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As we celebrate Lincolnshire Day this month, our October issue turns the spotlight on a fascinating mix of traditions and heritage, as well as remarkable people who contribute to making our county so special.

First held on 1st October 2006, after readers of Lincolnshire Life and listeners of BBC Radio Lincolnshire voted for the date, Lincolnshire Day marks the anniversary of the Lincolnshire Rising, a religious rebellion that began in 1536 after Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of the monasteries and established the Church of England, prompting the Catholics to revolt.

You will also find a host of entertaining and informative events taking place across the county in our Diary pages, showcasing the best in the arts, along with fun family days out. You can choose some of the great places to visit and people to see (page 58). Our highlight this month is Lincoln Book Festival, which returns with another fantastic line-up including crime writers Mark Billingham and Peter James, as well as British ‘BookTok’ influencers.

With this month also connected to Halloween and folklore, Yusef Sayed chatted to author Rory Waterman, who explores Lincolnshire’s folk tales in his new book, Devils in the Details (p.46).

An acclaimed poet and Professor of Creative Writing and Modern Literature at Nottingham Trent University, Waterman discovers the origins of stories that are well-known throughout his home county – and some that are lesser known.

Waterman, who grew up in Nocton, is a passionate advocate for Lincolnshire’s history: “I love traditions, I love the way those stories developed, the way stories come into being, often kids telling each other things. I think they’re part of what we’re made of – and the county means a lot to me.”

Back to the modern day and as the awards season dawns, check out our lists of the Top Ten nominees in our annual Taste of Excellence awards, which take place in Lincoln next month. Thank you to all who voted. Did your favourite eatery or hospitality business make the shortlist? (p.42)

Enjoy all the best the county has to offer this month and see you next time!