
Geoff Hastings
I have no idea what will be happening politically by the time you read this, but I’m sure that many of you will be celebrating Christmas, and hopefully getting to spend some time with your families, in the next couple of weeks. There’s still enough time to get a few presents in, and you can do that in your local town, without having to worry about delivery times (just like “in the old days” of the photo).
I’ve been looking for new places to feature next year, and have found two recently. Baldy’s Bees for jars of clear or solid honey, also jars with the honeycomb still in, which I’ve found is very good for you and adds a great taste. Call Steve on 01945 870085 and get your orders in!
Then there’s Royal Blue Meat butchers on Market Place, a family run business who will of course have all you need for your holiday meals (and get the veg from the market, perfect). I’ll chat to both of these businesses soon and feature them here, but I thought they’d be good ones to know about now.
To go with your locally sourced dinner, try some local beer. Elgoods are open Thursdays and Fridays 10.30am to 4pm and they not only have their beer by the bottle and polypin (big jug!), but plenty of other homeware gifts to choose from. Pick up a leaflet for next year, and maybe get someone membership for a whole year of access to the beautiful gardens?
There are other experiences that would be perfect as presents – many places do vouchers/gift cards now, including the Luxe Cinema, a warm and friendly place to visit for coffee, but also to watch a movie by yourself – a relaxing afternoon treat for someone you know?
For someone who’s moved away and is interested in how the town has changed, you can’t go wrong with the books produced by the Friends of Wisbech Museum, with words by Andy Ketley and photos from the Geoff Hastings collection. Full of fascinating information, they’re nostalgic for those who have lived here many years and a useful lesson in local history for those new to the area, or too young to remember black and white photos! Available from the Museum, or from Etcetera, both of whom have other local interest books.
I wish you all a peaceful holiday season.