Merry Christmas Holdingham!!!

I put some Christmas Jokes on this site - see below. Sorry if you have already seen them!

Have a lovely Christmas! Happy New Year as well.

Christmas Card Jokes!

Lock up your vehicles and guard your computers

I received these messages from Neighbourhood Watch. Make sure your vehicles are secure!!

Operation Handbrake and Lighthouse are operations to identify unsecured properties and vehicles.

Over the past week we have found a large amount of vehicles that are not locked and one has been found with the keys still in the vehicle, whilst carrying out a number of checks on vehicle in the Sleaford area on an evening.

There had been an increase in theft from motor vehicles in the Sleaford and Ruskington area's over the last week, so could we please ask that you make sure your vehicles and properties are all locked correctly.

Please make sure you have removed any high value items from your vehicles to a place of safety. Also at this time of year please make sure all Christmas presents are out of sight and away from thieves eyes so we make it as hard as possible for them!!

Message sent by

Patrick Welby-Everard (Support, PCSO NC36 Sleaford Rural South, Sleaford Station)

This is a message from PCSO Craig of Sleaford Town Centre.

Over night from the 15th to 16th December, there have been a number of thefts from insecure vehicles and garages.

Please contact Lincolnshire Police on 101, if you have seen or heard anything suspicious and ensure that all vehicles and property are locked with valuables removed or left in secure places.

 Also

Message sent by


Gill Finn (Police & NHWN, Community Safety Officer, Lincolnshire)

Microsoft Windows Internet Scam
Once again, we are getting reports from members that this Internet scam is again in Lincolnshire.
Scam Details
You receive a phone call stating that you have corrupt files or viruses on your computer and that you should allow access, after making a payment, to enable the caller to remove these files.

When you pay the fee, the caller simply hangs up after not actually doing any updates to your computer.
Please do not allow anyone access to your computer unless you have actually asked for assistance. Once you allow remote access, the caller will be able to copy all the details that you have stored on your system without your realising.

May I also take this opportunely to wish you a Merry Christmas.

 

Neighbourhood Plans? In Holdingham?

The furore,  in the press and on Facebook, over the plans to build many homes, alongside  the London Road, has left the impression that people have no control. Well maybe: but that isn't what the Localism  Act and Neighbourhood Plans would indicate.

Try this site: Neighbourhood Plans.  Will we, as a community be allowed to? And where would the money come from?

See also: Sleaford Neighbourhood Plans

Sleaford and the Twelve Frauds

The police are getting humourous as Christmas Approaches. Outside of their normal serious and dangerous work. 

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has compiled a list of twelve frauds that the bureau suspect criminals may use during the festive period. Please find attached information relating to different frauds and ways to protect yourself:

1) Online Shopping
2) Postal Fraud
3) Auction Fraud
4) Holiday Fraud
5) Electronic "E" Cards
6) Ticketing Fraud
7) Phishing Emails
8) Social Networking
9) Cash Point Fraud
10) Voucher Fraud
11) Card Not Present Fraud
12) Mobile Payments

If you have been a victim of fraud, now or in the past, it is important you report the matter visit Action Fraud website www.actionfraud.police.uk or tel 0300 123 2040.

Diesel Thefts: watch your tank!

I was warned months ago that this type of theft is on the increase and the dangers of parking in Lay-bys.

Here is recent police message:

FOR THE INFORMATION OF ALL FARMERS, BUSINESS USERS OF RED DIESEL FUEL.


On the evening of Sunday 25th November two males were stopped on the B1188 in a Renault Laguna R943SLW in blue the two males in the vehicle are not local people. The vehicle contained several 25 ltr drums of diesel that has clearly been stolen from somewhere. Both males are currently assisting the police with the enquiry.

Have you had red diesel stolen over this weekend? Have you reported it to the police? Have you checked your vehicles/tanks since this weekend?

If you have had diesel stolen please report that matter to the Police. The two males are still in custody and it would be of a great help to the officers involved in the matter if it can be closed with a good result. IE a charge against the two offenders.

Keep Laughing Holdingham! Its the only cure!

I get regular jokes and famous sayings which I realise are popular!

Hope you like these - maybe Sleaford needs them to forget the ASB>

I thought about an age old question: Is giving birth more painful than getting kicked in the Nuts?




Women always maintain that giving birth is way more painful than a guy getting kicked in the nuts.



Well, after some heavy deductive thinking, I have come up with the answer to that question.

Getting kicked in the nuts is more painful than having a baby; and here is the reason for my conclusion:

A year or so after giving birth, a woman will often say, "It might be nice to have another child."

On the other hand, you never hear a guy say, "You know, I think I would like another kick in the nuts."

I rest my case.

If you don't read the newspaper you are uninformed; if you do read the newspaper you are misinformed.

Mark Twain



Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress... But then I repeat myself.

Mark Twain


I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.

-Winston Churchill


A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul.

- George Bernard Shaw


A liberal is someone who feels a great debt to his fellow man, which debt he proposes to pay off with your money.

-G Gordon Liddy


Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting on what to have for dinner.

-James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)


Foreign aid might be defined as a transfer of money from poor people in rich countries to rich people in poor countries.

-Douglas Casey, Classmate of Bill Clinton at Georgetown University



Giving money and power to government is like giving whiskey and car keys to teenage boys.

-P.J. O'Rourke, Civil Libertarian


Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavours to live at the expense of everybody else.

-Frederic Bastiat, French Economist (1801-1850)



Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases:

If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.

-Ronald Reagan (1986)



I don't make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.

-Will Rogers

If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it's free!

-P.J. O'Rourke


In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.

-Voltaire (1764)

Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you!

-Pericles (430 B.C.)

No man's life, liberty, or property is safe while the legislature is in session.

-Mark Twain (1866 )

Talk is cheap...except when Congress does it.

-Unknown

The Government is like a baby's alimentary canal, with a happy appetite at one end and no responsibility at the other.

-Ronald Reagan

The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of the blessings.

The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery.

-Winston Churchill



The only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin.

-Mark Twain

The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools.

-Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)




There is no distinctly Native American criminal class...save Congress.

-Mark Twain

What this country needs are more unemployed politicians.

-Edward Langley, Artist (1928 - 1995)



A government big enough to give you everything you want is strong enough to take everything you have.

-Thomas Jefferson

Sleaford Teacher Training

Sleaford : a Top Place to Train Teachers. I was pleased to see the article in the Sleaford Standard:


Academy to become training centre


With the Grammar School, High School, and all the Primary Schools etc, in Sleaford and District it is something strong to to build on. Who knows: it may start to spread beyond our shores so that the British Culture is re-ignited and adds to the image the Olympics gave the Country. Unlike the trash advert recent exposures have delivered.

Who knows: we may become international!!

Holdingham & Sleaford Recent ASB

Here are a few reports from last week-end. It is that time of year again!

There have been a few incidents over this weekend which we are appealing for information about.

• At approximately 20.30hours on Friday 2 November 2012, the front door window of a property on Tennyson Avenue, Sleaford (Incident 478 02/11/2012 refers) There were also eggs thrown at a property on the same road at 21.10 hours on Sunday 4 November 2012, (Incident 427 04/11/2012 refers).
•  
• The wing mirrors of two parked vehicles were kicked off sometime overnight Friday 2 - Saturday 3 November 2012. One of the vehicles was parked on Castle Causeway, Sleaford (Incident 92 03/11/2012 refers) and the other vehicle was parked on Westbanks, Sleaford (Incident 96 03/11/2012 refers).
•  
• At approximately 0300 hours on Saturday 3 November 2012, a group of youths were seen causing damage to properties, paving slabs and plant pots on Greenfield Road, Sleaford (Incident 204 03/11/2012).
•  
• At approximately 20.30 hours on Saturday 3 November 2012, a group of youths were witnessed setting off fireworks on Boston Road Recreation Ground, Sleaford. Police attended to deal with the youths but they had already left the area (Incident 403 03/11/2012 refers)
•  
• If you have any information on any of the above incidents or saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area, please contact Lincolnshire Police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting the relevant incident number. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
•  
•  

Sleaford Neighbourhood Policing Team

Care Home and Housing alongside A17

Holdingham's potentially rising Population

I see the planning application for Holdingham Farms LLP is on the agenda. The oriinal consultation It says. These developments will be (when they happen!) to the east side of the Farm Bridge and Cycle Track that has been opened to allow access across the A17.

November 7th is the Town Council date. What needs to be ensured, amongst others, is that:

1. Access is available without blocking the min-roundabout
2. Recreation facilities are sufficient!
3. The homes, houses are not affected by flood issues (there are maps showing potential problems).
4. The homes/care Centre are of good quality and with amenities.
5. The earlier suiggestion of a waste food collection point near Pride Parkway does not affect the environment (Ihope the plan is scrapped).
6. Sleaford Wood, a bit further on, is not used as a dog toilet and littered.
7. There is accessto Pride Parkway without going back onto the Holdingham Roundabout.
8. Residents, already living here,  are not overlooked and suffer future ASB.
9. Bus routes are available.

And many more!

Keeping our Neighbourhood Safe!

Crime: Holdingham into Sleaford!

I always keep checking on how we are doing to keep our Neighbourhod a safe place to be! So what better place to start than with the latest Crime Statistics. What has reignited my interest is a report to the Town Council of the recent Annual General Meeting of the Sleaford & District Neighbourhood Watch!

Interest seems to be picking up due in part  to the improved means of accessing relevant data on how we are doing and where!

Crime Watch

Other information is available on Alert!

Holdingham Mead / Lane Bus Stop & Shelter

Here is the final version sent to me by Highways. Hope it stays as good as it looks. Many thanks Paul Swalesof Highways for the photo!

He sent the following message:

I am pleased to inform you that the bus shelter at Holdingham has now been installed, together with a hard-standing area, raised kerbs (to make getting on and alighting from buses easier) and road markings for the bus-stop. Please see the attached photographs.

Retail Development Sleaford and Holdingham

Interestingly the downturn is concentrating minds more and more on where and how Retail Outlets sell their wares.

As the North end of Sleaford Town develops, as well as the southern part south of the Railway crossing, competition and positioming will intensify to attract the increased number of shoppers.

It may even affect the desire to build large Supermarkets but instead down-size to the smaller Aldi's of this world or say One Stop (a part of the Tesco brand).

Here is one article supporting this idea!

Aldi's posts increased sales

Internet and Retail Outlets

Holdingham, and Sleaford, will be affected one way or another! Thisi smy take on all of this! It is already happening.

Sleaford : Leasingham Farm Bridge Opening

Via Holdingham of course!

The Farm Bridge was officially opened today (22 September) at around 10.30 am. Lots of photographs: here is one including Debbie Scott preparing to cut the tape. 

New Bus Shelter!?

Update: This application has now been made but Town Councillors have asked for a meeting to discuss issues of siting and the potential dangers if buses have to reverse into Furlong Way! A Meeting with Highways is  scheduled for next week. Around the 18/9.

------------------------------------------------------

I understand there is serious talk about a bus stop/shelter opposite the new Housing Estate near the mini-Roundabout.  It will need the approval of the Town Council and the Road Safety Partnership (I presume). Remember the original one was on the Lincoln Road near and Opposite Stokes Drive. That was started and then abandoned.

All this should have been done long ago when the plans for the development were made.  How the buses will turn I don't know. Perhaps they will have to back in and out of Furlong Way!?

19 September

I will check.

Road Works; Lincoln & York Road Holdingham

I have taken this photo, at the end of York Road, this morning 5th September. The road is cut off to traffic and vehicles will have to get to the Lincoln Road via the Jubilee entrance. The road works are behind scedule and, as I understand, the road will remain closed for a few days yet. Other works are taking place further down towards Millfield Terrace and Tennyson Avenue.

Keeping Holdingham Lane Clean

I was pleasantly surprised when walking down Holdingham Lane East (adjacent to Winchester Way).

It was looking pleasantly clean. I had a quick look in the Becs and, unless the rubbish is being hidden behind the growth, there didn't appear to be too much litter.

This was a bit in contrast to the Farm Bridge where there were pockets of litter especially near the benches (beer cans, take-away leftovers etc)  Otherwise that too is/was better than my previous visit.

Biking ASB - Real or Imaginary? Holdingham & Sleaford

I received this today. See below in bold. It is not new and I have received complaints from those affected! In my case it was the Trial Bikes being used at Holdingham- on the new footpath and Bridge that leads to Leasingham. John Pinchbeck in the Target seems to be suggesting it is something all lads do - so why should the PCSO's be wasting their time. However they are not insured and not wearing protective gear and it is a footpath.


I half agree though in this context: maybe as a Town we shoud be looking at ways of providing proper biking facilities - assuming those causing the offenses would use them. Unfortunately it too would cost money and be a problem wherever such facilities were installed. All NK and LCC seem to want to do is build houses.

Good Afternoon from the Sleaford Neighbourhood Policing Team.


We are having issues of youths driving off-road, uninsured motorbikes on public footpaths around The Drove, Newfield Road and Holdingham areas of Sleaford and towards Rauceby Village. These youths are not wearing proper protective gear and are not abiding by the law. We are actively trying to tackle this issue, however we need people to call in when this is happening so that we can build up a picture of when this is happening and pre-empt their actions.

Your help, by calling us on 101 should you see any occurrences of this, will be most appreciated.

Thank you from PCSO Jaki Smith 2321

 

Come on Holdingham: we need facilities for Sport

I thought I might as well follow the trend. Facebook and Sleafordchat are all about the Olympics. Good or bad! From the reaction it is good for the UK. But what have we got in Holdingham except plans for more housing?

I suppose there is the Cycle ways to Leasingham and into Sleaford: and I see that work has started on the Lincoln Road but it will be meagre.

Trial Bike Racing

A report was received by Lincolnshire Police at approx 17:50hrs on the 06/08/12 that trial bikes were racing around the Furlong Way area of Holdingham, Sleaford and the new footpath which leads to Leasingham, causing a noise nuisance to local Residents.

This includes, for clarification, the new footpath & Cycle path over the Farm Bridge Holdingham which is to be officially opened on September 22nd.


Highways have been informed I understand.

 

More Road Works A17 Holdingham Sleaford

I also received this planning information for September.

Road Closure: A17 Sleaford bypass (Holdingham to Kirkby La Thorpe) 19/09/2012 to 21/09/2012. Alternative Route Local diversion routes & access arrangements will be signposted.

On my reckoning there is a 2 day overlap between this work and the period of road improvements on the A15 bit. See previous Blog.

Holdingham Roundabout to A15 Problems Ahead

I received this informationabout September works near the Holdingham Roundabout.

Road Closure: Roundabout to Old Lincoln Road, Leasingham. Date times 3/09/2012 to 21/09/2012

Alternative Route A17, Sleaford Road, A607, B1202 & A15.

Here is map reference.   Right at the start of the new School term.

This map (albiet designed for Neighbourhood Watch) may also be useful!!

More Bogus Callers! Holdingham & Sleaford

I received this via The LIncolnshire Police & Community Safety Officer

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue are warning residents to be on guard when dealing with callers at the door, following reports of two incidents where uniformed bogus callers stated they had come to check smoke alarms in a property. The callers have been wearing old-style blue fire uniforms.


Official Fire and Rescue employees will only call following a pre-arranged appointment and will always carry ID and be wearing the correct uniform. Always check that ID is valid and, if in any doubt whatsoever, do not allow visitors into your home.

Contact Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue on 01522 582222 for advice on matters relating to home fire safety. Call Lincolnshire Police on 101 to report any suspicious doorstep activity in your area.


Message sent by Gillian Fleet (Police & NHWN, Community Safety Officer, Lincolnshire)

Little Johnny

You gotta love him!
Teacher: If I gave you 2 cats and another 2 cats and another 2, how many will you have?
Johnny: Seven, Sir.
Teacher: No, listen carefully.

If I gave you 2 cats, and another 2 cats and another 2, how many will you have?

Johnny: Seven
Teacher: Let me put it to you differently.

If I gave you 2 apples, and another 2 apples and another 2, how many will you have?
Johnny: Six.Teacher: Good. Now if I gave you 2 cats, and another 2 cats and another 2,
how many will you have?
Johnny: Seven!!!
A very angry Teacher: Where in the hell do you get seven from?!?!?
A very angry Johnny: Because,....I've already got a cat !!!




 

Holdingham ASB Crime and more

I have been checking the latest crime figures for Sleaford and Holdingham in particular. Compared to some other areas: Lincoln and Boston (see below)  for example we are faring reasonably well. I used to be able to break it down specifically for the Sleaford Wards but these are slightly more general. However there may be some ASB which is not picked up. Poor road parking, litter and damage to play equipment for example.

For the Holdingham and nearby (1 mile radius) the statistics are at: Crime Map! Wider than that put in your postcode.

To get other data go to Crime Map Boston for example. All in all we are not too bad.

Door to Door Cold Callers Holdingham

I received this message yesterday. There have been callers of this nature within Holdingham over the last week or so!

Message from Lincolnshire Police  Community Safety Department: Monday 09/07/12.

"Please be aware that we have seen an increase in the number of door to door “duster salesmen” across the county. They often operate illegally without the appropriate pedlars certificates and are opportunist thieves.

If you can, check who it is at your door before opening it. If you don’t know them don’t open the door. We would advise that you do not engage in conversation with them and certainly do not buy anything from them. Despite what they say they are not reformed criminals working for probation, they are active criminals and will enter your home and steal what they can given the smallest chance.
If you have any elderly / vulnerable neighbours please speak with them and help us to keep them safe.
Please report any incidents or suspicious person(s) immediately to Lincolnshire Police Force Control Room, Tel 101.
Thank you."

I hope this is of help!!

 

How not to Put Pressure on Someone!

The household has been taken over by Tennis this last day or two. The Wimbledon Finals are with us: rain affected and were getting hysterical. A Brit was a winner on the Saturday: 

"Jonny Marray became Britain's first men's doubles champion at Wimbledon for 76 years and hoped his success would inspire Andy Murray to glory."
He entered through a wild card (as they call it) and made it to the Title. No pressure, no one expected him to get that far let alone win.

Andy Murray was one such contestant who could probably have done without all the pressure he got. It's good to support but the headlines were a bit over the top. Here are the Sunday Newspaper Headlines.

•  Murray Mania
• Murray’s £50M Racket
• Murray’s £100M Prize if he wins Wimbledon
• Murray’s Moment
• Andy Make our Day
• We’re All Praying for You Andy
• Now’s the Day, Now’s the Hour! (a nation at fever pitch as Andy Murray seeks to lay to rest a 76 year hoodoo)
• Come on my Son! (Andy can do it in the final says his dad!)

 Well done Andy Murray and well done the final winner, and Wimbledon Champion, Roger Federer

Lincoln Road Cycleway into Sleaford

The local Newspaper (Sleaford Standard) is covering the story of the new Cycleway and improvements.

Fine but I have added the comment that it will still need co-operatin and good practice (mannes) to ensure no-one gets hurt. The sdifficult bit will still be the bit between LIDL and the Carre Grammar School.

Olympic Torch comes to Lincoln Road

It was a good day: the crowds turned out and so did the sun. I have blogged this also on SleafordChat (one word) so I won't repeat it all. I went to Boston Road and then ran round to Northgate and followed it up the Lincoln Road.

But it was nice to see the turnout: the only complaint I have heard, and agree with, is that people still leave lots of litter around.

Having said that - great day and the sun shined on Sleaford - unlike Grantham the next day!!

Petrol Pump Prices

Post Note 5 July: Crude has crept up in the last week to around 100$/barrel. It will be interesting to see how fast pump prices respond to this!

Post Note: Planned fuel duty increase delayed until January 2013.

Brent Crude had fallen to 90$/barrel this afternoon which is significantly down from 3 - 6 months ago. Prices at the pump are also dropping.

The AA has a report out (a few days old) showing the impact on Pump Prices. It is not all good news as these price falls mean that economic activity worldwide is down and/or production is outstripping demand. Our own revenues fall as a result.

Nevertheless: enjoy it whilst it lasts.

Petrol Prices

Post Note: Cheapest prices I saw today: between Sleaford and Leicester was - Unleaded 126.7p and Diesel 131.7. Several others were below 130p for Unleaded. So Sleaford is still on the high side generally.
Lets see if this Headline http://uk.news.yahoo.com/supermarket-slash-fuel-prices-122529694.html is repeated here!
-------------------------------------------------------------

 The world spot prices for crude oil have dropped quite smartly over recent days and weeks. Brent Crude is now down to 90$/Barrel. The AA Price guide shows prices down below £1.40 perlitre of both unleaded and Diesel. Often near £1.30 and if trends continue should drop further. It is not all good news as this means over-supply or lack of demand internationally or both. i.e maybe a downturn in Economic Activity.

Enjoy it whilst it lasts.

When Insults Had Class

These glorious insults are from an era before the English language changed to 4-letter words.

The exchange between Churchill & Lady Astor:

She said, "If you were my husband I'd give you poison."

He said, "If you were my wife, I'd drink it."
=================================================
"He had delusions of adequacy."

Walter Kerr
===============================================
"He has all the virtues I dislike and none of the vices I admire.

Winston Churchill

===============================================
"I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure."

Clarence Darrow
=============================================
"He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary."

William Faulkner (about Ernest Hemingway).
==============================================
"Thank you for sending me a copy of your book; I'll waste no time reading it."
- Moses Hadas
===============================================
"I didn't attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it."

- Mark Twain
=================================================
"He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends.."

Oscar Wilde
==================================================
"I am enclosing two tickets to the first night of my new play; bring a friend.... if you have one."

George Bernard Shaw to Winston Churchill
===================================================
"Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second .... if there is one."

Winston Churchill's response
====================================================
"I feel so miserable without you; it's almost like having you here."

Stephen Bishop
=================================================
"He is a self-made man and worships his creator."

John Bright
==================================================
"I've just learned about his illness. Let's hope it's nothing trivial.."

Irvin S. Cobb
====================================================
"He is not only dull himself; he is the cause of dullness in others."

Samuel Johnson
===================================================
"He is simply a shiver looking for a spine to run up."

Paul Keating
==================================================
"In order to avoid being called a flirt, she always yielded easily."

Charles, Count Talleyrand
==================================================
"He loves nature in spite of what it did to him."

Forrest Tucker
==================================================
"Why do you sit there looking like an envelope without any address on it?"

Mark Twain
==================================================
"His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork."

Mae West
====================================================
"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.."

Oscar Wilde
=====================================================
"He uses statistics as a drunken man uses lamp-posts ... for support rather than illumination."

Andrew Lang (1844-1912)
======================================================
"He has Van Gogh's ear for music."

Billy Wilder
======================================================
"I've had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn't it."

Groucho Marx

Fields in Trust Status: could Holdingham benefit?

Post Note: At least it is now in the open and has hit the local newspaper. It is slightly ironic that suddenly County Councillors and the local MP are against spoiling the landscape with Wind Farms but seem mute on damage to the appearance of the place when it comes to Sleaford and immedite surroundings. Anyway we will see how this develops.
-----------------------------------------------------

It looks as though a visit by Fields in Trust is on the cards! This hopefully will help explain things and reassure Councillors on issues that have arisen. Todays Sleaford Standard covers the story so at last things are out in the open.


With the Queens Diamond Jubilee celebrations upon us it seems an appropriate time to look at one aspect of the celebrations that might impact on Sleaford. For this Blog I refer to Holdingham in particular. I am referring to the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge  , and Fields in Trust, which may (or may not) be a good way to protect our open spaces and play areas. Lincoln Road and Woodside are our main areas that fit the bill but others may arise in the future as the area develops.
 I have covered the topic on  Sleafordchat but other open spaces within Sleaford should be looked at.

News Headlines to make you laugh

I know that jokes or humour in general gets many views on this Blog. So here goes - as sent to me by ex work colleague!!

 

Here are some genuine New Headlines that turned out to look funny when in print. However one or two may not have seemed funny to some!!!

ACTUAL NEWS HEADLINES FROM AROUND THE WORLD



-PLANE TOO CLOSE TO GROUND, CRASH PROBE TOLD

Surprisingly, this is a common cause of plane crashes.

-SOMETHING WENT WRONG IN JET CRASH, EXPERT SAYS

No, really? Ya think?

-DRUNK GETS NINE MONTHS IN VIOLIN CASE

Sounds uncomfortable.

-POLICE BEGIN CAMPAIGN TO RUN DOWN JAYWALKERS

Now that's taking things a bit far!

-PANDA MATING FAILS; VETERINARIAN TAKES OVER

Let's hope he can do it!

-SQUAD HELPS DOG BITE VICTIM

I'm pretty sure there's a law against that.

-MINERS REFUSE TO WORK AFTER DEATH

No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so's!

-JUVENILE COURT TO TRY SHOOTING DEFENDANT

If all else fails...

-WAR DIMS HOPE FOR PEACE

I can see where it might have that effect!

-TEACHER STRIKES IDLE KIDS

Probably shouldn't have been standing there.

-IF STRIKE ISN'T SETTLED QUICKLY, IT MAY LAST A WHILE


Ya think?!

-NEVER WITHHOLD HERPES INFECTION FROM LOVED ONE

Sharing is caring.

-COLD WAVE LINKED TO TEMPERATURES

Who would have thought!

-END TO FREE SCHOOL LOOMS

Long past due in my opinion.

-EYE DROPS OFF SHELF

Poor vision blamed.


-BRITISH LEFT WAFFLES ON FALKLAND ISLANDS

How dare they!?

-REAGAN WINS ON BUDGET, BUT MORE LIES AHEAD

That’s how politics works isn't it?

-RED TAPE HOLDS UP NEW BRIDGES


You mean there's something stronger than duct tape? Oklahoma's new construction program!

-SOVIET VIRGIN LANDS SHORT OF GOAL AGAIN

Well it's not something you should rush. First time should be special right?

-MAN STRUCK BY LIGHTNING: FACES BATTERY CHARGE

He probably IS the battery charge!

-PROSTITUTES APPEAL TO POPE

He is human after all.

-KILLER SENTENCED TO DIE FOR SECOND TIME IN 10 YEARS

Are they going to dig him up...?

-NEW STUDY OF OBESITY LOOKS FOR LARGER TEST GROUP

Weren't they fat enough?!

-IRAQI HEAD SEEKS ARMS

Can't be greedy about these things.

-ASTRONAUT TAKES BLAME FOR GAS IN SPACECRAFT

That's what he gets for eating those beans!

-FARMER BILL DIES IN HOUSE

Poor Bill.

-TWO SOVIET SHIPS COLLIDE, ONE DIES

Poor little ship.

-KIDS MAKE NUTRITIOUS SNACKS

Do they taste like chicken?

-SURVIVOR OF SIAMESE TWINS JOINS PARENTS

Old habits die hard I guess.

-LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL DROPOUTS CUT IN HALF

Chainsaw Massacre all over again!

-SAFETY EXPERTS SAY SCHOOL BUS PASSENGERS SHOULD BE BELTED


A bit harsh maybe...

-HOSPITAL SUED BY 7 FOOT DOCTORS


Boy, are they tall!

-STOLEN PAINTING FOUND BY TREE


I didn’t even realise the tree was looking.

-LUNG CANCER IN WOMEN MUSHROOMS

Can you still eat them...?

-TYPHOON RIPS THROUGH CEMETERY; HUNDREDS DEAD

Did I read that right?

-SHOT OFF WOMAN'S LEG HELPS NICKLAUS TO 66

Where do I get one??

Rod Whiting on Holdingham

The BBC Radio Breakfast Rod Whiting show last Wednesday (23 May), brought up, once again, the proposed developments in Sleaford: 4000 houses plus, new Care Home/Dementia Centre, Health Centres etc etc. Not new: it was a rehash of the Sleaford Master Plan.  I think it has (now/soon)  been removed/out of date (will be after 30 May)and not available on the IPlayer. They contacted me to be available: but it all seemed premature, at this stage, and I didn't get involved.

However the 8.05a.m  broadcast had interviews wiith residents and with NK Officers and Highways. Those interviewed stressed that they are just plans at this stage and a consultation period has just ended. It still leaves many questions to be answered: floodplane, archeological protection et al. What all these plans still miss (this one talked about the Dementia Centre and 230 homes of which 40% will be affordable - whatever that means in practice) is the impact of such homes, near the A17, will have on resources and infrastructure. Those interviewed seemed content with this level of growth but unfortunately it is a fraction of what is proposed for the next 20-25 years.

With Biofuel lorries adding to the congestion of the A17 bypass - the extra traffic that these homes, and more, will generate will help block a vital transport link between Newark and Boston. No wonder they are desperately looking for a southern route around Sleaford to take the extra traffic from Greylees and  proposed and existing developments!

We are in for a long haul I am afraid!

Jokes to make Holdingham and Sleaford Laugh

We need a cheer me up. 

On the Supermarket PA system: 'Clean up on aisle 25, we have a husband down.'


Husband Down
A husband and wife are shopping in their local ASDA
The husband picks up a case of Guinness and puts it in their trolley.
'What do you think you're doing?' asks the wife.
'They're on sale, only £10 for 18 cans he replies.
'Put them back, we can't afford them' demands the wife, and so they carry on shopping.
A few aisles further on along the woman picks up a £20 jar of face cream and puts it in the basket.
'What do you think you're doing?' asks the husband.
'It’s my face cream. It makes me look beautiful,' replies the wife.
Her husband retorts: 'So does 18 cans of Guinness and it's half the price.'

He never knew what hit him.

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Pure logic


This is a story which is perfectly logical:
A wife asks her husband,
"Could you please go shopping for me and buy one carton of milk,
and if they have eggs, get 6."

A short time later the husband comes back with 6 cartons of milk.
The wife asks him, "Why did you buy 6 cartons of milk?"
He replied, "They had eggs."

Did you get  it? Read it again if you didn't!


Cheers - more to come!

Holdingham Local Planning?

My fellow local Councillor for Holdingham, Ken Fernandes, has sent me the information below.
Whether or not readers feel it is all the fault of the local District Council I leave to you to decide. However the issues of local empowerment need to be addressed- here and across Sleaford. 

It comes at a timely moment when we are, in Holdingham, being asked questions about developments under the Town master Plan.  It all about empowering ourselves.

Note: the figure of 174 trees is an issue! This value appears to change and has done so for the last 9 years that I have been on the Town Council.

Local Planning

It has come to my attention that:-


The National Association of Local Councils(NALC) requesting support for a motion to be put forward regarding planning applications.

As you are all aware, currently there is no right for parish/town councils to lodge any appeal regarding planning decisions, and this is a move by NALC to change this position, following representations made by other County Associations on the matter.

Remember “planned closure of Sleaford rail crossing”; the future loss of 174 protected trees in the Boston Road Recreation Ground for access to the NEW mega TESCO with a time limited car park; loss of Car parks in the centre of Sleaford town (25 yrs.plan); Over development/S&H concerns overlooked by NKDC. No concern over “The well being of residents.” Especially the mobility challenged because of age or other reasons. Not forgetting building new houses for imported residents from Nottingham and other cities with no infrastructure/water planning or jobs to sustain this development. Funnelling traffic through the centre of Sleaford Town. All Plans approved by the elected Conservative majority in NKDC.

If any residents/councillors would like to support this initiative, please write to your local MPS to ask for your support of the Early Day Motion (EDM) on Planning Appeals, being sponsored by Martin Caton, MP. http://www.parliament.uk/edm/2010-12/2824 before 17 May 2012.


Ken Fernandes

Holdingham Sleaford ward councillor (Lincolnshire Independent)

Admin5@kens.1to1.org

Holdingham Dementia Centre and Beyond!

I, and many others, received information about the proposed Dementia Centre and a housing development plus a Health Centre and including some open space.

The site(s) are along the A17 from the Farm Bridge Cycle Lane down towards Pride Parkway/East Road - but as yet not suggesting where it would meet retail development.

The wording states: The Sleaford Masterplan has identified a number of sites with development potential around the town. One of the parcels is to the south of the A17 Sleaford bypass to the east of MacDonalds and the Nottinghamshire Community Housing Association scheme. I have known about these potential developments for some time: as have many others.

On April 26th, at Hockmeyers garage between 12 noon and 7pm, the plans will be available.

Fly Tipping

If anyone gets reports, or sees, Fly-Tipping in our area then do not hesitate to report it. One or two people have mentioned instances to me in Holdingham.

Environmental Health would seem a good place to start. It needs stopping as soon as possible and those responsible caught. The police/Community Support Officers also should be informed: as it is a ciminal offence.

Press Release: affecting Holdingham & Sleaford

Pages 1 and 3 of the Sleaford Standard (21st March) have a story relating to the threat of compulsory purchase of the required land for the Road through the recreation ground. 

 I will provide a link when available. The comments by the leader of the Town Council are very valid. Here is the link!

As I've mentioned previously: things will start happening soon.

Watch out for a press release appearing in the local papers anytime now - maybe this week! It will impact on the Sleaford Regeneration plan.

Sleaford Train Access?

Or no easy train access!

Much of the week has been dominated by meetings relating to the Southgate Station crossing and Mareham Lane. This will have an effect on Holdingham.

Here is the link!

Sleaford Link Road through Recreation Ground

So it has come back in the news: these are the minutes of the recent NKDC Planning Committee on the subject. Sleaford (Boston Road) Recreation Ground Link Road. Stamina is required to read this but worth the effort just to see what goes on - and the effort and cost put into it.

Other issues like the Southgate railway crossing, and associated Traffic flows down Mareham lane still need to be addressed!

Leadenham Recycling

I was pleased to read in the local Newspaper that the proposal to close the Leadenham Recycling Centre had been shelved. At least this will take pressure off the others: as the closure would probably have had an impact on Sleaford.

So the pressure has helped and well done to all Sleaford Councillors, and embers of the public,  for pointing out the folly of the original proposal.

Leasingham to Sleaford via Holdingham Cycle Route

I informed the Sleaford Town Council this week on the progress of this project.

I have to say that this group has worked well and the finish is in site. Its importance will be even greater as the A17 traffic increases if,  as expected, the eastward bound Biofuel lorries from the Biofuel plant near Kirkby La Thorpe, have to firstly travel west to the Holdingham Roundabout. However: that is a year or
two away yet.

The portait benches which, at a distance, look like real people, consist of the figures of Oliver Harding; Nev Craine and Mark Gould and have now officially been opened.

Solar Lighting contracts have been finalised and they will be installed shortly. The precise locations for the lights, and a date for installation, have yet to be decided.

All this to be completed to meet the deadline for the for funding from the Big Lottery at the end of March 2013!

So the target date for completion is August 2012: this will ensure it can start to draw down all of the funding in September 2012 (third quarter) to give plenty of time for the Big Lottery deadline.

All the designs for the works will be signed off by Sustrans before the 31st March 2012 (some works have been done already or will be done before then such as the resurfacing in Leasingham village etc)

An official opening is planned for September/October 2012.

As mentioned before: The required funding/to create a cycle lane, across the Galley Hill Railway Line, appears to have stalled! Oh, and by the way, Biofuel lorries leaving the Biofuel plant in a couple of years or so, when it is completed, will mostly travel westwards before going round the Holdingham roundabout. Even those travelling east! So more need to use the Farm Bridge!

Champion of Grot Spots?

Anyway this made it ontop the Sleaford Standard: Litter
Update 4 Feb: I am pleased to see that one side (LIDL side)  has now been cleared including all the undergrowth! It looks much better but how to keep it that way is another matter.

At the moment Councillors are looking at Grot Spots and the like, around Sleaford Town.
Here is an eyesore: just look down Galley Hill and see the litter that has accumulated down there. Both sides.

Hopefully it will be cleared soon but no doubt, unless there is a drastic change in lay-out of the area, and attitudes to litter change, then it will continue.

Public Toilets and Rubbish

There were two reports in todays papers relating to public provision of services. One was about the availability of a public loo in Moneys Yard and the other was a report of the fly-tipping that goes on around North Kesteven.
At the moment councillors are involved in an exercise to reveal all the grot spots in Sleaford (areas where prople drop litter and costs a fortune to remove). Galley Hill is one. Fly tipping is on the increase in NK and this is impacting on the quality of life and also costs money (our money) to remove. We have a problem: who is causing it I cannot say but I have my suspicions at generally.

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The news says that a cheer went up at a local meeting when it was announced that the Moneys Yard toilets were not closing. Not quite as I understand the intention, in the longer term, is to develop Moneys Yard for someting else.

The present ones will need renovation at some stage, as all such facilities do: so as a Town we need to look at the long term and decide when and where we are to provide such facilities.
 
Keep an eye on these as measures, maybe drastic, may need to be taken.

New Year: Old Memories

(Latest: the Wednesday local press seem to confirm an about change on the Moneys Yard toilets). Ok but let's see if there is a concession  required)

Well let's see if this year is going to be better than everyone is expecting. Nationally we have the Olympics and the Diamond Jubillee.

 For Sleaford there is a strong rumour that the Moneys Yard toilet may be spared the axe. I will keep you posted.

Secondly I am on a nostalgia trip of David Bowie: he is now 65 so I have been looking at my Videos and You tube stuff of his old hits. Here is the link to my other Blog.  He is one of our most outstanding pop idols.

http://www.blogstoday.co.uk/BlogHome.aspx?username=JohnC