< PreviousAlthough the nightingale typically breeds in the South East, the birds are no stranger here in Lincolnshire with Whisby Nature Reserve near Lincoln something of a hotspot. But they are a devil to spot at the best of times, famous for their ability to blend into thick cover, effectively camouflaged thanks to the brown colouration of both sexes. About the size of a robin, this shy bird is a summer visitor to our shores, arriving in April and leaving again in September. The nightingale is the best singers of all UK birds, with their melodious song resonating with poets and thinkers down the ages. The bird is also the most famous and celebrated in English literature and essays, making appearances in the works of Homer, who evoked the nightingale in his epic The Odyssey, which itself harkens back to the Grecian myth of Philomela and Procne one of whom, depending on the reading of the myth, is transformed into a nightingale. The mellifluous songbird also inspired Milton and Keats, in his ‘Ode to a Nightingale’, as well as Shakespeare, Hans Christian Anderson and even philosophers such as Aristotle. This month we take a closer look at the nightingale, famed for its beautiful and complex song. Lincolnshire wildlifeThe bird was often adopted as a symbol by poets, representing either themselves or their works, thanks to its creativity and the perceived idea that its songs were spontaneous. It’s hard to argue with that assumption given the bird’s complex melodies are comprised of around two hundred different phrases. Its name was even taken from the fact it sings at night as well as the day. As with the majority of other songbirds, only the male sings. The purpose, of course, is to attract females during the mating season, though this seemed to have escaped the aforementioned writers, who tended to frame the nightingale as a she. Call it poetic license. They do not sing during the nesting season, though, as this would betray the location of the nest to predators. And the nightingale does have rather a lot of those, including rats, cats, snakes and large birds of prey. Perhaps the most famous use of the nightingale’s song dates back to 1924 where it was accompanied by cellist Beatrice Harrison. The radio broadcast was heard by a million people at the time and can still be listened to today. You can find it on YouTube and it’s well worth a listen. 30 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY© Shutterstock / Raldugina Oksana 30-31.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:09 Page 1© Shutterstock / Vitaly Ilyasov30-31.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:09 Page 232 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAYFASHIONThis month, Lincolnshire Today explores the beautiful world of dresses, with a selection of must-haves that range from the stylishly simple to the bold and adventurous. 32-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 33FASHIONMasai These warm creamy tones are an ideal choice this season, with this Masai outfit a comfortable and stylish option. You can pick this outfit up for yourself from Lincoln’s Harmoni Boutique.32-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 234 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAYFASHIONAbove left: Ichi This dress from Ichi is the perfect stopgap between spring and summer, one you can wear all the way through the winter. Photo courtesy of DK Company - ICHI Above middle: Latte Latte offer a unique look, putting a contemporary edge on fashion favourites. Above right: Marc Cain Playful, flirty and fun, this audacious outfit from Marc Cain will make you stand out from the crowd. Opposite: Masai Modern and elegant, this Masai outfit exudes confidence and sophistication – available from Harmoni Boutique in Lincoln. 32-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 332-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 436 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAYFASHIONAbove: Gerry Weber Gerry Weber manage a fit that’s both loose and airy but one which still shows off your natural assets. The V-neck and three-quarter sleeve add another dimension, but it’s the gorgeous print that really takes this dress to the next level. Left: Ted Baker There’s more to spring and summer fashion than pastel shades and lighter tones. Add some darker hues to your wardrobe. This Ted Baker ensemble is a great place to start. Opposite top: LauRie This LauRie outfit is all about that pop of colour. See how the simple vest and dark jean combo really makes that vivid pink floral print jacket shine? That’s what you’re aiming for. Opposite bottom: Latte This sultry evening dress from Latte is sure to captivate with its exquisite design and stunning colour. 32-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 5LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 37EVE&RANSHAW Louth’s Department Store 1 Market Place, Louth LN11 9NT Tel: 01507 602902 www.eve-ranshaw.co.uk Established 1781Open from Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5pm 100 Burton Rd, Lincoln LN1 3LN. A short walk from Bailgate Tel: 01522 542085 New Collections Now InIntroducing fresh brands andNew Collections Now In32-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 6Transforming an old look Before giving up on an outfit, try mixing and matching it with a range of different accessories, from jewellery to headwear. You’ll be amazed at the impact, we promise. 1) Ichi - One or two accessories can really add another dimension to an otherwise simple outfit, as Ichi prove here. Photo courtesy of DK Company - ICHI 2) Pandora - The understated design of this butterfly charm necklace from Pandora comes alive with its kaleidoscope of precious stones. 3) Zatchel - The Twistlock Collection comes in seven new styles in a range of vibrant colours picked from Pantone trends for spring/summer. These must-have Zatchel bags boast a minimalist design and a new twist lock clasp making them the perfect accessory for the new season. 4) Numph - With this bright and vibrant scarf from Numph you can add a pop of colour to any outfit, whether that’s a dress or blouse. 5) Francis Klein - When it comes to eyewear, it’s hard to top Francis Klein. Parisian chic at its finest. If you’d like to pick up a pair for yourself, head down to O’Brien’s Opticians in Brigg or visit the website www.obriensopticians.co.uk. 6) Y?Not MIlano - This divine looking Jungle Rev bag from Y?Not MIlano is truly a must-have. The reversible design means it can suit any outfit, whether you’re feeling more elegant or want to show off your quirky side. You can add this bag to your wardrobe by heading down to Harmoni Boutique in Lincoln. 7) Proppa Toppa - An elegant hat from Proppa Toppa that’s would add that final stylish flourish to an outfit, whether you’re attending a wedding or a day at the races. Head down to Harmoni Boutique in Lincoln to pick one up for yourself. 8) Proppa Toppa - Available from Harmoni Boutique in Lincoln, this hat from Proppa Toppa is a sophisticated and modern touch. 9) Gabor - This elegant shoe from Gabor won’t suit every outfit, but if you find the right ensemble, it will look absolutely incredible. 132-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:12 Page 77LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 39FASHION234596832-41.qxp_Layout 1 15/04/2019 11:13 Page 8Next >