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THE man charged with causing the death of East Halton pensioner Mary Horsley is accused of being more than three times the drink-drive limit. Steven Carl Richardson, 26, appeared at North Lincolnshire Magistrates' Court yesterday charged with causing death by driving without due care and attention while over the prescribed alcohol limit. Richardson, of Fern-down Drive, Immingham, offered no plea during his brief appearance in court. Richardson is accused of being three times the drink drive limit, with a reading of 106mcgs of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit for drivers is 35mcgs. The 79-year-old grandmother was walking home from a hotel she had worked at for 20 years when she was knocked down – just minutes away from her front door – on Townside, East Halton, on January 8. The mother-of-three had finished an evening shift at the Amethyst Hotel, in East Halton, when she was injured as two cars collided between Scrub Lane and Swinster Lane. She died at Hull Royal Infirmary. Mrs Horsley was described by her family as a much-loved mother-of-three and grandmother to many, and by friends as a "lovely lady" with a "brilliant sense of humour". Floral tributes were laid at the crash scene. Richardson will next appear at Grimsby Crown Court on Friday, June 14.

Accused of being 3 times the limit

HELP is on the way for struggling residents of North East Lincolnshire. A £350,000 grant will create a new advice hub, provided by Grimsby Citizens' Advice Bureau (CAB), the Community Advice Centre and Harbour Place. The new centre will be another boost to the regeneration of Freeman Street. The new service, called the Community Advice Network, will be located in the former Rayners electrical store and will offer information and advice from financial and debt management, to housing and employment. The three organisations will be staying in their current separate locations, with the new addition becoming a central hub for advice. As reported, the revamp of Freeman Street, which it is hoped will breathe new life into the once-thriving street, has been approved for its first phase. The revamp will see everything from the road to the shop fronts being updated and improved. Chief executive of the Grimsby CAB Tony Gaskins said the new centre and the funding will help reach people in need. "The new centre will allow us to provide all of our services out of one building. "With Harbour Place we can now reach people who may not have come forward to us for the help they need. The new centre will create eight new positions, including a special debt welfare officer, who will be on hand to help and advise on everything from housing problems to debt management and legal advice. "The new centre will be a real boost to the region by creating employment and helping people secure a stronger financial position. "By helping people with their finances, we could see an increase in the local economy. "The credit culture in the past few years has seen a lot of people fall into debt because it is very easy. "Anyone from any walk of life could be in need of help through no fault of their own. "We don't judge you or why you are here. "We are a free service here to help you whatever your circumstances." The grant has been awarded by The Big Lottery Fund and the Cabinet office, and will be paid over two years. The centre will have to find the funds to sustain services beyond then. Ann Marie Webster, service manager for Community Advice Centre, said: "With welfare reforms, lack of jobs and other pressures, people could really struggle. "We provide very similar services to the CAB and we have worked together for some time. This new centre will enable us to provide effective advice provisions. "The problem when people are struggling is they often don't know where to turn, or even if they can get any help at all. We can help them see the light in their problems and I have often had people say that after just their first meeting they have gone home and had the first good night's sleep in a long time. "What we see when people have problems, whether financial or not, is they can become stressed and depressed, which can have a negative effect on their relationships and sometimes lead to drink and drug problems. "We hope to provide advice and support to prevent people going down that road. But we can only help people who come to us."

New centre to help people in need

SHE might have been deemed the "weakling" of her family by doctors, but Ada Grant is proving them wrong this weekend as she celebrates her 100th birthday. When she was a child, Ada's parents were warned she was weaker than her six brothers and sisters and was "unlikely to see old bones". But fast-forward the best part of a century and she will be celebrating her milestone birthday with family and friends tomorrow. She said: "They said I wouldn't live very long because I was always poorly, but I've shown it can be done. "I'm looking forward to seeing all my family for my birthday – I don't need any presents if I've got them." Born in Cleethorpes in 1913, Ada attended Barcroft Street School before serving at Noble's Sweet Shops, where she worked for the rest of her career. She met and married late husband William, who passed away 40 years ago, and the couple had two children – Anita and Wendy, who passed away five years ago, aged 70. She now has four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Anita, 70, of Holton-le-Clay, has arranged for the family to visit Garden House Care Home, in Humberston Avenue, New Waltham, where Ada now lives, for a birthday party tomorrow. Ada lived in York Place, Cleethorpes, until five years ago when daughter Wendy passed away. Anita said her mum is in good health for her age and has amazed everyone by living to 100. The former hairdresser said: "When mum was younger she was ill a lot and the doctor said she was a weakling and would never live to an old age. "She's certainly proved them wrong! "I think people lived healthier lifestyles when she was younger. "They walked or rode bikes everywhere and she has never smoked or drunk. "Her real interests in life have been animals and children – in that order. "The house was always full of cats and dogs. She had everything from pedigree breeds to Heinz 57s and she loved looking after them all." Ada was due to receive a card from the Queen this morning, congratulating her on reaching her centenary year.

Former sweet shop worker celebrates 100th birthday

GUIDES and Brownies said a thank you "as big as the whole world" after the community offered more than 20 tents and thousands of pounds to replace their stolen camping equipment. Eighty young girls were left devastated last week when it looked as though they couldn't attend the annual Poachers camping event in Lincolnshire after thieves stole 24 tents, gas cookers, two gazebos, mallets and other equipment. However, the response from the community has been "totally overwhelming", according to Allison Wood, divisional commissioner for Girlguiding in Cleethorpes – who has struggled to keep track of all the offers of help. And all these kind offers have not gone unnoticed by the very girls that benefit – who are now going to the Poachers weekend at Lincolnshire Showground in June, where they host a Guide group from New Hampshire, USA. Crystal Wesley, 8, said: "I want to say a big thank you – as big as the whole wide world." "What they are going to do with 20 tents is something I'll never know." Lauren Wharton, 9, said: "Thank you for all the money and donations which mean that we can go to the Poachers." Allison said: "We were blown away by the support which means we are going camping again and the thieves haven't won." Offers came from as far away as Devon, where a Guide group offered five tents, which has now formed a link between the two divisions, that leaders hope will lead to trips to meet each other. The Grimsby, Cleethorpes Lions Club is the latest group to offer support, handing over £500 after calling an emergency meeting because their local group was in trouble. Colin Deans, first vice- president, said: "It was very emotive and we are all old enough to have friends and relatives that have gone through the Guides so know just how positive an influence they have on many young people." More than 20 tents have been offered to the group – including one which was left at their base in Sandringham Road. Another anonymous benefactor donated £8,500 after it emerged that the original £5,000 estimated to replace the equipment would not be enough.

Guides blown away by gifts after thieves' raid

A SUPERMARKET built on Louth cattle market would lead to the slow strangulation of the town, according to campaigners aiming to keep the town special. Members of Keep Louth Special pressure group said they were gearing up for a fight to stop the cattle market being sold off to a supermarket developer. The warning came as council chiefs announced they will appoint a team of consultants to advise the council whether to put the cattle market up for sale. The cattle market, which is the only livestock centre in Lincolnshire, is owned by East Lindsey District Council. Chairman of Keep Louth Special, Alan Mumby, said: "It is no coincidence Louth has been chosen as Britain's favourite market town. "We want the council to think long term. We sympathise with them that they have to save cash, but a few bucks now is not in the long-term benefit of the town." He added: "There is much more support for the campaign to save the High Streets of towns. If a supermarket were to be built in the town it would lead to a slow strangulation." The cattle market has been earmarked as one of two sites in Louth which could be developed as a retail site. The other is Morrisons, in Eastgate, which could be expanded. Councillors will make a decision in September whether to sell the cattle market and build a new one on the town's Fairfield industrial estate. East Lindsey District Council portfolio holder for finance, Councillor John Upsall, pictured left, said more developers have approached the council expressing their interest in the site for a range of uses. He said the council would seek independent expert advice to inform councillors of its commercial potential if it is worth putting the cattle market on the market. Councillor Upsall said: "The district council has taken no decision to dispose of the site, neither has it taken a view as to what the site could or should be used for in the future. "We must be absolutely clear that if the current cattle market site is redeveloped, a new cattle market would be provided in accordance with The Royal Charter." He said a new cattle market could be used for antiques sales and car sales, as well as livestock. Councillor Upsall said all local authorities are complying with central government guidance to maximise assets. ELDC corporate asset manager Gary Sargeant said the authority had to "sweat" its assets.

Cattle market battle to stop supermarket sweep

GUY Martin believes his "little Suzuki is good enough to do the business" at the North West 200 today.

The Kirmington motorcycle racer, pictured, raced to a podium finish in Thursday evening's Supersport race in Northern Ireland.

And his preparations for the 'big one' – the Isle of Man TT later this month – continued with a fourth-place finish in the Superstock contest.

The 31-year-old will turn his attentions to further Supersport and Superstock races today, along with two Superbike showdowns around the Triangle circuit.

Martin was satisfied after finishing behind Alastair Seeley and Michael Dunlop in the Ballymoney Borough Council Supersport race.

"The Supersport race was run in really iffy conditions, but the bike was good and very strong," he said.

"I led on the first lap but once Dunlop came past I just wasn't prepared to give any more in the early laps on really wet roads.

"Seeley also got me from the second group on corrected time but I'm happy enough as I think the little Suzuki is good enough to do the business, if we get the right conditions today."

Seeley again took top spot in the Livewire AV Superstock. Bruce Anstey and Broughton racer Gary Johnson made up the podium, with Martin one place back.

"If someone had told me before the race started that we'd get fourth from 15th on the grid, I'd have ripped their arm off for it," Martin added.

"It's another step forward. We can be up there fighting today in this class also."

Guy confident for big day of racing

ONE of North East Lincolnshire's fastest women sprinters has died aged 81. Olga Dye was a sprint champion, beating European and world-class runners. She was the first female president of Grimsby Harriers, as well as a businesswoman and active member of a number of choirs. Today, her family have paid tribute to a woman of "determination and courage". As a young Olga Haigh, the Nunsthorpe School pupil began her athletics career at the school. She later went on to be trained by the British running coach Denis Watts. Her personal best was achieved at White City in London, when she clocked 100 yards in 11.2 seconds. She also achieved 220 yards in 24.8 seconds – beating other world-ranking athletes on a cinder track, wearing hand-made leather running shoes. She met Denis Lake, the skipper of Grimsby Harriers, and the couple married in 1953. Two years before, she had become the first female member of Grimsby Harriers and went on to blaze a trail for other female athletes in North East Lincolnshire. She became the Harriers' first female president in the 1960s and was a founder member of Lincolnshire Women's Amateur Athletics Association in 1954. And Olga was a mainstay of the cinder path running track, off Pinfold Lane, in Scartho, before King George V became the club's new home. The talented woman retired from running in the late 1950s and dedicated her life to coaching young athletes and organising events, including exchanges with twin town Bremerhaven in Germany. She is survived by her three children Karen, Catherine and Richard. Karen – herself a tri-athlete champion – said: "She would go off running in her tracksuit and children would run after her shouting 'you still have your pyjamas on', but nothing put her off. "She had an internal drive and she always wanted to run." Catherine added: "She had a determination and courage in everything she did. Nothing held her back. "With Mum, it wasn't about being the greatest, it was having a go. She always brought the best out in people. "She encouraged them and was always there for her family and friends in times of need. It was unconditional and she was always kind towards others. "Karen, Richard and I all agree she instilled a drive and determination in all three of us." Having divorced in the 1970s, Olga remarried in May 2001 to a former mayor of Cleethorpes, widower Ron Dye. They met through their love of music. Olga was a member of Grimsby Philharmonic Society and Ron joined later. He died in 2002, but Olga carried on through her love of singing, which she enjoyed with Waltham Choral Society, the Haven Methodist Church Choir and the Grimsby Philharmonic Society, with which she sang for 20 years. Olga also taught a generation of young pianists and was teaching until she was 80. She also enjoyed playing bowls and was a member of Cleethorpes Ladies Bowls Club and played for Lincolnshire Ladies team. Karen said: "She was a competitive person and enjoyed sport generally." With Jean Holgeth, she ran Waltham Antiques, in High Street, for more than 20 years and was a regular feature at antiques fairs in the area. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 24, at All Saint's Church,Waltham, from 1.30pm, followed by a service at Grimsby Crematorium at 2.30pm. Her family has requested donations in lieu of flowers to Grimsby Philharmonic Society and they can be sent to treasurer, Alan Ashton, at 13 Hardys Road, Cleethorpes.

Trail-blazing champion runner dies at 81

FOOTBALLERS from Louth and Fulstow preserved a Grimsby Town fan's legacy at Blundell Park to raise money for sports equipment.

Russ's Old Boys played Fulstow Rovers to raise money for the Russ Maddison Sports Foundation, named after a stalwart of the local football scene.

Mr Maddison died after collapsing towards the end of a match for Manby in October 2011, aged 55.

Friends and family set up the charity to raise money for sports facilities in Fulstow, where he lived.

His son Simon, 30, played in the match and said his dad would have been proud to see the legacy he left – especially as Fulstow, a team he set up in the early 1990s, beat the opposition 3-1.

He added: "This is a really fitting tribute to him – sport was a big part of his life.

"He used to bring to Blundell Park when I was a child and it's great to be playing a match here.

"The team have played well."

It's the second year a match has been held in Mr Maddison's memory and the foundation has spent more than £2,500 on equipment, including new rackets and shuttlecocks for the badminton club and footballs for Fulstow Rovers FC.

The match started with a minute of applause before Fulstow, his local side, and opponents Russ's Old Boys – former Louth Old Boys where he played – took to the pitch.

It was a closely fought match, but the difference was Fulstow player Nicky Hopper, the right centre back, who scored two headers from two corners.

Fulstow manager for the match Luke Turner, 26, said: "We had a good game and the lads we played against were great as well.

"It was a good, clean match and everyone seemed to really enjoy playing."

Mr Maddison was well known locally for his dedication to football – both as a player and a coach who got the best out of young talent.

He set up two junior teams in Fulstow in the 1990s, which Simon played for, as well as Carl Larder, 27.

Mr Larder said: "I remember his coaching expertise helped us beat Bluestar to win the cup – after they beat us 9-3 the week before.

"It was a great feeling to win and we went out celebrating, but we were only about 13 so the best we could do was a Bass shandy.

"He was a good coach and had a great sense of humour – those were great times."

ON THE WEB: See more pictures from the match at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk

Hard-fought footy match remembers well-loved late coach

TURN your passion into a qualification and you could soon be "growing" towards the career of your dreams.

That is the message from adult learners who are studying horticulture at the Grimsby Institute.

And all next week the Institute is inviting you to try your hand at a range of courses relating to your interests – from dog grooming and plumbing, to hair styling, decorating, brickwork and joinery – as part of Adult Learners' Week 2013.

One person who is already reaping the rewards of returning to education as an adult is grandmother-of-four Yvonne McInnes, 55, of Cleethorpes.

The former teaching assistant was unemployed for 18 months before being referred to the Institute by the Jobcentre.

She explained: "I decided that if I wasn't able to retire, then I might as well spend my last years in employment working in an industry I really enjoy.

"I was very lucky that being accepted onto the course didn't affect my benefits and the fees were paid for, too.

"Since then, I've secured a part-time job at Alford Garden Centre and I'm looking forward to starting a full-time job when I finish."

Another student who would encourage others to return to education is Natalie Ladds, 43, of Holton-le-Clay, who is studying for a BTEC Level 3 in horticulture.

She said: "I've had all sorts of jobs over the years, from working in hotels to working at B&Q, but gardening has always been my real passion.

"I've got six plastic greenhouses at home and my friends and family always come to me for their plants.

"I decided that I would like to get the theoretical knowledge to back-up my passion, so I signed up for this course."

And Natalie, who has since won Institute horticulture student of the year, says she hasn't looked back since signing up.

She added: "I've learned so much and I'd tell anybody who's thinking of going back to education to go for it. You never know what might come from it."

Father-of-one Dave Bedham, 31, is also enrolled on the Level 3 qualification after returning to education.

He said: "I'm dyslexic and I struggled when I was at school, so I was worried about coming back to education, but I shouldn't have been.

"I think if you're really passionate about something then it makes learning it easier – that's what I've found anyway."

Potential horticulture students will be able to make a hanging basket during Adult Learners' Week.

Tutor Tim Cooper said: "We have a wide range of people on our courses, from teenagers to people in their 60s and it creates a great atmosphere for learning."

To find out more about the taster sessions, call 01472 311219 or e-mail infocent@grimsby.ac.uk

ON THE WEB: Read more about getting involved in Adult Learners' Week at the Institute at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk

Grow along to Institute and learn new skills

GRIMSBY Town's bosses want to add experience to their young squad – possibly ruling out a move for Nuneaton Town winger Wes York. The 19-year-old wideman impressed against the Mariners back in March and alerted a host of full-time clubs by putting in a transfer request at the end of the season. But Town co-manager Rob Scott insists that – although the likes of York would be of interest in a perfect world – what his squad needs more than anything is a few older heads. He told the Telegraph: "We have to look at what we need – last year at times our squad only had one player over the age of 23 in it. "We've got a lot of young players and we're happy with those but the only experienced player we've got at this time is Craig Disley. "So we need to go into the right areas and get the right things for next season – one of those will be experience." Currently Scott and Paul Hurst's squad stands at 13 players, including one goalkeeper, one centre-back and only two centre-midfielders. The average age of that group is just over 24, with captain Disley the only player over 27. Scott remarked: "We know we need a centre-half and a central midfielder, and we know what type we need. "We'll possibly be looking for one more winger as well because if we do decide to go 4-4-2 that only leaves us with two out-and-out wingers. "If anything happens to either of those then you're a little bit thin on the ground. "But we're not in the process of being able to go and sign 25 players. If that was the case someone like Wes York at Nuneaton would have been a possibility. "We only saw a couple of games he played in, and did he do it consistently enough? He had a good half against us and then he faded." He added: "We're not able to go out and spend, spend, spend, and bring in every top player that we've come across this season. "We need to really scour the market at every level – whether it's the one above, one below or the one we're in, we'll look for the best that we can get. "We'll certainly have some experience added to the squad and we'll see where we end up."

Grimsby Town needing some 'old heads' to steady the ship

YOUNG Grimsby Town striker Dayle Southwell will return from his summer holiday "fired up and ready to go." The 19-year-old was delighted to learn this week that the club had decided to extend his stay at Blundell Park for another year. That news marked the culmination of a promising season for the frontman from Louth, who made 31 league appearances in total for the Mariners. He was also named Young Player of the Year by Town's Disabled Supporters Club, receiving the Darren Brown Trophy at the end of season awards night. Speaking to the Telegraph, Southwell admitted he didn't expect to figure that frequently and says that it's given him the taste for more first-team action. He said: "When I look back, I think it's been a good season for me. I didn't expect to play as much as I did but having got those games, I thought I did okay. "But then it was a little frustrating when I was out of the team, because I thought I was doing well in training. "The managers have to make those decisions though, and I have to stick by those. "They said to me to just keep going and eventually I'd get my chance during the season. "It was about taking those opportunities when they came along and I felt I did that to an extent. "Now that I know I'll be here for another year at least, the aim is to kick on and build on that next season." "My goal is to play more games, get a few more starts under my belt and, ultimately, score more goals. Hopefully I can do that next season." While Southwell, above, can reflect on a good campaign from a personal perspective, he acknowledges that, as a team, Town didn't achieve what they intended to. But he said that if the squad 'sticks together', they are capable of going one better next season by finally sealing a Football League return. He added: "It was disappointing the way the season ended but we've got to go again. "We've got to stick together and go one better next season and achieve our ultimate goal of getting back into the Football League. "It's good that my situation is all sorted now and I can just concentrate on relaxing and enjoying my summer. "I've got a holiday sorted in the next couple of weeks but once that's over, it's about getting back down to work, focusing on the season ahead and coming back fired up and ready to go."

Striker Southwell determined to make the most of his opportunities

ANDY Cook might have ended the season with a personal trophy but the striker insists he will not rest until he adds some silverware to Grimsby Town's cabinet. The Mariners tasted disappointment in the Conference play-off semi-finals as well as losing an FA Trophy final to Wrexham. But it was still a season to remember for Cook in his debut campaign with Town. With Liam Hearn ruled out for much of the season due to a ruptured Achilles, Cook suddenly found himself as the main man and he didn't disappoint, finishing the season with 16 goals in all competitions. That earned the 22-year-old the Sportsbeat Young Player of the Year Award as the fans spoke to land their man glory at the Non-League Paper's Nation Game Awards. Cook was delighted to net the award at Fulham's Craven Cottage. But while admitting the season had been a good one on a personal level, Cook insists it would have been all the more sweeter to have helped his club to glory in the process. "It was a good season for me personally. I enjoyed myself and I am really pleased to win the award," he said. "The stand out moment has to be the goal at Wembley because it is the one that everyone dreams about. "But while that was decent it was just a shame that we couldn't get promotion – to come so close and still miss out was disappointing. "Hopefully we can come back next year and do better, be stronger and put that right." The Non-League Paper is the UK's number one selling football title available in all shops on Sundays. www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com

Prestigious award will spur Grimsby Town striker Andy Cook to more glory

JOE Waters stepped out onto the Blundell Park pitch 22 years after his last visit and remarked: "It feels like home."

The former skipper was back in familiar surroundings having made more than 400 appearances for the Mariners and leading them to successive promotions – including the 1980 Division Three title.

The Irishman has jetted back from his home in the US especially for tonight's reunion event at McMenemy's with former boss George Kerr and his old team-mates.

And having last gone back to his old stomping ground in 1991, his BP return brought back a torrent of memories for the 59-year-old.

He said: "On a game day when I'd be leading the team out, the supporters in the Barrett's would see you coming out of the tunnel and the roar would start from there.

"Then it would spread around and of course the corners were all full in those days as well.

"The hairs on the back of your neck stand up just thinking about it – it was just an amazing feeling.

"When you got to the end of the tunnel and took your first step onto the field there was a crescendo of noise from the whole stadium.

"That's all come flooding back. It's brought a lot of memories back – stuff that you don't think of until you're back where it happened."

Managed by John Newman and then Kerr, Waters captained one of the most successful sides in Town's history, winning the Player of the Year award in 1979.

Sitting in his old spot in the home changing room, he recalled: "This was my corner for all the time I was here – nearly ten years – for training and game day.

"It feels like home. It's been a long time but it brings back memories of the guys that were here.

"Kev Moore used to be here, next to me, on game day because he was number three, and Shaun Mawer used to be just a few yards away.

"So it's bitter-sweet memories, but great to be back here to see it again. For me, it's just like I never left the place."

The man who netted a club record 30 penalties for the Mariners also took the opportunity to try his luck from the spot again.

He said: "I've stood in that position many times and it was nice to remember some of the times when I was out there.

"I had a bit of a reputation for my penalty kicks, towards the end especially.

"I can remember an occasion when we played Huddersfield and in the first two minutes we got two penalties.

"I missed the first one and Drinky (Kevin Drinkell) wanted to take the next one, but I said no way.

"I did the same as I did this time – I hit the post with the first one and with the second one I clipped it off the inside of the post and the ball rolled around the side of the net just like it used to.

"It was good to experience that again all these years on."

Waters, who made 265 consecutive league and cup appearances for Town between 1976-81 – another club record – continued: "Winning the Division Three title in 1980 was the highlight for me.

"On the last day of the season here, on a beautiful sunny day, everything just clicked for us and we played like there was no pressure on us at all.

"We achieved what we wanted and I was determined to do that because I'd had such a bad experience the year before when we let the title slip away.

"We got promotion with three games to go and then we lost the last few games, and I remember getting into a huge argument with my father when Doncaster beat us 4-3 in the final home game.

"That memory stayed with me until the next year – that wasn't going to happen again.

"There was only one team who were going to win it a year later and we played great from the start.

"I can recall the sheer euphoria around this place, during and after that game, and my father was in the stands watching so I got to give it back then!"

Waters will join Kerr, Newman and former team-mates including Drinkell, Tony Ford, Dave Moore, Terry Donovan, Nigel Batch, Kevin Kilmore, Bobby Mitchell and Clive Wiggington at tonight's event.

Organised by the Mariners Trust, the evening will begin with a tribute to another of that squad, Kevin Moore, who passed away last month after a long illness.

Waters added: "I've wanted to come back but there were always things stopping me.

"But then last week I saw online that John (Newman) was coming and that he'd not been well, and that George (Kerr) had not been well during the year.

"And of course what happened with Kev (Moore) brought it all home.

"I thought 'if I don't go now I'll never forgive myself' so I managed to organise it all in two days and I'm here.

"There are going to be a lot of good memories, great stories and plenty of mickey-taking because we lived all the good and bad things together as a team.

"It's going to be a really good night and I'm so looking forward to it."

Tickets for tonight's George Kerr evening at Blundell Park are priced at £20 for Trust members and £25 for non-members. For more information, visit www.marinerstrust.co.uk

Waters back 'home' where his heart is

CLEETHORPES Town FC have unveiled Marcus Newell as their new manager.
He replaces Andy Liddle, who recently stepped down after a successful two seasons with the club.
Newell will hope to continue Clee Town's progression.
The team competes in the Northern Counties East League and plays its home matches at the Bradley Community Stadium.
See Monday's Telegrah for full story

HEARTBROKEN parents have just 21 days to permanently clear their babies' graves of loving ornaments.

Letters have been sent to bereaved parents who have buried their babies in North East Lincolnshire Council-owned cemeteries telling them they must remove all decorations from the graves.

If the ornaments – including plastic windmills, teddies and potted plants – aren't removed within three weeks, the council will take them away themselves.

Council bosses say the headstones must be cleared to "enable the area around graves to be seeded and maintained" and that policy is in line with other local authority's regulations – including neighbouring North Lincolnshire and East Riding.

Memorial items are, however, allowed on the plinth.

And they have stressed that they are "fully aware of the sensitivities of this issue", but that it is their duty to make sure cemeteries remain in a suitable condition for all visitors.

It comes as devastated mum, Laura Taylor, 27, has this week launched a petition against the council's ban on the princess castle design headstone for her daughter, Grace Isabel Taylor, who died when she was just six months old.

One grieving mother, who did not wish to be named, contacted the Grimsby Telegraph after reading Laura's article.

She received her letter 12 weeks after the death of her daughter, who passed away just hours after birth.

The 23-year-old, from Eastern Inway, Grimsby, finds great comfort in visiting her plot with her three-year-old daughter.

She said: "I can't believe they want us to do it.

"We go every day, so do my sisters and my mum. It has been a comfort to all of us, it is where we go to see her.

"We haven't got her here, so we go there.

"My three-year-old goes down there and sorts her flowers out. She calls it her little sister's special place."

Plot regulations are included when you buy the deeds to a grave, which costs about £600.

The mother continued: "I signed the regulations three days after my daughter had died – I would have signed anything. My head was a mess.

"As long as they are kept clean and tidy I don't see why we are not allowed to decorate them."

It has also upset the baby's grandmother, who added: "When my granddaughter was born, she was 8.6lb. You don't expect a baby that healthy to die.

"We have few memories of her alive, so we need a place where we can go."

Tony Neul, head of Neighbourhood Services for North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "We are fully aware of the sensitivities of this issue, but we have to ensure cemeteries are in a suitable condition for all who visit to pay their respects.

"As such and in common with other local authorities, we have certain regulations on what graveside articles are permitted and which grave deed owners are made aware of and have to agree to prior to burial.

"The letter which has been sent out is a simple, polite reminder of that agreement to enable the area around graves to be seeded and maintained for everyone visiting our cemeteries."

As reported, Laura Taylor's petition, called Let Grace Have Her Princess Castle Headstone, has so far had more than 1,000 signatures.

It has gained support from readers of the Grimsby Telegraph and visitors to our website, www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk

Laura's friend, Fiona Scullard, hit out at criticism, posting online: "My son is in Scartho Cemetery and he has a beautiful star headstone with points on that was approved by NELC.

"My son died in 2008 and his headstone was erected in June 2009, just after his first anniversary.

"Let me ask how much do you all spend on your children each year? Thousands? Well Grace isn't here anymore and her family would like to do the last thing they can for her.

"We don't go for headstones that are 'chavvy' or for our own gratification; we chose something that symbolises our child.

"My son was my star so he got a star. Grace was Laura and Paul's princess, so they want a princess castle headstone."

Let us know your views viewpoint@grimsbytelegraph.co.ukFROM THE COUNCIL'S LETTERSorry to have to write to you to you on this sensitive matter, however, we are unable to carry out levelling, grass cutting and seeding work that is necessary to the row of grave spaces in this section of the cemetery simply because there are currently floral and other items on grave spaces, including your own. You will see gardens are not permitted but there are several types of memorial suggestions that you may wish to consider. However, these must be located on the concrete plynth at the head of the grave in order for us to maintain the area infront. We would therefore request that you remove these items mentioned from your grave to enable levelling work to be carried out. This will be carried out in 21 days and any items remaining on the grave space will be removed without further notice.

Grieving parents now told to clear ornaments from babies' graves

ARE we in the midst of an encounter with the third kind? Earlier this week, we reported how Waltham residents remain perplexed by flashing lights spotted in the night sky. The lights, which appeared to be coming from the south east and were said to be "too big to have been planes", have caused confusion and left some locals feeling uneasy. So Grimsby Telegraph readers have come to the rescue with a range of explanations – from scientific to more otherworldly causes. On www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk, Greg Stratford said: "I was driving back to Grimsby late on Thursday evening from Scunthorpe along the A180 (from Stallingborough to Healing turn off) when I noticed lights dancing around the sky in the distance. "However, it looked more like a very powerful ground-based searchlight being pointed towards the skies. "I have seen something similar in the past when driving back to Grimsby late at night when the skies were clear. "I assumed it may have been a searchlight as far afield as Mablethorpe." Alan Smith said: "The flashes which were seen are, I believe, from a searchlight being used in Cleethorpes. "I have seen them for the past few Thursdays at about 11.30pm while travelling towards the Toll Bar roundabout from Waltham. "As an ex-RAF man, I recognise the pattern; a searchlight was used by the control tower to judge how high the cloud cover was before night flying. "Depending on the conditions you wouldn't necessarily see a beam, just the reflection of the light on the clouds." Peter Dunwell thinks the source of the UFO sightings could be Iridium lights. "Iridium lights are flashes of light that happen in groups, from communication satellites," he said. "They are easily tracked by using an ISS sky tracker on your phone or home PC. Maybe this is the answer." And Jackie Cook told us: "I was visiting my daughter in Scartho last week and I saw something strange in the sky. "I thought it was lightning at first as the light only lasted a few seconds. "I realised that when one person sees something, everyone else seems to too. "I told my daughter and she told me what had been in the Telegraph." Kathleen Corduff, a firm believer in UFOs, said: "Since last summer I have seen about 16 spaceships. "Imagine an infinite universe and infinite selves in infinite dimensions throughout. "I have had recurring UFO dreams from being a small kid. I have travelled on them in my dreams." Change is coming ... where we will be, part of a Galactic Universe and society?"THE GRIMSBY TELEGRAPH EDITOR'S VIEWIs there anybody out there? The Grimsby Telegraph, like many other media outlets in the land, frequently carries stories and pictures featuring readers and viewers giving their first hand accounts of 'unexplained' happenings. From flashing lights in the sky to strange objects disappearing into the distance – are they a trick of the eye or could it be that someone, somewhere is watching us? For us all, living and breathing on this planet, it is hard to believe that there is an alternative life form that has not found us yet, or indeed one that we have not discovered. However despite all the advances in technology, no scientist in the land can give us a definite indication of life beyond our planet – the great mystery is that we just do not know. That is what keeps our minds alert as to the 'unexplained' and our fascination alive.Have you had any experiences that suggest there is life out there? Let us know by email viewpoint@grimsbytelegraph.co.ukFollow the editor on Twitter @grimsbytelegraph

Did you see alien in the UFO?

THE new Mayor of North East Lincolnshire has promised to bring "enjoyment and fun" to the role. Peggy Elliott, Labour councillor for the Freshney ward, was sworn in at the annual mayor-making ceremony at Grimsby Town Hall on Thursday, as reported on www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk In an emotional acceptance speech, Councillor Elliott revealed how she was following in the footsteps of her mother-in-law Marjorie Elliott, who served as Mayor of Grimsby in 1978. She said: "I am extremely proud and privileged to represent North East Lincolnshire and look forward to meeting as many citizens, charities and organisations as I can and to promote North East Lincolnshire as a sound, safe and community-minded place to live and invest in." Describing outgoing mayor Mike Burton as a "very hard act to follow", she added: "Every mayor brings something unique to the role and mine will be, quite simply and where appropriate, to bring some enjoyment and fun." Councillor Elliott's husband Steve will serve as consort and the Reverend Andrew Dodd, priest in charge at Grimsby Minster, will act as her chaplain. She revealed that her three chosen charities for the year would be St Andrew's Children's Hospice, Humberston Park Hydrotherapy Pool and Women's Aid. Fighting back the tears, she added: "Well, who would have thought it! Peggy Topple, born in Mangle Street, Grimsby, would be Mayor of North East Lincolnshire. I certainly never did!" Councillor Elliott has served in a variety of positions since being elected onto the council, including the cabinet post for citizens partners and support services in 2011/12. Last year she served as deputy mayor. A former chairman of the health and wellbeing scrutiny panel, she has also been a leading figure in the local campaign to save the Leeds children's heart unit. Proposing her election as mayor, fellow Freshney ward councillor Cliff Barber described Councillor Elliott as a "caring, thoughtful and happy person", who always put others first. He said: "Her work as a councillor has been exceptional, working long hours on the ward to try to help with problems that have occurred. "She has been a Trojan to try to save the Leeds heart unit from closure. She is definitely not one to give in." Alex Baxter, the Conservative councillor for Scartho ward, will serve as deputy mayor, with his wife Anne serving as deputy mayoress. Proposing him for the position, fellow Scartho ward councillor David Hornby said his colleague was well suited to the position, having an "enviable record" in promoting the borough through his work in the judiciary, education and other public service appointments. Delivering the vote of thanks to the retiring mayor, Councillor Dave Bolton said Councillor Burton had been a "great ambassador" for North East Lincolnshire. In his speech, Councillor Burton reflected on an eventful year in which he had attended just over 500 engagements. They included a trip on the Humber Lifeboat, a visit to Cleethorpes's twin town Konigswinter, the Queen's garden party at Burghley House and the arrival of the Olympic torch in Cleethorpes. He paid heartfelt tributes to his wife Audrey, who served as mayoress, his "A-team" of PA Karen Weir, town hall manager Paul Wisken and mayor's sergeant Ben Lucas, his chaplain the Rev Andrew Dodd, and his council colleagues. He said: "We have had a wonderful year. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this borough."

New Mayor pledges to add fun to role

JAMIE Devitt and Tom Naylor are unlikely to return – but Grimsby Town's bosses could yet bring back Marcus Marshall.

The trio of loan signings – along with Cleveland Taylor and Dougie Wilson – returned to their parent clubs following the play-off semi-final defeat at Newport.

Since then, utility-man Naylor has been made available to other clubs by Derby County boss Nigel Clough, despite having a year left on his contract at Pride Park.

Devitt has been released by Hull City, while fellow winger Marshall sees his current deal at Bury end this summer.

Mariners joint boss Rob Scott says Devitt won't be heading back to Blundell Park after failing to make an impact in his second loan spell at the club.

"I have to be honest – we're not going to pursue anything with Jamie," he said.

"I don't think Jamie ever really got going. He didn't show us enough to warrant a starting berth week-in, week-out.

"We saw glimpses, but never enough over the period of time that he was here."

Naylor, however, impressed with his displays at centre-half and in central- midfield over the final two months of the campaign.

On the 21-year-old, Scott continued: "Tom is on very, very good wages at a Championship club and we got him at 75 per cent less than he was earning there.

"So it's unrealistic to say that we can sign him because what we could afford to pay is probably less than half what he's on.

"He's got another year left at Derby, so why would he walk away from what is a very good contract to something that's not as good at a lower level?

"That's where the loan market is good. People question it, but you can pick up players for a lot less than they're on at their parent club.

"We would love to have the likes of Tom Naylor at our club but that's probably not going to happen."

Having joined on loan in November and turned down a transfer to Luton in January, Marshall was a regular first-team pick until the closing weeks of the season.

"Marcus had a good run for us but he tailed off towards the end which I think he would agree with himself," said Scott.

"Marcus is contracted to Bury until the end of June and we wouldn't be able to offer what he's earning there.

"So it would be foolish of us to try to offer him something now, and him to breakaway from that for less money.

"We've got to be prudent. Marcus may be one of those that we revisit but Paul (Hurst) and I don't envisage any number of signings to be made until later on."

No chance of duo's return

THE other morning, a Thursday, was busy in the precinct as usual, when I saw two policemen stop a cyclist.

Good I thought as he was forced to dismount as he mumbled and grumbled.

But as soon as they walked away he muttered **** off and jumped back on his cycle.

Why can't we have on-the-spot fines and stop being so easy going with these people who just ignore public safety with no respect for the police or anybody? They are there every day with no concern about anyone else except themselves and not worried about any prosecution.

I do think, though, that there should be clear signs stating "No cycling – instant prosecutions" or similar warnings.

Concerned pedestrian, full name and address supplied.

The Telegraph says:

Too many people show a complete lack of respect for others – do you agree? Let the Telegraph know by commenting on this letter at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk or e-mail your thoughts to viewpoint@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk

On-the-spot fines for ignoring public safety

ONE keeper or two? That's the question Grimsby Town's bosses are mulling over ahead of the new season.

Following the release of reserve stopper Greg Fleming, the Mariners only have established number one James McKeown on their books.

And Rob Scott admits that it may stay that way as the co-managers aim to make the most of their reduced playing budget.

He said: "It's not ideal, and we'd like to have two keepers because one pushes the other one, as we saw this season with how Greg pushed James to improve.

"Having one keeper also restricts what you can actually do in training.

"The proof was in the pudding this season and James picked up a lot of the end of season awards.

"It will either be that we run with one keeper, or it will be a young goalkeeper who is not looking for too high wages, but is someone we can nurture along. We're going to have to prioritise and we're not going to have the luxury of certain things that we've had in years gone by."

Jeepers keepers – a dilemma to ponder