< Previous30 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYHunted almost to extinction for its elegant frock of feathers,the great crested grebe has made the comeback of a lifetimeand is now a regular fixture on waterbodies across the country.With its variety of aquatic options, Lincolnshire is a wateryhaven and, as the county’s numerous bird watchers andamateur photographers can attest, that can only be a goodthing. Unlike other diving birds, the great crested grebe is markedout by its plume and ruff of vivid orangefeathers, tipped in black like a flowerarrangement in a renaissance painting. If itseems at home on the water’s surface thanit’s only because diving to the depthsprovides escape as well as nourishment.Taking off can be a lumbering process, andducking out of danger is a much easieralternative. With a plume this grandiose, it only makessense that its mating ritual is every bit as lavish. For any whothinks a bottle of wine and a foot rub was the limits ofcourtship, then take note. The grebe will rise out of the water,shaking its head with a bouquet of weeds in its bill in anelaborate display of carnal prowess. Typically 3-5 eggs will beThe largest and most impressive grebe, this majestic animal is a common siteacross the county, but it wasn’t always so. LincolnshirewildlifePHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/PAWEL PAWLAKPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/COLIN EDWARDS WILDSIDElaid, and the black and white striped younglings are oftencarried on the adult’s back, despite being perfectly capableof diving and swimming almost from hatching. Breedingseason whips up again in April, where its winter plumage willonce again erupt in voluptuous colour, so cameras at theready. It makes its digs from waterweeds, which form a sort ofplatform that floats on the ebbs and flows of the water. Thewater’s edge is preferable as its legs are furtherback than other bird species, making walkingon land more like a Laurel and Hardy sketch.On the water, it has all the sustenance itrequires, helping itself to an all you can eat fishbuffet. It sometimes even opts for horderves ofcrustaceans, insects and small frogs. The efforts of the RSPB have helped torestore this beautiful bird to a common site,and forever serve as a cautionary tale for thewhims of fashion and complacency. With that in mind, it’sprobably best not to take the great crested grebe for granted,and pop down the local waterway on the weekend. Withgrebes ditching colder corners of Europe from the UK instead,they’re at their peak until March. With a plume thisgrandiose, it onlymakes sense that itsmating ritual is everybit as lavish30-31_Layout 1 25/01/2016 12:31 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY11PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/BMJ30-31_Layout 1 25/01/2016 12:31 Page 232 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCAISTORCommunity is a word oft thrownaround by towns and villages. It’ssomething that’s difficult to measureand keep track on, which is no doubtwhy everyone claims it. Yet nowherein Lincolnshire is the proof of acommunity so strong, than in Caistor.It’s become one of the most attractiveplaces in Lincolnshire to live and tovisit, and that’s doubtless thanks tothe hard work that’s been put in byresidents and local businesses tocreate a fabulous environment.The host of independent retailersand a growing number of fantasticdining establishments add to theappeal. Many have been based in thetown for many years and a hugenumber of them are completelyimmersed in their community andmake a vital contribution to Caistorlife throughout the year. It’s thecommunity spirit which is apparenteven if you’re making a flying visit tothe town – and ensures it’s one of themost attractive places in Lincolnshire.CAISTORCaistor is a town that puts community first, and as such it’sperhaps little wonder that there’s so much going on.In love with32-35_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:24 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY33CAISTORThis wouldn’t be possible withoutthe sheer amount of effort given bypeople within Caistor to better theirarea, typically on a voluntary not-for-profit basis. Caistor in Bloom is onesuch example, which often seesroads, streets and shop frontsfestooned with bright and beautifuldisplays of flowers. Though Caistor inBloom only started in 2009, they’vealready won national acclaim – andhave even represented the entire EastMidlands. There’s always a wide array ofevents taking place in Caistor as well,including the weekly Saturdaymarket, which happens every weekfrom 9am – 2pm. For those lookingfor a little more activity, there’s theCaistor running club, who meet mostTuesdays and Thursdays at the Sportsand Social Club. An entire calendar ofevents is prepared for the year ahead,with too many things to name – suchas the Caistor annual street party,Christmas parties – activity days, thelist goes on.As well as these events, there iscommunity spirit all year round, andit’s perhaps most obvious at theCaistor Arts and Heritage Centre at28 Plough Hill. The Centre has a teamof volunteers who work in all areas,organising art exhibitions, music andheritage events and generally helpingout in front and behind of the scenes.The Centre also welcomes peoplefrom the area to add value bybringing their specific skills.This runs alongside the variousexhibitions and events that are heldat the centre at 28 Plough Hill, plusthe permanent exhibition tracing thehistory of the town from 8000BC tothe present day.That’s not to say Caistor doesn’taccommodate the younger audienceeither, as they recently completed34 Á32-35_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:24 Page 234 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCAISTORCaistor Yarborough Academy01472 851 383 caistoryarboroughacademy.org.ukThere are more options at KS4 at CYA...*Engineering *Drama *Music *Three sciences and more.Every day is an open day so come and look round!CYA – the school of choiceThe Paper Shop- Newspapers - Tobacco - Confectionery - Greeting Cards We run a Rural & Local Newspaper deliveryservice available to Caistor and all surroundingvillages within a 6 mile radius10 Market Place, Caistor, LN7 6TW T: 01472 851333We are now appointed agents forHermes parcel deliverieswork on a skate park that has been madefreely available to the public. Beyondthat, a new outdoor gym has beenopened to promote health and fitness,and this isn’t a simplistic thing with a fewjungle gyms or pull-up bars. The outdoorgym has all-weather cross trainers,bicycles, and resistance machines, manyof which you might expect to find in atraditional monthly subscription gym.These come in addition to the tenniscourts already available in Caistor, thougha new basketball court has also beenmade available to the public. Little things like this, although they canhardly even be called little, help to showjust how much Caistor – and the peoplethere – care for the community. It showsin the way people act as they walk downthe streets, in the proud manner many ofthe residents speak of their town, of localbusinesses or even just of one another.And of course, with many housingdevelopments undergoing in the area, it’seasy to point out the surge in peoplelooking to make Caistor their new home,and not without good reason.Community remains a word townsthrow about with little meaning, butCaistor is unwilling to accept that –proving that sometimes, communityreally can make a place special. Looking for agreat gift idea?Lincolnshire Today’s giftsubscription for only £27.55 with free deliveryCall 01472 310301or visit www.lincolnshiretoday.net/3411st 3issues only£132-35_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:24 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRETODAY35CAISTOROther than the stunning setting at thefoot of the Lincolnshire Wolds, whatstrikes us most about The Dunn Deal TeaRooms is its picturesque interior. OwnerPat Armstrong - and husband Kevin - fromNettleton conjure up something glimpsedin a dream with the pastel shades andbare wood beams. The wooden furniture,lace curtains and potted plants add acongenial touch, helped in no small partby the sofas and armchairs that strike abalance between formal and casual. The menu boasts rustic options that arebig on flavour and celebrate the very bestin local ingredients. The soup was anearthy blend of chunky vegetables andunctuous stock, paired with a granary rollfor a robust and revitalising lunch. If themenu wasn’t already a love letter to localproduce, then Pat’s search for more localclients will surely delight. Aside from the tea and coffee (whichwere both satisfying, incidentally), a tearoom’s stock and trade is cake.Fortunately, The Dunn Deal Tea Rooms isa veritable treasure trove ofsweet treats. Each cake ishomemade and decoratedwith the utmost care toflavour and presentation.From the bejewelledcupcakes to the temptingslices, the menu touches upon thetraditional and the adventurous. Tempted as I was to plump for any ofthe delightful cakes, I opted instead forthe cream tea. The scone itself was softand bronzed, filled with plump raisinsand served with that holy triage ofaccompaniments – butter, cream andjam. Deciding on any one combinationwas too difficult a task and so I triedthem all in turn. The Dunn Deal Tea Room goes beyondthe usual fanfare, with anearnest and heartfelteatery. The passion behindthe tea room is evident on arrival, and it’svery clear that it extends beyond themenu. Pat and Kevin showcase their loveof flowers, and the green-fingered flairadds to the excitement. Grand plans arein motion, with a drinks license on its wayand the option to hire out the wholevenue for private functions, from wakes tochristenings and everything in between. To book a table or find out more,call 01472 488410.The Dunn DealTea Rooms,Market Rasen Local produce, friendly staff and an evocative interior make TheDunn Deal Tea Rooms one of 2016’s must visit eateries. The Dunn Deal Tea Room islooking to boost its roster oflocal produce clients. Plus,don’t forget to get in touchfor evening functions. 32-35_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:24 Page 436 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYFOOD & DINING / VALENTINE’S DAYThere’s a lot to love about Lincolnshire– and this is the time of year it cancertainly be useful if you’re looking forthat special item of occasion for yourloved one! Not only does the countyhave umpteen retailers and boutiquesthat can help you find that unique andlovely item, but there are also a host offabulous venues which emphasiseromance and glamour.The most popular presents on the bigday are undoubtedly lingerie andjewellery. In the case of the former, theredoes tend to be a bit of scope for yourpurchase to go a bit wrong if you’retrying to guess your partners’ taste, but itshouldn’t have to be that way. InLincolnshire there’s a host of retailers whocan assist even the most haplessboyfriend or husband find the right kindof underwear – which they’ll actuallychoose to wear as well! There arecertainly plenty of options and thecounty’s retailers stock many of theleading names so you’re bound to findsomething to suit.It may not be much of a surprise but ifyou really want your partner to love theirpresent then you may even decide not torisk your own choice and instead pay foryour partner to enjoy a proper fittingsession. They’ll love being pampered andfussed over – and you should be thrilledwith the results.The best retailers in Lincolnshireemploy expert fitters with vast experiencewho can calculate your exact size so youLOVE Lincolnshire’s array of top restaurants, independent retailers andrelaxing spas are gearing up for Valentine’sis in the airPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/LUCKY BUSINESS36-39_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:33 Page 1PictureYour VenueExotic Thai Restaurant205 High Street, ScunthorpeTel: 01724 843204Exotic Thai Restaurant is a testament to traditional Thaicuisine. The only Thai restaurant in Scunthorpe, Exotic Thaican accommodate up to seventy guests for a deliciouschoice of authentic starters, main courses and an impressiveselection of fish dishes along with a choice of tasty desserts.The Exotic Thai prides itself on authentic Thai cuisine with friendly service, giving a truetaste of the east.The FarmersMarket Rasen Road, Welton Hill, Lincoln, LN2 3RDTel: 01673 885671Based in Welton near Lincoln, The Farmers offersa delightful range of meals from locally sourcedingredients. With a friendly team, and excitingmenu, The Farmers caters for anything from singleguests to large parties and has ample seating bothwithin the restaurant, and outside in the fantastic beer garden. LINCOLNSHIRETODAY37can find the perfect fit that will bestflatter your natural assets. This isn’t justfor aesthetic reasons, either, as a good fitcan prove to have a huge impact on yourhealth and posture – and you can look alot slimmer with a properly fitted bra.As well as having health and stylebenefits, the whole experience of a fittingsession can prove to be hugely welcomeas well. A new, perfectly fitting bra canwork wonders for your self-confidenceand maybe encourage you to trysomething you’d never previouslyconsidered. In addition a really good brais built to last so it’s not a present thatwill be flung to one side on 15thFebruary, never to be used again.Jewellery is a slightly safer option andagain there’s a huge range to choosefrom in the county. Bespoke orpersonalised gifts can help to show thatyou truly care, but even then keeping aneye on what your partner shows interestin, is always a good option. In manycases, simply showing that you payattention and were able to buy themwhat they truly wanted, is the ultimatesign of affection. Lincolnshire is host to all manner offantastic venues that are the perfectlocation for a Valentines’ evening. Mostwill introduce special menus and pile onthe romance on the big day. Here inLincolnshire we’re certainly fortunate tobenefit from some of the county’s mostbeautiful hotels and restaurants in someof the most breathtaking settingsimaginable. As you travel down their longdriveways and the roar of the traffic givesway to the serene sounds of thecountryside, you can almost feel theweight of the stresses and strains lift offyour shoulders.Many hotels have increased andimproved their spa facilities in recentyears to offer something to suit all tastes.What they all have in common is theirfriendly relaxed environment. Onceyou’re in the treatment room, the lightsare dimmed and soft relaxation musicplays, and the world stops around you.Complete relaxation means that thetreatment is all about you and yourneeds. As well as the treatmentsthemselves, just the sensation of a fewrelaxing massages, facials, manicures andpedicures will also work wonders incalming any frayed nerves you may have.A whole range of special spa packagesare the perfect way to treat yourself,whether you opt for a two hour taster ora full day of luxury. There are almost asmany packages to choose from are thereare treatments at many of the top venues– and don’t forget your other half cancome as well! Nowadays in-depthconsultation, cutting edge styling, hotshaves, facials and head massages arebecoming increasingly popular for menand women alike, and Lincolnshire’s spasare noticing more and more malecustomers are making appointmentsenjoy their facials, manicures andpedicures. A fantastic bonding experiencewill be had by both!Romance is certainly in the air acrossLincolnshire on 14th February – and withValentines’ Day falling on a weekend thisyear, there’s plenty of opportunities tomake the most of the county’s cosiestand classiest establishments.FOOD & DINING / VALENTINE’S DAYPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/SYDA PRODUCTIONS36-39_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:33 Page 238 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYFOOD & DINING / VALENTINE’S DAYVery tasty and easy to prepare, the sweetness of theshallots complimenting the hot and crunchybroccoli, perfect for an instant supper or whenentertaining on a time budget.SERVES: 4PREPARATION TIME: 10 MINUTESCOOKING TIME: 15 MINUTESYOU’LL NEED4 salmon fillets300g long stemmed broccoli12 shallots, peeled and quartered1 large red chilli, finely chopped50g almonds, toastedSTRAWBERRY ROSE PETALAND PISTACHIO PAVLOVAA slight Middle Eastern take on one of a favouritepudding. Lashings of sweetened cream flavoured with adash of rose water, loaded onto a huge sticky meringueround, filled with fresh halved strawberries, topped withcrushed pistachios and fragrant rose petals.SERVES: 8PREPARATION TIME: 25 MINUTESCOOKING TIME: 1 HOUR, PLUS COOLINGYOU’LL NEED6 large egg whites 250g caster sugar1 tsp rose water extract1 tsp white wine vinegar1 tsp corn flour100g crushed pistachios475ml double cream1 tbsp icing sugar450g strawberries cut in half (keep 3-4 whole strawberries aside togarnish)Handful of pale pink rose petalsWHAT TO DO1. Line a baking sheet and pre heat the oven to 180°C. 2. Whisk the egg whites in a large bowl until stiff peaks form, thenslowly add the sugar, rose water, vinegar, corn flour and whisk againuntil the mix becomes very thick and shiny. 3. Gently fold in half of the pistachios then carefully spoon themixture onto the lined baking sheet, forming a circle and working themixture outwards to form an edge and leaving a slight dip in thecentre. 4. Drop the oven temperature to 150°C and bake for 1 hour, thenturn off the oven, leaving the meringue in there to cool. If you havetime, make the meringue the night before, and leave it in the coolingoven overnight. The parchment should pull away easily now and youcan place the meringue on a plate.5. Whip the cream adding in the icing sugar and spread generouslyover the cooled meringue. Scatter the strawberries over the top,arrange the whole strawberries in the centre, sprinkle with the rest ofthe pistachios and finally scatter with the rose petals and serve.Recipe provided by BerryWorldGRIDDLED SALMON ONA BED OF BROCCOLI,SHALLOT AND CHILLISTIR FRYWHAT TO DO1. Brush the salmon steaks with a little oil, griddle or pan fry forapproximately 5-7 minutes each side until cooked through, keep warm.2. Steam the broccoli for 2 minutes, drain well. Heat the clean griddle pan,toss the shallots in a little oil and cook, turning regularly until softened andbeginning to brown at the edges.3. Add the chilli to a tablespoon of olive oil and toss into the tenderstem,add to the pan and cook with the shallots until just beginning to show griddlemarks, turning at regular intervals. prinkle in the toasted almonds.4. Divide the stir fry between 4 plates and top with a piece of salmon.Cook’s tip: Serve with steamed baby new potatoes and a good squeeze oflemon.Recipe provided by: www.ukshallot.com36-39_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:33 Page 3ThePyewipeLincolnT: 01522 528708F: 01522 525009E: enquiries@pyewipe.co.ukW: www.pyewipe.co.uk Please contact us if you have an enquiryTel: 01522 528708enquiries@pyewipe.co.ukwww.pyewipe.co.ukThe Pyewipe,Saxilby Road, Lincoln LN1 2BGPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK/LUCKY BUSINESSTreat your Special ValentineAlso available for:l Your Perfect Wedding Venuel Receptions and Banquets l Foodl Accommodation l Corporate Hospitality and Conference FacilitiesDon’t forgetMother’s Day,on Sunday6th March36-39_Layout 1 26/01/2016 08:34 Page 4Next >