PLANNING Minister Nick Boles said there was "no excuse" for North East Lincolnshire taking so long to prepare an updated Local Plan.

Responding to comments from Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers, he said: "I am not suggesting for a moment that putting together a Local Plan is easy or straightforward, or that it is uncontentious, but 76 per cent of local authorities have managed to produce a draft plan and 54 per cent have managed to have it passed through examination and be formally adopted, so there simply is no excuse for your local authority not having managed to make more progress.

"I have to confess that I can see absolutely no reason or excuse for the suggestion that North East Lincolnshire Council will not be able to put a plan in place until November 2017. World wars have been fought and won in the same amount of time. It is extraordinary that an authority will spin its wheels for so long.

Mr Boles added: "The preferences of local people and local communities as to where development should happen will unfortunately not carry the weight that they would have carried if the local authority had a five-year land supply and a Local Plan.

"I completely understand local people's frustration and dismay that their opinions are effectively being overridden by such decisions, but we have to return to the fundamental point that we can transfer the power to say yes or no to development proposals only if local councils have taken responsibility for identifying how they will meet those needs.

"WE'RE officially outstanding."

Staff and pupils at Tealby School have been graded outstanding in every area following a visit from Ofsted inspectors.

And the feat is all the more impressive as experts believe it will be achieved by less than five per cent of schools in the country following the introduction of a new, more rigorous inspection framework last year.

Head teacher Denise Popplewell said the whole school and surrounding community was thrilled with the outcome of the report.

She said: "I am delighted with the outstanding judgement for our school.

"Since our last inspection in 2009, the whole school community has pulled together to secure outstanding practice in all key stages and areas of the school's work.

"The success of our school is due to the dedication and commitment of the whole school community.

"We have a very highly skilled staff team, a wonderful group of enthusiastic children and very supportive parents." Among the areas praised by lead inspector Aune Turkson-Jones were the quality of teaching and learning experiences enjoyed by the pupils.

The inspector said: "This is an outstanding school.

"It gives pupils rich and stimulating learning experiences, and the innovative range of topics ... helps to motivate pupils and contributes strongly to their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

"Teachers express their high expectations and lessons are packed with an excellent variety of challenging activities.

"Pupils are highly engaged by the imaginative and creative contexts which underpin their lessons".

Mrs Popplewell added: "The values based, family ethos of our school means that children show high levels of respect and consideration for others.

"They are keen to take responsibility and their exemplary attitudes to learning and behaviour contribute significantly to their outstanding achievements."

Chairman of the governors Kelly Smith said the board was "delighted" with the judgment, adding: "It is rightly deserved, and the result of unrelenting efforts to innovate and improve. Congratulations go to Mrs Popplewell and the team, who I know will be more determined than ever to ensure Tealby School continues to lead the way."

CROSSING the road safely to get to the supermarket is a major concern for a group of elderly Grimsby residents.

And now residents at Kings Court, in Magdalene Road, have started a petition to improve road safety.

The Neighbourhood Watch Group is concerned at the speed at which cars drive down the street, near the corner of Cambridge Road, with particular concerns for residents crossing the street to get to the Aldi supermarket opposite.

Improved signage and drop kerbs marking each end of the road have now been installed to make life easier for those living nearby.

Margaret Hilditch, who sits on the Neighbourhood Watch committee, said: "We find it dangerous to cross the road because drivers come at such a rate that even if you look both ways it's still frightening.

"So we've decided to put a petition together to get something definitive done about it – whether that's making a 20mph zone, I don't know.

"There are some safety measures currently in place but I'm sure everyone would feel better if we had a zebra crossing.

"Residents in mobility scooters need to mount the kerbs to get to Aldi so hopefully the newer drop kerbs will work to some extent.

"But I'm afraid there will be a nasty accident in the future if more isn't done."

Ward councillor Jane Hyldon-King, who also sits on the Neighbourhood Watch group, said: "It's taken a long time to get to this point and install the new drop-down kerbs.

"We will trial this system and then see how effective it is.

"Some residents are already saying that they feel a lot safer, we just need to make sure the signs stay up and let drivers know that elderly residents are regularly wanting to cross this road."

A council spokesman added: "A number of measures have recently been introduced at the junction of Magdalene Road and Cambridge to improve pedestrian safety.

"We are more than happy to listen to the views of local people about the improvements or any further road safety concerns they might have."

A MUCH-LOVED baby who tragically passed away has been remembered through a charity football match at Blundell Park.

Mollie Mae Meanwell, of Cleethorpes, was just seven weeks and five days old when she passed away at Sheffield Children's Hospital in August last year, after she contracted gastroschisis during her mum's pregnancy and further complications.

Since then her family have raised more than £5,000 through a number of events for the Sick Children's Trust, which supports and provides accommodation for families whose children are critically ill in hospital.

It helped parents Vicky Reader and Mark Meanwell through the Tree Top House at the hospital, a place within the hospital grounds that meant they could stay close to Mollie Mae.

Godparent Matt Hardy organised a clash between two teams he plays for, Barnoldby FC and Laceby Acres United, to raise more money for the trust.

In an entertaining game, Laceby Acres won 7-3, thanks in part to a four-goal haul from Andy Garland. The players, as well as the 150 or so supporters in attendance, helped raise a further £500 for the cause.

Matt said: "We really wanted to try to put a smile back on people's faces and remember Mollie Mae.

"You never get over something as tragic as losing your kids but through this we can help other parents who are in need."

Before the game, Vicky was presented with a bouquet of flowers by the 40 or so players who took part.

She told the Grimsby Telegraph how thankful she was that the event had been organised.

"I'm just really grateful for all the lads giving up their time and to Matt for organising it all," she said.

"So far we have raised £5,400 for the Sick Children's Trust, a cause which is very close to our hearts. After Christmas we presented them with a cheque but we want to carry that fundraising on.

"The charity allowed us to stay near Mollie Mae for seven weeks and five days, at no cost to us, which made such a difference.

"No parent in that situation wants to be away from their children."

Plans are now in place for a charity walk in July from Sheffield Children's Hospital to Grimsby, a trip Mollie Mae would have made back to her home had she survived and left hospital.

It will be held on what would have been Mollie's first birthday, on July 5.

Vicky said the family wanted to hold a charity event every year, on or around Mollie Mae's birthday, to raise more money for the charity.

Details of the appeal can be found on Mollie Mae's Facebook page Our Butterfly Mollie Meanwell, at www.molliemae.muchloved.com or the Sick Children's Trust website www.sickchildrenstrust.org

Non-league blogger of the year 'Too Good To Go Down' looks back on another play-off semi-final exit...

I MUST admit, I was raging after the full-time whistle at Gateshead last Sunday.

I wrote in my column last week that all Grimsby Town needed to do was play as they had in the first leg of their play-off semi-final.

This, I suggested, would be enough to see the Mariners through to a Wembley final and a shot at promotion back to the Football League.

As we all know, that's not how it ended up. Town were lacklustre in the first half and found themselves a goal down due to a mistake by James McKeown.

Let's be fair – the keeper has been outstanding all year. The best stopper outside of the Football League, McKeown's arguably earned us more points than any other Mariners player – and let's not forget the world class double save at the death which kept the scoreline respectable.

But his mistake summed up the way Town finished their season against a Gateshead side that didn't need to really get out of first gear.

Yes, you could argue the referee ruined Town's chances by sending-off Scott Neilson for a soft challenge on Craig Baxter, but Town hadn't threatened up to that point in any case.

The red card actually galvanised the Mariners and Aswad Thomas's rampaging run to set up Craig Disley's equaliser gave Town fans hope.

But, as they say, it's the hope that kills you and as Gateshead started to rock, Sam Hatton ended Town's chances with two needless yellow cards. With nine men on the pitch, Town eventually lost 3-1.

I wasn't angry with any specific player, managerial decision or even the referee. I was just angry that a season which promised so much, ended up delivering so little and ended in such limp circumstances.

Like many supporters, I'd questioned whether Paul Hurst was the right man to lead us into next season. But after the initial disappointment of our play-off exit subsided, I was reminded that the grass isn't always greener.

Russell Slade left after never really winning over supporters and look how that worked out. Would ditching Hurst automatically give Town a greater chance of promotion next season?

There are lessons to be learned I'm sure. I'd love to see us play more attacking football, try and score more goals and start games in more dominant fashion.

We didn't score enough goals against the so-called lesser teams last year – hopefully that will be rectified next year.

As a couple of days passed, I realised that no matter who is in the dugout by August, I'll still be there at Blundell Park watching the likes of Eastleigh, Bristol Rovers and Torquay as we try and make it fifth time lucky in getting out of the Conference.

Maybe 2014/15 will be THE year? Players will be released and new ones will be signed. Tactics will be set, amended and perfected.

We'll pick up the customary three points at Sincil Bank on Boxing Day, a striker will miss a sitter and Shaun Pearson will get booked for dissent... several times!

No matter which players pull on the famous black and white stripes, regardless of who is in charge, we're all supporters of Grimsby Town and we all want the same thing. Promotion.

What do you think we need to make the 2014/15 a success? Tweet me @toogoodtogodown or let me know at www.toogoodtogodown.co.uk

THE new Bishop of Grimsby has pledged to be "fully involved with the life of North East Lincolnshire".

The Reverend Canon Dr David Court, 55, will begin work as the bishop in September, and will replace the Right Reverend David Rossdale who retired from the position last year – leaving the post vacant for the past 16 months.

The bishop holds responsibility for appointments, pastoral care and development of clergy in the northern half of the Lincoln Diocese.

He will be responsible for 376 parishes stretching from Newton-on-Trent in the west to near Skegness in the east – a congregation spread over 1,300 square miles.

During an official announcement at the Grimsby Docks yesterday, he said: "It is great to be finally here after months of waiting. It goes without saying that I am hugely honoured to be taking up the role.

"I am looking forward to working here and getting to know the people of the community. And I am hugely looking forward to being part of the Church, where we can look to make a huge difference.

"I know we face challenges but I am not afraid to face them. As Bishop of Grimsby, it will be particularly important for me to be fully involved with the life of North East Lincolnshire."

Canon Court has been vicar of Cromer in Norfolk for the past 11 years, while he is also the Rural Dean of Repps and is an honorary Canon of Norwich Cathedral.

Canon Court served his first curacy at Barton Seagrave in the Diocese of Peterborough from 1991 to 1994, before going on to Salisbury between 1994 and 1997, and Norwich and Cromer since.

Married to Ann, they have two sons, aged 27 and 25, and a 14-year-old daughter.

As Bishop of Grimsby, Canon Court will have a strategic and leadership role across the northern part of the Lincoln Diocese to co-ordinate and develop the diocese's mission.

The Bishop of Lincoln, the Right Reverend Christopher Lowson, said: "I am delighted that David will be joining the diocesan team as we seek to build the Church and make it a real force for good in all communities of Lincolnshire.

"David's wonderful gifts and experience will be a huge asset to us as we strive to create more faithful, confident and joyful Christians.

"David and Ann are a delightful team, and my colleagues and I can't wait to begin working with them."

Canon Court was formally presented at an official announcement at the Grimsby Fish Market, which was attended by local MPs Austin Mitchell and Martin Vickers.

Mr Vickers was among the select panel to choose the new candidate.

He said: "This process is more of an appointment rather than an election. We put David's name forward to Downing Street, who then sought the approval of the Queen.

"I was honoured to play a part in the selection and it is great that we now have a bishop in place. I'm sure the people will take to him with their hearts.

"They will be seeing quite a lot of him in the coming years, I'm sure."

He will be consecrated as Bishop of Grimsby at St Paul's Cathedral in London on July 25. He will also be welcomed to the diocese at a special service in Lincoln Cathedral on July 27.

KIRMINGTON motorcycle racing legend Guy Martin has appeared on national TV and radio shows to explain how putting his life on the line provides "the buzz" that keeps him competing.

The 32-year-old was invited onto both the BBC's The One Show and Chris Evans' BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show to talk about his new book, Guy Martin – The Autobiography.

The racer, TV personality and truck mechanic has won multiple international road races over the years, including 22 Ulster GPs and eight Scarborough Gold Cups, plus scoring 13 Isle Of Man TT podiums.

When questioned about the dangers of the sport on the radio show yesterday morning, he replied: "I've had lots of mates killed; it's all part of it. The world that we are living in is being sanitised so much, everything is being done over with health and safety.

"But the Isle Of Man TT and lots of similar races, health and safety hasn't got to them yet.

"You know if it all goes wrong then it's going to get messy. That is what I love about it. That's where I get the buzz from."

He added: "When I race on the road I am riding as hard as the thing will go."

Guy appeared on the radio show alongside Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond, who read out the prologue to the autobiography, which is entitled Game Over.

In it, Guy recalls how he lost control of his bike and began careering towards a stone wall while one second in the lead during the 2010 Isle Of Man Senior TT.

He said: "I remember thinking 'this is it; game over'."

In the book, Guy takes readers behind the scenes of modern road racing and down into the pits with his fellow bikers, his mechanics and his machines.

He also talks openly about family, home life, television and his struggles with fame.

In the Radio 2 interview, he shared details of his upbringing, explaining "we were right naughty little blighters" and that his mum, Rita, would chase him with a wooden spoon and, when that broke, a 10-inch spaghetti measurer. Guy also told how his dad, Ian, bought him his first bike for Christmas when he was just six years old.

Although Ian was a road racer himself and competed in the Isle Of Man TT for 15 years, Guy recalled that "he never encouraged me into motorbike racing".

Readers of the autobiography can also discover what it feels like to stare death in the face and risk it all for a place on the podium – to survive a 170mph crash and come back to do it all over again.

As well as promoting his autobiography, Guy begins his road racing season next week when he heads to the prestigious North West 200 event in Northern Ireland.

Racing for the Tyco Suzuki team, it will be his final warm-up ahead of the "big one" later this month – the world-famous Isle Of Man TT.

Guy Martin – The Autobiography is available now.

THE delighted owner of the Portuguese mountain dog nicknamed Dora The Explorer, can't wait to be reunited with her this weekend.

Steve Hulme will be reunited with Dora, who has spent nearly six months in the wild, living along the Lincolnshire coast between Donna Nook and Cleethorpes.

We first brought her to the attention of readers in February when a reader contacted us.

He had spotted her at Donna Nook and thought she may have been a big cat.

But, after seeing the pictures published in the Grimsby Telegraph, Mr Hulme came forward, believing the animal was his dog, which had been missing since before Christmas.

Since then, the Portuguese Estrela mountain dog has been spotted several times, but is a breed difficult to capture.

However, she was safely brought in on Tuesday and is now recovering at a rehabilitation centre in Birmingham.

Mr Hulme, of Marton, near Gainsborough, told the Telegraph: "I am looking forward to going to see her at the weekend. She is in a rehabilitation centre after being captured. I am really pleased."

Alison Hall of volunteer group Dog Lost said: "It has been quite a journey. She went missing near Gainsborough on November 10 and turned up on the Lincolnshire coast.

"Being a mountain dog she is trained to survive. They are trained to guard sheep. She will have fed on rabbits in the wild.

"I was not concerned about her being able to survive. The main worry was a farmer shooting her or her being run over."

She told how residents at Cleethorpes' Thorpe Park left food out for Dora and a fellow volunteer kept a daily track of the dog.

Alison added: "She was such a nervous dog. The more people around, the worse she would be. We had to take it slowly.

"We are really pleased she has been caught and can be reunited with her owner."

Expert dog catcher Ray Dedicoat, from Birmingham, set out a trap using stewed lamb as bait.

A cage was left out for several days and nights in Humberston until Dora was comfortable entering it for food.

After a few occasions the cage door was locked and Dora was caught.

The volunteer will be staging a skydive next month in aid of the group.

Donors can support the Dog Lost group by visiting their website www.doglost.co.uk

ON THE WEB: Read previous coverage of Dora's escapades at www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk

A MAN has been charged with criminal damage after a pub and a church in Cleethorpes were vandalised.

Windows were smashed at the O'Neill's pub, in Grant Street, and at Christ Church, in Cleethorpe Road, either side of midnight on Tuesday.

Scott Lamond, 38, of no fixed address, was arrested following the incidents.

He has also been charged with:

Possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

Use of threatening words to cause alarm and distress.

Theft by finding – relating to items allegedly taken from Harveys Lounge & Kitchen, in the High Street.

All these incidents took place on Tuesday, while the criminal damage to Christ Church happened in the early hours of Wednesday.

The incident at O'Neill's happened at around midnight as customers were in the pub, but no one was injured.

Staff worked hard to clear up the mess to ensure the venue could open up on Wednesday morning.

The windows are still boarded up, giving the impression to some that the pub is closed, but staff are keen to emphasise to customers that the pub is very much open for business.

Manager Michael Carrigan said: "Around midnight on Tuesday a number of windows at the pub were smashed. Fortunately, no one was hurt and I'd like to thank my team who all worked hard to clean up the mess so we could open on Wednesday.

"Our windows are boarded up at the moment while we wait for a glazier but we are trading as normal, so our customers can still enjoy a pint with us this weekend."

The Reverend Richard Holden, priest in charge at Christ Church, said he received a phone call from the police on Wednesday morning informing him that the vestry window at the rear of the building had been smashed at around half past midnight.

The building was unoccupied at the time.

He said: "All I know is that a brick was thrown through the window and that the police have charged somebody.

"It's toughened glass so it must have been given a good wallop.

"It's just a nuisance.

"There was glass everywhere.

"The police got the window boarded up, so at some point we will have to pay for whoever boarded it up and then buy another pane of glass."

Jake Harris, supervisor at Harveys Lounge & Kitchen, told the Grimsby Telegraph that a number of steel foot pegs – used for the barrier outside on the pavement– were taken from the doorway of the venue at around midnight.

The pub was closed but staff were cleaning up inside. Mr Harris said that CCTV footage showed a man taking one of the foot pegs and then coming back later for more.

LUCY'S battle has also touched the lives of the staff and pupils of New Waltham Academy, where she was a popular and much-loved student.

On Friday – when Lucy's funeral will be held from 9am at Grimsby Crematorium – the school will be closed as a mark of respect, to allow her friends and teachers to attend.

As reported, her classmates came together on a number of occasions to raise money for the appeal.

More than £300 was raised when pupils donned their onesies and held a sponsored walk around the school field.

And, after Lucy's teacher Aimee Chester told her fiance Simon Grindle about her fight, he and friend Matthew Stanley had their head shaves, raising more than £1,000.

Yesterday, staff and pupils alike came together in their grief to pay tribute to Lucy.

Head teacher Mark Perry said: "The whole school has been saddened by Lucy's tragic death.

"She was a lovely young girl; a mischievous smile, determined and incredibly strong with a terrific sense of humour.

"Lucy's great will to live her life is an inspiration to us all.

"Our thoughts and sympathies go out to all of her family at this time – especially her mum and dad and little sister Evie."

THE courageous youngster had fun and games when she officially opened the new baby and toddler area at The Magical Castle at Cleethorpes' Meridian Point.

Before officially cutting the ribbon, she had fun playing in the children's adventure palace.

Money was also raised for her appeal via donations from every admission ticket sold during the day and collection buckets at the venue.

Yesterday, manager Demi Cross said: "All the staff at The Magical Castle are very saddened to hear that Heaven has gained another beautiful angel.

"Lucy's smiley face, inspirational attitude to life and bubbly personality will be sadly missed by all.

"It was such a pleasure being able to meet Lucy and she will never leave our hearts.

"We are all thinking about the family at this painful time."

Lots of love from the manageress and all the staff at The Magical Castle."

A GRIMSBY Town supporter is leading the protests against the Football Association's controversial 'League 3' concept.

The FA's chairman Greg Dyke this week unveiled a raft of England Commission proposals at Wembley, aimed at boosting the number of English players at the top of club football.

The most controversial of these would see the introduction of Premier League B teams in a new 'League 3' from 2016/17.

Fans across the country have hit out at the proposal, claiming it will damage lower league football.

And Cleethorpes' Lewis Horwell has captured the mood, helping to create the 'Against League 3' website and start a petition.

More than 20,000 people logged on to the petition site in less than 24 hours to register their displeasure.

And after encouraging a raft of national journalists and football pundits to support the campaign with re-tweets, Horwell, has appeared on BBC Radio Five Live and Sky Sports News to further publicise the group's views.

"Greg Dyke's proposal for 'B' teams in the English Football Pyramid will ruin years of tradition and ruin English football for the real fans," said Horwell.

"Let's be the voice for the real every day football fan."

A statement on the 'Against League 3' website adds: "AL3 is a collective effort to offer fans a chance to air their views, primarily against League 3.

"AL3 was started by two football fans, from opposite sides of the country, supporting different teams, who had never met before.

"We feel these plans are damaging to lower league football, whose teams are seemingly expected to pay the price for the poor record of the national side, and indeed the FA's failings.

"We've created this movement as a way for fans to communicate together, so that we can decide how best to respond."

Dyke, meanwhile, claims he has had backing from the top clubs for his plan to introduce B teams – even if the leagues do not like it.

He insisted teams including Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City were enthusiastic about the proposal and believes club power can win the day even though the Premier League refused to be part of his England Commission.

Dyke has set a target of increasing the number of English players in the Premier League from 32 per cent to 45 per cent by 2022 in his Commission report.

Asked if he feared the leagues would block his proposals, he said: "I don't think that will happen. Do I think every bit of this will happen no, do I think a lot of it will – yes."

More information can be found at: www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/the- football-association-say-no-to-b-teams

"SHE was just a cracking little girl".

That was the epitaph imposed by Andy Carr, better known as GTFC mascot Mighty Mariner, who said it had been "an honour" to have met Lucy.

He said he had first come to meet her when the staff at New Waltham Academy had asked him to appear at a party for Lucy and her classmates – which he was more than happy to do, free of charge.

And later, he walked Lucy and his own daughter Lottie out on to the pitch at Blundell Park, when she was named mascot in the clash against Wrexham – a day which he says will "live in my memory forever".

Clearly devastated by the news of her passing, he said: "All I can say is she is a cracking little girl.

"It's devastating, but at least now she is not in any pain any more.

"At the end of the game against Wrexham, she came running over to me and said 'Oh Andy. Thank you for the day'.

"That was just her. A lovely, bubbly little girl."

He also praised the staff at New Waltham Academy.

He said: "I know how hard it has been for the school.

"They have been amazing in the way they have dealt with it all.

"Our thoughts are with Lucy's family."

FRIENDS of the family are already planning fundraising events to ensure Lucy's memory lives on forever.

Kezz Barbour, whose son Jak, 14, pictured, met Lucy while they were both undergoing cancer treatment, said they all felt "honoured to have known her."

She said: "Our thoughts are with Trina, Tony and Evie.

"We were devastated when we heard the news. Jak is having a shirt made with a picture of him and Lucy on it to wear at the funeral, as Tony has asked that everyone wears bright colours.

"We're going to give the money we raised at an event we held at Christmas to the family and hope to hold a charity event to raise money for a bench in her memory.

"I know she will be the brightest star in the sky with her smile."

WITHIN minutes of Tony and Catrina posting news of Lucy's sad death on her Facebook page, Lucy Sutton's Wish and the news was shared with the Grimsby Telegraph's readers, hundreds left messages of condolence.

Here are a selection:

LAURA GILBERT: "Sleep tight Lucy xxxx"

TRACEY TAYLOR: "God bless you all.... Sleep tight beautiful xx"

CHRIS HOWDEN: "So sad. Thinking of you all. RIP young lady."

LEE THOMPSON: "Such an inspiration. Sending love, my heart goes out x"

ANNIE DOBBS PREV DAVIS: "Sleep tight little lady x. Our thoughts are with all of you xxxxx"

LISA SANDVIG: "So very sad, thinking of you all xxx

KIRSTY WEST: "Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you all xxxx"

AMANDA TURNER: "My heart goes out to you and your family. God bless your beautiful girl xx"

DAWN GIBBETT: "Sleep Tight Lucy. What a brave, strong and beautiful little girl. May you rest in peace. Thoughts go to all Lucy's family at such a sad time xx"

LAURA HOWARD: "Sleep tight little one. You will never be forgotten. You've been a brave little soldier! Lots of love to all your family xxxx."

TANYA STEER: "My girl who's in New Waltham Academy replied to me when I told her this morning: 'It's okay mummy as she is in Heaven now with all the other angels at peace and in no more pain.' Prayers to you all at such a sad time. RIP Lucy xxxx"

SOPHIE LEWIS: "Sleep tight to an amazing and brave little angel. Thoughts and love to all your family xxxx"

BETHANY AMY JUBB: "Sleep tight beautiful little angel.. my thoughts are with you all xxx"

HELEN HESELTINE: "RIP Lucy. Thoughts are with you all xxxx"

MOE WILKINSON: "Goodbye Lucy. Sleep tight darling xxx"

LINDSEY GRINDLE: "Such a brave little girl. Thinking of your family xx"

LEANNE BUCKNOLE: "Thinking of you all. RIP beautiful little girl xx"

EMMA ROOK: "Sleep tight little lady x Thinking of you all x"

SARAH LAKING: "Brave girl. Fly high sweetheart x"

TRACEY ALLISON WAS VASE: "So sorry. She will always be with you. RIP Lucy xx"

CHRISTINA SMITH: "Sleep tight little lady. Thinking of your family at this sad time xx"

PATTI KELLY: "Awww, I'm sure you're missed soooo very much little one xxxx"

CHARLOTTE WINTON: "We are so sorry. God bless you all xx"

JAMIE STRACHAN: "So sorry to hear the news Tony, thinking of you all."

DAWN NOBLE: "RIP Lucy. Our thoughts are with you all xxx"

LYNN GOWING: "One more angel in Heaven, looking down from above, smiling now with no pain, filled with her family's love. God bless you all. It was a privilege to have met Lucy. RIP now beautiful angel. xxxx"

ZOE DAVIES: "RIP Lucy. Sleep tight. Thinking of your family at this time xx."

BECKY WOODCRAFT: "Love and thoughts for you all. Shine bright baby girl"

JOANNE HUNTLEY MIDDLETON: "Rest in peace Lucy. Thinking of you all at this very sad time xxx"

Vicky Glover: "Sleep tight beautiful x x x"

RAYCH NOBBY NALDER SHEPPARD: "RIP Lucy. Shine bright sweet Angel"

"WEAR bright colours to celebrate the life of our beautiful little girl."

That was the plea of Lucy Sutton's father Tony, as he and her mum Catrina and sister Evie extended an invitation to her funeral to all those touched by her brave fight.

The Scartho family were by her side when she passed away yesterday at 5.15am in the care of St Andrew's Hospice.

Tony said: "It was very, very peaceful. She passed away in her sleep.

"That was very, very important to us. She has been so brave with everything she has been through in the past two-and-half years.

"Now she is able to be at peace and won't suffer any more.

"We're all going to miss her so much."

Lucy's funeral will take place at Grimsby Crematorium on Friday at 9am.

Tony said: "Everybody is welcome.

"We want it to be colourful – it's not about losing her now. It's about celebrating her life.

"We would like it if people wear pink and purple, or anything with a butterfly. They were here favourites."

The story of Lucy's fight is one that has continued to touch the hearts of Grimsby Telegraph readers. It was in February 2012 that doctors told the family their energetic daughter – who had recently taken up dancing and karate – had osteosarcoma – a form of bone cancer found in a joint behind her left knee.

She was then just five years old.

Lucy was transferred to Birmingham Royal Orthopedic Hospital for further tests which revealed small amounts of the cancer were also on her lungs.

Tony said: "To hear our child had cancer made us feel as though our lives were crashing down in front of us and there was nothing we could do about it."

She was sent to Sheffield Children's Hospital and, in March, began chemotherapy.

Tony spoke of her bravery, adding it was her "positive bubbly attitude" that kept he and Catrina going.

But, despite their constant worry, they channelled their emotions into helping other children affected by cancer.

The first event organised in her name was Lucy's Butterfly Ball, which took place that November at the Oaklands Hotel at Laceby.

More than £2,000 was raised on the night, with more donations expected to follow, which was divided between CLIC Sargent, Theodora Children's Trust, PACT (Parents' Association of Children with Tumours and Leukaemia), Sheffield Children's Hospital Ward M3 and Birmingham Royal Orthopedic Hospital.

Tony said: "Catrina and I were blown away by everyone's generosity."

Shortly afterwards, she underwent her first major surgery, as surgeons removed parts of her leg bone behind the knee joint which was affected by the tumour and replaced it with an adjustable metal joint.

That December, she joined other local children with life-limiting conditions on a magical trip to Lapland, thanks to Grimsby-based charity When You Wish Upon A Star.

Speaking as she played in the forest, she said: "My dad pulled me along in a sleigh as I threw snowballs at him.

"I really like Lapland – it has been a lot of fun."

In 2013, she and her family had been told that due to the secondary tumours in her lungs, she could not have any further NHS treatment once her third round of chemotherapy was complete.

However, she was determined not to give up fighting and the then seven-year-old called on Grimsby Telegraph readers to help her.

They did their own research and discovered there was a treatment, Mepact – available through the NHS at a cost of about £20,000 – that could help her to become strong enough to take another step.

From there, the family aimed to get Lucy to America for a six-week course of treatment with a leading specialist at the MD Anderson Centre.

However, the cost of the initial consultation alone would be $30,500, and the treatment was predicted to cost in the region of $600,000. In hope of raising the money needed – and awareness – Tony created Facebook page Lucy Sutton's Wish.

He said: "Maybe if a parent reads the information, if they read about Lucy's story, maybe they will notice some similar symptoms in their child and know what to do.

"The response we had from the Facebook page has been phenomenal.

"We have had people from across the world liking the page, which is amazing."

In October that year the appeal went global after Lord Alan Sugar shared her story with his three-million followers on Twitter, as donations continued to flood in – getting the family almost halfway to their target in just two of weeks.

In December, as Lucy enjoyed a second trip to Lapland, the total stood at £16,000.

Catrina said: "The trip was amazing and we all really enjoyed it. For that one day all the problems are gone and you can just be like a normal happy family, it is wonderful.

"We cannot believe how selfless people have been. From the events they have held and the money they have sent to help with the cost of the Mepact, to the letters of support.

"They all mean so much to us, we are so grateful to you all."

January brought more fundraising efforts, with the target now temptingly close.

Her classmates at New Waltham Academy did a sponsored walk and Lucy herself officially opened The Magical Castle in Cleethorpes.

In February, the family was struck another blow as doctors revealed they had been in contact with a company that produces the Mepact drug and Lucy's latest scans showed the tumours in her lungs were now too large for the Mepact to have any real effect.

But Lucy was characteristically brave as ever, pledging "I know this can kill me, but I am not going to let it."

Tony was also upbeat, adding the family was looking into the other options available to them.

He said: "We have already been looking at treatments that are available through the Budwig Centre in Milan, Spain, which provides a range of therapies and special diets that have shown to really have an effect on cancers.

"Thanks to the help of all who have donated to Lucy we have enough money to look at treatment from the centre, as we can no longer use the Mepact."

He added Lucy's doctors had said they were "blown away" by her.

He said: "Somebody at her stage of cancer should be in a wheelchair, using oxygen and on pain relief, but Lucy is not using any of those."

The fundraising drive continued, but tragically, Lucy took a turn for the worse and she was admitted to St Andrew's Hospice.

On April 28, Tony posted on her Facebook page: "Please think of Lucy today and help a brave little girl through her last hours pain free and peaceful."

Even then, Lucy continued to fight to the end.

STRIKER Connor Jennings could be in line for a Grimsby Town return after he was released by Scunthorpe United.

The 22-year-old spent the second half of the season on loan with the Mariners, netting once in 12 outings before a foot injury curtailed his season early.

Jennings, pictured, had scored 17 goals in the Conference for Macclesfield Town – before Christmas.

With his contract ending this summer, the Iron have opted to release the former Stalybridge Celtic frontman – possibly alerting Town boss Paul Hurst.

Despite his lack of goals and injury problems, Jennings last month told the Telegraph he had relished his time at Blundell Park.

He said: "I've really enjoyed my time here – the lads have been great and I've loved the training."

United yesterday offered new deals to 13 players, including former Derby County forward Deon Burton.

Offers have also been made to Sean McAllister, David Mirfin, Niall Canavan, Terry Hawkridge, Gary McSheffrey, Eddie Nolan, Andy Dawson, James Severn, Luke Waterfall, Matt Godden, Callum Howe and academy graduate Curtis Bateson.

POPULAR striker Andy Cook was among a list of EIGHT players released by Grimsby Town yesterday.

However, Mariners boss Paul Hurst says letting centre-midfielder Scott Kerr go was the toughest decision of the lot.

Also departing are Clayton McDonald, Sam Hatton, Joe Colbeck, Dayle Southwell, Jamal Fyfield and Jonathan Hedge.

After spending yesterday telling the players of his decisions, Hurst admitted it is a part of the job he hates.

He told the Telegraph: "Without being unkind to the others, letting Scott go was the toughest decision I had.

"I've praised him on many occasions throughout this season, and that doesn't change.

"That wasn't lip service, and whoever gets him will get a very good player – we just needed a little change in that area."

On the departure of Town's 2012/13 top goalscorer Cook, the manager continued: "For Andy, it's important he finds somewhere where he has a better chance to start more games.

"There are quite a few of those lads, including Andy, who need to be playing to improve further.

"You can definitely improve on the training ground through hard work and taking things on board, but the game is the greatest test.

"But all the lads that I've let go are more than capable of enhancing someone's squad and team.

"I have to emphasise that, with every single one, it has been a pleasure to work with them.

"I wish them all the best for the future when they decide or find out where that is."

James McKeown, Andi Thanoj, Alex Rodman and Craig Disley are all mulling over new contract offers.

Meanwhile, Paul Bignot, Aswad Thomas and Lenell John-Lewis have triggered new deals – up until May 2015.

Hurst will speak with Scott Neilson and Chris Doig about their futures next week.

Youth-teamers Caine Winfarrah, Paul Walker and Ellis Humble have all been handed their first professional contracts.

Adding to the eight players leaving Blundell Park is Town goalkeeping coach Steve Croudson.

The former Mariners stopper heads for a similar position at a Premier League club – believed to be Hull City.

IT'S almost time to go back to the 1940s!

One of the top events of the local calendar, the annual North Thoresby 1940s weekend is this year being held on Sunday, August 24, and Bank Holiday Monday, August 25.

Last year between 5,000 and 6,000 people went along to the two-day event, held in September.

This year it is hoped that a Lancaster Bomber from the Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight will perform a flypast on the Sunday while Spitfire and Hurricane flypasts are set to take place on the Monday.

Organised by the village's 1940s group, there will be numerous attractions, including a reprisal of last year's popular grandfather's fete, classic cars and vintage coaches, as well as live music and a 1940s dance in the village hall on the Sunday night with music from Shiny Stockings.

The event sweeps through the village with trade and craft stalls, military and civilian re-enactors and period vehicles, including two coaches to the train station for charming trips aboard the steam trains.

Dave Barnett, chairman of the 1940s events committee, said he hoped it will once again be well supported by the public.

"We have been running the 1940s weekends for about ten years now and they just seem to become more popular with each year," he said.

"It's a great time for nostalgia and we present the weekend through rose-tinted spectacles. It's such a friendly, easy-going day that celebrates a great era.

"People can make donations, but there is free parking and, if you don't want to buy from the stalls, it's a completely free weekend.

"Last year, in conjunction with the New Inn, we had a grandfather's fete which was a huge success, and we are looking at doing that again this year.

He continued: "The atmosphere is very good. We have had so many people over the years comment on what a super event it is and we are confident this year will be just as good as previous years."

Look out for more details about this year's 1940s weekend in your Grimsby Telegraph in the coming weeks.

ON THE WEB: Check out the dedicated entertainments channel on our website, www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/entertainment