A SUCCESSFUL business, which started as a hobby, now has a new owner.

Arena Airsoft, in King Edward Street, Grimsby, started as a bit of fun, but due to its popularity and demand for expansion its founder has stepped aside.

Airsoft is a game where players carry replica firearms and fire small round pellets at each other in a combat situation.

Arena Airsoft's former owner Sean Atkinson, 44, of Welholme Road, Grimsby, said: "I started the business with a group of friends for a laugh.

"It suddenly became very serious and went from a part time hobby to a full-time job.

"What Airsoft does is gets people that are playing shooting video games off the sofa and doing it for real in a controlled safe environment.

"It is very realistic and great fun. I am the director of a video production company called Focus 7 and I have also just started a temporary contract with Green Futures.

"I physically don't have the time or energy to keep this business running, so I decided new investment was needed to take the company forward.

"Now I have handed it over I will get a chance to play Airsoft a bit more."

Players can use a variety of guns ranging from pistols to sniper rifles and even grenades. While in the arena, protective clothing has to be worn due to the high power of the guns.

New owner Brian Frame, 50, said: "I run my own company, called Lincolnshire Airsoft, which is based in Ingoldmells.

"I came to Arena Airsoft about two years ago as a player and really enjoyed it.

"A gap opened up for someone to take it on and I jumped at the chance. I now want to develop and build on what is already here.

"We want to put on different types of games as well as training. We allow 11 to 16-year-olds to play and anyone older than that.

"We are open four days a week for regular sessions and seven days for private bookings.

"Some of the sessions have also been extended. It is £15 to play and children get free weapon hire and, starting on Thursday, November 8, we will be putting on a tactical training for those who want to improve their skills."

To book or for more information about Arena Airsoft, call 07752 404060.

RESIDENTS are being urged to be wary of door-to-door salespeople claiming to offer grants for insulation and heating improvements.

The advice has been issued following complaints made to Trading Standards officers about cold-calling canvassers in the area, claiming to be from the Government's Warm Front scheme.

Appointments from legitimate staff about this initiative are always pre-arranged, so homeowners are being asked to be on their guard.

As reported, grants of up to £3,500 are available to homeowners and private tenants to help them keep warm and save money on energy bills through Warm Front.

It is administered by North East Lincolnshire Council, which does not instruct any of its staff promoting the scheme to cold call.

Debbie Fagan, head of strategic housing at the authority, said: "After the Government's recent announcement that eligibility criteria for the scheme had changed – extending it to parents who receive child tax credit or working tax credit and have child under 16 – we have received an increased number of calls from residents complaining about cold callers.

"We want to stress that cold callers will not be selling loft and cavity-wall insulation on behalf of this Warm Front scheme.

"Official staff will carry an identification badge and have an appointment arranged with a home owner who has shown interest in the scheme.

"The Warm Front scheme provides a package of insulation and heating measures tailored to meet individual needs, including loft and cavity-wall insulation, draught-proofing, hot water tank jackets and additional heating solutions such as installing a new central heating system, or repairing an existing one."

Trading Standards manager Neil Clark said: "There are often legitimate traders who go door-to-door, but only official Warm Front staff are entitled to promote or sell the scheme.

"While there is no legislation that prevents businesses knocking on doors, we would always advise consumers to check who they are dealing with, check the identity of the person who is calling, if they do not have an identity badge, they may not be genuine.

"Do not respond to any telephone number the caller gives you, check the company from your own phone book to see if they have any door-knockers in your area at the time."

Householders can apply for help from Warm Front by calling 01472 324782 or e-mailing energy@nelincs.gov.uk

If consumers are concerned about tactics used by salespersons cold calling at their door or would like to report a rogue trader, call Citizen's Advice Consumer Service on 0845 4040506.

AFTER retiring from 30 years of policing, Paul Davison was looking forward to relaxing on a beach.

During his progression from a PC on the beat in Hull to the man in charge of police in the East Riding, he has investigated some of the most serious and high-profile crimes in the region.

But instead of enjoying his retirement, the 59-year-old has been campaigning to become the first Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner.

"I could have been sitting on a nice, hot beach right now, but this is a fantastic opportunity and I believe I could make a real change," he says.

"It would be an honour and a privilege to be the first commissioner. I would love the job and the anticipation is exhilarating."

As the only former police officer in the race for the job, Mr Davison believes he offers a unique perspective.

"I wouldn't be doing this if I hadn't had 30 years in the police force," he says.

"I struggle to understand how someone who hasn't could understand the nuances and subtleties of policing and come up with a plan for what they want to do."

He is sitting in the living room of his home in the East Riding, where photographs of his five children stand proudly above a roaring log fire.

Nearby, a cardboard box is overflowing with hundreds of copies of his newly-printed manifesto.

At the heart of Mr Davison's campaign is a desire to put the residents of the Humberside force area at the top of every officer's agenda.

"Every day, whatever decision is made, I want people to ask, 'will this make a positive difference to the public?',", he says.

"If the answer is no, they shouldn't do it.

"Everything I have learnt during my career has led me to that vision. It is about putting the public at the heart of policing."

One of his proudest achievements is investigating every crime and report of antisocial behaviour during his time as the divisional commander for the East Riding, where he ended his career.

It is a policy he would roll out across the force area if he is elected on November 15.

"There is an arrogance in not investigating every crime," he says.

"We used to do it years ago but have lost our way. I don't know why we stopped that. When did we stop wanting to catch criminals?"

He insists, despite the force battling against a budget cut of £30 million, it is possible to investigate every report that comes in.

"I did it in the East Riding by using PCSOs to investigate low-level offences. We know resources are going down and public expectations are going up," says Mr Davison.

"I want to exceed expectations and I want to take that vision of what I wanted to do in the East Riding to Hull, to North East Lincolnshire – across the whole of Humberside.

"If I was elected, we would have to raise the ambition of Humberside Police. We need to be better than we are at reducing crime, antisocial behaviour, and the quality of service we provide.

"I know how to reduce crime and stop criminals. It doesn't happen by accident; it comes through hard work, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

As an independent candidate, Mr Davison speaks of the difficulty of going up against the political party machines.

In an election that also includes Labour heavyweight Lord Prescott, he likens it to "fighting a boxing match with one of your hands tied behind your back".

"This has been one of the hardest and loneliest things I have ever done," he says.

"Running a campaign is completely foreign to me. Handing out manifestos on the street is just not me at all but I have quite enjoyed meeting and speaking to people. It is probably not something I would do again but I wouldn't have missed it for the world."

Despite the difficulties of being an independent candidate, he believes he might just pull off a surprise result come polling day.

"I wouldn't be sitting here if I didn't think I had a chance," says Mr Davison.

"I have the passion, the grit, the drive to stand up and fight. If it was an even playing field, I think I would have an excellent chance. If I was the two main parties, I would be looking at me knowing I have 30 years in policing and thinking I have a lot to offer."

If he succeeds, he has promised to be directly available to all residents who are unhappy with the police.

"At the minute, if the police let you down, there is nowhere to go," he says.

"But people could come to me. They can have my mobile number and call me and I will help."

Mr Davison was born into "quite a poor background" on Hull's Bilton Grange estate.

Although he admits he was not interested in lessons at Maybury Primary School, he went on to achieve a PHD in chemical engineering.

He later turned down a lucrative job at Proctor and Gamble to join the police in Hull.

After he retired from the force earlier this year, Mr Davison had planned to write a book on some of the cases he had investigated, including the murder of Rachel Moran.

But the chance to become the first commissioner, managing the force's £180m budget and setting its priorities, was one he could not resist.

"I knew I had to do it," he says.

"The last couple of months have been incredibly challenging but it is my vision that keeps me going.

"If I don't get it, I will know I did my best and have had the chance to put that vision across to a large amount of people.

"If I do get it, I know I will do a fantastic job and put the public back at the heart of policing.

"That is an altruistic dream I have got. People might scoff at that but I don't care. I know why I am doing it."

The election will be held on Thursday, November 15, and the results counted, verified and announced the day after. For more, see our Viewpoints crime commissioner letters round-up on pages 14-15.

GET fabulously fruity this festive season... thanks to some of Santa's little helpers!

Crafty shoppers will be off the mark early on Saturday to save cash – and do their bit to save the planet, too.

Those behind the Fabulously Fruity Wines Christmas Fair, being held at Peaks Top Farm, in New Waltham, are dreaming of a green Christmas as well as the traditional white, because their home-grown produce on sale has zero carbon footprint.

They are perfect gifts for eco-friendly friends and family, and while you are there, you can also support the local Women's Refuge, as they will receive the proceeds from refreshments sold on the day.

The indoor event is on from 11am to 4pm on Saturday at the farm, which is renowned for its pick-your-own fruit and holiday accommodation.

And owners Linda and Peter Clayton are fresh from the success of their Fabulously Fruity wine venture, along with Julie Collins and Steve Eddowes.

As reported, some of last year's bumper crop was frozen to reap a harvest of fine wines in varieties including strawberry, raspberry, bramble, apple and blackcurrant.

There are also wines in gooseberry and red gooseberry, rosehip and elderflower.

The tasty wines have been given a seasonal makeover for the Christmas market.

The organisers have created sloe wine, red currant wine and red gooseberry wine, and bottles will be decorated with Christmas bows.

Peter said: "Each is hand-crafted in the traditional style to retain the bouquet of freshly-picked fruit.

"The beauty of them is they come with absolutely zero food miles because everything is grown and made on the farm."

The wine stall is one of up to 10 craft stalls overall at the market, including homemade sweets, pottery, candles, preserves, cushions and jewellery.

Linda added: "It will feature a mix of different crafts. We have handbags made locally from Harris Tweed and pottery from Marshchapel.

"There will be a great range of goods available. We shall also have living Christmas trees, which people can plant after the festive season.

"We hope people will support the market and the craftsmen and women. It will be a nice morning or afternoon out, and is all about keeping it local."

ONE of Cleethorpes' most popular daytime dining destinations is now serving up delicious dishes in the evening too.

Diners can enjoy evening meals at Marples Cafe, Restaurant and Bar, in Seaview Street, between 5pm and 8.30pm from Wednesday to Saturday.

Owner David Allen hopes to offer food lovers in the resort something different, with a menu featuring the freshest locally-sourced produce. As reported, Marples successfully served evening meals until 2005 when Mr Allen opened the nearby Riverside bar and restaurant.

He said: "At the time I didn't want the two venues competing against one another, but Riverside is now so well established, particularly for its tapas, that I think some competition will be healthy. Seaview Street has also changed significantly over the last two or three years and there are now a lot of high-end, good quality shops, cafes and restaurants open into the evening.

"It just seems like the right time for us to build on the fantastic reputation we have during the daytime."

Diners will be able to choose from a weekly specials menu, which will feature the best seasonal produce, and a teatime menu, from 5pm to 6.30pm, featuring classic dishes such as homemade pies and lasagne.

A new chef and waiting staff have been employed to work in the evenings to ensure the highest standards of food and service. Supervisor Esta Swann said: "We're so popular in the daytime that it makes sense for us to open later too."

Tables and evening functions can be booked by calling 01472 697188. Alternatively, diners are welcome to just turn up.

THE father of a young man who committed suicide after getting into financial difficulty hopes others will learn from his son's death.

Dan Rix, 26, was found hanged at Thomas Woods, in Brocklesby.

His father Phillip – who says the pain of losing his son will never go away – has spoken to the Telegraph to use the money issues his son faced as a warning to others.

"I think it is the stigma of debt, what a proud person Danny was and the impact it was having on his relationship, that made him commit suicide," said Mr Rix.

"All he had was a sum of money owed, which was mostly to banks or credit cards – institutions that make billions of pounds.

"It was an amount that wouldn't even have been a drop in the ocean to them.

"I think a letter he received from the bank was the final straw, because Danny never gave any indication that he was thinking of doing what he did."

Mr Rix wants to raise awareness about debt and the importance of seeking help early in a bid to stop families going through the same ordeal.

He said: "If it can happen to our family, it can happen to anyone.

"If you are reading this and fear you are on the path that Danny took, there are people who can help.

"Suicide is not the way for young people or for anybody on that path of financial, or any other type of difficulty.

"Danny's death was senseless.

"Some days I will be doing something and I get this feeling like a kick that's right in the stomach – it brings you to your knees and you start to cry.

"We want to keep his memory alive, so if Danny's story prevents one person from going down that road, Danny's death will not be so devastatingly senseless."

Mr Rix had been working alongside his son in the days leading up to when Danny disappeared on April 15.

He was found in the woods the next day.

They had been converting a van into a camper and Danny had been talking about his future.

"Danny went to the Citizens Advice Bureau," said Mr Rix. "He had a court date to make his bankruptcy official and stop the creditors hassling him.

"He wouldn't have done all that if he thought he was helpless. He was thinking ahead and the bankruptcy would have drawn a line under it and he would have been made to pay what he could."

Mr Rix said his son, who lived in Ulceby with his partner, had a well-paid job as a self-employed builder and was always working.

"He was hard working, conscientious and a very talented tradesman," he said.

"When I was told Danny was missing, it was so out of character, but I had a feeling inside me that I didn't want to acknowledge.

"When the police told me they had found his body, it was the start of the nightmare."

Mr Rix strongly believes firms that lend money should be made to contribute financially to charities which offer advice to people with money worries.

He told how the entire family is heartbroken and thanked those who are supporting him through his grief.

A black-tie ball will be held at Forest Pines on Saturday, November 17. Tickets cost £35, including a three-course meal and a welcome drink. Funds raised will be donated to national and local charities and good causes which deal with issues that affected Danny.

A REDEVELOPED Top Town, £7 million more of savings to find and parking permits ...

North East Lincolnshire Council has been in the news constantly in recent days and weeks, for a variety of issues affecting you.

Just this week, we reported how Grimsby Bus Station is set to be remodelled to improve transport in the town, and also incorporate a planned extension to Freshney Place.

We also told how a rise in the cost of residential parking permits has been approved, a week after the authority told how it expects to have to make a further £7 million in savings in years ahead.

Tomorrow, Grimsby Telegraph editor Michelle Lalor will be hosting an online debate with the leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Chris Shaw, and Councillor Mick Burnett, the authority's deputy leader.

They will be online at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk between noon and 1pm to answer questions you have on these issues.

To get involved, simply log onto the homepage of our website and follow the instructions.

A report of the debate will appear in your Grimsby Telegraph.

A BUTTERFLY ball in honour of a six-year-old girl is all set to take off. As reported, Lucy Sutton has osteosarcoma – a form of bone cancer – which was discovered behind her knee in February.

Over the last few months, her parents Tony and Catrina from Scartho have channelled their emotions into organising the charity Butterfly Ball, which is taking place on Friday.

And they have been overwhelmed by supporters who have donated money, prizes and other services.

The family hopes to raise as much money as possible for charities including Clic Sargent, the Theodora Children's Trust, PACT (Parents' Association of Children with Tumours and Leukaemia), ward M3 at Sheffield Children's Hospital and Birmingham Royal Orthopedic Hospital.

Guests at the ball – taking place at the Oaklands Hotel, in Laceby, from 7.30pm – could be in with the chance of taking home some great prizes in an auction.

Items under the hammer include a signed Manchester United football, a Kindle and Christmas meal vouchers for the Ashbourne Hotel. There will also be a raffle.

Tony said: "Staff at the Spar shop, in Waltham Road, Scartho, held a fundraising day which has so far raised more than £2,000.

"We have also received cheques for £500 from North Lincs Tyres and Blackrow Engineering.

"The Artie White Foundation has also donated £250 towards the growing fundraising pot."

Patricia Collins, the owner of Crafty Alice, in St Peter's Avenue, Cleethorpes, has devoted her free time to making 25 sweet trees for table centrepieces. They will then be auctioned.

Tony continued: "So many people have stepped forward to help make this ball the best it can be.

"I want to thank all the live performers as well who will keep guests entertained throughout the night.

"The love people have shown towards Lucy is amazing. What humbles me the most is that the majority do not even know my daughter but still want to help.

"It makes you feel part of a great community."

With just days to go before the event, Tony is appealing to anyone who could donate helium for the balloons on the night.

Anyone who can help should call him on 07940 834736.

For more information about the ball, visit www.the-butterfly-ball. co.uk

A HISTORIC building in Cleethorpes has been given extra protection from demolition.

Councillors this week agreed to confirm an Article 4 Direction on the former Wilkin Chapman building on St Peter's Avenue – meaning that it will be permanently protected from being knocked down without planning permission.

Back in June, Cabinet voted to impose an Article 4 on the red-brick Victorian villa, which was due to lapse on December 21.

However, this latest Cabinet decision makes the order permanent, meaning that a developer will have to apply for planning permission if it wants to demolish the building.

As reported, Maligues Properties Ltd submitted plans to demolish the building and replace it with a new Iceland frozen food store.

The application was rejected by the council's planning committee in August, and the developer has appealed to the Planning Inspectorate.

Since then, the building has been included on a draft "List of Buildings of Local Architectural or Historic Interest for Cleethorpes", which has been put out to public consultation.

Speaking at Monday's Cabinet meeting, Councillor Peter Wheatley, portfolio holder for regeneration and environment, said: "This is an important building and it would be a real shame if it was ever knocked down. We should continue with this Article 4 in order to keep the street scene intact.

"It does not restrict developers from using the building for anything else – it just prevents it being knocked down."

A report prepared for councillors by planning officers said: "This proposal will ensure that a gap

is not created in the street, through demolition of the building, within a key shopping frontage in Cleethorpes which might harm the vitality and viability of the town centre."

It added: "The existing building at 46 St Peter's Avenue is a pleasant, well-preserved Victorian villa that contributes positively to the street scene and ambiance of Cleethorpes' main shopping street.

"Public comments made on a recent planning application proposing to redevelop the site made clear that it is valued by many local people."

However, Gareth Preston, of Mason Partners, which represents the owner of the site, Maligues Properties Limited, said: "We are disappointed that the council has chosen not to engage with us and notify us of the ratification of the Article 4 Direction. Likewise we were not invited to put our case forward when it was originally put in place.

"We have always made considerable effort to engage with the council although they have chosen not to reciprocate, which I find surprising as our proposals will bring new jobs and investment in to Cleethorpes where otherwise non would exist.

"We recognise there is some local affinity towards the building, despite this not being worthy of being listed, however we have clearly demonstrated to the council that it is just not suitable for modern retail or office use in its existing form and it is wholly impracticable to convert the building to make it work.

"Our proposal is absolutely in line with local and national policy which prioritises the creation of new jobs and investment. The fate of the building however will now be determined at appeal. The appeal has been submitted and we are awaiting the appointment of an Inspector to make a decision.

"In our view, a decision not to allow the development to go ahead would be a wasted opportunity to bring new jobs to the area and improve the retail offer on the high street.

"The existing building is not suitable for modern commercial use and will most likely remain vacant and dilapidate over time if our proposals are not approved."

GRIMSBY Town's proud unbeaten run away from home ended with a humbling 3-2 defeat at the hands of Hyde FC at Ewan Fields last night.

The hosts scored two in a horrendous 20 minutes for Town and, despite a comeback thanks to two goals from Ross Hannah, Town slipped to defeat in Manchester after a deflected Alex Brown winner.

Joint bosses Rob Scott and Paul Hurst named a largely unchanged side from Saturday's win over Tamworth with Shaun Pearson and Andy Cook replacing Ian Miller and Anthony Elding respectively.

The hosts started well, and when Ryan Crowther swung a high, looping cross in, James McKeown came out to collect but fumbled the ball onto the head of Alex Brown and the ball trickled over the line to give the Tigers a shock lead with less than four minutes on the clock.

Town looked for a quick reply and Aswad Thomas made a burst down the left hand side. His pull-back was parried out by Adam Frith but no one in a black and white shirt reacted quick enough and the chance was gone.

Frith was called into action minutes later when he rushed off his line to head off the run of Cook, however, the young frontman got there first and poked the ball around him, however, his attempts to find the waiting Ross Hannah were poor and his cross flew harmlessly over the bar.

The Mariners were rattled and when a free-kick wasn't properly cleared the ball found its way to Scott Spencer free in the box, but to the relief of the travelling Town fans he could only drag wide.

The home fans, and perhaps those in the away end, thought Hyde had doubled their lead minutes later when Spencer's chip looked to have beaten McKeown however, it drifted just wide.

If that was a warning, Town certainly didn't heed it and they were 2-0 down soonafter.

A ball across the box bobbled under the foot of Bradley Wood and Crowther slid in to steer the ball into the bottom right-hand corner.

It had been a horror start for the Mariners who were desperate to get themselves back into the game. Joe Colbeck's cross found Cook in the box with a low cross but the frontman's stooping header flew wide.

On the half-hour, Derek Niven was replaced by Andi Thanoj. The Scot was less than impressed as he made his way off the field but, in truth, he had endured a torrid start in the middle of the park and a change was needed.

Nathan Pond was booked for a frustrated foul and from the resulting free kick, Matthew Blinkhorn nearly made it three but could not quite latch on to Cassidy's pass.

But Town pushed hard for a goal to give them a foothold in the game and they had it on the stroke of half-time.

Hannah latched on to a long ball and looked to go round the advancing keeper but Frith got a hand on it and the chance looked to have gone. However, Hannah turned and fired high into the roof of the net to give his side a priceless goal and, seconds later, referee Joyce brought the half to a close.

Town were out early for the restart, perhaps after a half-time dressing down from Scott and Hurst.

And they fashioned the first real opening of the half when Marshall was set free by Wood, however the Bury man was eventually hounded out by the Hyde back four and Town had to start again.

Town were now moving the ball with more pace and purpose than they were in the first and forced a corner soon after the restart.

Nathan Pond got up highest at the back and nodded down to Hannah who grabbed his second of the game at the far post.

It was far from pretty, but Town didn't care; they were on terms and now pushing for a third.

Cook raced through seconds later and drove just wide of the left-hand post as the visitors took a stranglehold on the game.

A clever one-two between Colbeck and Disley brought their next chance to pull ahead, but the skipper could only fire wide from just inside the area, while minutes later Thanoj brought a smart save from Frith with a powerful side-footed effort.

If any side looked likely to get a third it was the visitors but when the ball fell to Brown on the edge of the area and his shot deflected off Thomas as Hyde regained the lead.

Scott and Hurst responded by bringing on Greg Pearson for Cook as Town looked for another equaliser.

But at the other end, Spencer, under pressure from Pearson, turned and skewed a shot over the bar and was soon subbed as Hyde looked to see out the game.

Colbeck had a good chance to equalise in the final throes of the game but he could only lift over the bar, and the stand behind the goal when free in the area.

Town will be looking to bounce back when they welcome Woking to Blundell Park on Saturday (3pm).

Second Chance Cat Rescue – Keelby.

We are a small cat rescue made up entirely of volunteers based in and around North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire with many years experience in the rescue, protection, and homing of both cats and kittens.

Cats and Kittens presently up for Adoption

A selection of our cats presently up for homing are shown below but we have several other kitties of various sexes, ages, colours, shapes and size. 

Nina

Nina is an eighteen months old spayed black and white female. Very affectionate and friendly. She is the mother of the three young kittens also up for homing.

George and Maddy
These two are both about six months old. They are not related but would like to be homed together as they are great pals. Both are very friendly and happy cats who would be OK with children.

Cassy.

Three year old spayed tortoiseshell white female. Very friendly and gets on well with other cats.

Charlie.

Charlie is a very handsome white and black male kitty. He is a former stray who has been at the Rescue several weeks. Charlie is a very friendly and well behaved little chap who seems to get on well with other cats.

Ruby

A spayed tortoiseshell white female about 12 years old. Ruby was a stray. She is very deaf but otherwise quite healthy. She is very affectionate and enjoys some attention and cuddles.

Kittens

We have a number of black and white kittens in the Rescue at the moment. Both boys and girls. All happy and healthy fur balls full of fun. 

Contact

For further details contact our Help Line on 01469 561000 or E Mail info@secondchancecatrescue.org.uk 

These cats are also listed on our web site - http://www.secondchancecatrescue.org.uk and also on the Second Chance Cat Rescue Facebook page.

CLINICAL Barton Town Old Boys ended Cleethorpes Town's Lincolnshire Senior Trophy journey as the Owls were left to reflect on what might have been.

Clee put in a determined effort against Barton – a side currently fifth in the league above – in a game of numerous chances.

But two goals in six second-half minutes saw Barton take control and go on to record a 4-1 victory, ending the Owls' Trophy campaign.

The visitors started well and took the lead on 20 minutes though Ryan Cooper's penalty.

Both sides then hit the woodwork – Daniel Barrett went close for the Owls with a glancing header.

Clee equalised on 30 minutes when Luke Mascall latched on to a cross and curled the ball under the goalkeeper.

The Owls went close to taking the lead early in the second half through efforts from Marc Cooper, Lee McFarland and Tim Lowe.

But Barton retook the lead on 72 minutes through Alex Sherwood's glancing header.

Substitute Jack Debnam was denied an equaliser by a superb save from Barton's goalkeeper – a stop that proved crucial as the visitors retook the lead on 78 minutes when, after Owls stopper Scott Drury failed to gather the ball, Gareth Owen tapped home into an empty net.

With one minute remaining, Josh Schofield broke clear and slotted past Drury to wrap up the game for Barton.

MARKET Rasen & Louth conceded an early try – and went on to lose a high-scoring match away against Bedford Athletic.

The Red & Greens went down 57-29 in the Midlands 1 East Division.

Bedford crossed the line in the sixth minute. A quick tap by scrum-half Mike Starling from the wrong spot cost Rasen possession.

Bedford were awarded a scrum and quickly moved the ball to their dangerous back-line.

Full-back Ben Johnson burst through the defence and, despite a brave attempt from his opposite number Karl Ward, momentum carried him over the line to leave fly-half James Mortimer with a simple conversion.

Rasen responded positively and were soon back in Bedford territory with a penalty kick to touch.

The catch and drive moved closer to the line before the backs were brought into play with winger Nick Harvey cutting an inside line and off-loading for centre Matt Sutton to crash over. Meehal Grint slotted the conversion to bring the Red and Greens back on terms.

The pendulum swung back to Bedford as they took control to score five converted tries as their astute use of the ball mesmerised the visiting defence.

After facing such a whirlwind of attacks, Rasen took heart as Bedford conceded a series of penalties in their own twenty-two allowing the Red and Greens to finish the half strongly.

A quick tap from Grint resulted in a score for the vociferous fly-half and put some much-needed belief back into the visitors as the half closed.

The effect of the late score in the first half was remarkable as Rasen turned the game on its head and became the dominant force throughout the third quarter.

In the opening stages, the Red and Greens became encamped close to the Bedford line as the referee repeatedly penalised the home front row and Rasen continued to opt for the scrummage.

Surprisingly, it wasn't this string of similar offences that elicited a penalty try, but a further infringement at a driving maul compelled the official to signal the score from under the posts.

Sutton added the conversion and moments later his accurate pass brought Ward into the line.

The diminutive full-back made good ground before the ball was reworked for Grint to steal in at the corner to secure a try bonus point.

Another penalty prompted the obligatory catch and drive for Dearden, who put Rasen within two scores of victory.

Having weathered the Rasen onslaught, Bedford eventually worked their way up field and settled their nerves with a Mortimer penalty.

Spurred on by their earlier exploits, Rasen desperately tried to break Bedford's new-found vigour that was now keeping them pinned deep in their own territory.

However, throwing caution to the wind, a kick was easily gathered by Johnson who scorched down the left wing to complete his hat-trick.

Bedford rounded off the game as Mortimer's perfectly placed cross kick found substitute Charlie Darlow for a final try, with Mortimer's successful conversion bringing the match to a close.

HUMBERSTON geared up for this weekend's showdown against reigning champions Birds Eye Pelham by returning to the summit of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes & District Sunday League with a magnificent 7-1 victory.

Liam Davis bagged his first hat-trick for the table-toppers as they put Cromwell to the sword.

Rob Summers netted his first goal of the season when Humberston took the lead.

After Kirk Wheeler doubled the advantage, Louis Grant missed several chances and Roy Blain put Cromwell back in it by converting a penalty before half-time.

Quick-thinking from a free-kick saw Davis notch his first goal.

Cromwell were then awarded another penalty, which was saved by Humberston's stand-in goalkeeper Paul Jones.

Davis then netted a header before wrapping up his maiden hat-trick in style, showing great vision and electric pace to notch his third.

Grant, the team's top-scorer, then got in on the act with two goals in a minute late on.

Lee Croft also netted a hat-trick in the top flight as his goals, along with Shane Garvie's brace, steered Empire United to a 5-1 victory at SW Steelers, for whom Luke Borrill was on target.

Wheatsheaf secretary Dean Boon says the team are attracting former top-flight players as they continue to make a name for themselves as Division Four high-flyers.

After winning division seven last season as Schooners, Wheatsheaf are four points clear at the top of the fourth tier after a 4-3 victory against RIS FC last Sunday.

Boon said: "It was a good game against RIS and something of a wake-up call for us.

"They probably caught us on an off day but we still managed to grind out a result."

RIS took the lead with a goal from Cameron Smyth following good work by Ben Goodman, Sean Smyth and Lyle Thorpe.

They had chances to go further in front but could not take them.

It was 1-1 at half time but Wheatsheaf came out quickly after the break and soon went 3-1 up.

Cam Smyth made it 3-2 but Wheatsheaf replied to restore their two-goal advantage.

Kyle French then pulled one back from the penalty spot for RIS to make it 4-3, but they were unable to recover the deficit.

On target for Wheatsheaf were Will Clifford, Andrew Lockwood, Carl Henry and Stuart Inch.

The leaders face mid-table Tap & Spile 2nds this weekend.

Boon said: "We must take nothing for granted as this game could go exactly like the last one and we do not want to be caught out.

"Our prolific scorer Neil Kirwin is out injured, but Will Clifford is also amongst the goals so we are not short of firepower.

"We have a good set of lads in what is a decent squad.

"We seem to be getting a name for ourselves for all the right reasons and are attracting players who have played in the top division."

Healing hit back from four goals down in a sensational second-half comeback to draw 4-4 with Tap & Spile in Division Two.

Former Grimsby Town Youth player Dan Freeman scored all four of Healing's goals, equalising from the penalty spot with the last kick of the match.

Grimsby Rovers claimed a scalp in Division Six by inflicting a first defeat of the season on leaders Spiders Web.

Dave Deane, Nathan Chandler, Ashley Leggett and an own goal saw Rovers run out 4-2 winners.

TWO great goals helped AFC Wybers climb to third spot in division two by leapfrogging BBS Couriers, who they beat 2-0.

Wybers secretary Ray Cuthbert praised the "cracking goals" from Kenny Sharpe and Leigh Cottingham that settled the tie.

The team's opponents on Sunday are struggling Immingham Town, who are second from bottom after a 1-1 draw with Caistor Rovers.

Cuthbert said: "We beat them 1-0 earlier in the season - they are not a bad side but are unlucky. Things are not running for them and they will be desperate for points to climb away from the drop zone. We will have a couple of regulars out but should be able to field a decent side which will be good enough to bag the points."

In Division Three, The Cricketers (Liam Cottam) drew 1-1 with Humberston Grosvenor (Malcolm Kitt). Deportivo Empire won 3-1 away to Buddies II FC (Luke Lapsley). Keelby Utd (Justin Wakefield, Chris Wild) drew 2-2 with East Trans Pelham (Mark Barber, Zane Cape).

Clee Community ESL (John Dunks 2, Thomas Stiff) won 3-1 away to Tower Bucharest in Division Four.

Sporting Saltire (James Bird, Benjamin Cooke) won 2-1 against AFC Waltham in Division Five – both teams have been commended for playing the game in an honest and fair manner without an appointed referee. Abatis Fire & Security (Luke Sargent 3, Sam Aisthorpe) beat Immingham County (Connor Ireland, Jonathan Walker) 4-2, Clee Motors (Brett Walton 3) won 3-2 against Healing 2nds (C Thornton, D Jackson), East Marsh Empire (Mark Gale, Jason Marshall, Ryan Woolliss, Brett Wherry) won 4-0 against Crows Nest 3rds while RER Haulage (Ben Cole, Richard Donner, Stuart Geddes, Simon Peck) just made it winning 4-3 against Redstar Old Boys (John Conroy, James Gibbs, Adam Gollings).

Elsewhere in Division Six, Winns FC drew 1-1 with Seachill Athletico (David Mathews). Ace Homecare (Carl Carroll 2) drew 2-2 with Electrical Appliance Grimsby FC with a similar result for the game between Kings Head Waltham (Dan Brown, Paul Hand) and The County (Andy Croucher, Jonathan Hobbs).

Division Seven leaders Abatis Athletic (Ben Cowdroy, Nick Lacey, Michael Marshall) won 3-0 against Clee Community ESL 2nds, Laceby Acres Utd (Liam Hanslip 2, Ashley Stephen 2, Simon Lancaster) won 5-2 against AFC Waltham 2nds, Advance Alarms (Scott Barber 4, Garry Summers 2) beat IFK Knottkoping 6-0, Laceby Arms (Sean Swinscoe, Chris West) won 2-1 away to FC Ntex (Craig Holland) and Pelham 1878 (Joel Bryson pen, Kyle Young, Chris Mills, Paul Hardie) won 4-1 away to Winns 2nds.

HUNGRY rescue dogs have food in their bellies and wags in their tails thanks to a generous teenager.

When Annalise Ellis, 17, of Scartho, saw Jerry Green Dog Rescue's plea for dog food she felt compelled to help.

Dog lover Annalise took it upon herself to ask local businesses to donate to the Broughton-based charity – and they didn't disappoint.

In one night Annalise, a health studies student at the Grimsby Institute, had enough food to fill the boot of her car which she delivered personally to the charity.

She said: "Being a dog owner myself I knew I had to help these dogs.

"Jerry Greens were very thankful for all the people that donated dog food and for me for taking it to them. They were shocked at how much food I got in one night.

"I want to raise awareness about this so other people can help the dogs or maybe even think about rehoming them."

Annalise would like to thank: Creations Hair And Beauty, Cost Cutters in Scartho, Vets For Pets, Scartho, Money Saver Pets Centre in Wybers Wood and friends who donated food and blankets.

Find out more about Jerry Green at www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk

QWhy did you set up the Oasis Community Learning Group?

A I didn't go to a good school. I went to a very poor secondary modern in South London.

From a young age, we were told that we would not benefit from academic exams.

When I was 14 years old, I started going to a youth group in South London because a girl that I fancied went there. It was a Christian youth group but I didn't know that. To me, it was just the place that Mary Hooper went.

But one day I noticed that the story they told me about myself at the youth group was different to the one I was told at school.

The youth group said that I was made by God and was capable of anything and my school said I would never amount to much. I knew which one I liked better.

One day, I was walking home from youth group on a Friday night and as I went past Crystal Palace's football ground, I had a realisation. At 14 years old, I decided that I wanted to set up a hostel, a school and a hospital for people who were told that they didn't matter. These people deserved a good home, a good education and good healthcare and I wanted to do that.

QHow did you do it?

A I went to college to do my A-levels but I just couldn't make the jump. I hadn't even done an O-level before and all I had been taught is to learn things.

When I was asked to 'evaluate and contrast' in my history exam, I just did not have the skills.

At 18 years old, I moved to Ashford in Kent because I knew a church leader there who said I could set up a youth group there.

I got a job at a plated press works and used to sweep the floor and eventually got to drive a forklift truck and used the money to invest in the group. I did that for two years.

Aged 21, I went to study theology at Spurgeons College in London. After that, I got a job working with young people at a large church in Tonbridge in Kent but I still had the same ambition.

After four years, my boss told me I should do it and I could continue living in my house for free, although I would no longer get paid. In September 1985, I finally had the chance to follow my dream.

I decided that a hostel would make a much more realistic starting point than a school or a hospital. I got other people on board and we did a lot of fundraising which was hard work. Finally we brought a big house in Peckham and used it as a hostel for young people who had been abused, mistreated and were homeless. Everything grew from that first hostel.

QWhat influence does Christianity have on the schools under the Oasis banner?

A It was Christianity that originally influenced me to start the group. The ideas of raising aspirations, working together, being part of a community which are key to the success of Oasis schools are all thing that Christianity taught me – love your neighbour, for example. However, the influence is very indirect.

Not everyone is a Christian – we are all-inclusive and welcome people from other faiths and those without religion. It is our job to make people aware of the world around them, not shove Christianity down their throats.

Some people might not buy into the Christian side of things but I think what they do buy into is the behavioural side that the schools promotes for their communities and their children.

QDo you have children of your own?

A I married my beautiful wife Cornelia in 1980 and it was actually her that suggested calling the first house in Peckham Oasis.

We have four children, two girls and two boys, who are all grown up now. Both of my sons actually work for Oasis. My youngest son runs a community cafe in Waterloo, providing a place for people to come together and the chance to use necessary facilities.

My other son handles the social networking side of things for Oasis. I have no idea how many websites, Facebook and Twitter accounts we have but there's a lot and I'm glad he is taking care of them.

QDo you always work in deprived communities?

Primarily, yes. The problem is that nothing is really expected from these children. People talk about their deprived backgrounds and go on about problems such as drugs and violence and it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. That is why at our school we never talk about deprived areas because they are rich in many ways, in their communities, and we focus on that."

QWhat is next for Oasis?

A We opened a school in Nunsthorpe and another in Manchester recently. However, we are also working abroad a lot at the moment.

We teach people how to set up their own schools in shanty towns in South Africa. We also operate in poor areas of India and many other countries. The schools there are nowhere near as sophisticated as the institutions we have here but they provide a very important basic function.