to offer our students a fulfilling and well-rounded experience so that each student can reach their full potential.

One of our highly popular extra-curricular clubs on offer is The Female Lead. The Female Lead is an educational charity dedicated to making women’s stories more visible and offering alternative role models to those ever-present in popular culture. The project highlights the breadth of female achievement in order to offer inspiration for future generations. We started our after-school club in order to get our female students involved and engaged in the conversations surrounding these topics and to challenge traditional gender expectations and perceptions of women – a topic we are extremely passionate about. As part of the club, students and teachers recount and discuss the remarkable stories of women from all backgrounds and careers, with an aim of showing girls that anything is possible.

This club is a real asset to the College with over 30 girls attending each session and engaging in meaningful discussions, challenging apathy and discovering the interconnectivity of many aspects of life and career. Although our return to school and the ‘new norm’ has been slightly different this year, we believe that clubs such as these are a vital part of our students’ time with us and ensure that they are truly enriching their educational experiences.  

From Witchford Village College By Bessie Owen, Head of School

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We have regretfully had to take the decision that there will not be a Pumpkin Fair on the Recreation Ground this year.

However, we are running a virtual version with certificates and trophies being awarded to winners of our competitions as in previous years.

In these exceptional circumstances, we have decided to award extra prizes to:

• The child who enters the most categories
• The adult who enters the most categories

Our theme is ‘Our Planet, Our Soham’ and we will be promoting recycling /Climate Change measures inspired by Prince Willam’s ‘EarthShot` initiative https://earthshotprize.org/ So many of our competitions will be based on that theme.

Entries for the indoor competitions must be submitted online to our website by Saturday 19th September (with the exception of cordials, jams and chutneys which must be delivered to Jak Hibs by that same date ready for tasting by the judges 72 hours later).

Entries for the competitions that are usually weighed or measured still need to be entered online, but by 11am on Saturday 26th September. You will then need to bring them along to our ‘Drive-Through’ weigh in /measure off at Croft House Farm, Hasse Road, Soham, CB7 5UN.

If you are unable to enter online please bring entry form with you (we can arrange pick-up if you are unable to get there, just let us know). We will be open for weighing and measuring between 9.30 – 11.30am. All entries must be labelled before you arrive.

Unfortunately we will not be in a position to raise money for our beneficiaries this year, so these organisations will remain for the 2021 fair when we hope we will be back to our usual format. This year’s beneficiaries were to have been: Soham Men’s Shed, Cambridgeshire Wildlife Care, Soham Community Uniform Scheme.

However, we will be running a tombola at our weigh in (just to cover some of our costs for this year) – there will be the opportunity to win a variety of themed hampers!

Finally we would especially like to thank the following individuals and businesses who have supported us to be able to put on this alternative event: A & N.J Turner & Sons, Isleham Carrot Growers Ltd., Jak Hibs & Soham Books.

For more information visit www.sohampumpkinfair.co.uk

Press release from Soham Pumpkin Fair Organisers

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As we start the cautiously optimistic journey back to normal day to day life, the entire school community at Witchford Village College is thrilled to be getting back into the classroom. 

The start of a new school year always brings with it an atmosphere of energetic enthusiasm among both the staff and students and this year is no different. As our community continues to grow and evolve, with exciting developments like the proposed new merger for the academy trust, welcoming new colleagues to our teaching staff, and a shared commitment to prioritise extra-curricular and enrichment activities, we are entering the new year galvanised to flourish. 

As our community comes back together in full for the first time in months, our priority is to ensure that our staff and students are able to return to school safe and well. 

In the run up to the start of the new academic year, we have been busily preparing for managing the transition back to school and sharing our strategies and procedures with our parent community along the way. By encouraging open communication between the school, parents and students as we navigate this extraordinary situation, our hope is that every student is ready to return to school feeling informed and reassured that there are effective measures in place to protect their wellbeing and the wellbeing of their families. A cornerstone of our strategy to effectively manage the transition is prioritising the effective usage of our campus’ outside spaces. Although physical education will look very different for a while yet, we will be maximising our available outdoor space to give students both a safe space to socialise and the opportunity to benefit from the meaningful learning experiences nature can provide.   

By Rolf Purvis, Executive Headteacher and Bessie Owen, Assistant Principal 

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After what has been a very frustrating period of time, and together with the uncertainty of the last few days, we are delighted that the students at Witchford Village College have been awarded the grades that they deserve, and that recognises all of the hard work they have put in over their entire school careers.

Individual student successes were many across all subjects, in particular Ben Stratford who achieved ten grade 9’s, Oscar Seymour with nine grade 9s, Jessica Lonnen with nine grade 9’s and two grade 8’s. 

Zak Mappledoram the Head of Year 11 commented; “Students were overwhelming disappointed that their final year in the college was lost due to the virus and subsequent lock-down. We are therefore pleased that their final grades have recognised what we, as teachers firmly believed they would have achieved if they had sat their formal examinations earlier in the year.” 

Mr Baxby the outgoing Principal said, “As a college we are immensely proud of our cohort who have managed the trials and tribulations of the year with determination and good spirit. They now embark upon the next exciting stage of their careers and as a whole staff body we wish them all our very best for the future.”

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Iconic limited edition prints from the creative forces of Storm Thorgerson and StormStudios 1980s – present day.

StormStudios has a long and illustrious history having worked for innumerable bands, from Alan Parsons, Anthrax and Audioslave through to the Wombats, with a sprinkling of Pink Floyd, Steve Miller, Muse, 10cc, etc thrown in for good measure.

The COVID-19 crisis has severely limited StormStudios’ exhibition schedule so we are pleased to announce a UK show at the Haddenham Art Centre, running for three months, opening on the 1st August. 

Storm Studios said ‘It’s a pleasure to be showing here just a short distance from where our co-founder and mentor, Storm Thorgerson spent his formative years in Cambridge.’

The arts centre is tucked just off the High Street and has free parking, lovely gardens an onsite café and disabled toilet facilities as well as studio artists to visit.

If you’d like to see the exhibition outside our normal opening hours private views are possible, just call to arrange a time.  

Haddenham Arts Centre, 20 High Street, Haddenham, CB6 3XA
Tel: 01353 749188
Open : Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm

www.haddenhamartscentre.org.uk

Press release from Haddenham Arts Centre

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Downham Feoffees Primary Academy has become one of just 160 schools across the country to be recognised for its excellence in science.

The school, which is part of the Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT), was awarded a Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) for its teaching and learning in the subject.

Downham Feoffees Primary Academy’s Principal, Susan Jaques, said the award recognised the hard work, commitment and dedication of Downham Feoffees’s teaching staff. 

Susan said, “At Downham Feoffees Primary Academy, we believe that science is a fundamental part of everyday life; it is about exploring, investigating and discovering in order to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding about the world in which we live, through communication, application, investigation and observation.”

“We are absolutely delighted with this award and hope it attracts even more future scientists to our wonderful Academy we have here in Little Downham.” 

Rachel Taylor, Science Lead at Downham Feoffees Primary Academy, added, “Our pupils are introduced to a range of resources and scientific vocabulary which keeps learning engaging and enjoyable.”

“We strive for our children to enjoy and make new scientific discoveries, inspiring them and equipping them with the skills to shape how we live in our rapidly changing society.”

“Outside of the classroom, we have been working hard to provide different learning opportunities which further develop and extend participation in and enjoyment of a range of science-based activities. For example, children visited our forest school site, St. Leonard’s Church grounds, Little Downham’s Conservation Area and Pingle Wood which all supported and widened learning.” 

Three other CMAT primary schools also achieved the PSQM – Sawtry Junior Academy, in Sawtry; West Town Primary Academy in Peterborough; and Bar Hill Primary School, near Cambridge.

Associate professor Jane Turner, PSQM national director, said, “The coronavirus pandemic has made everyone aware of the impact of science on our daily lives and primary schools have an important role to ensure that children understand how science works and keeps us healthy and safe.”

“The profile and quality of science in each awarded school is very high.”

“Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills.”

“Science subject leaders, their colleagues, Principles, children, parents, carers and Academy Councillors should be very proud.”

Downham Feoffees Primary Academy is located in the picturesque village of Little Downham and currently has places available for some year groups for the academic year 2020/21. For further information about Downham Feoffees, please visit the academy’s website downhamfeoffees.org  or contact the office on: office@downhamfeoffees.org  Alternatively, please call the office on 01353 699325 during term time.

Press release from Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust

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Following guidance from central Government, East Cambridgeshire District Council will be re-opening its outdoor play areas on Saturday 4th July.

East Cambridgeshire District Council maintains 19 play areas throughout the district and provides a range of facilities for a variety of ages from toddlers, to juniors and youths.

The council has undertaken a thorough inspection of all play equipment under its control to ensure it is safe for use. 

East Cambridgeshire District Council will be displaying the following safety guidance by each play area:

• Do not use the play equipment if you are showing any symptoms of COVID-19
•  Sanitise hands before and after use (where washing facilities are not available please use hand sanitiser gel)
• Avoid touching your face
• Facemasks are recommended where possible
• Children should be supervised to maintain good hygiene and social distancing
• If social distancing cannot be maintained, please wait until the equipment is free
• Please do not consume food or drink while using the play equipment

Cllr David Brown, Chairman of East Cambridgeshire District Council’s Finance and Assets Committee said:

“Playgrounds are a valuable community asset that provide essential physical and social development opportunities for the children in our district.

“We want children to have fun on our playgrounds, but we urge parents and care givers to ensure that they do so safely, to minimise the risk of infection.  We ask that they follow the guidance provided and supervise children using the equipment.”

From Saturday, play equipment in the following areas will re-open for use:

• Beresford Road, Ely
• Brooke Grove, Ely
• Collier Close, Ely
• Goldsmith Court, Ely
• Jubilee Gardens, Ely
• Kingsley Walk, Ely
• Morley Drive Toddler Play Area, Ely
• Murfitt Close, Ely
• Pocket Park, Ely
• Tennyson Place, Ely

• Fisher Bank, Littleport
• Sandys Crescent, Littleport

• Meadow Way, Mepal

• Bittern Grove, Soham
• Downfields, Soham
• Kingfisher Drive, Soham
• Lapwing Way, Soham
• Teal Avenue, Soham

• Victoria Green, Witchford

These play areas will be inspected regularly by a member of the Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Team to ensure safety levels are maintained.

Other play areas within the district not listed above could be the responsibility of the parish council or another organisation. While guidance for playgrounds is provided by central Government, please read the signs provided at each play area as additional advice relevant to that specific area may be provided.

For more information about play areas in East Cambridgeshire visit: https://www.eastcambs.gov.uk/community/east-cambridgeshire-play-areas

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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It’s up, up and away for St Andrew’s supporters on Friday the 3rd of July! Normally the summer term is a busy one for the PTA with ice cream sales, disco, and of course the Summer Fair.

Obviously, this year is a little bit different however with a little thinking outside the box, we need something to lift our spirits, we are excited to announce that our latest PTA adventure is a Virtual Balloon Race.

Everything is real except the balloons!
You can decorate your balloon(s) and can alter its properties in order to try and give yourself the best advantage. Real local weather stations will be used to check the conditions.

There are other causes taking part in the race and there are prizes for…

1st place (£500)
2nd place (Apple iPad)
and ten runners up will win a £10 book token each.

Launch is from one of the most famous schools in the WORLD, Hogwarts!

View the live launch and watch your balloon fly into the sky. The race is 7 days long and you can track your own balloon 24/7 to see how well you are doing.

Balloons can pop, in the same way as real ones do, so be careful how you decorate your balloon or change its properties and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

You can help us by purchasing as many balloons as you like at a cost of £3 each.

The race is open to everyone … please share everywhere you can.

Thank you for your ongoing support.
Good luck!

Link to Virtual Balloon Race website: https://ecoracing.co/user/page/248

Press release from St Andrews Primary School, Soham

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This is the announcement that we had hoped not to make. We are sure it will come as no surprise to you that we have made the difficult decision to officially postpone the 47th Haddenham Steam Rally & Heavy Horse Show until 2021.

This is really disappointing for all of us, we know that it is the right thing to do in light of the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19.

Although in years gone past, we have met and overcome many challenges, Covid-19 has proven to be the most difficult yet. The restrictions on large gatherings look likely to be in place throughout the summer and it’s clear that we’ll have to continue social distancing in one form or another for some time to come.

The health and safety of everyone involved has to take precedence over anything else. We’ve spent the last week talking to the incredible team involved in making Haddenham the special rally it is, so that they were aware of the situation in advance of this announcement.

They all agree that postponing the rally is the only responsible option, and we would like to express our thanks to everyone involved for their continued support and commitment to the rally and for all the heartfelt feedback we have received.

However, the good news is that over the past week we have been working alongside our committee and volunteers to ensure that the majority of this year’s line-up will be returning to the 47th Haddenham Steam Rally next year and many have already committed to making 2021 the best rally ever.

Everyone is saddened that the Haddenham Steam Rally is not going ahead this year, but now that the difficult decision has been made and we can look forward to making next year’s event as outstanding as this year’s was going to be.

We look forward to seeing you at 47th Haddenham Steam Rally & Heavy Horse Show in 2021 on 11th & 12th September.

Stay safe and happy until then and we will see you in 2021.

Press release from Haddenham Steam Rally Committee

Save the date for 2021

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Witchford Village College have been at the forefront of an NHS fundraiser since the college closed, just prior to lockdown.

The fundraiser for the Addenbrookes Charitable Trust, challenges students, staff and the local community to walk, run or cycle 5K for the NHS and donate to their JustGiving page.

Another eight local schools have now joined the initiative with the current amount raised topping £4,000. The partnering schools are Rackham Primary, Ely College, Littleport & East Cambs Academy, Neale Wade Academy, Cromwell Community College, Swavesey Village College, Millfield Primary School & Soham Village College. Students and staff from these schools and their communities, are being amazing by rising to the challenge and putting their own spin on it.

From the WVC community we have seen some great money-making feats and notable achievements. Special mention must go to Year 8 student Connor who cycled eleven miles and raised just over £500, and as a bonus made a guest appearance on Star Radio! Year 11 student Scott ran 5km every day for a week, raising over £400.

Haddenham Rovers U12 Girls’ Football Team (which includes many WVC students), are having a virtual trip to Wembley and have been walking and cycling to cover the journey of 73.8 miles. The target was smashed after three days and they have currently covered 168 miles whilst raising a lot of money. Our own Lead Teacher of PE, has been leading by example and this weekend completed his thirtieth 5km run over thirty days.

Mr Courtney Pettifor, WVC Lead Teacher of PE and project initiator said; ‘It has been amazing to see the local community and schools across the Cambridgeshire region take part in the challenge. Initially starting off at WVC to give something back to the community, I decided to contact local schools to get involved and without hesitation, they have jumped on board!

The students, staff and families have been incredible with their involvement and their fundraising efforts, with over £4000 raised to date. Thank you to everyone who has got involved so far, and there is still plenty of time to get involved too, whether you are an individual or a college. I am very proud of each and every student, staff member and the local communities across every school involved, who have gone the extra mile to support the NHS’.

The fundraiser will continue until schools reopen.

Further details can be found at: https://www.wvcpe.co.uk/run5kfornhs

The JustGiving link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/5kfornhs

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Cambridgeshire County Council is working with its partner Amey to put plans in place to re-open the county’s Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) from Monday 11th May 2020.

It is the Council’s intention to open all nine of its sites. 

The plans will make sure that visits to the HRC are safe for residents as well as for employees – with measures in place to ensure social distancing on site. The plans have been prepared jointly with the public health team at the council.

Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick’s statements over the weekend gave councils in England and Wales the green light to plan site openings as part of a gradual easing of government lockdown measures.

Further details will be provided later in the week about what each Cambridgeshire site will receive, however some of the key conditions of opening will include:

• A limit to vehicle numbers on site – in the same way as limits on customers in supermarkets
• No more than two adults to be allowed to unload any one vehicle
• No staff assistance to unload vehicles
• No vans or trailers that require a permit

It is advised that journeys to the Household Recycling Centres should only be undertaken if waste or recycling cannot be stored at home without causing risk of injury to health or harm.

People who must continue to stay away from these sites are those who are or have anyone in their household, suffering from Covid-19 symptoms, or have been diagnosed as having the virus.

Press release from Cambridgeshire County Council

Photo: Cambridgeshire County Council

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The Tony Robinson 10km and 2.5km Family Fun Run

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak this year the official Sutton Beast race which was due to be on Sunday 7th June has been postponed to June 2021.

The Sutton Beast are therefore giving the chance for runners to create their own version of a virtual beast race, using a route local to them, so they can earn one of our medals. 

Runners can enter either for the 10km distance or a 2.5km Family Fun Run and we encourage people to find a route that’s at least 25% of trial or cross country in the style of the fen based race. 

Some of the money raised from entry fees of the virtual event will go towards NHS Charities Together and CPSL Mind Charity.

Runners have from Friday 1st May to Sunday 7th June to enter the event.

Full entry information can be found on our website  www.suttonbeast.com

Press release from Sutton Beast Organisers

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Community Support During COVID-19

Littleport and East Cambridgeshire Academy staff and students have been busy over the last two weeks making PPE for NHS, Care Home Staff and front line workers in the Littleport Community and beyond.

We’ve hand crafted over 300 visors in one week and have delivered these to St George’s Medical Centre, Littleport Grange Care Home, Laburnum Lodge, Beech Court and Alderton House and the East of England Ambulance HQ in Newmarket. Staff have said how much they appreciated the kind gesture and we will continue to create more for the community each week.

The visor masks are simple to make and require patience as some students have pointed out. They are created by using laser OHP acetate sheets, a foam band made from draught excluder foam and tied together with elastic band behind the head. We’ve taken A3 size plastic sheets and cut into A4 using a guillotine and cut smooth edges with scissors on the bottom half. We had two staff members sew on the 30cm elastic bands to the side of the visor shield, then a number of students cutting a 30cm foam strip and sticking these on to the visor. With a delay in the delivery of our elastic band order, Littleport based shop, Sew Much To Do stepped in and have donated elastic bands for our first day of mask creations. 

In addition to the visors, Mrs Cameron has taken to the sewing machines and is teaching students how to sew face masks.  Even though NHS staff are not able to wear these, care home workers, shop keepers, bankers and many other members of the public have asked for them to be made to help keep them safe.

Not only that, but some donations of old duvet covers have also meant that scrubs and scrub bags can also be made using the sewing machines in school.

The face masks have been dropped off to staff at the Co-op in Isleham and NatWest Newmarket branch.

It is amazing to see the students working as a team to support our local community, some of whom are parents/carers of our students!

Press release from Littleport and East Cambridgeshire Academy

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Proposals for a new railway station in Soham have taken a step forward with the submission of an application to East Cambridgeshire District Council for permission to build the station.

Network Rail is seeking permitted development rights to build the station following the announcement in September 2019 for a £18.6m funding package from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

Reconnecting Soham to the rail network will provide residents and local businesses with better connections and support more investment as part of the Council’s vision for the wider area. 

A new station at Soham will include:

• Construction of a single 102 metre platform to accommodate four car train services including waiting shelters, lighting, information screens and a public address system,
• Installation of a stepped footbridge across the railway to connect to an existing public right of way, designed for any future installation of lifts for a potential second platform for any scheme.
• Construction of a drop off point and a car park to accommodate 50 vehicles and five spaces for blue badge holders, as well as lighting masts.
• Cycle parking and ticket vending machines on the station forecourt.

Subject to gaining the consent required, the construction for the station is currently planned to begin later this year and is expected to be completed in spring 2022.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia said: ‘I am excited that we are taking this next step to make Soham station a reality in partnership with the Combined Authority. Providing a new station will re-establish that relationship with the Soham community that was lost in the 1960s and I can’t wait to forge a new future together for the benefit of Soham.’

Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Mayor James Palmer said,

“Cutting through the endless delay has been a priority for the Combined Authority and it will be until the first passenger boards the first train. We’re here to deliver growth and this station will supercharge the whole local economy, reducing pressure and pollution on the A142, improving connections to Ely, Bury St Edmunds and beyond, giving residents wider access to jobs as well as opening Soham for business and tourism, and attracting further investment.  We’re funding this project and I will keep pushing for the earliest possible delivery.”

For more information please visit our project webpage:

www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/anglia/reconnecting-soham

You can also Follow us on Twitter @networkrailLST using the hashtag #Sohamstation

Press release from Network Rail

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Every year Haddenham Beer Festival raise over £5000 for local charities and this year as the festival has been postponed we are running an Online Festival called “Haddenham Plugged In” on Saturday 2nd May on our Facebook Page.

There will be lots of family fun, live acts and competitions throughout the day, all of which can be enjoyed whilst staying home!

The day kicks off with a family workout, then we have a Treasure Hunt, Punch and Judy Show, Famly Disco and in the afternoon we move onto more live acts and DJs – all the way through until midnight!

Through the sale of our limited edition Lockdown T’Shirts we have already raised £750 for Ely Foodbank and hope to raise a lot more during the Online Festival.

We have a just giving page here
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hbfpluggedin

Press release from Haddenham Beer Festival

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Will Garner, a 17 year old from Stretham, is completing a five day rowing challenge of 100km, to raise funds for NHS Charities Together, in support of their national response to the Coronavirus outbreak.

He is currently on day 4 of rowing and due to complete his challenge on Saturday he also has the support of Hills Road, where he currently studies.

So far he has raised £570 but he’d love to raise even more if he can.

Will said, ”I’m determined to do my bit for the NHS during lockdown.’

For the Just Giving fundraising link to Will’s page click here.

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Haddenham Post Office has re-opened today (14th April) after extensive refurbishment of the Blakemore SPAR premises at^, 5 High Street, Haddenham, Ely, CB6 3XA.

The branch had to be closed for health and safety reasons during the major refit. 

The work took longer than planned due to restrictions on work during the coronavirus pandemic.

Press release from Post Office Press Office, London

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Staff at Rackham Primary School in Witchford were asked by their headteacher to spread some hope and positivity to the pupil and parent community this weekend.

Headteacher, Bridget Harrison said, “I have seen lots of brilliant videos made by teaching staff in other schools over the past few weeks and so sooner or later it was a certainty that Rackham would make one! We have enjoyed sharing fun videos with our pupils in the past and they have been well-received. I have written to our pupils and their parents/carers over the past four weeks on a number of occasions and I decided it was the right time for us to share a message collectively and using technology. It didn’t take much persuading for the fantastic staff at Rackham to become involved.”

The video is being shared with pupils and the Witchford community on Saturday 10th April in the hope that it will bring a smile to their faces this Easter bank Holiday.

“It was so much fun to make,” said Mrs. Harrison. “Our staff were given a few simple instructions before sending me their videos via WhatsApp. I feel as honoured as ever to be headteacher at such a brilliant school with an incredible team behind me. The staff really took to the challenge with passion.
We all miss each other dearly and we know that families are finding things hard so we were very keen to share a positive message of hope to our pupils and the wider community. Stay strong Rackham. Remember the rainbow of hope when you feel sad. We all love you and can’t wait to see you again soon.”

Press release from Rackham Primary School , Witchford

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Sadly, South Angle Farm Park has decided to close to the public till further notice to protect visitors and staff.

It breaks our heart to close as we love spring time here so much but we will be very active in sharing all the beauty of the season regularly on our social media.

Remember you can visit our crowd funding page to get rewards of farm visits or experiences knowing the money will help us keep our greedy little animals full of treats and maybe a few treats for our amazing staff: crowdfunder.co.uk/south-angle-farm-survival

We will reopen better than ever as soon as we can.

Thank you again for the the loving words of support you have given us this week, it is humbling to know how many of you care about the farm as much as we do.

Press release from South Angle Farm Park, Soham

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Preparations were well underway for Soham Carnival 25th May 2020.

The traditional Heavy Horse Show, Parade of Floats, Team Mad, Max Headroom Band, Soham Village College Samba Band and a special performance from Haydn and the Deuces – Haydns Law #wearahelmet along with all of the other traditional attractions were all booked and ready to go!

Due to the recent outbreak of Covid 19, the organisers, Soham Benevolent Association, have decided to postpone the Carnival for now. 

Kim Botting – Chairman, states: “We’ve had to make the decision now rather than wait as none of us know the outcome of this virus. We have spoken to most of our attractions, performers’ and stall holders and they have agreed to hold their contracts for now. We don’t have a new date as yet, but as soon as we know we will put information on our Facebook page and website and through the local media platforms.

One thing we would still like to ask people to do, is to please sign up to Haydn’s law #wearahelmet petition as were going to be promoting that heavily at this years’ carnival. Haydn was looking forward to performing ‘Wake me up when September ends’ live at the Carnival as music is helping his recovery from his brain injury -please sign up at: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/300165?fbclid=IwAR0fAuB39R2pyk5QczJbYFyMX8FSHsCZixNxEJ98pj0KuUtUPm_CohPtihQ 

We send our best to everyone. Stay safe!”

If you would like to contact the carnival please email: carnival@soham.org.uk 
Website:  www.sohamcarnival.org Facebook: facebook.com/sohamcarnival

Press release from Soham Benevolent Association

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National Careers Week 2020 started at WVC weeks ago with preparations to hold careers events for as many of our students and feeder primary students as possible. During assembly and form, all students took part in careers activities that linked nicely to our half term theme of Society.

Staff were engaged by filling in ‘door plaques’ which talked about their career journey, not all were always teachers!  This came as a surprise to some students and gave a real talking point to how a career path was very rarely a straight line and a wealth of unrecognised experience was available for students to consider. 

On Tuesday, we welcomed Alumni and local employers to take part in a Careers Fair. This initially was for our Year 8 students and then we welcomed all of our feeder primary Year 6 students. Students had the opportunity to move between employers and ask questions about their roles, career journey and present employer. 

We also constructed a selfie booth so that the primaries could have photos from the event showing ‘When I grow up I want to be…’ to talk about back at their own schools.

The feedback from employers with both of these sessions was that the students were ‘engaged and interested’.  The primary school students had not experienced an event like this before and it is hoped that the transition to secondary school will seem less daunting. 

We welcomed Form the Future to work with our Year 7 students on ‘What’s My Line’, an activity where students guess what an employer does by asking questions. The range of employers who engaged in this event was great and students had to guess a Hydro Engineer and a Software Designer. 

Wednesday saw our Year 10 take part in a Careers Skills Day. We were very fortunate in that Alumni, employers and representatives from Cambridge University and AIM Apprenticeships were able to give up their time to interact with students for the day. ‘How to Make an Impression’ got students talking to each other and learning skills to engage with employers to impress in an interview situation. 

In ‘World of Work’ sessions, our Alumni worked with students telling them about their career paths and how the decisions they made affected their future. Interview Skills and CV Writing were also an important part of the day. 

The day finished off with talks about apprenticeship and university routes to careers. We are grateful for all contributions from employers, Alumni and training providers and know that they have started to sow the seeds of aspiration for our students, a great way to participate in National Careers Week.

Press release from Witchford Village College

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Held in the 14th Century St Andrews Church, Sutton Beer Festival started in 2008 as a way of raising much needed funds for the village church.

The 13th and 14th March sees our first Spring Festival. So far there have been 12 summer festivals and 5 winter ones.

This time we will see some new names in beers not seen before at Sutton along with our usual selection of ciders including a mulled one. There will also be the usual array of home cooked food. Following the success of last summer we will also see the return of our Ely Gin Bar.

Entry to Friday and Saturday evening sessions is £3 with live music from 8pm, Festival glasses are £2 each.

A family session will take place on Saturday from 12-5pm with free entry. A bouncy castle for the children along with soft play for the under 5’s.

All proceeds to church funds.

Press release from Sutton Beer Festival

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