Patrick White

Shoppers and retailers are getting excited for Lincoln’s first Late Night Shopping event which starts tomorrow, July 7.

The event will see the Lincs FM Roadshow team, headed by presenter John Marshall, in the High Street by St Benedict’s Square between 5pm and 7pm.

Lincoln joins seven other UK destinations, including major centres such as Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool and Sheffield – who are sending out a strong message that they are “Alive after 5.”

To encourage as many shoppers as possible to partake, there will be a range of parking and late night transport deals.

Lincoln BIG Chief executive Matt Corrigan said: “Consumers lifestyles have changed, people have flexible working arrangements and shopping has become a great leisure experience.

“We are delighted that more than 100 stores, both national and independent — including all the retailers at St Mark’s Shopping Centre — have already joined us.

“There will be free entertainment from the Lincs FM’s You’ve Got Talent stars, Lincoln-based fire-eaters Jestival and one lucky shopper will have the chance to win £500.”

The city is a top 50 UK retail centre, with 400 retail businesses. The full list of businesses partaking can be seen here.

Lincoln pub The Homestead will be closing on July 11 for a rebrand and then reopening as Fayre & Square.

The £240,000 renovation will create eight new jobs in the city and introduce a new menu.

The pub on Canwick Road, Bracebridge Heath, is owned by Spirit Pub Company, which operates 803 pubs and brands nationwide and has over 16,000 employees.

The pub will reopen on July 30. On the day, from 12pm-4pm, there will be family entertainment featuring jugglers and face painters.

The Homestead is also looking for a local family to officially open the pub, who will then receive VIP treatment.

General manager Martyn Adams said: “I am really excited about the transformation of the Homestead and I am looking forward to introducing our new team members who will help give the brighter new look pub the best start possible.

“We’re going to be delivering great food, great prices and great service all day, every day.

“I am sure we are going to wow our guests with our exciting new menu featuring Firecracker Chicken, Steak & Bombardier Ale Pie and a ‘square’ shaped burger, adding a touch of fun.

“I’m sure there are so many families within the community who are an inspiration to others through their voluntary work or who have overcome hurdles but don’t get any recognition.

“So I would like to use our opening as an opportunity to say thank you by treating a family to VIP treatment including a meal on us.”

There is an opportunity for people to buy all the old furniture and fittings within the pub before the renovation.

All revenue from the sales will be donated to the Help For Heroes Charity.

Related article: This Is Lincolnshire