On May 22, 1816, the vicar of St George’s, Littleport’s parish church, set off at a trot for Ely where he was to rally a military assault on Littleport.  

And later, with his fellow magistrates, a trial by Crown judges, on some of those Littleport rioters he had left eating, drinking and rummaging in his house. 

Littleport’s riots were sparked by starvation caused by no work to be had, the prohibitive price of bread, and were unfortunately fuelled by alcohol.  

Well, the instigators had met at the Globe pub, now the Co-op, and visited the George & Dragon and The Crown.  

In fact, the hardcore rioters were holed up in the George when the dragoons attacked and killed one, Thomas Sindell, and injured others two days later. 

On January 22, 2023, the newest vicar, Rev Natalie Andrews, who begins her incumbency in March, celebrated her appointment by running to Ely and back for no other reason but enjoyment!  

Unlike Rev John Vachell, she is already well-liked in the community at large, particularly by Littleport parkrunners, and is also respected as leader of the Church of England National Sport and Wellbeing Project. 

Littleport has a reputation for supporting its residents’ health and wellbeing, whatever their religious allegiances or none.  

Littleport parkrun is exceedingly popular and starts at 9am every Saturday outside Littleport Leisure Centre.  

And the centre itself has a huge regular programme of activities every day of the week for every age and ability group. 

Furthermore, Littleport became a calm and pleasant law-abiding place to live as the 19th century progressed, with many involved with the armed services over the ensuing centuries up to now. 

Martin Goodearl, president of the Littleport Royal British Legion branch, has just announced the sum of £7,122.94 was raised by the citizens of Littleport from the last Poppy Appeal! 

They would like more supportive members, just for the social aspect, so call Penny on: 01353 861037. 

The Littleport Ex-Servicemen’s Club, where, like the Legion, you don’t have to be ex-services to belong or visit, has a night out with Eton Rivals playing Mod, Ska, New Wave and Punk!  

Saturday, January 28 from 8pm. Entry for members is £3, and guests at £5.