I reckon that when the Emperor Hadrian’s Romans built their high-status villa estate here in Littleport, they must have raised a temple to the goddess of music, poetry and crafts, Minerva! 

Interestingly, an archaeological dig in 1997 in Camel Road unearthed not just stonework, tile, posh pottery and crafted glass, that indicated an important civic edifice or two, and clues to their diet, arable remains, sheep, cattle and deer bones.  

But also to other activities too, one carefully honed deer horn into what was assessed as a blank for a flute, and another a skilfully cut gaming disc.  

Littleport’s residents back then kept dogs too, most of the aforementioned bones attest to having been chewed by their canine companions.  

But fast forward nearly two millennia and Littleport’s citizens are enjoying a similar profile!  

As well as Christian temples, the 14th century St George’s Parish Church for example, there are solid civic buildings, and completed recently, the Youth and Community Centre on Cornfield Lane.  

Every Wednesday 9am – noon, there is a social get-together with free refreshments for grown-ups and 4.15-5.30pm for ThePort youth group.  

We still have people who make musical instruments, like Tim Sparrow, and many who play them.

And Littleport boasts distinguished poets like John Lyons and seriously clever crafters like Melanie Keating.  

Husband Adi is the genial chair of the Littleport Ex-Servicemen’s Club that hosts a myriad Minervan entertainments including bingo, bowls, darts, with tote and race nights. 

Did I mention the Romans kept horses here too?  

On February 11, they have Coast playing 50s -70s retro sounds. Entry for members is £3 and £5 for guests. 

This Saturday night, February 4, the Crown Inn offers The Casuals (free) and at the village hall, rock and roller Jason Bruce and local saxophonist Saxy Al play from 8pm! £8 for entry.