We can't all be at the Albert Hall to Celebrate VE day on the 8th of May but I am sure many of the men, women and children of Peterborough will be looking forward to street parties and remembering our Veterans.

It's thanks to the sacrifice they made all those years ago that today we can enjoy the freedoms we do. We only have to look today at how some countries are unable to live safely today. 

Let us know about your street party to celebrate VE day.

The Peterborough Spotlight Wants To Connect With Business Owners and Locals  Across The Peterborough Area 

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💬 Hello this week from the Spotlight Team!

Spring’s sprung (finally), and Peterborough is buzzing with Bank Holiday energy.

Whether you're brunching in the sunshine, hoping that Posh can take inspiration from the Wembely win, or plotting a boot sale treasure hunt, there's something happening in nearly every corner of the city this week.

 In this issue: a business that’s been a hidden gem for 30 years, a charity bringing warmth to rough sleepers, and some very colourful bricks…

Ready...

Let’s get stuck in, shall we?

🕊️ Community Spotlight: Light Project Peterborough

When the nights get cold in PE1, Light Project Peterborough is quietly getting to work. This local charity has supported more than 1,000 people experiencing homelessness since 2015 — with a mix of emergency shelter, housing support, and practical help.

This spring, they’re ramping up support through The Garden House, a drop-in centre near the Cathedral offering everything from hot drinks to housing referrals.

🧡 “It’s not just about giving people a bed — it’s about giving them back their future,” says CEO Steven Pettican.

Want to get involved? They’re always after volunteers and cuppa-makers.

🔗 lightprojectpeterborough.org.uk

Tell us about your favourite charity, a local community event or just a shoutout to someone who goes above and beyond in our city for our weekly community spotlight! 

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller 

Local Business Spotlight: The Willow Café – A Central Park Classic

Tucked into the leafy heart of Central Park, The Willow Café is more than a place for a great flat white — it’s a Peterborough institution.

Run independently for nearly 30 years, The Willow is a real “little gal” success story. It’s owned by Christine Corrigan, who built the café from scratch with a warm welcome, homemade cakes, and a menu that caters to all — think vegan, veggie, gluten-free and more, without any fuss.

Behind the counter, you’ll find a loyal team (shoutout to Andy and Will her management team) serving up Illy coffee, fresh cakes & bakes, and that sunny-window-seat energy. And just in case you didn't know tucked around back is a full function suite for weddings, conferences, and birthday brunches with your nanna.

💬 “We’re proud to be independent, and even prouder to be part of Central Park’s everyday life,” says Christine.

📍 Open 7 days a week — and a must-visit after a walk, game of tennis, or morning playdate.

🔗 thewillowcafe.co.uk

Nominate Your Favourite Local Business

Do you have a favourite business in the Peterborough Area that deserves to be celebrated? We want to shine a light on the hardworking local businesses that make our community special! Whether it’s a cosy cafe, a dedicated service provider, or a unique boutique, we want to hear about it.

Submit your nominations for our "Local Business Spotlight" section in The Peterborough Spotlight ! Help us recognise the businesses that bring energy, creativity, and warmth to Peterborough. Tell us what makes them exceptional and why they deserve the spotlight!

Reply to this email with your nominations and a brief description to  – let’s lift up local Businesses!

We want to work with Peterborough Business Owners If you like to know more take the Quiz 

Positivity For Peterborough Business Futures...

Peterborough is buzzing with positivity this week as local businesses and projects make headlines for all the right reasons! Here’s a snapshot of what’s putting the city in the spotlight:

🛍️ Peterborough's Thriving Retail Scene

The city’s Business Improvement District (BID), Peterborough Positive, has helped create a retail renaissance in the city center. A recent survey revealed just 15 vacant shop units—a testament to the city’s growing reputation as a business hotspot. Pep Cipriano, COO of Peterborough Positive, couldn’t hide his excitement, saying, “Retailers clearly see Peterborough as the place to invest.”

🚆 A £65M Station Quarter Transformation

MP Big things are coming to Peterborough’s Station Quarter! Thanks to the Levelling Up Fund, this £65 million project will completely revamp the area with a sleek new entrance, expanded footbridge, lush green spaces, and better connections to the city center. Local leaders, including former MP Paul Bristow,(now candidate for local mayor) have hailed it as a major boost, calling it the “gateway to the East of England.” Construction could kick off this year, with full completion set for 2028.

🌟 A Rising Star for Startups

Peterborough has officially been named one of the top 10 best places in the UK for startup businesses! Entrepreneur Mike Greene, Chair of Peterborough and Stamford Chamber of Commerce, credits the city’s energetic workforce, affordable living, and booming tech innovation. He describes Peterborough as “a magnet for fresh ideas and entrepreneurial energy.”

🎟 This Week in Peterborough

Make sure to join our local Facebook page &  Facebook group to stay updated on events, news, and important information in Peterborough

• 🧱 Brick Festival – Sat 26 Apr, Bushfield Leisure
  LEGO lovers assemble! Local builders + rare sets galore.

• 🎶 Heather Small Live – Fri 25 Apr, Peterborough Cathedral
  “Proud” will hit different notes under those vaulted ceilings.

• 🥞 90s Bottomless Brunch – Sat 26 Apr, 210 Broadway,Yaxley
  Spice Girls + scrambled eggs = nostalgia served hot.

• 🛍️ Itter Park Car Boot – Sun 27 Apr
  The city’s best unofficial fashion boutique? We think yes.

Peterborough Sports Summarised

FOOTBALL- Peterborough United -  The Posh  -Peterborough United secured a 1-1 draw against Barnsley at Oakwell on April 21st. Ricky-Jade Jones opened the scoring in the 17th minute, finishing a swift counter-attack initiated by Abraham Odoh. Barnsley equalized in first-half stoppage time through Jonathan Russell's precise strike from the edge of the box. The second half saw both teams creating opportunities, but neither could find a winner. The draw ensured Peterborough's safety in League One for the season

🏒 Peterborough Phantoms – NIHL Grand Final

The Peterborough Phantoms concluded their season with a 6-1 defeat to Milton Keynes Lightning in the NIHL Grand Final at Coventry's Skydome Arena. Despite the loss, the Phantoms' journey to the final showcased their resilience and determination throughout the playoffs.

🏉 Peterborough RUFC – Season Finale

Peterborough RUFC wrapped up their season with a 34-22 victory over Olney, securing their highest-ever league finish in 4th place. The team displayed consistent performance throughout the season, marking a significant achievement in the club's history.

Peterborough Lions – Final Match of the Season

The Peterborough Lions ended their season on a high note with a 26-16 away win against Newbold on Avon. The match highlighted the Lions' strong offensive play and solid defense, capping off their campaign with a commendable performance.

⚽ Peterborough Sports FC – National League North

Peterborough Sports FC faced a challenging match, suffering a 5-0 defeat to Scunthorpe United on April 21st. The loss was a setback as they aim to finish the season strongly in the National League North.

⚽ Peterborough United Women – County Cup Final

Peterborough United Women faced a challenging match in the Northamptonshire Women's County Cup Final on April 17th, suffering a 5-0 defeat to Northampton Town Women. Despite the loss, reaching the final showcased the team's dedication and progress throughout the season.

🏉 Peterborough RUFC Women – Perfect Season

Peterborough RUFC Women's team concluded their season with an impeccable record, achieving an undefeated run. This remarkable feat highlights the team's consistent performance and commitment, marking a significant milestone in the club's history.

🧠 Only in Peterborough…

🏰 Did you know? Longthorpe Tower holds the oldest domestic wall paintings in the UK, tucked away behind an unassuming door just west of town. Step inside, and you’ll find medieval unicorns, kings, and saints — painted nearly 700 years ago.

🧠 Now that’s wall art.

📣 Community Update 

• 📦 Frasers Group is moving into the old John Lewis spot at Queensgate

• 🥩 Harvester’s out, Miller & Carter is in — Alwalton gets fancy

• 🚀 200+ new businesses registered in Peterborough last quarter

• 💬 Got a gig, opening, or fundraiser? Send it our way: 

💬 Look forward to seeing you all again next week from the Peterborough Spotlight Team

Thanks for reading this edition of Peterborough Spotlight — our mission is simple: show off the people, places, and passion that make this city great. We will be back next week with more fun articles, new features and so much more.

Do You Know Someone In Peterborough Who's Making A Difference?

Here’s your chance to celebrate them! Whether it’s a friend, neighbour, teacher, or local hero, we want to feature their story in the "Local Hero Shout Outs" section of The Peterborough Spotlight! Submit your nominations, share inspiring stories, and help us recognise the amazing people who make Peterborough the place we all call home.

Submit a brief story and their name — let's spread some positivity together!

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