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Welcome to our bumper May issue, packed with features that aim to entertain and inspire.

A trio of local talent find themselves in the spotlight this month, as we meet some of the cream of creative professionals making their mark in the county.

Roger Belton caught up with Ash Wilson, lead guitarist with Hollywood star Kiefer Sutherland’s band at their rehearsal studio in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Ash and his brother Phil, from Burgh le Marsh, who will be playing lead guitar and drums respectively, are about to embark on a 33-date European tour spanning Warsaw to Dublin.

It’s been quite a journey for Ash, from early days playing Skegness bars, to appearing alongside one of the most recognisable stars in the world of film and television. However, in spite of being a long-time fan, there is no starstruck awkwardness: “On tour Kiefer is just one of the guys… the whole Hollywood persona just melts into the background.” (Read more on page 48.)

Kate Chapman met nurse-turned-author Joy Wood, who has found a second career which she loves as much as her first. Joy, who comes from Cleethorpes, has published 11 books independently, while last summer her ninth won the prestigious Romantic Thriller Award 2025, from the Romantic Novelists’ Association (RNA).

Joy has some sage advice for would-be authors: “Write your story, do a little bit every day and put your heart and soul into it and then seek some help. Writing is for everybody.” (p.106)

Kate also chatted with former textiles teacher Kirsty Macdonald, who creates unique precious memory keepsakes for families made from cherished sentimental clothing.

Handmade by Kirsty Louise was launched after Kirsty started making quilts and keepsake bears from baby grows.
“You know how much it means to the person receiving it back. It helps them a little bit with their grief process, and it’s lovely to be a part of that.” (p.128)

And finally, don’t miss your chance to enter the Lincolnshire Gardens Trust and Lincolnshire Life Photographic Competition, which captures the best of gardens, wildlife and plant life in the county. For more details, turn to page 40. See you next month!