Aaron Renfree

Today marks the first day of The Asylum in Lincoln, the largest and longest running Steampunk festival in the world.

For newcomers, the event may seem a little daunting, but several Steampunks from Lincoln have sent in some advice to get you through the four day event.

John Bonhomie

John Bonhomie Photo: Robert James

“Just take it all in and soak up the wonderful atmosphere. As Bobby McFerrin said, “Don’t worry, be happy”.

“Nobody is judging your outfits, they’re more likely to be admiring your inventiveness, so just dive in and enjoy!”

Sophie Lavender

Sophie Lavender and the Anxious Auxiliary Army logo

“If you are on the autistic spectrum or have anxiety or fear of crowds, look out for the Anxious Auxiliary Army Buddies. They are there to help you feel safe if the crowds get too much and there are quiet AAA areas you can go to and relax.

“There is also an Anxious Auxiliary Army Facebook group, where Steampunks can help each other. It’s an awesome growing support group.”

Colonel Havelock, CiC Earl Gray of Dargeeling`s 14th Light Horse

Colonel Havelock Photo: Phil Martin

“Be sure to visit the many pubs in the Bail area where you’ll find Steampunks partaking of tipples.

“The castle grounds play host to many attractions including the market and general promenading.

“The packed streets around the cathedral will also be chock-a-block with fashion and photos opportunities, goggles, top hats, kilts and colour will be on show. Widow Cullen’s Well is our group’s meeting place and all will be welcome.”

Michael Catterson

Photo: Michael Catterson

“If this is your first Asylum, well done for taking the plunge.

“Soak up the atmosphere and just have a fabulous time.”

The extension to the Little Darters outdoor play area at the Whisby Natural World Centre in Lincoln is now open.

The Wildlife Adventure Area has now been revamped to include new features such as a look-out tower, assault course and climbing net, with intentions to increase the potential for physical entertainment.

This adds to existing attractions such as water chutes, rope bridges and an underground cave.

The extension is part of the second phase of a £250,000 investment made by North Kesteven District Council in facilities at the free attraction.

Photo: North Kesteven District Council

Photo: North Kesteven District Council

Little Darters was opened in 2009 by TV wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan, and shortly won an award for the best-designed children’s play facility of its kind in the country.

The next step of improvements is the final phase, where the centre’s basement is being remodelled into a conference and exhibition gallery, with a separate meeting room.

Photo: North Kesteven District Council

Councillor Marion Brighton, Leader of NKDC, who has been involved in Whisby’s evolution over the past 30 years, said, “The Natural World Centre is a fantastic place to visit at any time and these refurbishment projects are a welcome and wonderful package of additional enhancements to a much loved community facility.

“This investment provides a new, exciting offer for the thousands of children who love to explore the attraction and helps to bring to life the adventures and experiences of the wildlife around them,” she said.

The park is open dawn to dusk every day and the Natural World Centre is open from 10am to 5pm. Both are free apart from a £2 day-long parking fee where the proceeds finance the ongoing improvements.