Page 28 – Spotted in Ely

International packaging firm makes significant relocation within East Cambs

Local company Faerch Plast (formerly Anson Packaging) recently opened the doors of its impressive new UK headquarters and design facility on Lancaster Way Business Park in Ely. Hosted by the company’s Managing Director, the MP for South East Cambridgeshire, Lucy Frazer, joined East Cambridgeshire District Council’s economic development officers for a behind the scenes look …

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Ely Christmas Collection Routes 2017

Featured, News / By Alison Cooney

It’s that time of year again when Ely Rotary Club walk the streets with Santa to collect money for charitable causes and give some pleasure to the children of Ely! Listed below are the dates you can see Santa in your street! Monday 4 December Cromwell Road; Chief Street; West End (part); Little Lane; Hills …

Ely Christmas Collection Routes 2017 Read More »

New train service to Stansted Airport planned

Featured, News / By Tali

A new train service will be introduced in 2019, taking passengers from Norwich to Stansted Airport via Ely, Spotted in Ely can reveal. The route, featuring a new fleet of trains and operated by Greater Anglia, will run in addition to the existing service from Birmingham New Street to Stansted Airport, run by CrossCountry. The …

New train service to Stansted Airport planned Read More »

Russian doll rock boards train to Kings Cross to make her fortune

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

A rolling stone may gather no moss – but a Russian matryoshka doll created in Ely has travelled to London to make her fortune. The doll, one of a pair of twins painted on rocks by Ely College teacher Fleur Patten, was hidden at Ely Station on Friday morning. Greater Anglia train dispatcher Jessika Ransome told …

Russian doll rock boards train to Kings Cross to make her fortune Read More »

Ely College thespians take part in world's biggest youth drama festival

Featured, News / By Tali

Budding thespians from Ely College recently took part in the world’s largest youth drama festival this autumn. The students were part of a record 280,000 young people to have participated in the Shakespeare Schools Festival, run by Shakespeare Schools Foundation. Earlier this month the Ey College students performed an abridged adaptation of William Shakespeare’s farcical …

Ely College thespians take part in world's biggest youth drama festival Read More »

King’s Ely wins sustainable Travel Award

News / By Alison Cooney

KING’S Ely has become the first independent school in Cambridgeshire to win a Modeshift STARS Bronze award. Modeshift STARS is the national awards scheme established to recognise schools and workplaces that demonstrate excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel. The scheme encourages schools and organisations across the country to join in …

King’s Ely wins sustainable Travel Award Read More »

Free diabetes courses offered in Cambs

News / By Tali

Free courses are being offered to people with diabetes to help them manage their condition.

Free courses offered to people with diabetes

News / By Tali

Free courses are being offered to people with diabetes to help them manage their condition. Last week the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust announced the extra courses, part of a number of measures being put in place following a £1.5m government cash boost to prevent and limit the effects of diabetes locally. The courses, …

Free courses offered to people with diabetes Read More »

What has Abba, George Michael and Steve the Juggler all got in common?

Featured / By Mark Cooney

All three will be performing at this years Ely Christmas Lights Switch On on December 1st. Although Steve the Juggler is, in fact, real, Abba will be there in the form of leading tribute act “Abbababes” from Norwich and “Nelson” will be reliving some of George Michaels most significant numbers. For 14 years, Ely has …

What has Abba, George Michael and Steve the Juggler all got in common? Read More »

New craze rocks Ely

Featured, News / By Tali

A quirky new craze is rocking Ely – one psychedelic stone at a time. Hand painted rocks with different designs have been left at strategic destinations across the city by Ely resident Fleur Patten and her son George – with the hope that they will melt even the stoniest of hearts. The idea behind these …

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Latest addition to Ely Police Station causes of-fence

Featured, News / By Tali

Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s previous campaign used the slogan “Get Closer, Support the Force” – but this may become harder in Ely with the construction of a fence surrounding its police station and adjoining land. The wooden structure has been causing of-fence amongst local residents – but police say it will prevent injury and preserve the area. …

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Victorian postbox stolen from Sutton Gault

Featured, News / By Tali

Residents of Sutton Gault were horrified to discover that their Victorian postbox had been stolen yesterday. Thieves have also smashed the brick plinth supporting the cast iron wall box, causing extensive damage. The brazen crime has been reported to Police and Royal Mail. The Victorian letter box – a piece of local history – was …

Victorian postbox stolen from Sutton Gault Read More »

Ely student humbled by visit to Kenyan dump

Featured / By Tali

Travelling to Kenya was “without doubt the best decision I have made in my whole life,” Paris O’Keeffe told Spotted in Ely this week. The 17-year-old joined a group of Ely College students who travelled to Nakuru over half term to volunteer in slum schools. During the end of their trip, on October 26, the …

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New Car Parking for Commuters

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

Land that has sat empty for years is now a 128 space car park with commuters in mind From next Monday 13th, the car park will be open from 7am but when Spotted in Ely went to check it out, it only found electronic pay booths. And don’t think you can get away with free …

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Someone to Talk to at Centre 33

News, Youth / By Alison Cooney

Centre 33 Information & Support Drop In Sessions Centre 33 have expanded their ‘Someone to Talk to’ confidential service across Cambridgeshire and in particular are now running an ‘open access, one stop shop’ for young people in Ely and East Cambridgeshire. We offer a friendly, confidential and non-judgemental ‘drop-in’ service where you can meet with …

Someone to Talk to at Centre 33 Read More »

Delia Supports Christmas Charity Cake Bake

Events, Featured, News, Organisations / By Mark Cooney

Volunteer bakers across the region are busy putting the final touches on Christmas cakes of all shapes, sizes and designs to be sold at the Ely Cathedral Gift & Food Fair next week in support of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The particular recipe the bakers have been recommended to use was provided by EACH’s …

Delia Supports Christmas Charity Cake Bake Read More »

More hard-up residents using Foodbank – and problem likely to get worse, its boss warns

Featured, News / By Tali

More residents in crisis are seeking help from Ely Foodbank than ever before, its boss says, warning that the problem is likely to get worse. Project director Cathy Wright told Spotted in Ely that despite East Cambridgeshire being perceived as an affluent area, many working people are struggling to keep up with the cost of …

More hard-up residents using Foodbank – and problem likely to get worse, its boss warns Read More »

Ely's Gospel Choir opens its doors for 2018

Music, News, Organisations / By Mark Cooney

If you love to sing or have always wanted to be part of a choir, the Ely Pop Up Gospel Choir is inviting new members to join for their next season in 2018. The choir has raised more than £5000 for charity following one-off concerts in May 2016 and July this year. More than 60 …

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WW1 Family History at Ely Museum

News / By Alison Cooney

Would you like to find out more about the First World War service of your relatives? Or do you have medals, pictures, postcards, badges or other WW1 items that you don’t know much about? Then come along to Ely Museum on 11th November 2017 where a team of specialist WW1 researchers will be on hand in the …

WW1 Family History at Ely Museum Read More »

The Gift & Food Fair returns to Ely Cathedral

Featured / By Alison Cooney

Now in its 6th successive year Ely Cathedral provides the most majestic setting for the annual Christmas Gift & Food Fair. This year over 150 traders selling bespoke & beautiful gifts, alongside a much extended food hall, are responsible for the ever growing popularity of this event which is acknowledged as one of East Anglia’s …

The Gift & Food Fair returns to Ely Cathedral Read More »

Ely unable to turn the screw and end with a draw against unbeaten Stowmarket.

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

The Tigers dominated the first half. On debut, man of the match Jacob Muncey found space down the blindside and sprinted in untouched from twenty metres out, for a converted try. Joel Scott Paul was next to get on the scoreboard when Mitchell Kennett dummied one defender, broke through and offloaded for a converted try. …

Ely unable to turn the screw and end with a draw against unbeaten Stowmarket. Read More »

Don't stop the train for medical emergencies

News / By Tali

Feeling ill on the train? Don’t pull the emergency cord! That’s the message from Greater Anglia and the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) on how best to treat passengers if they get sick during their journey. Instead, passengers are being advised to notify train staff or call 999 if it’s a medical emergency. …

Don't stop the train for medical emergencies Read More »

A-Levels to be offered in Ely next year

Featured, News / By Tali

None of the colleges across East Cambridgeshire are currently offering A-Levels – but that is about to change. This week Bishop Laney Sixth Form, the name given to Ely College’s sixth-form college, launched its new prospectus for next year, which will include seven A-Levels as well as a range of other qualifications. The news will …

A-Levels to be offered in Ely next year Read More »

King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery pupils support Charity Toy Donation Appeal

News / By Alison Cooney

Pupils at King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery have gone out of their way to help support people who are less fortunate than themselves. Earlier this year, Richard Hill, his wife Samantha and their son, Jackson, who used to attend King’s Ely Nursery, moved from Ely to Belize on the eastern coast of Central America to …

King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery pupils support Charity Toy Donation Appeal Read More »

Tali gets into the spirit with Ely Gin

Featured, News / By Tali

It’s often gin o’clock in our household. Like many mums of young children, I look forward to an occasional glass of my favourite poison after an exhausting bedtime. And what better than our locally produced Ely Gin? When I was given the chance to tag along to An Evening With Ely Gin, it was just …

Tali gets into the spirit with Ely Gin Read More »

Ely Foodbank asks for help to create the Christmas Hamper Appeal

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Ely Foodbank will again this year be making Christmas Food Hampers for their clients and need the help of individuals and businesses to make a seasonal treat. Suggested items they need are: Christmas Puddings, Dried Fruit, Chocolates and Sweets, Biscuits, Mince Pies, Stuffing, Snacks, Hot Chocolate, Soft Drinks, Christmas Crackers and Toiletries. Donations can be …

Ely Foodbank asks for help to create the Christmas Hamper Appeal Read More »

Local Author, Maggie Jeffrey, writes book to raise money the Rosie

Columists, Events, Letters to Spotted in Ely / By Mark Cooney

The Colour Fairies Christmas Book ‘The Colours of Christmas’ By Maggie Jeffrey I have been writing the Colour Fairies series for two years now and they are all finished – all 30 of them. I had a wonderful illustrator from South Africa, Angela Warren, but unfortunately in May this year her health became a lot …

Local Author, Maggie Jeffrey, writes book to raise money the Rosie Read More »

Ely Tigers grind out a win against rivals Newmarket.

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

The Tigers were first to get on scoreboard through the boot of Joel Scott Paul after he notched two penalties to take them up to six points. The Tigers then had a scrum in opposition territory, the ball went blind to Scott Paul who was awarded a penalty try after being tackled off the ball …

Ely Tigers grind out a win against rivals Newmarket. Read More »

King’s Ely Junior raises thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK

News / By Alison Cooney

Fantastic fundraisers at King’s Ely Junior (KEJ) have raised almost £18,000 for Cancer Research UK. KEJ chooses a different charity to support each year – and it is the pupils who decide which beneficiary they will be fundraising for. The children make their suggestions and then, in each house, elections are held, with the charity …

King’s Ely Junior raises thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK Read More »

Fun-filled Book Week goes down a storm with King’s Ely pupils

News / By Alison Cooney

Author visits, dress-up days and storytelling sessions galore were among the highlights of an action-packed Book Week at King’s Ely Acremont and King’s Ely Junior. To say the pupils and staff went all out for the literary extravaganza would be a slight understatement. The fun-filled week included visits from published authors Saci Lloyd, Pippa Goodhart …

Fun-filled Book Week goes down a storm with King’s Ely pupils Read More »

The Vikings come back to Ely!

News / By Alison Cooney

After a break of a few hundred years the Vikings are returning to Ely. But this time the visitors from Denmark will be musicians rather than warriors. A 30-strong chamber choir from Ribe, the Danish city twinned with Ely, will receive an official welcome from the Ely-Ribe Twinning Association when it comes to give two …

The Vikings come back to Ely! Read More »

Shoe sisters united by act of kindness

Featured, News / By Tali

Meet shoe sisters Felicity and Sharline. They may live 4180 miles apart – but their polar worlds have collided, thanks to a pair of sparkly trainers. The two girls’ lives couldn’t be more different. Felicity lives in Ely while Sharline lives in Nakuru, Kenya’s fourth largest city. At Felicity’s school, kids average 30 to a classroom …

Shoe sisters united by act of kindness Read More »

Little Thetford Acorns Pre-school Welcomes Prospective Parents to Open Day

News / By Alison Cooney

Little Thetford Acorns Pre-School (LTA) will welcome prospective new parents and their children at its annual Open Day on Monday 30th October. Families are invited to drop in any time between 12noon and 2pm to come and look round the well recognised local pre-school, speak to the manager, meet the staff and get a feel …

Little Thetford Acorns Pre-school Welcomes Prospective Parents to Open Day Read More »

"I'd Do Anything"…..to see Oliver!

Events, Featured / By Alison Cooney

Oliver! Is a theatrical classic: Bursting with sing along songs and lovable characters, it was an obvious choice for Jess Wildman’s directorial debut with CAT Theatre Company. Oliver! Tells the story of young, orphaned Oliver Twist as he navigates the London’s underworld of theft and violence, searching for a home, a family, and – most …

"I'd Do Anything"…..to see Oliver! Read More »

Cathedral turns Purple for Polio

Featured / By Alison Cooney

The Rotary Club of Ely is marking historic progress towards a polio-free world by lighting up Ely Cathedral’s Octagon purple and urging communities to support the battle to end the paralysing disease. The event is among thousands to be held by Rotary across the globe on World Polio Day – 24th October, 2017. It is …

Cathedral turns Purple for Polio Read More »

Rugby Union: Southwold v Ely Tigers

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

Ely suffered their first defeat of the season away at Southwold, in 45mph winds, the opposition opted to go against the wind the first half. They were certainly up for it, within the first minutes they had crossed over the Ely try line for an unconverted try. Moments later Southwold conceded a penalty for putting …

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The next generation of leaders at Ely Tennis Club

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

This week 3 young tennis players received their LTA “Tennis Leader” qualification thanks to the training received at 10is Academy. The Academy is looking after the future of its young players. This means starting to give them knowledge and experience, not to mention an entire section of leadership. While there is still time to get …

The next generation of leaders at Ely Tennis Club Read More »

Flying Scotsman to visit Ely, fans warned to stay safe

Featured / By Tali

Fans of the famous Flying Scotsman are being urged to stay safe when the steam locomotive travels from Ely on Wednesday. Network Rail is advising people to stay off the tracks and enjoy a safe day out when the engine tours Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk this week. Flying Scotsman is touring Britain this year, including …

Flying Scotsman to visit Ely, fans warned to stay safe Read More »

Ely ghost tours promise "scandal, death and horror"

Featured, News / By Tali

Who’s up for some ghastly, ghostly fun in the run up to Halloween? Tales of “scandal, death and horror” on Ely’s medieval streets will be the focus of a new series of ghost walks and tours, starting this Thursday (October 19). Back by popular demand, the fright night forays will allow those who dare to …

Ely ghost tours promise "scandal, death and horror" Read More »

Works starts to expand Littleport station car park

News / By Tali

Littleport commuters will benefit from 79 extra car parking spaces and 30 extra cycle spaces. Work to expand Littleport railway station car park began last week and is due to be completed before Christmas. East Cambridgeshire District Council hopes this will boost the number of commuters accessing the Kings Lynn to London Kings Cross line. …

Works starts to expand Littleport station car park Read More »

80 strong Welsh choir and Household Cavalry Band come together in Ely Cathedral this December

Events, Featured / By Alison Cooney

My name is Peter Battlershill and in December I am proud to be bringing the 80 strong Morriston Orpheus Choir and the Band of the Household Cavalry to Ely. My association with The Band of the Household Cavalry is an unlikely one but stems through golf and after paying my respects to the fallen at the …

80 strong Welsh choir and Household Cavalry Band come together in Ely Cathedral this December Read More »

Bike thefts up 152 per cent across East Cambs

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

Bike thefts have spiked by 152 per cent across East Cambridgeshire, Spotted in Ely can reveal. Figures supplied to us by police today show that between April and September, 53 thefts were reported to police – up from 21 during the same period last year. Ely has been hit the hardest, followed by Littleport, with …

Bike thefts up 152 per cent across East Cambs Read More »

There’s still time to get your garden under control for free!

News / By Alison Cooney

Ex-service personnel living in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough can call the Green Aiders to clear their garden this autumn. The Green Aiders is a free, one-off garden clearance service run by community charity Groundwork Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, and there is still funding for more veterans and their families to benefit from the scheme. It is funded …

There’s still time to get your garden under control for free! Read More »

Talking FreELY: Second Pop Up Café in Ely

News / By Alison Cooney

Local mental health project Talking FreELY is holding its second pop up café at the Ely Cathedral Conference Centre. The café will feature an information zone, guest speakers, a mindfulness session, a light therapy room, hot drinks and cake. Trained volunteers will be available to talk informally with participants about mental health. The event is …

Talking FreELY: Second Pop Up Café in Ely Read More »

Cambridgeshire Archives' move to Ely delayed

Featured, News / By Tali

Cambridgeshire Archives’ move to Ely has been delayed till 2019. The archives were due to move from Shire Hall in Cambridge to the former Strikes Bowling Alley in Angel Drove next year. However, the move has now been put back to 2019, “due to the need to submit a second planning application and to bring …

Cambridgeshire Archives' move to Ely delayed Read More »

Train operator hopes to give “leaves on the line” disruption the slip

News / By Tali

Greater Anglia is hoping to give “leaves on the line” disruption the slip this autumn by fitting special wheel protection on some of its trains. The operator, working together with Network Rail, has fitted special anti-slip “Wheel Slide Protection” (WSP) technology on its class 156 trains, which include services running between Ipswich and Cambridge/Peterborough. WSP …

Train operator hopes to give “leaves on the line” disruption the slip Read More »

Ely Speedwatch Has Immediate Calming Effect

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

9 volunteers from Ely have become an instant success with a new Speedwatch scheme supported by Cambridgeshire Constabulary. This morning, 6 of those volunteers set up on Witchford Road and even the local residents came out to thank them as there was an instant noticeable effect on speed and noise. While we were there, the board …

Ely Speedwatch Has Immediate Calming Effect Read More »

Exciting New Music Project For Young Bands

Events, News / By Alison Cooney

Babylon ARTS are delighted to announce that they have been awarded a grant from the Big Lottery Fund to run an exciting new music programme at Centre-E on Barton Road in Ely. The new band development project builds upon two successful projects Babylon ARTS ran last year. The first was offering creative workshops at YEH! …

Exciting New Music Project For Young Bands Read More »

Rugby Union: Ely Tigers v Norwich Crusaders

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

In the first ten minutes, the Tigers dominated possession and turned it into points through the boot of Joel Scott Paul, who slotted two penalties. Ely continued to run the show and man of the match Matt McCarthy scored after the backs ran a neat move that saw him run in a converted try. Ely …

Rugby Union: Ely Tigers v Norwich Crusaders Read More »

Speedsters beware: Speedwatch now operating in Ely!

News / By Tali

Breaking the speed limit is about to get harder – thanks to a new scheme operating in the city. Ten hotspots throughout Ely will initially be targeted under the Speedwatch scheme, following a pilot in Cam Drive, police announced today. Under the scheme, members of the public can get involved in monitoring the speed of …

Speedsters beware: Speedwatch now operating in Ely! Read More »

Junior stylists turned salon bosses Claire and Hannah are a cut above the rest

Business, Featured, News / By Tali

When best buddies Claire Farrow and Hannah Smith became junior hairdressers over a decade ago, they dreamt of one day running their own salon. Today that dream becomes a reality. The two mums, who met while studying at Ely College, are celebrating the opening of Farrow & Smith Hair Design. The funky salon opened today …

Junior stylists turned salon bosses Claire and Hannah are a cut above the rest Read More »

Witchford Rejoice as East Cambs Agree Five Year Deal

News / By Mark Cooney

Witchford residents are rejoicing as plans to include the Witchford North East development of 720 homes have been dropped from East Cambridgeshire District Council’s Five Year Plan. During the full council meeting, many councillors praised Cllr Coralie Green and the officers at East Cambs for their work on this document but many said they were …

Witchford Rejoice as East Cambs Agree Five Year Deal Read More »

Prickwillow Ploughing Festival looks set to be a whole weekend of entertainment!

News / By Alison Cooney

This weekend is Prickwillow Ploughing Festival, gates open at 10.00am on Saturday and Sunday. Entertainment begins on Saturday at 11.15am, with The Hobblers on stage, The Hobblers are a Folk band based in the countryside of Norfolk, and will be preforming various Folk, and Irish Folk songs which I am sure you are going to …

Prickwillow Ploughing Festival looks set to be a whole weekend of entertainment! Read More »

City to run its own Tourism and Oliver Cromwell House

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

At the Full Council meeting tonight, one of the final points of business was to discuss East Cambs handing tourism to the City Council. Despite objections of the speed of the handover from Liberal Democrat Lorna Dupre and Independent Derrick Beckett the motion to give control to City of Ely passed. Dupre asked the committee …

City to run its own Tourism and Oliver Cromwell House Read More »

Train doors opened on wrong side during rail strike, Greater Anglia investigating

Featured, News / By Tali

Greater Anglia is investigating why train doors were allowed to open on the wrong side, allowing two passengers to disembark, on Tuesday. The incident happened on the 1350 Peterborough to Ipswich service, which calls at Ely. It took place while members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport workers’ union (RMT) were on strike regarding the …

Train doors opened on wrong side during rail strike, Greater Anglia investigating Read More »

Almost 4 million visitors flock to East Cambs in three years

Featured, News / By Tali

We all love Ely – and now more tourists than ever are discovering the delights of one of England’s smallest cities. East Cambridgeshire is enjoying bumper tourism, with almost four million visitors heading to the area in the past three years, according to figures released today. Statistics show that overnight stays in the region have …

Almost 4 million visitors flock to East Cambs in three years Read More »

Are more awards in the pipeline for Atrium Fitness?

News, Organisations, Sport / By Mark Cooney

Atrium Fitness has been shortlisted in the UK’s biggest fitness awards and are in the running for a prestigious national award. The club has been shortlisted in the Customer Service Category at the National Fitness Awards, an annual event which recognises excellence and achievement in gyms throughout the country. The awards are organised by Script …

Are more awards in the pipeline for Atrium Fitness? Read More »

The Torc of the City goes on display

Featured / By Tali

Three thousand years after a craftsman twisted 732g of pure gold into an intricately woven gold torc, the ancient ornament will be on display to the public this Saturday! The beautiful piece – one of the largest of its kind ever found in Britain – has been the torc of the city since it was …

The Torc of the City goes on display Read More »

Rugby Union: Wymondham v Ely Tigers

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

Wymondham hadn’t lost at home for 15 months, of which the last defeat was against the Tigers. Wymondham came out of the blocks and scored in the first minute of the game, the ball was forced wide from the scrum and the opposition full-back darted around the Tigers defence and stepped inside the last defender for …

Rugby Union: Wymondham v Ely Tigers Read More »

Ely retirement apartments released for sale

Featured, News / By Tali

Retirement units have just gone on sale in Ely – retailing at £224,950 and over for a one-bedroom apartment, with weekly service charges on top. The first phase of “retirement living plus” apartments in Lisle Lane are now being sold off plan, with one-bedroom units going for at least £224,950 and two-bedroom units being sold …

Ely retirement apartments released for sale Read More »

Ely to get its first Reading Round

Events, News / By Mark Cooney

Ely Library is to host a Reading Round – a new kind of book club. Award-winning local author Jim Kelly will run the sessions each week. “It’s a book club but without the homework!” said Jim. “You don’t have to read anything beforehand, and there’s no need for pens or paper or any preparation. “Each …

Ely to get its first Reading Round Read More »

Greater Anglia says passengers won't be affected if next week's rail strikes go ahead

News / By Tali

A bitter row has broken out between rail bosses and union members over planned strikes next week. The RMT union is planning to strike on Tuesday and Thursday (October 3 and 5), accusing Greater Anglia of failing to ensure the future of train guards across its network, calling it a “clear threat to passenger safety”. …

Greater Anglia says passengers won't be affected if next week's rail strikes go ahead Read More »

MP Lucy Frazer announces "additional £3.1 million" for SE Cambs schools

Featured, News / By Tali

School funding will remain at the top of Lucy Frazer’s agenda, the MP promises Spotted in Ely, announcing “an additional £3.1 million” for South East Cambridgeshire’s schools. This week Ms Frazer said that once the government’s new National Funding Formula was fully implemented, primary and secondary schools across her constituency would get a funding boost …

MP Lucy Frazer announces "additional £3.1 million" for SE Cambs schools Read More »

An inspiring Art event returns to Ely this November!

Events, News / By Alison Cooney

With a reputation for the high quality of art and craft on display and the friendly welcome, Art Unequalled returns to The Maltings, by the beautiful riverside in Ely on 4th and 5th November for the seventh year. The event promises to bring together a fabulous collection of the highest quality artists and craftsmen from …

An inspiring Art event returns to Ely this November! Read More »

King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery raises £400 for victims of Hurricane Irma

News / By Alison Cooney

A slice of Great British Bake Off fever among the youngest pupils at King’s Ely has raised hundreds of pounds for charity. Willow Barry, a Reception pupil at King’s Ely Acremont, was so moved by the recent devastation of Hurricane Irma that she decided a cake sale in school could be a good way to …

King’s Ely Acremont and Nursery raises £400 for victims of Hurricane Irma Read More »

Welcome to Cambridgeshire Artistic Roller Skating Club: A BRAND NEW club coming to Cambridgeshire.

News / By Alison Cooney

Cambridgeshire Artistic Roller Skating Club launched in August when three taster sessions were held at Ely Paradise Centre. Following the success of these sessions we have two permanent Grades and Fun sessions starting very soon. We welcome all ages and abilities. Our goal is to provide a fun and exciting environment for every skater. We …

Welcome to Cambridgeshire Artistic Roller Skating Club: A BRAND NEW club coming to Cambridgeshire. Read More »

Hive of activity at Ely’s leisure centre construction

Featured, News / By Tali

Ely’s new leisure centre – which will be called The Hive to reflect the area’s Fen heritage – is causing a major buzz at East Cambridgeshire District Council. Councillor David Ambrose-Smith, who chairs the community services committee, announced today that The Hive is on track to open next year. “This is a really exciting project …

Hive of activity at Ely’s leisure centre construction Read More »

Talking FreELY & Happy Cafe Ely 'Auction of Promises' an event not to be missed!

News / By Alison Cooney

On October the 13th Talking FreELY and The Happy Cafe welcome you to an ‘Auction of Promises’ at the newly refurbished Ely Tigers Rugby Club. The Auctioneer will be Mr David Palmer from ‘Flog It, Bargain Hunt and Cash in the Attic’. Supper is included in your ticket purchase and there will be live music from The …

Talking FreELY & Happy Cafe Ely 'Auction of Promises' an event not to be missed! Read More »

East Cambs schools face further staff losses and funding cuts, unions warn

Featured, News / By Tali

Cash strapped schools across East Cambridgeshire face a funding crisis, with all of the district’s colleges set to have their budgets slashed and teaching staff reduced in the next four years, unions warn. Figures released today predict that in real terms 88 per cent of schools throughout England face crippling budget cuts by 2020, with …

East Cambs schools face further staff losses and funding cuts, unions warn Read More »

Community take over Ely Library for afternoon of free, cultural fun

Featured, News / By Tali

Ever wanted to play a ukulele, learn quilting, or have a go at coding and robotics? Perhaps friendship bracelets, the cosmos or weaving are more your cuppa char? These are just some of the fun activities available at Ely Library’s #FunPalaces extravaganza next week – and the best part of it is that it’s totally …

Community take over Ely Library for afternoon of free, cultural fun Read More »

The Monster Racing Run Fest

Featured, Sport / By Alison Cooney

The Monster Racing Run Fest took place on Sunday, 24th September. Runners had the choice of entering the 68km Ultra race, the 42.2km Marathon or 21.1km Half Marathon. A total of 400 athletes entered the event making it the biggest Run Fest to date! All events started outside Ely Cathedral and all athletes followed the …

The Monster Racing Run Fest Read More »

Tigers held their opponents in the first half to dominate in the second.

Featured, Sport / By Alison Cooney

The Tigers traded scores in the first five minutes; John Dibb crashed over in the corner for an unconverted try. Afterwards Ely were caught unaware when Lowestoft broke through the middle and offloaded for an unconverted try. A well worked move from the Ely backs saw Matt McCarthy go in under the posts for a …

Tigers held their opponents in the first half to dominate in the second. Read More »

Arbuckles goes mobile with another VIP Trip up for grabs

Business, Featured / By Mark Cooney

Ely Leisure Villages first restaurant Arbuckles launches it’s first app on Monday available for Android and iOS devices. Users of the app will be entered in a prize draw to win a VIP Trip to Norwich just like the one won by Spotted in Ely follower and Norwich City fan, Natalie Terriss. As well as …

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Ely Runners Clinch Top 10 Finish in Round Norfolk Relay

Featured, Sport / By Alison Cooney

Ely Runners are celebrating 7th place out of 61 teams in the Round Norfolk Relay (RNR), held over the weekend of 16th and 17th September. The club’s elite ‘A’ team of male athletes completed the continuous 198-mile challenge in 23:02 hours, while a mixed ability and gender ‘B’ team finished in 27:57 hours to take 49th position. ‘A’ team members Ross …

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Festive runners encouraged to sign up early as the popular Ely Festive 5K Fun Run returns.

Events, Featured / By Alison Cooney

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity is delighted to announce that registration is now open for Ely Festive 5K, which takes place on Sunday 26 November. Those wishing to be part of the fun are encouraged to sign up early to the popular event to avoid disappointment! Last year Ely Festive 5K Fun Run sponsored by Ward …

Festive runners encouraged to sign up early as the popular Ely Festive 5K Fun Run returns. Read More »

Another Donation From Ely Rotary

News, Youth / By Alison Cooney

The Rotary Club of Ely have made a donation to The PORT Youth Group. This vibrant youth club, run by Joanne Coe, at the Ex Servicemen’s Club in Littleport, Ely, has been running for about three years. The club was formed by Joanne to meet the need for a safe place for young people to …

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World-famous, award-winning family rave phenomenon 'Big Fish Little Fish' launches it Witches and Wizards themed event in Ely this October!

Featured / By Alison Cooney

Big Fish Little Fish have been putting on multi award winning events since 2013. (Winner of Best Family Event, Family Festival Awards 2014-17, Time Out ‘101 Things to do with Kids in London) We have entertained over 150,000 family ravers up and down the UK and have now launched in Australia. We have have put …

World-famous, award-winning family rave phenomenon 'Big Fish Little Fish' launches it Witches and Wizards themed event in Ely this October! Read More »

Mums hit out at plans to axe Children's Centres

Featured, News / By Tali

Axing almost half of Cambridgeshire’s children’s centres is going to have dire effects on children’s health and wellbeing, mums and health professionals warn. With just four days to go before a consultation closes on the future of children’s centres throughout the county, a number of mothers from throughout East Cambridgeshire have voiced their concerns to …

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Rugby Union: Wisbech v Ely Match Report

News, Sport / By Alison Cooney

Wisbech kicked off and regained the ball. The Tigers held them out of their twenty-two with solid defence from the whole team. The heavens opened but this didn’t stop Ely’s attack, they forced their way into the opposition twenty-two. Wisbech conceded a penalty for lying on the ball in the ruck and Joel Scott Paul opted for …

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The animals went in two by two ….

Featured / By Alison Cooney

Ely Cathedral is known aﬀectionately as ‘The Ship of the Fens’, but this Sunday it will once again be transformed into a modern day Noah’s Ark, as hundreds of animals will be welcomed to the annual ‘Animal Service’. For the past 28 years, Ely Cathedral has hosted an annual Celebration Service in aid of local …

The animals went in two by two …. Read More »

Train tickets now available from your phone

Featured, News / By Tali

Imagine the following scenario: your next train departs in 10 minutes. There’s a massive queue for the ticket machines and the ATM is out of order. You reach inside your pockets only to discover you’ve spent your last tenner. What do you do? Luckily rail passengers now have another option, thanks to a new scheme …

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Injunction served on Kirtling land

instant_articles, News / By Tali

A Kirtling landowner has been served with an interim injunction, preventing her for using her plot for anything outside its original planning permission. East Cambridgeshire District Council served the injunction last Wednesday (September 13), meaning that owner Linda Watson can only use her land for equine purposes. Ms Watson had earlier told Metro that she …

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Could Ely finally get to see the Flying Scotsman?

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Steam Dream Tours have finally booked the Flying Scotsman to pass through Ely on October 18th at about 17:15. Enthusiasts are likely to take up an opportunity to travel on the world famous steam engine as a quick turnaround trip to Norwich is available for £79 each. http://www.steamdreams.com/Executables/GT436TourCalendar.exe?ActionCode=TP&WebBookno=16547610&SS=SDSVR01\&DB=SteamDreams&Division=A&bookingtype=T&date5=43026&Tour=72000&Route=1&Adults=2&Children=0&Infants=0 The company do state that while the …

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Teacher at King’s Ely conquers Ironman Wales challenge

Featured / By Alison Cooney

A Teacher at King’s Ely successfully completed one of the toughest Ironman Triathlon endurance events in the world. Nadia Baker, who teaches Mathematics at King’s Ely Senior, took on the Ironman Wales on Sunday (September 10th). The gruelling challenge saw around 2,000 athletes battling it out in the seaside town of Tenby to conquer the …

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Increasing Pressure on Queen Adelaide due to extra trains. Have your say!

News / By Mark Cooney

This evening at Queen Adelaide Village Hall, Cambridgeshire County Council and Network Rail are asking people who live in the area or use the main route through the village to come to a public meeting seeking views. The objective of the meeting to understand what impact to local residents more trains would cause especially …

Increasing Pressure on Queen Adelaide due to extra trains. Have your say! Read More »

Foodies get set for Ely's next Vegan Fair

News / By Tali

Where can you find Middle Eastern style street food, oat milk lattes and scotchless eggs? The answer is at Ely’s next Vegan Fair, promising a culinary feast for foodies – regardless of diet. Launched last autumn, the Vegan Fair proved so popular that it’s set to make its return on Saturday, September 30. The fair …

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IVF decision 'maddening', says one of the first mums to be treated at Cambridge IVF clinic

Featured, News / By Tali

One of the first mums to be treated at the Cambridge IVF clinic has expressed dismay at news that NHS-funded IVF services have been suspended throughout Cambridgeshire. Ami Cull, whose twins Enzo and Emiah were born in August 2013, called the decision “maddening”, warning it would cause heartache for countless couples. This month Cambridgeshire and …

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Pablo Picasso Selling Exhibition : Original Etchings and Lithographs

Featured / By Alison Cooney

A stunning selling exhibition of over 40 original etchings and lithographs by Pablo Picasso will be opening at Babylon ARTS a contemporary art gallery on Ely’s Riverside. This prestigious exhibition will be opened by Martin Millard, ASFAV, Director of Fine Art, Cheffins. The exhibition will be open to the public from Saturday 23 September – …

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The Mystery of Littleports Random Act of Kindness

Featured / By Mark Cooney

This morning Littleport residents woke up to little surprises all over the village, 50 of them in fact and all courtesy of The Port Youth Group! It was all part of the ‘Community Smile Project’ and trying to get a group of young people to keep the secret was the biggest challenge, but they succeeded. With …

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Anyone missing a leg or front door?

News / By Tali

A prosthetic leg, a stethoscope and a front door are among some of the more unusual items left on Greater Anglia trains over the past few months. Other belongings left behind include enough musical instruments to form a band, a very valuable painting, sleeping bags and pushchairs. The rail operator is now reminding passengers to …

Anyone missing a leg or front door? Read More »

Popular path re-opens

Featured, News / By Tali

A popular path closed to the public for the past two summers has now re-opened in Ely. Last week Anglian Water finished its work to fix a sunken path connecting West Fen Road with Cam Drive and the new Ely Leisure Village. Since June, the green space, popular with walkers, joggers,cyclists and dog walkers, has …

Pots of Happiness

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Littleport is undergoing its very own Random Act of Kindness this morning as about 50 plants have been numbered and distributed around the village along with a message of happiness. Many port residents have taken to the Facebook group “Littleport Notice Board” this morning to express their delight at finding one these plants including Donna …

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Get Involved in the BIG SING!

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Rock Vox Choir would like to invite you to take part in our ‘BIG SING’. We are planning a big charity event called “One Love – Ely” to raise money for the British Red Cross UK Solidarity Fund, supporting victims of the UK terror attacks in Manchester and London. Date: 17th September 2017 Event times: …

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Picnic in The Park Lights Up Sutton

Featured / By Alison Cooney

Saturday 2nd September saw Sutton Feast’s Picnic in The Park event delight the crowds once again. This year the sun shone and hundreds of festival goers, young and old, came out to enjoy the festivities. This year the event featured 6 bands, headlined by Split Whiskers. It was a brilliant show and there was something …

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Free Money Management Course for University Students

News / By Alison Cooney

Going to university and having to manage your own finances can be a worrying experience. Ely Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Debt Counselling Centre are helping local students by offering a free, practical course which puts students in control of their finances while they are at college or university. The Ely CAP Team have been running …

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Ely Triathlon 2017

Events, Featured / By Alison Cooney

The Rotary Club of Ely have again provided sponsorship and support to the Ely Triathlon Event held at Kings School Ely. The weather was perfect for the event with all contestants, both senior and junior, giving their best. Ross Broomfield was the fastest male and Hannah Bye the fastest female in the Triathlon Event. The …

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All Welcome at St Mary's Summer Party!

Events, Featured / By Alison Cooney

An historic church in central Ely is opening its gardens this weekend for a family friendly Summer Celebration. The free event at St Mary’s Church, next to Oliver Cromwell’s House on St Mary’s Street, will take place on the afternoon of Saturday 2nd September. From midday there’ll be balloon modelling, craft tables, inflatables, face painting, a BBQ and home made cream teas served in …

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Local Entrepreneur joins the board of world established technology company

Business, News / By Mark Cooney

Local businessman, serial entrepreneur and family man, Jonathan James has been appointed to the board of technology giants TLM Technologies. James from Soham, who owns over 100 shops and many other businesses, has joined the board of the company in a non-executive role. TLM create end-to-end solutions specialising in the convenience and fuel industries. Jonathan James’ has more …

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Certificate of Excellence Awarded to Ely Cathedral

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest review site has awarded Ely Cathedral with a certificate of Excellence due to the amount of reviews given by it’s visitors. With nearly 2000 reviews of which over 1400 are 5 star, the attraction is rated first of 35 in the Places to Visit category. The most recent 5 star was …

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Ely Markets mark the end of the Summer Holidays

News / By Alison Cooney

The summer holidays will come full circle for Ely Markets as they end the six-week break the same way as it started, with a celebration. Following the success of the first ‘Summer Late’ event, the second family-focused market is set to take place from 4pm on Friday 1st September. There will be a variety of food and drink …

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