Page 31 – Spotted in Ely

Train surfers dicing with death, rail operator warns in new campaign

A disturbing “train surfing” trend means people are dicing with death to avoid paying fares or gain notoriety on social media, local train operator Greater Anglia warns. The operator, which runs services throughout the region, has just launched an awareness campaign to coincide with the school holidays, following a spate of train surfing incidents. People …

Train surfers dicing with death, rail operator warns in new campaign Read More »

Team Highfield in a Marathon Effort this Easter

Featured / By Mark Cooney

2 MARATHONS, 2 COUNTRIES, 1 HEADTEACHER VERSUS 1 MUM – WHO WILL GET THE BEST TIME? Maz Baker Income Generator at Highfield said “a Marathon is an epic feat of personal strength, fitness and determination but on the 9th April, we will see a Headteacher and a parent complete two gruelling challenges in two different …

Team Highfield in a Marathon Effort this Easter Read More »

Two men jailed for “horrific” crime spree

News / By Tali

A Burwell man who assisted in a violent spree last year has been jailed for 12 months. Albert Smith, 21, of Weirs Drove, helped ringleader Thomas Lamb, 32, terrorise residents after going on the rampage in West Wratting in a series of crimes described as “horrific” by police. Lamb, of no fixed abode, was sentenced …

Two men jailed for “horrific” crime spree Read More »

Privileged Access to Cineworld Ely

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

Members of the press have been granted access to the building site to be known as Cineworld Ely. The building work is near complete and over the last few weeks decorating and installing the high-tech equipment has been underway. With health & safety in mind and once show the plans, we gained access to all …

Privileged Access to Cineworld Ely Read More »

Siblings egg-cited to scoop Easter bonnet prizes

Featured, Gallery, News, Youth / By Tali

Siblings are known to be competitive – but luckily Felicity and Stanley didn’t get bees in their bonnets when it came to entering their school’s festive competition. That’s because the dynamic duo each won a prize in an Easter Bonnet design contest, run by Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS). Stanley won the Reception Category, …

Siblings egg-cited to scoop Easter bonnet prizes Read More »

Ely Fire Station welcomes two new recruits

Featured, News / By Tali

Ely Fire Station has swelled its ranks with two new on-call recruits. Paul Hudson, 31, and Nick Lake, 41, are among 14 new on-call firefighters to join Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service – the largest number in over five years. Paul is a furniture manufacturer and fitness fanatic who enjoys football coaching, while services project …

Ely Fire Station welcomes two new recruits Read More »

King’s Ely pupils make school history by qualifying for national finals of maths contest

Featured / By Mark Cooney

FOUR King’s Ely students have made school history by reaching the national finals of the UK Team Maths Challenge. King’s Ely Senior students Benedict George and Thomas Kim, both 14, and King’s Ely Junior pupils George Goodfellow, 13, and Eleanor MacGillivray, both 13, won the regional finals of the annual competition, which were held at …

King’s Ely pupils make school history by qualifying for national finals of maths contest Read More »

Vital Ely Rail Project on Track

News / By Mark Cooney

LEPS & NETWORK RAIL TO FUND ELY AREA RAIL IMPROVEMENTS FEASIBILITY WORK An agreement to move forward work to improve rail capacity through the vital Ely area has taken a significant step forward thanks to funding from two LEPs. The project, which is the first of its kind in the UK, will see both the …

Vital Ely Rail Project on Track Read More »

Review of King’s Ely Junior’s production of Cats by British actor David Learner

Featured / By Mark Cooney

THIS was no eight out of ten cats. This was ten out of ten cats with a richly deserved and superbly achieved standing ovation from its first night audience that sang to the rafters of the Hayward Theatre. Ridiculous, the very idea of translating TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats into a musical. …

Review of King’s Ely Junior’s production of Cats by British actor David Learner Read More »

tabouche_basic

business listing / By Mark Cooney

Ta Bouche Ship Lane Ely CB7 4BB 01353 666699

westendhouse_basic

business listing / By Mark Cooney

West End House West End Ely CB6 3AY 01353 662907

thehighflyer_basic

business listing / By Mark Cooney

The High Flyer 69 Newnham Street Ely CB7 4PQ 01353 771110

Part 2 – Rock of Ages Access All Areas: Planning

News / By Mark Cooney

I’m Amy and I run a musical production company with my friend Becky, called Ruby Red. We’re producing Rock of Ages at the Maltings in Ely this July. This is our blog. We’re giving you an Access All Areas pass to look behind the curtain of Ruby Red and really see how we do things. …

Part 2 – Rock of Ages Access All Areas: Planning Read More »

Cake and celebrations for newest Ely Cathedral choristers

News / By Mark Cooney

TEN King’s Ely pupils have been officially installed as Ely Cathedral choristers. The sweet-sounding choristers – six girls and four boys – were installed during Sunday Evensong at the cathedral on March 26th. The newest girl choristers are Megan La Manna, Stella Bluck, Miriam Reveley, Grace Owen, Amelia Merrick and Katherine Mann. The newest boy …

Cake and celebrations for newest Ely Cathedral choristers Read More »

Superheroes descend the Needham Tower as Class Reunion

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Over 50 brave souls descended the rear face of Needhams Tower on Saturday in an event organised by old classmates. The event was organised by old Ely College chums who will be 50 this year to raise money and awareness for Little Miracles and Ely Community First Responders. The exact amount is not yet known but with …

Superheroes descend the Needham Tower as Class Reunion Read More »

Downham Feoffees Primary School in "special measures" after damning Ofsted inspection

Featured, News, Villages & Towns / By Tali

Little Downham’s primary school has been put under special measures, following a damning Ofsted inspection. In a report published yesterday, Downham Feoffees Primary School was found to be “inadequate” in all areas. “In accordance with section 44(1) of the Education Act 2005, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector is of the opinion that this school requires special …

Downham Feoffees Primary School in "special measures" after damning Ofsted inspection Read More »

Hoppy birthday, Hoppy Feet!

Gallery, News, Youth / By Tali

Hoppy Feet has kept kids jumping for joy since it started in 2012. And today, the popular play group celebrated its fifth birthday at Ely Library. The group bounced into action in 2012 when mum-of-two Michelle Brown struggled to find an affordable music group in Ely that provided musical instruments, toys, games and snacks for …

Hoppy birthday, Hoppy Feet! Read More »

Superhero Flies Into Schools to Deliver Drama Workshop

Featured, instant_articles / By Mark Cooney

A SUPERHERO is flying around schools in East Cambridgeshire this week to teach children about recycling. Michael, the recycling champion for East Cambridgeshire District Council, forms the central role in an interactive performance workshop being delivered to primary school children. He was designed by nine-year-old Brooke Smith, a year four pupil at Littleport Community Primary …

Superhero Flies Into Schools to Deliver Drama Workshop Read More »

Annie Brown’s Call to Preserve British Countryside: an Interview with a Local Felt Artist

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

We met with Annie at Market Street Brasserie during her private view and spoke about her art, inspiration, and the technique she uses. Annie artworks reflect beauty of our local countryside: idyllic landscapes of grazing sheep on the Fens fields. It is not only beauty of the local landscape that we appreciated in her works …

Annie Brown’s Call to Preserve British Countryside: an Interview with a Local Felt Artist Read More »

Extra Time Kicks Off at Ely College

Featured, instant_articles / By Mark Cooney

Norwich City FC Regional Development Program proved so successful in its first 18 months that Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth College have been turned into a new Community Hub Partner which is hoped to bring benefits, not just for Ely College but also the wider community. Former Norwich City professional and Canaries Hall of …

Extra Time Kicks Off at Ely College Read More »

Three major retailers could be coming to Ely in new, out of town development

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

Three major retailers could be coming to Ely in a new, out of town development, Spotted in Ely can reveal. A planning application has been submitted to East Cambridgeshire District Council for budget supermarket chain Lidl, bargain store B&M and DIY chain Wickes to eventually be established on 10.69 hectares of land at Octagon Business …

Three major retailers could be coming to Ely in new, out of town development Read More »

Part 1 – Rock of Ages: Intro to Access All Areas

Columists / By Mark Cooney

I’m Amy and I run a musical production company with my friend Becky, called Ruby Red. We’re producing Rock of Ages at the Maltings in Ely this July. This is our blog. Follow us on Facebook or buy show tickets here. What do you think of when you hear the words ‘amateur theatre’? I’ve heard all …

Part 1 – Rock of Ages: Intro to Access All Areas Read More »

Last chance to have your say on plans to close level crossings in East Cambs

instant_articles, News / By Tali

Plans to close or modify 29 level crossings across Cambridgeshire have been submitted to the Secretary of State for Transport by Network Rail. Members of the public have until April 25 to submit objections, representations and letters of support, following a number of public consultation events across the county in June and September. Following the …

Last chance to have your say on plans to close level crossings in East Cambs Read More »

Work Experience a hit with local businesses

News / By Mark Cooney

Year 10 students from Witchford Village College experienced what it would be like in the world of work from 6th – 17th March 2017. Local businesses, schools, pre-schools and shops very kindly took students, sometimes two or more, to give them a taste of the working world on a two-week work placement. We have had …

Work Experience a hit with local businesses Read More »

Harry heads to Westminster for Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Awards

instant_articles, News / By Tali

Harry Sindle’s passion for helping out at Ely College library has paid off, with the student being one of five shortlisted nationwide for the prestigious Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Awards in London. The award ceremony, held at Portcullis House, Westminster, last week, recognised the impact of Harry’s work at Ely College and its …

Harry heads to Westminster for Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Awards Read More »

What will a New Mayor mean for Cambridgeshire? BBC Tour Bus comes to Ely to explain

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Are you like many and don’t understand why Cambridgeshire needs a mayor? Tomorrow the BBC Tour Bus comes to Market Square in Ely 11 am to help you understand. Onboard the bus will be lots of information for you to make an informed decision about the Mayoral Candidates, one of which will be put in …

What will a New Mayor mean for Cambridgeshire? BBC Tour Bus comes to Ely to explain Read More »

Ely-based author Thomas Heasman-Hunt has released his debut novel “LEGACY” today.

News / By Mark Cooney

“LEGACY” is a futuristic space opera, set in a universe where humans have gone on to colonise space using technology drawn from their own or scavenged from ancient civilisations. The story unfolds as Captain Emily Ajax grapples with the legacy of her father Robert Ajax, a hero and a legend who fought to bring peace …

Ely-based author Thomas Heasman-Hunt has released his debut novel “LEGACY” today. Read More »

Pi Day 2017 at Witchford Village College

News / By Mark Cooney

On Tuesday 14th March, the mathematics corridor rang with the sound of decimal numbers! This year’s Pi reciting competition attracted twenty-four contenders who all succeeded in memorising at least twenty decimal places, winning themselves a Pi badge. There were many notable performances, Eva Ellsmore took the Year 7 title with 41 digits, a close-fought battle …

Pi Day 2017 at Witchford Village College Read More »

Pedestrians Are Given Priority As A New Zebra Crossing Opens On Cambridge Road In Ely

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Ely residents no longer face long waits to cross Cambridge Road in Ely, thanks to a successful bid to Cambridgeshire County Council’s Local Highways Improvement scheme for a pedestrian crossing. The new zebra crossing, which is due to open this week, is placed near the junctions of Barton Road and Tower Road, which is a …

Pedestrians Are Given Priority As A New Zebra Crossing Opens On Cambridge Road In Ely Read More »

Soham Village College And Witchford Village College Congratulated For Ofsted Turnaround

News / By Mark Cooney

Today, Friday 17th March, Regional Schools Commissioner Tim Coulson, Regional Director for Ofsted Paul Brooker and local MP Lucy Frazer paid a visit to Soham Village College and Lucy Frazer and Paul Brooker also visited Witchford Village College. The reason for the visits was to congratulate both establishments on the significant improvements they have made …

Soham Village College And Witchford Village College Congratulated For Ofsted Turnaround Read More »

Want to watch films before anyone else? Work for Cineworld

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Saturday saw hundreds of hopefuls enter the Maltings to find a new career opportunity. Staff and managers from various established Cineworlds, including Stevenage and Braintree, were shipped into Ely to help promote working for the large cinema chain. Cineworld is looking for new “Team Members” to join their opening branch at Ely’s Leisure Village in May …

Want to watch films before anyone else? Work for Cineworld Read More »

Waste not, want not: council says moves to bring waste collection in-house will save cash

News / By Tali

Cutting down on waste is a key priority for East Cambridgeshire District Council when it ends its household waste collections and street cleaning contract with Veolia in April, the local authority says. ECDC will be bringing its waste services in-house, with its trading arm, East Cambridgeshire Trading Company (ECTC), providing the services rather than through …

Waste not, want not: council says moves to bring waste collection in-house will save cash Read More »

Community Netball Club Awarded Lottery Funding For Fun And Fitness In The Fens

Featured, Sport / By Mark Cooney

Fenatics netball club from East Cambridgeshire is delighted to have received Lottery funding to re-launch and develop the club and is looking for new members to join in the fun and fitness. We are a group of ladies from around the Ely area who love playing netball and our ethos is all about fun, getting …

Community Netball Club Awarded Lottery Funding For Fun And Fitness In The Fens Read More »

Get behind the scenes of the build of the Ely Bypass and could you name the new road?

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

It’s finally underway, the build of the long awaited Ely Southern Bypass began officially, and now you get the chance to see it being constructed with limited tour dates. The bypass project has met some challenges already in the endeavour to get the much-needed road built which see a shortcut created between 2 points of …

Get behind the scenes of the build of the Ely Bypass and could you name the new road? Read More »

Twinkle twinkle little star, how many shapes in Ely Cathedral do you think there are?

Featured, News / By Tali

If you live in East Cambridgeshire, chances are you’ve visited Ely Cathedral many times. But have you ever noticed how many different shapes there are inside the iconic Ship of the Fens? Youngsters from Rainbow Pre-School in Ely got to explore twinkly stars, rings-a-roses and even octagons, squares, triangles, spirals and crosses when they went …

Twinkle twinkle little star, how many shapes in Ely Cathedral do you think there are? Read More »

Ely College bookworms take part in book award ceremony – with one student getting her own award

News / By Tali

Thirteen Ely College students last week took part in a book award ceremony in Cambridge, with the winners picked by young readers across the county. And one Ely College student, Hannah Meek, received a special award herself, after winning a prize for her design of a trophy for the award. The students were part of …

Ely College bookworms take part in book award ceremony – with one student getting her own award Read More »

Cineworld Announces Opening Date For New Six Screen Multiplex Cinema In Ely

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Cineworld Ely to open its doors on Friday, May 12th 2017 Cineworld, one of the UK’s leading cinema chains, today announced its latest cinema in Ely will open on Friday, May 12th2017. The new cinema will feature six state-of-the-art screens showing the latest Hollywood releases, as well as a Baskins Robbins ice cream counter. The …

Cineworld Announces Opening Date For New Six Screen Multiplex Cinema In Ely Read More »

Bobby Scheme named Hopkins Homes' Cambridgeshire Charity of the Year

Featured, News / By Tali

A charity helping elderly and vulnerable residents to secure their homes against burglars is £7000 better off after being named Hopkins Homes’ Cambridgeshire Charity of the Year. Yesterday Hopkins Homes announced that the Bobby Scheme had won the competition, which invites members of the public to vote for their favourite local charity. The Ely Foodbank …

Bobby Scheme named Hopkins Homes' Cambridgeshire Charity of the Year Read More »

East Cambs Youth Consultation Panel meets the team at Police HQ

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Rory Dingley and Ed Ouzman both Year 10 students at Witchford Village College have been part of an exciting new initiative in conjunction with East Cambs Police and other local secondary College’s. They meet one evening a month with Sergeant Phil Priestley and his team at Ely Police station to discuss some of issues Young …

East Cambs Youth Consultation Panel meets the team at Police HQ Read More »

Ely Churches Launches a New Debt Counselling Program

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Many local people are set to benefit from the launch of a free debt counselling service in Ely. Churches Together in Ely (CTiE) has joined forces with award-winning UK charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) and aims to help local people by offering home visits to those affected by debt. John Hociej, Ely CAP Debt Centre …

Ely Churches Launches a New Debt Counselling Program Read More »

Wanted: people to help set up a Happy Cafe in Ely

News / By Tali

Hands up if you want to be happier! Local woman Kathryn Pearcey is looking at setting up a Happy Cafe in Ely for people to chat, share resources and promote a more fulfilling way to live, based on Action for Happiness, a scheme patronised by the Dalai Lama. Kathryn told Spotted in Ely: “Ely is …

Wanted: people to help set up a Happy Cafe in Ely Read More »

Animal friendly oxygen masks provided to fire stations across Cambs

News / By Tali

We consider pets to be part of the family – and thanks to animal-loving firefighter Neil Hoskin, every fire station in Cambridgeshire is now equipped with special animal oxygen masks. The Smokey Paws masks are designed to help save the lives of four-legged, two-legged, and even no-legged friends. Station and area commanders from across Cambridgeshire …

Animal friendly oxygen masks provided to fire stations across Cambs Read More »

Knife juggling children’s author Julian Sedgewick wows students at Ely College

News / By Tali

Popular children’s author Julian Sedgewick used to visit Ely College when his sons attended the school. Last week the keen broadcaster and writer visited once again – this time to inspire students wanting to improve their literary skills as part of a World Book Day promotion. A regular visitor to the college, Julian put the …

Knife juggling children’s author Julian Sedgewick wows students at Ely College Read More »

Immigration Minister Pays Tribute To Cambridgeshire’s Efforts In Welcoming Refugees

Featured / By Mark Cooney

During Home Office Questions today, Monday 6th March, Lucy Frazer MP for South East Cambridgeshire, welcomed Cambridgeshire County Council’s participation in the unaccompanied asylum seekers dispersal scheme and the fact that Cambridge City Council, working with East Cambridgeshire and South Cambridgeshire District Councils is offering homes to 100 refugees. Lucy asked the Immigration Minister if …

Immigration Minister Pays Tribute To Cambridgeshire’s Efforts In Welcoming Refugees Read More »

Cineworld to Recruite 30 Roles for new Multiplex

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Cineworld, one of the UK’s leading cinema chains, is creating over 30 jobs at its new six-screen cinema in Ely Leisure Village, which is set to open its doors in May 2017. An open day for prospective employees will be held on Saturday, March 11th, 2017 at The Maltings, Ely Riverside, Ship Lane, CB7 4BB. …

Cineworld to Recruite 30 Roles for new Multiplex Read More »

Ely Firm Ellgia Acquires Purple Recycling

Business, News / By Mark Cooney

Ely-based waste management and recycling company Ellgia is pleased to announce it has acquired Purple Recycling this week and will take over operations at the Purple Recycling site in Prickwillow with immediate effect. Ellgia anticipates a smooth transition with all services continuing as normal and has confirmed all staff will be retained. Steve Crook, Ellgia’s …

Ely Firm Ellgia Acquires Purple Recycling Read More »

Neutral Ground for those in need at Ely's New Community Hub

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Yesterday saw the launch of Ely’ new Community Hub at the Lighthouse Centre on Lynn Road. The aim of the venture is to bring together all of the local agencies who can help the young and vulnerable without a referral system and prejudice. On hand to assist were the creators of the idea, Sarah Burton …

Neutral Ground for those in need at Ely's New Community Hub Read More »

Ely Cathedral to host spectacular light show to raise awareness of refugees

Featured, News / By Tali

Ely Cathedral will host a spectacular light show next month to raise awareness of families escaping war-torn Syria. In the first show of its kind ever seen in the district, the cathedral will light up with colours and images, as well as featuring poignant artwork by local children, highlighting the plight of refugees. On the …

Ely Cathedral to host spectacular light show to raise awareness of refugees Read More »

Sisters share a slice of the action at Isle Bakery

Business, Featured, News / By Tali

It takes a brave person to set up a business with their sibling! But sisters Claire Harrison and Holly Hodge, the creative talent behind The Isle Bakery, Ely’s newest cake shop, assure us there are no food fights in the kitchen when they’re busy baking! The two Ely women love whisking up “beautiful cakes that …

Sisters share a slice of the action at Isle Bakery Read More »

Duathlon Success for all ages

Featured, Sport / By Mark Cooney

The Monster Racing Duathlon sponsored by Zone3 took place on Sunday, 26th February. The event has taken place Witchford Village College since 2012. Monster Racing are known for their well thought out routes and cool events. The event was a sell out at over 130 entrants, the biggest start list to date including newcomers to …

Duathlon Success for all ages Read More »

Discarded cigarette sets fire to Isleham home

News / By Tali

A discarded cigarette is thought to be responsible for causing a fire at an Isleham home yesterday afternoon. The shed was completely destroyed and the kitchen badly damaged as a result of the fire. Only the intervention of fire crews prevented the blaze from obliterating the rest of the house, firefighters say, warning smokers to …

Discarded cigarette sets fire to Isleham home Read More »

Storm Doris batters East Cambs

Featured, News / By Tali

Storm Doris is battering East Cambridgeshire, causing chaos for commuters and causing some colleges to shut early. A driver had a lucky escape after a tree was ripped from its roots, collapsing onto a car in Martins Lane, Witcham. Councillor Mike Bradley, pictured right with Councillor Lisa Stubbs, closed the road and put out traffic …

Storm Doris batters East Cambs Read More »

Vegans, v-curious and those hunting vintage or vinyl are in for a treat during May Bank Holiday

News / By Tali

Foodies are in for a treat with a return of Ely’s popular Vegan Fair in early May. Following Ely Markets’ highly successful first Vegan Fair in October, the team will be back in early May Bank Holiday weekend, this time returning for a delicious two-day special. This time they will be joined by a Vintage …

Vegans, v-curious and those hunting vintage or vinyl are in for a treat during May Bank Holiday Read More »

Ely's Minor Injuries Unit one step closer to becoming an Urgent Care Hub

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

Ely’s Minor Injuries Unit is one step closer to becoming a Local Urgent Care Hub, after getting the green light from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group. Yesterday afternoon the CCG’s governing body endorsed the business case for the first phase of the project, which has been approved by its clinical executive committee. Campaigner …

Ely's Minor Injuries Unit one step closer to becoming an Urgent Care Hub Read More »

Brilliant bright sparks from Ely College wow uni academics with their maths skills

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

Twelve bright Ely College students recently got a taste of uni life when they “graduated” from a special scheme at the University of East Anglia in Norwich. The high-achieving year eight students, all part of the college’s Brilliant Club, stunned academics at UEA by not only completing the demanding programme but also achieving maths problems …

Brilliant bright sparks from Ely College wow uni academics with their maths skills Read More »

Oliver Cromwell's House Receives 'Hidden Gem' Title for Second Time in 3 Years

Featured / By Mark Cooney

One of Ely’s most treasured attractions has been named a “hidden gem” by the national tourism agency. Oliver Cromwell’s House was assessed under Visit England’s Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme and signified by the Quality Rose Marque before being highlighted in a list of special attractions. It is the second time that the House has won …

Oliver Cromwell's House Receives 'Hidden Gem' Title for Second Time in 3 Years Read More »

Fond Farewell from Class of 78 to Needhams Tower with Charity Abseil

Events, Featured / By Mark Cooney

The class of ‘78 from the City of Ely College will abseil down their old school building – the soon to be demolished Needham’s Tower – to raise money for charity. Ian Cox (top left), Geoffrey Everett (top rt), Robert Skinner and Elaine Pullar. Four of the former students met up and agreed that turning 50 would …

Fond Farewell from Class of 78 to Needhams Tower with Charity Abseil Read More »

Commuting to Cambridge by rail about to get easier, councillors say

News / By Tali

A new car park due to be built near Ely Station will make travelling to the new Cambridge North railway station much easier for Ely commuters, councillors say. As reported in Spotted in Ely earlier this month, East Cambridgeshire District Council’s planning committee unanimously gave the green light for the new 128 space car park. …

Commuting to Cambridge by rail about to get easier, councillors say Read More »

Girls get to SHINE at empowering Ely event

Gallery, News, Youth / By Tali

Girlpower will take Ely by storm next month as the city celebrates its annual SHINE event. Aimed at building courage, confidence and character, SHINE aspires to empower girls in years seven to nine from across East Anglia, exploring ways of overcoming obstacles through a range of activities. Main organiser Rachael Heffer, says: “The Shine Girls …

Girls get to SHINE at empowering Ely event Read More »

Cyclists furious about plans to axe underpass from southern bypass

Featured, News / By Tali

A group promoting cycling in East Cambridgeshire is furious about Cambridgeshire County Council’s decision to axe plans for an underpass from its southern bypass construction. Ely Cycling Campaign yesterday called the decision to drop the promised underpass “short-sighted”, accusing Cambridgeshire County Council of showing “little commitment to sustainable transport in rural areas” and neglecting cyclists …

Cyclists furious about plans to axe underpass from southern bypass Read More »

Schoolgirl Designs Superhero To Boost Recycling Efforts

Featured / By Mark Cooney

A NINE-year-old schoolgirl has won a design competition to create a recycling champion for the region. Brooke Smith, a year four pupil at Littleport Community Primary School put pen to paper to come up with a superhero called Michael. He will now form the central character in a recycling campaign for East Cambridgeshire District Council. …

Schoolgirl Designs Superhero To Boost Recycling Efforts Read More »

Roadwork Misery for Morning Commuters

News / By Mark Cooney

The A10 was subject to a near shut down this morning as Energetics Design & Build and AIM Utilities set up four way temporary traffic lights on a major Ely roundabout. Traffic ground to a standstill this morning on the roundabout at Cam Drive and Columbine Road, just 50 metres from the A10 roundabout to Little …

Roadwork Misery for Morning Commuters Read More »

Soham Schoolgirl's poignant polar bear video will leave a lump in your throat

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Soham schoolgirl Megan Jones’s chilling video about the plight of endangered polar bears will leave a lump in your throat. The eight-year-old Weatheralls Primary School pupil’s simple but shocking video about the lethal effects of global warming has already become a massive hit online. Animal-lover and environmentalist Megan spent a while thinking about how to …

Soham Schoolgirl's poignant polar bear video will leave a lump in your throat Read More »

Kids' Cromwell House tours promise "the bits teachers are too grossed out to tell you"

Featured, Holidays, News / By Tali

Love Horrible Histories? Curious about Cromwell? Join Professor A. Bismal for a tour with a difference this half term. Oliver Cromwell’s House will be showing families “the bits teachers are too grossed out to tell you”. Warning: it’s not for the faint hearted! Hot on the heels of their haunted tours of Ely, the team …

Kids' Cromwell House tours promise "the bits teachers are too grossed out to tell you" Read More »

Vote for your Cambridgeshire Charity of the Year

News / By Tali

Three Cambridgeshire charities could be in for a cash boost – with the public getting to vote for their favourite. Yesterday Hopkins Homes launched a new scheme, which will see three of six shortlisted charities receiving a share of £10,000. Between now and 5pm on February 24, members of the public can vote online for …

Vote for your Cambridgeshire Charity of the Year Read More »

Brand New and Free Repair Cafe comes to Ely

Events, Featured / By Mark Cooney

Less than two weeks to go before our big event (Feb 13th during the half term) and we are busy preparing for the day’s activities. Brand new to East Cambridgeshire, we wanted to showcase the Repair Café running at the basement of the Conference Centre. Expert repairers will be on site to help people fix …

Brand New and Free Repair Cafe comes to Ely Read More »

Calling 999 is for emergencies – plea after inappropriate calls made to EEAST

News / By Mark Cooney

A rat bite, a broken toe nail and a woman who wanted an escort home are just the latest ‘emergency’ calls received by the region’s ambulance service. New figures today reveal that the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) received 312 hoax calls between April and December last year, which diverted time away …

Calling 999 is for emergencies – plea after inappropriate calls made to EEAST Read More »

More Parking in Ely as Change of Use is Given Go Ahead

Featured / By Mark Cooney

East Cambridgeshire District Council yesterday gave the go ahead to clear a piece of land they purchased last year behind Tesco to serve as more parking spaces in Ely and to commuters. The land on The Dock will park up to 128 cars including 8 disabled bays and 2 electrical charging points. It is thought a …

More Parking in Ely as Change of Use is Given Go Ahead Read More »

Work Commences on New District Leisure Centre

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Work has begun on new leisure centre for East Cambridgeshire which is set to open to the public next year. The leisure centre, which is being built by contractor Pellikaan, will include an eight-lane 25m swimming pool, a learner pool with moveable floor, a 120-station gym floor, two activity studios and a four-court sports hall. …

Work Commences on New District Leisure Centre Read More »

Parking on Market Street could change under new consultation

News / By Mark Cooney

Parking on Market Street in Ely could change and letters have been sent out to local businesses and taxi firms to explain why more taxi bays are needed in Ely. Under new proposals submitted by East Cambridgeshire District Council, a consultation process will be underway to change the 30 minute parking bays to an extended …

Parking on Market Street could change under new consultation Read More »

Cambridgeshire Community Foundation award £1753 for the new East Cambs Youth Consultation Panel

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Excellent news for the East Cambs Youth Consultation Panel today. Suzy Kay, Grant Programme Manager for the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation has informed us that our application for £1753 to support the purchase of social media technology has been successful! The money will be invested in the provision of new technology for the group – including …

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Construction day cements interest among Ely College students

News / By Tali

A construction skills day at Cambridge Regional College has cemented interest in the booming building sector among Ely College pupils. The 18 Year 11 construction students from Ely College got to operate an excavator as part of a major career event, designed at encouraging more people to take up building apprenticeships. The students said it …

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Arbuckles on track for March opening and already 3000 reservations made

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Despite press stating that the Ely Leisure Park will open in April, many companies have stuck to their original date of March to open. Arbuckles included. John Murphy, Owner of the popular restaurant took to Facebook this morning to reassure many people, especially those who have booked that Arbuckles is planning to open in March …

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Did you know we had a Boccia Club in Ely?

Featured, Sport / By Mark Cooney

Boccia is a very skilled ball sport which is closely related to Petanque and was developed to be played by people with cerebral palsy and severe disabilities that affect motor skills. It became a Paralympic sport in 1998 and is now contested by over 50 countries and Team GB enjoyed success with David Smith in …

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Schools in the Ely area take part in the Young Voices 2017 concert at the O2 in London

Featured, News / By Alison Cooney

The 16th January saw several schools in the Ely area take part in the Young Voices 2017 concert at the O2 in London. My own daughter was amongst those representing The Lantern School. St Mary’s and the Rackham School in Witchford also took part. Young Voices brings together school children from across the country to …

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Littleport Farm Crowns National Chip Champions!

News / By Mark Cooney

Isle of Ely Produce has once again crowned a fish and chip shop for its knowledge in the use of the region’s potato crop. Krispies Fish and Chips from Exmouth nr Exeter , scooped the ‘From Field to Frier’ Award backed by Littleport firm Isle of Ely Produce at this year’s National Fish & Chip …

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Minor Injuries Units to be piloted as Urgent Care Centres

Featured, News / By Tali

People power has saved our Minor Injuries Unit from imminent closure, with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group today announcing plans to pilot urgent care hubs in Ely, Wisbech and Doddington this spring. Spotted in Ely can confirm that the CCG is putting together a formal business case for the three hubs, which is …

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Brave Ria hopes electric wheelchair will help her get her life back

Featured, News / By Tali

An Ely mum of two battling a degenerative disease that leaves her in debilitating pain and causes life threatening health complications is fundraising for an electric wheelchair so that she can regain some of her independence. Brave Ria Hockey, 34, decided to share her heartbreaking story with Spotted in Ely in the hope that it …

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Mirror fire sparks safety warning

News / By Tali

A fire sparked by sunlight beaming onto a mirror in Witchford has prompted the Fire Service to remind homeowners about potential fire hazards cause by everyday household items. The owners of the Main Street property returned to their smoke-filled home yesterday to find the smoke alarms sounding. A vanity mirror left on a dressing room …

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Witchford College Kick-Ash, a message to everyone that Smoking Kills

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

As part of their Kick-Ash programme, Witchford Village College Kick-Ash Mentors were invited to participate in a graffiti project at Witcham Village Hall on Saturday 21st January 2017. Mentors from all ten Kick-Ash participating schools across Cambridgeshire are invited to participate in the 2017 Kick Ash Graffiti Event. The day was run by Kick-Ash staff …

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Charity “overwhelmed” by generosity to children’s Christmas gift appeal

News / By Tali

A charity supporting struggling families has been “overwhelmed” by people’s kindness towards local children in need in the run up to Christmas. Beauty salon Pure Ely collected donations of children’s gifts before Christmas on behalf of Home-Start Cambridgeshire, which supports hundreds of families each year. The presents were then handed out to youngsters by Father …

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Firefighters honoured at prestigious ceremony

News / By Tali

Two Soham firemen and a Burwell firefighter have been recognised for their long service to the Fire Service during a prestigious awards ceremony. Soham crew commander Giles Fuller and firefighter David Hobbs both received the Long Service and Good Conduct medal, awarded after completing 20 years’ long and meritorious service to the fire and rescue …

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Ely College Students learn about healthy choices during first PLEDGES day

instant_articles, News / By Tali

Ely College students took time out from their regular studies last week to focus on their health instead, as part of their first ever PLEDGES and Futures Day. PLEDGES are a set of challenges that students are expected to complete during the course of their time at the college. By completing certain sets of challenges, …

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Winter Festival Beer List Revealed

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Many hundreds of keen real ale drinkers descend on Ely this weekend as the Maltings hosts the 8th Winter Beer Festival run by Ely CAMRA. The doors open to the public on Friday at 10:30am to 10pm and on Saturday 10:30am to 8pm. Entry is just £2 or Free to CAMRA members. This list may …

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Commuter misery after potato truck overturns on A10

News / By Mark Cooney

Daily commuters by car to Cambridge were faced with long delays as they woke to find the A10 closed between Stretham and Waterbeach. The articulated lorry was carrying a full load of potatoes in sacks along the major roadway between Cambridge and Ely at approximately 4:30 this morning and came off the highway at a …

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Ely Post Office re-opens after almost a week

Featured, News, Villages & Towns / By Tali

The issues that caused Ely Post Office to be mysteriously closed this week have now been resolved, according to the Costcutter’s owner and the Post Office. A Post Office spokeswoman told Spotted in Ely that the company is trying to find a “permanent solution for Ely”. At 1pm today (Friday), the Costcutter shop at Central …

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Mercury Spillage Closes Market Street but No Concerns to Public Safety

News / By Mark Cooney

The Cambridgeshire Fire Service from Ely Station were called to Page Jewellers on Market Street at around 4.45pm today after a Mercury Spillage within the store. 2 firefighters with breathing apparatus entered the evacuated store and made safe the dangerous element and it is now bagged. At no time did anyone make contact and did …

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Raving AND behaving at Clubbercise Ely – a workout with a difference!

Featured, News / By Tali

Banging tunes, glow sticks, funky moves… Anyone entering Treetops Soft Play on Monday would be forgiven for thinking they’d just wondered into a hot new club. But those planning to take part in Clubbercise Ely’s opening night on January 23 will be raving AND behaving, getting a wicked workout while dancing to some old school …

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Ely's only Post Office mysteriously shut, permanent postmaster STILL not found exclusive

Featured, News / By Tali

Post Office customers in Ely have been shocked that the city’s only branch has been mysteriously shut since yesterday. Meanwhile a permanent postmaster has STILL not been found for Ely – eight months after the last one lost his contract. Yesterday (Monday) morning a notice went up in the Costcutter in Ely, saying “problem with …

Ely's only Post Office mysteriously shut, permanent postmaster STILL not found **exclusive** Read More »

Have your say on major expansion plans throughout East Cambs

Featured, News, Villages & Towns / By Tali

How do you feel about 11,400 new homes being built across East Cambridgeshire in the next 19 years? That’s one of the proposals set forward by East Cambridgeshire District Council, which yesterday launched its second public consultation to hear public views on its draft Local Plan. The plan also says Soham’s town centre is “under …

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Long-running Sutton playgroup to close

News / By Tali

A long-running Sutton playgroup has announced it will close next month due to a lack of public support. Scamps babies and toddler’s playgroup, which meets at the Brooklands Centre on Wednesday mornings, yesterday announced on its Facebook page that the group would not continue beyond February. “Further to our meeting this morning and due to …

Long-running Sutton playgroup to close Read More »

Controversial construction on Barton Road to start next month

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

The controversial construction of 11 properties on Ely’s Barton Road is one step closer, with building due to start next month. Coaches visiting the city will no longer be able to use the long stay parking spaces near the city centre and will instead be urged to use a new coach parking facility near Witchford. …

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Tributes paid to brave Brinkley man killed in horror crash

instant_articles, News / By Tali

The family of a Brinkley man tragically killed in an horrific crash last week have paid tribute to his courage, determination and desire to “make a difference”. Chris Clements, 40, was travelling in a wheelchair close to the road at about 2.25pm last Wednesday (January 5) when he was involved in a collision with a …

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Bar-ology alive and kicking despite bizarre rumours circulated in local paper

Featured, News / By Mark Cooney

Bar-ology is here to stay and expand claims Rob Gilkes, owner of Ely’s newest late night cocktail bar. Despite a bizarre news article published today by a local newspaper on their website, the venue on Forehill is not closing, selling or changing its name in any way. In fact, it has plans to expand. Liquid …

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Back Hill WILL be gritted if temperature falls below zero – but grit may not stop roads from icing over, council warns

Featured, News / By Tali

Back Hill and other routes in East Cambridgeshire are now back on the winter gritting route, following a major public outcry. As well as reversing its policy on night time street lighting, Cambridgeshire County Council has decided to restore last winter’s gritting routes – but it warns that even gritted roads can become icy in …

Back Hill WILL be gritted if temperature falls below zero – but grit may not stop roads from icing over, council warns Read More »

Residents welcome lighting u-turn but say black spots leave them scared at night

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

“We don’t feel safe anymore”. That’s the message from residents, terrified to venture outside since their neighbourhoods have been plunged into darkness as part of a cost saving plan by Cambridgeshire County Council. As reported by Spotted in Ely, the council has reversed its unpopular policy of turn street lights off at night, following a …

Residents welcome lighting u-turn but say black spots leave them scared at night Read More »

Recognised by Sainsbury for the Voluntary work in the area

Featured / By Mark Cooney

Three employees from Sainsbury’s Ely have been recognised by the company for their work in the community. The large supermarket on Lisle Lane has put up a large photo on the entrance wall with the 3 employees holding a banner with 3000 on it representing the number of charities helped across the UK. Kevin, Sammi …

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Robins on a Season to Remember as they face Shepshed in FA Vase

Featured, News, Sport / By Mark Cooney

What a run of great Football the Robins are having in the Vase this year and let’s hope it continues as Spotted in Ely sponsors the home game for the 4th round against Shepshed Dynamos on January 7th. This will be their 6th game this year in the Vase as they had to play in …

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Zombie firefighters Steal the Show with Diversity on New Year's Day

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

A Witchford dad is among five firefighters to dance alongside Diversity on TV on New Year’s Day after wowing producers with their zombie-themed safety video. Cambridge Black Watch crew commander Jeff Whitlam, 40, will be joining colleagues Myles Strickland, 23, James Ball, 35, Chloe Housden, 26, and Dom Mould, 29 as they perform on Diversity …

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Woman and dog rescued from sluice gate near Prickwillow

Featured, instant_articles, News / By Tali

A dog walker and her pet Collie had a lucky escape after getting stuck in a sluice gate near Prickwillow yesterday (Tuesday). Fire crews from Ely and Cambridge were called to Lark Bank just before 6pm to rescue the woman and her dog after they became trapped in four-and-a-half metre deep water. A specialist team …

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