< Previous70 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYSPRING SUPPLEMENT - GOLFIf you’ve never swung a club before,this spring could be the perfect time topick it up. In fact, May has beendedicated as National Golf Month, whichis being supported by the LincolnshireGolf Partnership. So you’ve still time topick up the basics in April.The event is designed both for golferswho have stopped playing to get back tothe game and remember why theyenjoyed it so much, and to introducenew people into golf. A host of opendays and free taster sessions will takeplace across the county – and across thecountry – with the chance to carry on theexperience for longer if you enjoy it.Bringing new people into the sport issomething that’s been a familiar desirefor Lincolnshire’s golf clubs in recenttimes, and the objective should drawattention to the Get Into Golf campaign,which is promoting golf to a wideraudience than ever before. The EnglandGolf Partnership’s vision is to makeEngland the world’s leading golf nationby 2020.Indeed, Shona Dickson, the CountyDevelopment Officer, says, “Golf is agame for everyone and a game for lifeand I can promise a very warm welcomefor all. We hope lots of people will have ago and take advantage of our follow-upopportunities.”Certainly, if you are looking to enjoysome extra exercise or just aftersomething else to experience in yourleisure time, there are few better places todo so than Lincolnshire, which often refersto itself as the Home of English Golf. The county has almost sixty golfvenues offering everything fromchampionship courses to pitch and puttfor beginners and families alike, while it isalso home to the National Golf Centre atWoodhall Spa and the EuropeanHeadquarters of Ping in Gainsborough.In addition, the Lincolnshire EliteAthlete Programme, known as LEAP,continues to support some of thecounty’s rising stars. Team GB golferAshton Turner has been accepted ontothe programme for 2014 which meansthey will receive support, mentoring andfunding. As of 2016, golf will be part ofthe Olympic Games, for the first time inover a century, so there are opportunitiesfor golfers to go for gold.The traditional image of the golf club isoften that of somewhere unwelcoming tonew members but that couldn’t befurther from the truth and most clubs arealways happy to offer a taster session.There are also a number of schemes thatGofore it!While many people cringe at the thought of working out,golf is a great way to get much needed exercise, and enjoythe great outdoors.Eighteen holes of golf translates into a couple of hours offresh air and sunshine while doing something that’s goodfor the body and the mind.070-073:Layout 1 17/3/14 09:07 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY71SPRING SUPPLEMENT - GOLFclubs are a part of which emphasise theirquality. The RangeMark award, forexample, highlights those clubs that takeparticular care in introducing both adultsand juniors to golf and practiceopportunities for all standards of golfers.Meanwhile over the next few monthsthe GolfMark scheme is beingrelaunched. This serves of a guarantee ofquality for golf clubs of all shapes andsizes, and illustrates that they have metcertain criteria in terms of introducingnew members, offering enhancedcoaching and playing opportunities,being sustainable and ensuring they haveappropriate policies and procedures inplace to ensure members are safe andhave peace of mind over theirmembership.If you want further confirmation onLincolnshire’s golfing prowess, how aboutthe fact that the University of Lincolnspecialises in Golf Science? Dr Mark FSmith, who lectures in the University’sSchool of Sport and Exercise Science, hascarried out extensive research into thescience behind the perfect golf game andhas published his findings in an academicpublication.Dr Smith says, “A wide range ofscience is embraced because golf involvesa surprisingly diverse array of disciplines.It is perhaps the most complicated simplegame ever invented! The success of eachshot depends on a wide range of factors,and science plays a crucial role in most ofthese.”Of course, you don’t have to calculateevery swing to enjoy the game of golf! Itsappeal as a uniquely social sport has longbeen its main attraction, which meansmany people enjoy taking part regardlessof their handicap. The nineteenth holecan offer refreshment for those whodon’t know their birdies from their eaglesand so golf widows can enjoy themselvesmore than in perhaps any other sport.Lincolnshire’s status as the home ofgolf is certainly secure – so why not takethe opportunity to play a round in thecounty while the weather’s good? Youdon’t have to wear a garish pair oftrousers either...PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/PHIL MCDONALDPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/BIKERIDERLONDON“Golf is a game in which you yell ‘fore’,shoot six, and write down five”070-073:Layout 1 17/3/14 09:07 Page 272 LINCOLNSHIRETODAY2 For 1 on Green Fees Maximum 4 people per booking Based on the day rate of £40 Please Quote: LincsToday when booking your tee Please book your Tee via the Managers Office on 01507 603681 Option 2 Tees must be booked in advance £10 Registration Fee and £3 per week for group lessons No more than 10 people per class, 8 week course Classes start on the first Sunday of April, May and June depending on demand Please book in advance by contacting the Managers Office on 01507 603681 option 2 £200 membership available after completion of class Louth Golf Club, Crowtree Lane, Louth, LN11 9LJ www.louthgolfclub.com louthgolfclub@btconnect.com Starter Groups Wanting to get into golf?... Join our Starter Groups Other Memberships and Events are available to view on our websiteTea Off atSleaford Golf ClubWilloughby Road, Greylees, Sleaford, NG34 8PLTel - 01529 488273 www.sleafordgolfclub.co.ukSleaford Golf ClubMembership available from £605.00 per year for unlimited golf Fully Licensed Bar & Restaurant All Day Breakfasts Coffee Lounge Children’s Parties Golf Shop Women & Children Golf LessonsLINCOLN GOLF CLUB THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR GOLFING EXPERIENCEWhether it be for membership, society visit, a quiet round during the twilight hours orhoning your skills on the practice ground and short game area,we have something for every golfer.Further details visit our website www.lincolngc.co.uk or contact us on (01427) 718721 Option 4.Follow us on twitter @lincolngc070-073:Layout 1 17/3/14 09:07 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRETODAY73Get intogolfLincolnshire is home to some of the UK’smost beautiful golf clubs. Whether you’reafter a competitive match or just looking forsomewhere to relax, they’ve got plenty tooffer. Some of our favourites are...Sleaford Golf ClubSituated in the delightful Lincolnshire countryside, and within easyreach of the A1 and other major roads, Sleaford Golf Club is anexciting course, and represents an outstanding venue for visitors ofall golfing abilities and ages.Today, with a playing membership of over six hundred plus socialmembers, there are around eight hundred people who regularlyenjoy the course and facilities. The Club is a hive of activity, andthey are always pleased to welcome new members irrespective ofage or golfing expertise. Membership is currently available.The clubhouse provides excellent facilities for both members andvisitors to enjoy following a round of golf. The main area of theclubhouse is capable of accommodating social functions for up to ahundred people.Louth Golf ClubLouth Golf Club was originally founded in 1965, situated inan area of outstanding natural beauty bordering Hubbard’sHills. Over the years it has evolved to provide a well-groomedbut challenging 6444 yard 18 hole parkland course.With panoramic views over the Lincolnshire countryside, it’ssuitable for golfers at all levels of skill and experience.Complemented by a period clubhouse, putting green, practiceareas and online booking facilities, Louth Golf Club providesexcellent facilities for both members and visiting golfers. When the time comes to relax, Fore Seasons Restaurant,which is open to the public, gives you the opportunity for aquiet drink or a selection from an excellent menu. The venuecan accommodate small or large groups, and they can caterfor corporate functions, special events or celebrations of anykind.Laceby Manor Golf ClubLaceby Manor Golf Club is a beautiful eighteen-hole parklandcourse situated near Grimsby. Today, the club is owned by formermotorcycling champion Roger Burnett. He has invested heavily inthe refurbishment of the course and clubhouse to take thebusiness forward to the highest level.The course had undergone a complete makeover, and withnew greens and 52 new or reconstructed bunkers, it’s set tobecome one of the best courses in the county. It will have a newfully manned halfway house from April and the addition of thelodge development with lodges available to hire from June –perfect for a golfing break.The clubhouse has a member’s bar/lounge and the verypopular Manor Restaurant serving an excellent menu. There isalso a driving range which is open 7 days per week.PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/KZENONSPRING SUPPLEMENT - GOLFLincoln Golf ClubLocated in the quiet, idyllic setting of Torksey, Lincoln GolfClub is the perfect venue for your golfing experience either as aclub member or as a visitor. Your skills can be honed on the finepractice ground or short game area before experiencing thedelight of the easy walking inland links. If you’re looking for agolfing challenge, playing at Torksey will provide a fair test forall abilities. The signature hole is the 188 yard par 3 17th,played over a lake.After your round you can enjoy a fine array of hand pulledales in the air-conditioned clubhouse.070-073:Layout 1 17/3/14 09:08 Page 474 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYSPRING SUPPLEMENT - FISHINGFor those not into the sport, it maywell surprise you to know thatLincolnshire harbours a rather largeamount of fishing spots, famousnationwide. Odds-on it’s likely that youactually live closer to a fishing lake thanyou first imagined. Nearly every townand village in the county has a venue ofsome sort and competitions and eventstake place at them regularly. Lincolnshire is famous not only for itsriver fishing, but for its pits and lakes too.With such large lakes spread out acrossour vast county, it’s rare you will findmore than a handful of anglers on anyone patch at any given time, meaningpeaceful conditions and a sense ofgetting back to nature coming asstandard.For those who have never had thepleasure of casting a line and spendingthe afternoon lazily watching a float bobon the surface of some quiet water,you’re missing out. The initial fiddlystages of fishing - that is, threading aline, tying a hook, weights and bait onand perfecting your cast - are all negatedby how much pleasure you can get fromthe contemplative stages of fishing.Staring out across still or moving water ismesmeric and there’s something to besaid for putting your feet up with a hotdrink on a green bank while waiting forthe fish to bite. Once they do, the classicfight between man and fish is often abattle of wills. Fish will most often pullthe other way to you or head for cover.When this happens, it takes all yourattention to play the fish in the right wayand actually land the blighter.Depending on where you are fishing,there’ll be rules about putting them backof course. Usually on river stretches you’llhave to plop them back in the water toHook, lineand sinker!Fishing is, arguably, one of Lincolnshire’s most popular butunassuming sports. We take a look at this popular pastime withinthe county.ensure stocks remain high, but on privatelakes, sometimes owners will let you takefish home to cook and enjoy, dependingon the type of fish. Carp and eel forexample are a slimy and acquired taste,whereas trout and bass are obviouslydelicious!But where to go? Well there’s certainlyan overwhelming choice, but we’d adviseseeking out places that have overnightfacilities. If you find yourself fishing allday, especially with a beer in hand, goinghome seems like the last thing anyonewould want to do. In particular if youwant to fish until the sun goes down andinto the night, a cosy place to crash iswhat is needed. We recently visitedWithern Mill Trout Farm near Alford andtheir location on the river, but with fivewell-stocked lakes and camping facilitiesPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/STEPHEN INGLIS074-075:Layout 1 17/3/14 10:27 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY75SPRING SUPPLEMENT - FISHINGHOLIDAY COTTAGETO ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE WE HAVE A COTTAGE ON SITE THAT'S PETFRIENDLY AND SLEEPS FIVEWE ALSO OFFER YOU SPACE TO STAY ON OURTOURER SITE THIS CAN ACCOMMODATE FIVECARAVANS ON HARD STANDINGS WITH VIEWSOVER THE COUNTRYSIDEFLY FISHING FISH IN FIVE REGULARLY STOCKED LAKES WITH RAINBOWS FROM 2LBS TO 18 LBS.CONTACT US TODAY OR COME AND VISITCHURCH LANE, WITHERN NR ALFORD,LN13 0NGTEL:01507450356MOB:07760625557www.withernmilltrouarm.co.ukFRESH TROUTFRESH TROUT CAN BE PURCHASEDON SITE DAILY ALL FISH ARE CLEANED AND GUTTED TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS .SMOKED TROUT IS AVAILABLE TO ORDER.We’ve beenawardedRead our reviews atFlyFishingVenues.co.ukFor those who love sea fishing too, ourcoastline remains quiet and unspoilt forthe most part, meaning you can, withthe appropriate permission and licenses,enjoy some more action-packed andchallenging conditions. Good spots we’retold are at Humberstone Fitties and atChapel-St-Leonards. Remember above all, though, to be aconscientious angler. This means payingfor the right kind of license and treatingthe various fishing venues round thecounty with respect. Don’t litter, don’tcause disturbances to other anglers and ifyou can, be kind to the fish, handle themcarefully and make sure they don’t sufferin keep nets or shallow water on return.Above all, have fun! Fishing is a fantasticway to relax and a great sport to beinvolved in. Now, where’s our nearest bait shop?means every comfort is provided for. Ifyou are a fishing nut and your familydon’t share your bankside obsessions,places like this are perfect for exploringnearby Lincolnshire attractions. Places likeWithern also carry competitions and boaststatuses that mean you are guaranteed agreat day’s fishing. Withern has actuallybeen named as a Trout Master Water for2014/2015, so do some research andyou’re sure to find the fishing conditionsyou require within the county.074-075:Layout 1 17/3/14 10:27 Page 2Rustys‘212 Ashby High St. Ashby, Scunthorpe, DN16 2JREPIC RIDES NEED AN EPIC BIKELAPIERRE ZESTY AM 527BLEND OF CARBON AND ALUMINIUMEXCELLENT COMPONENTSALL NEW 27.5” WHEELSIT’S READY TO TAKE ON ANY MOUNTAINTel: 01724 844409rustyscycles@btconnect.com www.rustyscycles.co.uk 76 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYSPRING SUPPLEMENT - CYCLINGWith such an interest in road racing thanks to the 2012Olympics and the success of Sir Bradley Wiggins, it’s strangethat mountain biking hasn’t received more press! It’s certainly achallenge, but perhaps more fun, to take bikes to their logicalconclusion is to hurtle through the countryside, exploring moreground than is ever possible on foot and getting fit in theprocess.We’ve featured road racing clubs in the past and theirimpressive distances are inspiring, but sticking to the roadsseems too linear for a lot of people. There’s a whole host ofavailable cycle routes as well as paths, tracks and routesscattered across the county and they are just there waiting to bediscovered and explored. You’ll find the amount of riders outthere is growing, but seeing as Lincolnshire is so huge, you’ll stillfind yourself in acres of space.Whether it’s long, circular routes you are after, or moreexploratory routes from A to B, Lincolnshire has it all. There’sseveral large routes including the Viking way, which take uparound 147 miles of footpath from the Humber Bridge in thenorth of the county, all the way to Oakham in Rutland. Duringthe ride, you are taken through not only the Lincolnshire Wolds,but also former railway lines, the city of Lincoln and onto themore flat and wide open fields of the south of the county.Tackled all at once, this is a real challenge, but there’s countlessroutes that take in the more picturesque sections and give youscope to explore Lincolnshire’s hidden gems.One such hidden gem is Woodhall Spa’s amazing andTake itoff roadLincolnshire is blessed with morethan its fair share of cycle-friendlylandscapes. Why not get on yourbike and explore?PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/STEFAN SCHURR076-077:Layout 1 14/3/14 13:15 Page 1wooded route known as the Spa Trail, following the formerHorncastle to Woodhall Junction railway line and part of theHorncastle canal. Just three miles long, it is a more flat andcomfortable ride that speed freaks will tackle quickly. Howeverif you have young children new to biking, it may well be thebest way to get them up to speed. With varying landscapeand myriad chances to stop for nice cup of tea too, we’drecommend getting out there to experience this wonderfulcorner of the world.For those in need of a bit more of a route to get the bloodpumping and perhaps take up more of the day, there’s afantastic trail from the village of Hougham, just north ofGrantham. At 16 miles it will take most people around an hourand a half and is full of great variation for those who tire easilyof sustained flat journeys. Starting off in Hougham, it takes inthe wonderful vistas of Barkston and Hough-on-the-Hill, withlong straights and flats at first, it soon steepens and then opensup into a fast downhill decline down to Stragglethorpe Lane,however most people warn this can be dangerous too, so makesure your brakes are working well!Market Rasen also holds a place in many serious cyclists’ heartsas the woodland paths and dramatic landscape surrounding thetown are on the edge of an official Area of Outstanding NaturalBeauty. Not only are there gorgeous villages nestled between thesteep hills, but there’s rolling open fields to plough through atyour leisure, many with views towards Lincoln, where on a goodday you can see the Cathedral standing proud.LINCOLNSHIRETODAY77SPRING SUPPLEMENT - CYCLINGWhat you’ll needto start riding!Your bike:This seems obvious, but finding the rightbike for your needs is essential. Yes, you may well beable to get some great deals online, but there’s nothingthat can rival a trip to a bike shop to sit on a fewdifferent models to see how they handle and if they fityour body shape and size. Trained staff will be seasonedriders themselves, able to offer invaluable advice thatyou can’t get any other way. Use of online reviews canbe useful before you go, but to put yourself in the handsof experts is usually the best option.A helmet:Riding is a great pastime, but it can also bea dangerous one. Getting a well-fitted and safety-certified helmet is essential. There are many different fitsfrom brand to brand, so trying them on before you buy is alsoa must. It should fit your head levelly and snugly and the chinstrap should be secure.Gloves:If you’re planning on riding in the wind and rain aswell as the glorious sunshine then gloves are your friend. Thelikelihood of crashing too means you’ll avoid nasty grazeswhich will be painful to ride with after an occasional fall. Be prepared:Puncture repair kits, a multi-tool and pump arepretty essential and can easily be stored on the bike’s frame.Punctures are inevitable, so having the adequate kit to repair onthe move is important.Sunglasses:Flies and insects are strangely keen on gettingstuck in your eyes at speed, a pair of shades should counterthis. Clear glasses are also useful if you find yourself ridingthrough wooded sections as darker shades will plunge you intodarkness. Clothing:If you’re getting serious, waterproof socks,hydration packs and bottles and lightweight and breathablecycling shorts and tops are a good choice too, but try outdifferent makes to find what’s most comfortable for you! 076-077:Layout 1 14/3/14 13:15 Page 278 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYSPRING SUPPLEMENT - HOTELSThe great thing about Lincolnshire isthat there’s always something new todiscover. The sheer size of the countysees to that – from Scunthorpe toSpalding there’s always something goingon, as our pages illustrate. Why not takethe opportunity during the warmermonths to move away from your familiarhaunts and acquaint yourself withanother part of the county?One area where Lincolnshire perhapsdoesn’t excel quite so much is when itcomes to transport. The county’s longand winding roads may be enjoyableenough to drive down on a lovelysummer’s day but less so after dark.Happily the county has myriad fabuloushotels that can make for a fantastic placeto stay the night. Not only can they serveas a base to explore the whole county,but they also mean you can relax in theevening with a drink or two withoutworrying about who’ll be the designateddriver.Over the years in Lincolnshire Todaywe’ve visited hotels of all shapes andsizes, from stylish, modern venues onLincoln’s riverside to small and homelyvenues tucked in the heart of thecountryside – but one thing they all havein common is a warm Lincolnshirewelcome. In some cases, especially onthe coast, this manifests itself in theclassic seaside accommodation that offersa nostalgic nod to the past and puts theaccent firmly on the personality of theowners and elsewhere it’s in the shape ofsome beautiful boutique settings thatallow the flexibility for you to treat themvery much as your own home.Whatever you choose, though, thevenues are well-used to guests’ demands.You may have come to switch off butmany of us find that the best-laid plansdon’t always come to fruition. These daysWiFi, docking stations and other tools tobetter facilitate remote working nowcome as standard – not turning the hotelinto simply an extension of the office buta recognition that the world doesn’t stopwhen you’re ostensibly on holiday.Indeed, increased flexibility at the tophotels mean that the days of finding therestaurant closed if you arrive late arelong gone.When you’re finally off duty, the tophotels can provide wonderful relaxation.Many now have top quality fitnessfacilities including gyms, spas, swimmingpools and saunas and the complementarytherapies on offer are the perfect solutionto the stresses and strains of modern life.Lie backand relax...and enjoy yourself at some of Lincolnshire’s mostbeautiful venuesVenues such as StallingboroughGrange offer a warm Lincolnshirewelcome078-079:Layout 1 14/3/14 12:33 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY79SPRING SUPPLEMENT - HOTELSFor a Lifetime of Special Memories...A Warm Welcome, Delicious Food & a Great Atmosphere Awaits you at Stallingborough Grange HotelWeekend Getaway for £99Enjoy an overnight stay for 2 in a standard doubleroom, full English breakfast & a 3 course dinner (£23 allowance per person).Offer available on selected weekends (Fri, Sat, Sun)throughout April, May & JuneOur restaurant is open every lunch & evening and serving food 12 – 9pm on SundaysOur bar is open all day every day.Visit our website for all our offers.Tel: 01469 561302 www.stallingboroughgrange.comE: reception@stalllingboroughgrange.co.ukRiby Road, Stallingborough, Nr Grimsby DN41 8BUPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/ERSLER DMITRYprotecting the environment andpromoting sustainable tourism withbronze, silver and gold awards.Award winners are scrutinised on morethan 145 separate measures by qualifiedadvisors before being appointed therelevant award, so it’s worth checking ifthey’re members of the scheme ifsustainability is a top priority.A warm Lincolnshire welcome is alwayson offer in the county’s top hotels – sowhether you’re looking for somewhere tobase yourself away from your homepatch or just decide on a whim to enjoythe evening’s hospitality for a littlelonger, you’ll doubtless enjoy a greattime.Wherever you choose, though, you know you’re almostcertain to enjoy Lincolnshire produce – on the menus, in thebar and even in the furniture in the rooms – and you’re helpingto boost the local economy. Tourism has always been a majorplank of Lincolnshire’s prosperity and thousands of tourists arewelcomed into the area every year. One great example of itsimportance came last year when a landslip meant Grimsby,Cleethorpes and Scunthorpe were cut off by rail from the restof the network for several months, including through Easterand the other spring holidays, which led to many hoteloperators and tourist attractions reporting lower than usualvisitor numbers.Fortunately the line was reopened in time for the summerholidays and, helped by the hot weather, the region enjoyed asuccessful summer last year – with fingers crossed for more ofthe same in 2014. With the news that a bid has been placed torun direct trains from London to the northern part ofLincolnshire from 2017, something that hasn’t happened formany years, it could well be a further boost to our region’stourist economy.For many people now, one important aspect of choosing ahotel is that it’s sustainable and across Lincolnshire there ismuch to offer. Indeed many venues have been commended bythe Green Tourism Business Scheme, the leading sustainabletourism certification scheme in the UK, which honoursbusinesses that demonstrate high levels of commitment in078-079:Layout 1 14/3/14 12:33 Page 2Next >