I AM a member of a small Christian church in Cleethorpes and I know I speak for all our members when I say we are sickened and appalled by the despicable petrol bomb attack on the Grimsby mosque in Weelsby Road.

We hope the Islamic community realises that the unthinking morons who carried out this dreadful act no more represent the local community or Christianity than do the people who advocate crazy violence in the name of Islam.

All people and faiths of goodwill should come together and stand shoulder to shoulder and face all bigoted zealots down.

Bubs E Cromer, Suggitts Lane, Cleethorpes.

PEOPLE who are of the Muslim faith are part of British society, and at this difficult time they need help not criticism.

Those Protestants and Catholics who killed in Northern Ireland were certainly not Christians.

By the same token those young men who killed the soldier so barbarically were not acting in a 'muslim' way.

Dr Robert M Jaggs-Fowler quotes the Book of Common Prayer, reminding us that "my duty towards my Neighbour is to love him as myself, and do to all men, as I would they should do unto me" (Grimsby Telegraph, May 28). Those of the Muslim faith are part of our community, and our 'neighbours'.

Muslim leaders are working to eradicate radicalism, and throwing missiles at mosques will only hinder this process.

The only adequate response to the problem of radicalism is to ask 'How can we help?'

Ken and Brenda Jones, Bark House Lane, Cleethorpes.

RE: the English Defence League march on Saturday, why was this blatant extreme right organisation allowed to parade through the centre of our town in the middle of the day?

I don't believe there was any consultation or discussion as to whether the march should go ahead.

This "party" has once again hijacked our national flag and, what is more concerning, used the brutal death of a young brave soldier to further their cause, people need to be aware of the aims of the EDL.

Name and address supplied.

WHY aren't we also talking about radical, right-wing "Christians", most of who do not behave in a very Christian way.

Is it because we see them as mindless thugs?

So why don't we see radical Muslims as mindless thugs? We have to accept that Judaism, Christianity and Islam are all foreign religions and the original belief of this isle is Celtic Paganism. None of them has the right to claim it is better than any other.

Certainly, none of them have the right to use violence against any other and all should be promoting harmony and peaceful co-existence.

Duncan Anderson, Mill Lane, East Halton.

The Telegraph says

We are united in our condemnation of the events that took place in Woolwich and in Grimsby. Everyone has a right to worship in peace and without fear. And we should certainly be uniting against divisions in society not creating them, as violent reactions such as those in Grimsby and divisive comments are demonstrating.

A FANTASY author has released her third ebook which delves into teen issues and first crushes.

Kristy Brown, from Grimsby, has released her online book called Perceptions, part of the Kiera's Quest series which follows the main character tackling witches, shifters and talking dolls.

Kristy said the ebook is aimed at any age from nine to 90.

"When I was a teenager, I wrote a lot of angst-ridden poetry and short stories. I trained in performing arts with hopes of being on the stage," she said

"The years went by and I got some acting work, but I lost my passion for it. When I had my first child, who is now nearly nine, I began writing again.

"I was accepted by a epublisher Muse It Up, and work closely with the editors and cover artists."

Kirsty's passion for fantasy sparked because she grew up watching old classics such as Clash Of The Titans, Labyrinth and a lot of Disney.

She explained: "I read a lot of Roald Dahl and Tolkien.

"So I decided I wanted to do something classically fantasy based with a modern twist; something the whole family can read."

The new ebook Perceptions, is available to download this week on www.amazon.co.uk for £3.06.

Book one, Awakenings, and book two, Sacrifices, are also available on Amazon.

LOOK how much these snap-happy award winners have developed.

Cleethorpes Camera Club celebrated another successful year of taking pictures at their annual awards ceremony.

The club has grown in numbers – especially since the Grimsby Telegraph's Camera Club was launched – as have the members' skills in the art.

Chairman of the Monday Group, Dave Thompson, believes the awards are a great chance to show fellow snappers what they can do.

He said: "It was a great chance for everyone to come together and show each other their work, how far they have come and to give each other a nudge to help one another grow.

"The standard of the club as a whole is very high. We tend to do very well in the Lincolnshire Photography Awards – we get involved in club battles.

"Everyone has grown in confidence and skill since joining the club."

Based in Reynolds Street, the club runs four different groups, including one focusing on digital and another on video, and awards were given in categories for each group.

They included: Open Print, Themed Digital Projected Image (DPI); Print, Open DPI, Audio Visual and Photo and Photographer of the Year.

For the first time in the club's history, the awards took place on a Saturday night, taking advantage of the newly- refurbished members' private club room – which was made possible due to Lottery funding.

Dave, who scooped the Monday's Group Photographer of the Year award, added: "If you don't enter competitions, who is going to see your work apart from your wife? There is nothing better than your peers seeing your work, especially if you have got a really good picture."

The club may have been founded in the 1950s, but photography is getting more popular as the digital age makes it more accessible – from taking shots on mobile phones to professional kits.

Dave said: "The club members really have a way of inspiring you. It is all about confidence building, pulling people along and providing constructive criticism.

"I know my photography has changed. I am not the same photographer I was when I started."

If you are interested in both improving and enjoying your photography with a friendly group of like minded people, there are a number of ways to contact the Cleethorpes Camera Club: Log onto the Cleethorpes Camera Club Facebook page for full details of the club groups, members activities, and location, or just pop in for a cuppa on any of the sessions.

Alternatively, contact:

Monday Group (Mondays 10am to 12.30pm) – Dave Thompson on 01472 505831, or email 1dgthompson@gmail.com.

Tuesday Digital (Tuesdays 7.30pm to 10pm) – Alan Tyrer on 01472 504882, or email abtyrer@gmail.com

Thursday Video (Thursday 7.30pm to 10pm) – Steve Woolock on 01472 812629, or email woolock802@btinternet.com. Friday Group (Friday 7.30pm to 10pm) – Marion Roberts on 01472 349897, or email dennis.farrow@tesco.net.

A SOCIAL enterprise that helps North East Lincolnshire residents stay in their own homes and protect themselves against burglars has been rewarded for its work.

Safer Homes of Grimsby has received a donation of £1,250 from the Tribune Trust.

The trust works to provide grants to community safety projects and initiatives based in the area served by Humberside Police, which would not otherwise receive financial support.

The endowment fund was established by the High Sheriffs of Lincolnshire and the East Riding of Yorkshire and the Chief Constable of Humberside Police, with the aim of making local communities safer places to live and work.

Its funds are raised from those who are concerned with local issues, including trust partners, official bodies, private donors and other trusts.

Service manager of Safer Homes Gary Starkie said: "This cheque will go a long way in helping us continue to provide a service to the community.

"We offer help to people to allow them to stay in their homes by installing ramps, handrails and simple DIY that without them vulnerable and elderly people would have to move from their homes.

"As well as DIY, we also aim to help make peoples' homes more secure and provide a free home security survey.

"We work in close partnership with the council and the police to help prevent people becoming victims to crime in their homes.

"We have been getting wonderful feedback from people we have helped stay in their home safe and secure.

"This cheque allows us to purchase some new tools and allow us to continue to help those in need."

Contact Safer Homes on 01472 324974 or email contact@saferhomesservice.co.uk to find out what they can do for you.

See tomorrow's paper for details of another deserving Grimsby project which has received a grant from the Trust.

WHO Do You Think You Are? is the question a TV star will be asking people in Cleethorpes at a family history event next month.

Dr Nick Barratt, who is a genealogical consultant on the hit BBC show, is heading to the resort as a guest of the Friends Of Cleethorpes Heritage.

It is part of a series of heritage events the group of volunteers has organised following a £9,000 cash boost from the Awards For All Big Lottery Fund.

Chairwoman Ann Reavey said: "Researching family history has become a really popular pastime in recent years and there is nobody better to talk about the subject than Nick.

"His TV shows are so popular and he really knows what he is talking about, so people who come along are bound to pick up some inspiring hints and tips.

"Whether you are already researching your family tree or are thinking of starting, this workshop will be a great way to find out more about who you are."

Nick, who helps celebrities discover more about their ancestors on Who Do You Think You Are? will lead the free workshop at Cleethorpes Memorial Hall, in Grimsby Road, on Saturday, June 15, from noon onwards.

He has helped celebrities from Richard Bacon and Richard Hammond to Victoria Beckham and Catherine Zeta Jones to research their family histories.

Ann said his workshop is the first of a series of exciting events the group planned over the coming months.

On July 20, members will don period dress and take part in Cleethorpes carnival to promote their work.

Then, during August, they plan to organise a history bus to Irnham, where the medieval manuscript Luttrell Psalter was commissioned, stopping off at the Knights Templar site of Temple Bruer on the way home.

Ann added: "We haven't got a date confirmed yet but we think people will really enjoy seeing important historic sites that they have read and heard about in the flesh."

On September 7, the group will hold a heritage afternoon at St Peter's, in Humberston, to help raise funds for the replacement of the church floor. This will feature classical singer David Martin, and Ann is also trying to secure speakers from Lincoln Cathedral.

The final summer event, at the Memorial Hall on September 14, will focus on ghostly stories from the local area and the group is asking for people to come forward with their tales.

To get involved or find out more about the group, visit www.friendsofcleethorpesheritage.co.uk

FUN, frolics and frenzy will raise cash – and spirits – in Cleethorpes.

The popular It's A Knockout event will return to the Meridian Park Arena and raise money for St Andrew's Children's Hospice and other local charities.

Organised by the Humberston North Sea Lions, it will see teams of ten wrestle inflatables, bounce over giant obstacles and wade, slip and slide all over the place.

The winners will take home the coveted charity shield while spectators will be treated to a day of 1980s antics.

Already scores of teams are signing up, but Clive Genney, a Lions Club member, wants to see even more people take part.

He said: "It is very much like the old BBC series; there will be giants, water park obstacles and more.

"It is just a great, fun day. We are hoping for good weather, but it won't matter on the day because people will be getting wet anyway!"

Now in its fifth year, the event is the hospice's largest single donor, having raised £80,000 for the cause – and £20,000 for other local charities.

The Lions did not hold it last year, but after an outcry from fans of the fun event, decided it would go ahead again this year.

All the costumes and obstacles were originally used in the hit TV programme.

It will take place on Sunday, July 14, from 12.30pm.

It is free entry for spectators, while teams must raise £600 each – that's £60 a head.

And to show their thanks, the hospice's adult nursing team will take on the children's nursing team.

Senior adults nurse Mell Ryan, 47, says age and experience means her team, the Tender Touches, has the edge.

She said: "We are up for it! We will beat the children's unit hands down. We have got age and experience on our side."

While Katie Pursglove, 25, of the children's nursing team, said: "I am so excited. We are going to bring the adult nurses down! We work together so well, but on July 14, anything goes."

Tim Donovan, Lions member, added: "What a combination. To support a charity like the hospice, which is one of the most deserving causes, and get everyone laughing – not just sniggering but great big belly laughs. It is brilliant."

Free parking is available.

Teams should contact: Clive on 07739 263290; Stuart on 01472 238841; Paul on 01472 239217; or Clive on 01472 239226; or e-mail humberstonlions@gmail.com.

For more details, visit www.humberstonlions.co.uk.

THESE dedicated fundraisers achieved their goal of remembering a much-loved fallen soldier – while raising money for Help For Heroes.

It is the fourth year the group has held a memorial five-a-side football tournament to remember Cpl Graeme Stiff, 24 – a member of the Light Aid Detachment of 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards (QDGs).

As reported, the former St James' School pupil was killed on his first tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2009, when the Jackal off-road vehicle he was travelling in was struck by an explosive device.

Cpl Dean John, 25, from Wales, also died in the blast. Both served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME).

Cpl Stiff, from Keelby, was born in Munster, Germany, and came from a military background, having accompanied his father to various postings around the world.

And for the past four years, his friends and family have come together to remember his sacrifice – and that of other fallen soldiers.

Eight teams took part in the event at St James' School – collecting more than £200 for the charity – and observing a minute's silence before the tournament got underway.

Four of the teams comprised of old boys from the school – where Cpl Stiff was head boy – while the remainder were made up of parents and staff, senior pupils and local firms Forrester Boyd and Wilkin Chapman Grange.

Each team played the other seven, in a "round-robin" group, with the top two teams qualifying for the final.

A spokeswoman for the school said: "There was, once again, a lovely atmosphere at the school games field, with several other former pupils of St James' School, as well as family members, coming along to spectate.

"The weather was kind and the overnight rain provided the ideal surface for free-flowing football."

She added that the final clash – between Harrison Carroll's History Markers and three-time champions Simon Grayson's Black and White Mackham Army – was a "really well contested and tight affair".

She said: "Neither team were giving anything away. With the score at 0-0 after ten minutes, the final went to two minutes each way of extra time. In the end it was a Wayne Rodgers strike, one minute from time, that finally decided this thoroughly enjoyable game.

"Fittingly, it was Graeme's brother, Michael, along with his team, comprising of many of Graeme's former school pals, who led the Black and White Mackham Army to their fourth victory."

If you are planning on holding a charity event and would like to enlist the help of our readers, call the news team on 01472 372236 or e-mail newsdesk@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk

CLEETHORPES 2nds fell to a heavy 112-run defeat at Market Rasen in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League's Premier Division.

Rasen's 181 for six featured 40 from Liam Scales and 35 by Dave Papworth, as Stuart Harvey and Paul Sunley both took two wickets.

However, the visiting Meggies made only 69 in reply – occupying the crease for 37 overs – with Gary Bierlein and Matt Rutherford each taking four wickets and Will Bradford taking the rest.

Caistor won by 24 runs at home to Bracebridge Heath 2nds.

Electing to bat first, Caistor were dismissed for 151 with one over to go of their allotted 50. Skipper Liam Wood made an impressive 53.

The visitors responded with 127 for nine, Paul Ridley taking three for 27 and Tom Boryszczuk three for 35.

An unbeaten century from Barton Town's Chris Kipling helped his side to a home win over Cherry Willingham at Marsh Lane.

Title-chasing Barton posted 208 for five and bowled out the visitors for 154, captain John Knapton claiming six for 54.

Leaders Alkborough were beaten for the first time this season, going down by two wickets in a high-scoring clash at Messingham.

In Alkborough's 199 for nine, Vaidik Kishan Raj made 66 and Steve Clay 43, as Andy Langford took four for 70 and Paul Rocks three for 24.

Messingham won in 48 overs with Richard Dannatt scoring 45 and Richard Antcliffe 34, while all-rounder Raj added to his considerable tally for the season with a return of four for 43.

Meanwhile, Alford suffered a disappointing defeat at Nettleham.

Nettleham made 234 for eight, Darrell Crow taking three for 37 and Tom White three for 79.

The visitors responded with an all-out 196 in which most of the runs came from the lower order, Dave Elworthy making 79 and Steve Kirkham 34.

In Division One, captain Neil Patrick steered Scunthorpe Town 2nds to a narrow one-wicket home win against Holton-le-Clay during Sunday's only game.

Despite an injury to his left hand, he made nine not out and shared a last wicket stand of 22 with Scott Matthews (52 not out).

Holton-le-Clay batted first in and were bowled out for 133 in the 45th and final over, Rob Griffin making 45 and Paul Holmes 33.

Scunthorpe secured victory after 37.1 overs, Richard Griffin bowling well for the visitors to finish with four for 43.

There was a solitary game on Bank Holiday Monday in Division Two, where Keelby entertained Cleethorpes 3rds.

And the visiting Meggies took the bulk of the points with a 32-run win.

Opener Ben Marris led the way with 82 in the all-out 191 posted by Cleethorpes, with Chris Charlton taking four for 46.

Mark Parker then made 40 for the home side who were dismissed for 159 in 48 overs with James Keast claiming four for 29.

In Division Four, Scunthorpe Town 3rds secured a three-wicket home win over Holton-le-Clay 2nds.

Holton batted first and made 154 for six, with Sam Marshall contributing an unbeaten 35 and Matt Pashley taking two for 34.

All-rounder Pashley then opened the Scunthorpe reply and top scored with 77 as the Heslam Park men won with 5.4 overs to spare, despite the efforts of Paul Farmery.

A rare batting feat was achieved in the George Marshall Trophy during the first round match between Grimsby Town 2nds and Laportes.

Both Grimsby openers recorded centuries with Nigel Fanthorpe, left, cracking 132 and Ross Carnelley helping himself to an unbeaten 102.

Their partnership was 228 in a daunting team total of 251 for two in the permitted 45 overs.

Laportes were then reduced to 45 for five and looked in danger of suffering a heavy defeat.

However, Ryan Swanepoel made 78, helping his side to 164 before they were eventually dismissed with two deliveries left in the final over.

Elsewhere, Cleethorpes 2nds comfortably avoided a potential 'banana skin' cup exit against division three outfit Old Lincolnians.

Andy Severn returned the highly impressive figures of seven for 25 after tea to play a major part in the 60-run win.

It was not plain sailing for the Meggies, however, as earlier they had been contained to 167 for four, Liam Dickens finishing 60 not out and Ryan Harrison scoring 32.

Paul Sunley and Richard Woodward gave Cleethorpes the best possible start after tea, dismissing both the city side's openers for ducks.

Then Severn came on and wrought havoc with Old Lincs being dismissed for 107 after 37 overs.

Hibaldstow, of division two, enjoyed a nine-wicket home win over Morton, from the basement section.

The Gainsborough visitors were dismissed for 81, which Hibaldstow took less than 19 overs to overhaul.

Skipper Gordon Moden's 25 was the only innings of note for Morton, as Joe Taylor took three for 19 and Tom Taylor two for five, plus holding three catches.

Dad Jon Taylor then opened the villagers' reply, making 25 before being dismissed by Levi Hoggard with just three runs required for a whitewash win.

Adam Barker was there at the close – undefeated on 44.

The fact that no-one scored 30 or managed three wickets might make Horncastle's home tie with Messingham sound mediocre.

But it proved to be an absorbing, if low-scoring, encounter.

Messingham, who hold down second place in the top flight, finally secured a four-wicket win over the division one leaders.

Horncastle could muster only 85 for eight in the face of some very tight bowling, but that was quite a recovery having been 28 for six.

The analyses of Messingham's opening seamers speak for themselves: Andy Langford 9-5-5-2 and Paul Taylor 9-4-6-2.

Top score for Horncastle was an unbeaten 19 from number nine Richard Dixon.

Messingham took the best part of 26 overs and lost six wickets in finally achieving this modest target, Nick White making 29 and former Grimsby Town strokemaker Richard Antcliffe 24 at the top of the order.

Julian Loveley and Brody Willerton both took two wickets for Nick Paige's side, who can now concentrate on the league and winning back a place in the top flight.

Two unbeaten half-centuries helped Haxey 2nds, the division two leaders, secure an 84-run win away to division four side Normanby Park.

Haxey's 185 for three included 82 not out from Tom Smith and an undefeated 60 by skipper Jeremy Evans, as opener Alan Dawson took a tidy two for 19 from a full nine over stint.

Normanby were then dismissed for 101, Mark Knapton making 45, as Dave Whitehouse bagged four for 18 and long-serving all-rounder Gary Mann two for five, including the wicket of the top scorer.

Owmby had double cause to celebrate their 35-run home victory over fellow division one side Outcasts at Todmoor.

For not only did it ease them into the second round, it also counted for league points. And this was Owmby's first victory of the season.

So-called double-headers are very unusual in the Lincs League, and this one came about because of early season ground unavailability.

Owmby's 164 for seven featured 46 from Dave Hill and 32 by Raki Chandair-Nair, as Graham Clark took two for 33.

Outcasts were bowled out for 129 ('Spud' Tait 30), with Hill completing a good all-round day by taking three for 32, alongside Ciaron Deegan's three for 15.

Market Rasen's Dale Christie was far and away the highest scorer in the away tie at fellow premier leaguers Barton Town, but he finished on the losing side.

Dale, batting in the middle order, hit 76 at better than a run a ball, but the visitors were dismissed for 148 in 39 overs.

Having been given a decent start by openers Dan Tolson (33) and Gareth Mellors (28) Barton were guided home to a three-wicket win by captain John Knapton (26 not out).

Top flight Caistor's consistent top order batting saw them through to round two by 18 runs when hosting first division Holton-le-Clay at Brigg Road.

Caistor's top five all topped 20 and there was an opening stand of 81 between Harry Boulton (36) and Ryan McKitton (45) in a team total of 201 for five.

Danny Portus was the pick of the Holton bowlers, finishing with two for 17 from his nine overs.

The same player went on to top score with 33 as the visitors made 183 for eight, Kieran Brooker taking two for 22 and Jim Parker holding four catches in the field.

The quickest tie of the day was Broughton's nine-wicket win at South Kelsey.

Chasing promotion from division one, Broughton shot out their division three opponents for only 34 after 17 overs – no-one touching double figures.

The visiting openers did the bulk of the damage, Simon Pullan grabbing four for five and Tom Reed three for 10.

Broughton then lost a wicket without a run on the board, but Dave Jones (23 not out) saw them home after 11 overs.

Helped by 36 from opener Steve Wright and a three for 25 haul by Tom Ryder, division one side Louth 2nds were three-wicket home winners over second division Hartsholme 2nds at London Road.

The Lincoln visitors made 135 for nine, Louth going on to win with more than six overs to spare.

Wright shared an important opening stand with captain Mike Searle (24).

Division one team Scothern hosted second division Keelby, contained the visitors to 139 for nine and cruised to victory after 30.1 overs for the loss of only two wickets.

Two premier sides made it through to the next round without having to take the field.

Scunthorpe Town had a walk-over win over Hykeham who resigned from the league several weeks ago, while Alford were awarded a stay-at-home victory after scheduled division three opponents Washingborough reported they were unable to raise a side.

The remaining first round tie saw Nettleham beat Cherry Willingham by 79 runs.

In the Bob Welton Cup, three half-centuries were scored at Rase Park as Market Rasen 2nds lost at home to fellow division three side Barton Town 2nds by three wickets on Saturday.

Andrew Richley made 52 and Darren Salmon 50 for Rasen in their 137 for eight after 45 overs.

Mike Wilkinson cracked an unbeaten 75 for Barton, who won with an over to spare.

Craig Hall was in good all-round form for Broughton 2nds in their eight-wicket home win over Old Lincolnians 2nds.

He took two for 11 to help dismiss the city side for only 57 and then made an undefeated 25 as victory was achieved inside 16 overs.

Other notable contributors to the Broughton cause were Robbie Glentworth (three for 12), Tom Brock (two for nine) and James Watson (25 not out).

Five players turned in notable performances during the game in which Alkborough 2nds won by 32 runs at home to Alford 2nds.

Alkborough were bowled out for 143 in the final over, while the visitors were dismissed for 111.

For the villagers, Paul Mitchell scored 30, Michael Baker took four for 25 and Andy Williamson three for 17.

In the Alford cause, Mark Elsom bagged five for 23 and Mark Irving three for 18.

In form batsman Andy Bagnall stroked 59 and veteran spinner Udi Sheikh took two for 30 and held three catches, but Keelby 2nds still lost by six wickets to visiting Cherry Willingham 2nds, who are two divisions higher in the rankings.

Keelby's 166 for eight proved insufficient to test the Cherrymen who had three overs in hand at the close.

When Holton-le-Clay 2nds hosted Caistor 2nds at Tetney Lane, the tie went according to the form book.

Caistor, from division two, won comfortably - by seven wickets -against their basement section opponents.

Best batting in Holton's 134 came from Jamie Pearson (45) and Jim Birkwood (34) as Ryan Farrow took three for 16.

Dan Mawer (37) and Kev Parker (36 not out) then played good knocks for Caistor, who won in the 31st over.

Helped by two half-centuries, Cleethorpes 3rds were convincing nine-wicket winners at Outcasts 2nds.

The Isle of Axholme villagers were restricted to 129 for eight on their own Hirst Priory track, Jason Whiteley scoring 24 and Stuart Wood taking three for 30.

Lewis Markham (55 not out) and Mike Chamberlain (57 not out) then shared a match-winning second wicket stand for the vsiting Meggies.

The local derby at Heslam Park saw home side Scunthorpe Town 2nds beat Messingham 2nds by eight wickets.

Skipper Paul Rocks was unbeaten on 32 in Messingham's 109 for nine before David Brown (46 not out) and Ben Ibrahim (31 not out) came together in a fine third-wicket stand which saw Town home in the 25th over.

In the only other tie, Scothern 2nds (division four) enjoyed a crushing 210-run win over second division Nettleham 2nds in the surprise result of the round.

In the EAST YORKSHIRE ALLIANCE, East Halton hung on for a draw when visiting Newland in division one on Saturday.

The home side rattled up 238 for three, Adrian Jack taking two for 58 for the North Lincs villagers, who replied with 120 for nine, Rory Ronaldson scoring 40 and Nigel Godfrey 25.

Brigg Town were unable to raise a side for their division two home game with Humbleton 2nds on Saturday and also failed to put a team together to visit Patrington 3rds on Monday.

POLICE diving teams spent hours searching the River Freshney in Top Town for a stolen iPod.

Four members from the Yorkshire And Humber Diving Team scoured the bottom of the river, behind Freshney Place, while shoppers stood and watched yesterday.

It is understood they were looking for the iPod stolen by ex-health worker Leslie Ashford, from the late Patricia Isherwood, who was a patient in his care at Grimsby's Diana, Princess Of Wales Hospital.

Ashford stole the device – which contained photographs, films and music – from Patricia, 57, from Scartho, after she died.

The case has already been to court and Ashford sentenced.

One diver at the scene, who refused to be named, said: "We have been sent to see if we can find it so the family can have it back.

"Assuming they can still get the information from it somehow, it may provide comfort to the family.

"It is important we get it back for them."

Although Humberside Police would not confirm the divers were looking for that particular iPod, the Telegraph understands this is the case.

During the court hearing, Ashford admitted in court he had thrown it into the river.

The waterway had not been searched until now because visibility has been poor.

Using snorkel masks, they crawled on all fours on the river bed, in pouring rain.

The chances of the iPod, valued at £190, working and being able to recover Patricia's photographs and memories, are slim.

However, part of procedure when investigating thefts is to return the stolen items back to the victims.

At the time of going to press, Patricia's daughter Kelly Isherwood was unavailable for comment, but after Ashford was sentenced to 250 hours of unpaid work last month, she told the Grimsby Telegraph: "He totally disrespected the memory of her."

Ashford was sacked from his job at the hospital, but has since been working elsewhere. He made a public apology through the Grimsby Telegraph for his shocking actions, which the family described as "despicable and disgusting".

Onlooker Becki Gilman said of the divers' efforts: "I doubt they will find it and even if they do, they won't get the pictures back, which is really sad.

"I hope they do find it, though. What that man did was disgusting."

A Humberside Police spokesperson said: "Where possible, Humberside Police will make the necessary attempts to return stolen property to its rightful owner."

Late yesterday afternoon, the divers ended the search, having not found it, but will return today.

OUR fairytale quest to crown the princess of Cleethorpes Carnival is upon us – and we need your help.

We are looking for little girls who love to dress up and get pampered to enter our Cleethorpes Community Carnival competition.

Not only will entrants have their photograph taken by Grimsby Telegraph professionals, the winner will be treated to a makeover, a new dress and will proudly ride the parade in a stylish car.

To help make their dreams come true, simply take your little carnival darling to Freshney Place on Saturday, June 15, between 10am and 3pm, with the token printed on this page.

There, she will have her photograph taken, which will then be printed alongside other potential princesses in the Grimsby Telegraph on Thursday, June 20.

Carnival stalwart Leanor Pidgen can't wait to meet our chosen princess.

She said: "Having a carnival princess is a much-loved tradition that we can't wait to see return.

"A princess has been in the carnival since it started almost 40 years ago.

"It will be a dream come true for the winning girl. They get to be a princess for the day and be the centre of attention during one of the resort's biggest events."

Historic pictures of the Cleethorpes Carnival

Sponsored by Youngs Seafood Ltd, this year's carnival promises to be a day fit for royalty, after the firm stepped in and rescued it from the resort's history books.

Princesses must be aged seven to 11-years-old and from North East Lincolnshire.

Each photograph will be printed with a princess biography and a unique text for the public to vote for the top five before a panel of carnival judges crown the winner.

Laura Mummery, executive assistant to CEO of Young's Seafood Limited, said: "We're very proud to be supporting the Cleethorpes Carnival which has been a part of our community for many years.

"The Carnival Princess competition is a great way to get kids even more involved and excited about this fun family day out, and we'd like to say a big thank you to the Grimsby Telegraph for its support."

The winner will be announced the weekend before the carnival hits Cleethorpes on Saturday, July 20.

Get in touch – We are on another adventure to track down Cleethorpes Carnival Princesses of the past. Did you have your day of parade glory? Send your memories to faye.preston@gsmg.co.uk or contact the newsroom on 01472 372236.

How are the changes the Government is making to benefits affecting you? Chief reporter Sarah Carey investigates the impact it is having in Grimsby and Cleethorpes

THE true cost of welfare reform is starting to hit home in North East Lincolnshire – where it is already costing the area's poorest residents almost £1.7 million a year.

The latest figures released by North East Lincolnshire Council reveal £1,658,370 less per year will be paid in benefits to households in the borough affected by changes to council tax payments and the so-called "bedroom tax", affecting 11,894 households.

This amounts to a total of £586,799 less in council tax benefit and £1,071,571 less in housing benefit.

As reported, from April 1, many who previously had their council tax bill paid for them had to pay 8.5 per cent of the cost – or £89 on an annual bill of £1,050.

Those affected by the change are those who are of working age, who do not receive a disability benefit and do not have children under five years old.

It came into force as the cost of the bedroom tax also took hold – forcing those renting from social landlords who under-occupy their homes to pay an average of £14 extra a per week to "top-up" their rent or move to a smaller property.

The worst hit ward is, unsurprisingly, the East Marsh, where 1,779 households are affected by changes to council tax and 458 by under-occupancy.

This equates to £107,948 less council tax benefit and £215,443 less housing benefit being paid a year in this ward alone.

The least hit ward is Waltham, where just four households are said to be under-occupying – leading to cuts of £1,882 in housing benefit – and 91 households are affected by council tax changes, which equates to a cut of £5,766.

Councillor Darren Billard (Lab, West Marsh) NELC's portfolio holder for finance, governance and support services, said the council's main focus was now helping those struggling to make up the loss.

He said: "Come to us before things get out of hand and see if we can help you.

"We would like to help people as soon as we can, so we would urge those who are worried to get in touch before problems arise.

"We have done a lot of work and we are as prepared as we can be. One of our priorities as a council is to protect the vulnerable."

He added where NELC was unable to help, the Department of Work and Pensions may also be able to step in, but advised those concerned to contact the council in the first instance, so they could be directed to the right place.

Jo Robinson, a taxation, benefits and shared services manager for NELC and North Lincolnshire Council, said it was encouraging 156 people had called for advice from mid-March to mid-April this year, compared to 56 in the same period last year.

She added the council also had £350,000 of funding available to help those in dire need.

She said: "We are looking to channel these discretionary payments to those most vulnerable – to those in desperate need."

The officer said there were many people classed as having "spare rooms" whose medical needs meant downsizing was not practical, adding: "We want to help people in that situation, but we still have to take into account their income, expenditure and what they can afford.

"Some genuinely don't have enough to pay for it."

Share your experiences: Is your household struggling to make ends meet since the welfare reform measures were introduced? Let us know how you're coping by contacting newsdesk@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk

THE sale of Cleethorpes Pier has been taken over by Grimsby estate agents Lovelle Bacons, after the last deal fell through

As reported, Edward Swindell – who was tasked with selling the pier by owner Bryn Ilsley – claimed the company who had agreed to buy it for £450,000, Staplecross Property Partnership, has failed to meet its contractual obligations.

Mr Swindell, of Lincoln-based Swindells Auctioneers And Consultants, said: "The vendor and I are disappointed, not to mention angry, with this situation."

Now the venue is being re-marketed by the Lovelle Bacons team, who describe the historic building as a "valuable leisure and entertainment venue, which would accommodate a variety of uses".

Spokeswoman Lucy Croft said interest had already been expressed by local entrepreneurs, "national operators" and an anonymous body she believed to be linked to a London university, although she was unable to disclose any further details.

She said: "This would be very exciting if it came to fruition for the town, with regards to entertainment, environmental studies and renewable energies research."

She added: "Historically, the pier has been used as a nightclub and concert hall, hosting such events as music festivals and wrestling or boxing.

"It has been an iconic northern seaside building since its conception in Victorian times by the Cleethorpes Promenade Company, when it was used for music-related events.

"One of only 40 surviving piers in Britain and providing 10,605 square feet of available space, we have had interest from various promotional bodies seeking to use the premises."

SOLICITORS have warned that the already very busy Grimsby And Cleethorpes Magistrates' Court could be deluged with new work if a neighbouring court closes.

Speculation dramatically increased this week that Scunthorpe's court was being earmarked for closure – despite official denials.

There have been growing fears for several years that the Scunthorpe magistrates' building, which also includes a county court, could be under serious threat of closure.

The court has repeatedly been tipped for closure and many in the local legal fraternity were surprised when it escaped the axe in the last round of cutbacks, which saw dozens of courts across the country shut down.

Whispers that the Scunthorpe court was due to be closed down in a new wave of cutbacks surfaced again last week – and have gathered pace since then.

But a spokesman for Her Majesty's Courts And Tribunals said: "No decision has been made to close Scunthorpe Magistrates' Court.

"Her Majesty's Courts And Tribunals continues to keep the use of its estate under review to ensure it meets operational requirements.

"Any proposals to close courts beyond those already announced will be subject to consultation."

If the court does close, defendants, witnesses and solicitors would be forced to travel significant distances to other courts.

It is likely that cases currently heard at Scunthorpe would, if the court closed, be transferred mainly to Doncaster or Grimsby magistrates' courts.

Cases from the Epworth area would be likely to be moved to Doncaster while those from the Barton-upon-Humber and Brigg areas would almost certainly be shifted to Grimsby.

The Scunthorpe court is not as busy as Grimsby, which has recently seen a significant increase in the daily work being handled by individual courts because of the amalgamation and scrapping of some courts.

If Grimsby had to take on much of Scunthorpe's work, it is likely to have a serious knock-on effect on its workload.

Defence solicitor Nigel Sloane, of Grimsby firm Roy Foreman & Co, said: "I prosecuted and defended criminal cases in Scunthorpe for a number of years.

"All my colleagues will be very disappointed and concerned at such a move. Closure would restrict access to justice for local people and cut an important service that delivers local, accessible and efficient justice to the local communities.

"Local courts are vital to the communities we live in. A local court offers the opportunity to see justice done and to bridge the gap between crime and its detection and resolution.

"Devastating cuts are being implemented in the criminal justice system and this is another example.

"I fear the justice system will descend into chaos, with miscarriages of justice and the wheels grinding to a halt. Can this really be a move for the better?"

A GOOD Samaritan was attacked with a metal pole after going to the aid of a woman in distress, Lincoln Crown Court was told.

Matthew Moss, 26, was walking through Louth in the early hours looking for food after leaving Samuel's Bar.

Andrew Scott, prosecuting, said that Mr Moss, his sister and her partner were in Newmarket when they noticed a couple arguing outside a petrol station.

The woman was left crying and Mr Moss went to her assistance.

But as he asked how she was she responded by headbutting him. Moments later Byron Toyne, who had been arguing with the woman, appeared armed with the metal pole.

Toyne swung the pole hitting Mr Moss in the face, causing him to fall onto a parked car, and then struck a second blow before running off.

Mr Moss suffered cuts and bruises to his face and was taken to the Diana, Princess Of Wales Hospital, where he received treatment.

When he was arrested Toyne denied he was involved and claimed he was in bed at the time.

In court, Toyne, 28, of Guildford Street, Grimsby, admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm as a result of the incident on 31 May 2010.

He was jailed for 15 months.

Judge Michael Heath told him: "This was an entirely unprovoked assault committed at night time in Louth town centre and committed with a weapon. The only sentence I can justify for an offence of this type is custody."

Liz Harte, defending, said Toyne was only charged in July 2011 and has since spent almost two years on a night-time curfew while on bail awaiting his court appearance.

She said he had not committed any further offences during that time.

She said: "He has shown he is capable of keeping out of trouble."

PAUL Hurst admits Grimsby Town did have a fleeting interest in Lincoln's Alan Power before the midfielder's dramatic U-turn

As reported, the 25-year-old has penned a new two-year deal at Sincil Bank after being heavily linked with a move elsewhere.

Hurst has revealed that he and co-boss Rob Scott did make an approach to sound out the Irishman when he had looked certain to leave the Mariners' fierce rivals.

But far from there being a Blundell Park offer on the table, Hurst insists preliminary conversations with the player's agent was as far as their tentative enquiries went.

Therefore, Hurst isn't too concerned by Power's decision to stay with the Imps, insisting that his name was just one on a extensive list of potential targets.

"We looked at Alan even before he signed at Lincoln and he's a player that we spoke about again this summer," he told the Telegraph.

"We spoke to his agent but I think that can sometimes be construed in different ways.

"The fact that a call took place can sometimes be seen as that there was a definite offer on the table – I can assure you that there wasn't.

"We simply touched base with him to see what his situation was and what his options were.

"All I would say is that he looked like he was definitely leaving Lincoln at one point but now he's decided to stay there and that's up to him.

"He was just one of a number of players that we were looking at."

As revealed last week, former York City midfielder Scott Kerr is another player on the Town managers' radar.

Hurst says that negotiations with potential recruits are ongoing and hinted that Kerr is mulling over an offer from the Mariners.

He said: "There are conversations going on with new players and we'll continue with that.

"We're really happy with the players that we've got at the football club and when we do add to the squad, we want it to be with players who tick all the boxes.

"Scott Kerr is someone that we've spoken to and there's a possibility that something could happen there. The ball is in Scott's court."

AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after horrified eyewitnesses saw children – some as young as 12 – raiding nests and slaughtering ducklings in People's Park.

They saw youths smash duck eggs and throw birds to one another – even drop-kicking a duckling.

The RSPCA is also looking into claims that some ducklings were stomped on, and that a live bird was posted through the letterbox of a resident living near the park, in Grimsby.

It is understood the culprits were aged between 12 and 14 years old, and the incident happened during school hours.

A North East Lincolnshire Council spokesman confirmed that some youths were thrown off the park after being seen with fishing nets, trying to scoop up ducklings from the lake.

Most of the ducks at the park nest on the island in the middle of the lake.

The spokesman said: "They were thrown off the park as soon as they were spotted."

And an RSPCA spokeswoman said: "An incident has been reported to the RSPCA and an officer has been tasked to look in to it."

Ward councillor Andrew De Freitas is the treasurer of the Friends of People's Park group.

"I am absolutely disgusted that young people could indulge in such acts," he said.

"It makes you wonder what is going on in their brains. I hope their parents will take action.

"For this to happen during the school day when they should have been at school is not a good example.

"And if they can be identified by what school they attend, I hope the school will take action."

A resident in nearby Lambert Road, who did not wish to be named, said: "Morons have been caught in the pond saying they are fishing, but they have been taking the ducklings and ducks – we are fuming.

"The gardener does his best to stop them, but he cannot be there all the time. Something has to be done to stop this."

The brutal incident happened days after it was claimed that seven cygnets and 10 ducklings were stolen from The Duke Of York Gardens, in Grimsby.

A member of the public using the park challenged the youths and reported their behaviour to the warden.

The woman, who also did not wish to be named, said: "I asked them – two boys and a girl aged about 13 – what they were doing.

"They were wearing a school uniform and said there was a teacher with them, but I checked the cafe and there were no teachers.

"It looked to me as if they were up to no good. They were reaching up into the tree with their fishing nets. It got worse and worse after that.

"Someone else had seen it and reported it to the school."

After reading about the apparent theft at The Duke Of York Gardens in the Grimsby Telegraph, reader John Durham, of Yarborough Road, Grimsby, commented: "I hope we can get to the bottom of these vanishings and name the ones responsible.

"It appears seven cygnets have gone missing, but strangely the parents are still there.

"It must be a clever predator who knows more food will be available if the parents are left to breed."

The RSPCA has appealed to anyone with information to call the charity's cruelty hotline on 0300 1234 999.