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Welcome to our February issue, which offers an array of fascinating features and stirring stories as we look forward to the promise of warmer and brighter days ahead.
Early spring is the ideal time to get out and about and explore our county, to discover new places to visit and meet inspirational people who are making the most of life.

Kate Chapman met up with Roger and Sally Bentley from Branston, who successfully completed a marathon 1,200-mile walking challenge from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise funds for the British Skin Foundation (see page 88).

The couple say a highlight of their adventure was seeing nature at its finest through three seasons, having left in spring and arrived at their destination in autumn. They say, “If you have an itch to do something, and think you can do it, then grab the chance while you still can – seize the day!”

Meanwhile our gardening guru Steffie Shields hails the start of spring and spotlights a number of open gardens that are well worth a visit, including an “early spring rainbow” on show at Doddington Hall gardens this month (p.22).

Getting out and about is also the perfect launch pad to encourage your creative talents. Joining a group of like-minded amateur photographers such as the award-winning Grimsby Photographic Society could prove a good decision, as Colin Smale explains (p.60).

Founded in the 19th century, the Society has inspired successive generations of image-makers and enthusiasts. Last year the Society added another proud chapter to its long history by winning the Lincolnshire Photographic Association (LPA) Battles final.

Anyone interested in joining, visiting, or learning more about the society is warmly encouraged to attend a Thursday meeting.

If the weather keeps you indoors, you’ll enjoy finding out how to hone your artistic talent thanks to architectural artist Matt Wright, who is working on a unique tribute to Lincoln’s historic Bailgate, inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry (p.28).

Matt recently filmed an online course in conjunction with Desoto Productions to help and inspire other artists and you can keep up with his own project on Instagram.

See you next month!