Littleport must have a strong metaphysical pull with its huge amount of homegrown talent and expertise, and the attraction it has for those imbued with those attributes from further afield. 

And this premise has its basis in fact historically, too. 

The Littleport Society (01353 861547; www.littleportsociety.org.uk) testifies to that with its plethora of amazing information, stretching back into the mists of time. 

It has many books and pamphlets written and available to purchase about the interesting people, their lives, and events in this place we call home. 

Roger Rudderham, chair of The Littleport Society and Derek Richings, who co-wrote Robber Barons and Fighting Bishops are thanked on the acknowledgements page of Littleport's John Taylor’s new book called Lost in Time! 

That Littleport talent and expertise is an essential ingredient in this tale of a horseman and farmworker and his family, who are also accidental time-travellers to the time of King John… 

The list of distinguished authors, painters, theatrical personnel, actors, producers, musicians (and among the latter, music teacher Darrell Richings) and most knowledgeable others, who have lived or are living in Littleport, would fill a newspaper. 

And one of those most knowledgeable others, a homespun mine of information on animal welfare, says that Camelot Creature Comforts in Hale Fen (01353 864538 - www.camelotcreaturecomforts.com) from where she gets her chicken feed sells their own brand ‘Bubble Gum’ disinfectant.

This smells like flowers and doesn’t harm the animals you’re cleaning up after either! 

If you like flowers, the friendly Littleport and District Flower Club, who have recently celebrated their 60th anniversary meet on the third Friday of every month, January 20, at 7pm for a 7.30pm start at the village hall.  

They always have a National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies demonstrator showing you how to arrange and display flowers like a professional.  

And there is a chance to win the arrangements afterwards, plus tea and cake. Call Sue Constable, secretary, on 01353 861012 for more information. 

Brian Paddington, who for 24 years has successfully coached Ely Roller Skating Club based at Littleport Leisure Centre, is retiring on Saturday, January 21.  

He is having a leaving skating party from 3-5pm, with food afterwards in the café.