CONCERN about the levels of development being proposed for greenfield sites was once again the burning issue for residents who attended the latest public consultation event on the council's new Local Plan.

The fourth and final consultation event, held in Grimsby Central Library, attracted a solid turnout, with residents keen to have their say on the future development of North East Lincolnshire.

As reported, the council is currently consulting on its draft Local Plan, which is due to be implemented in 2015

The document sets out which areas in the borough could accommodate new housing, in order to meet the council's target of providing 12,000 new homes by 2030.

However, the council is inviting members of the public to suggest alternative sites for development.

One Scartho resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I'm very concerned that developers want to build on greenfield sites. There are several brownfield sites not yet developed. At Scartho Top there are still another 1,200 houses to be built, so why do we need all these others?

"I think this sort of consultation is very important. The development will happen, we can't stop it, so we need to say where we want it to happen."

The man added: "A big worry for me is the fact that Grimsby Town want to develop the site by the crematorium off the Peaks Parkway. That must not be allowed to happen."

Mike Swaby, 79, of Hainton Avenue, Grimsby, said: "I understand that developers can make a profit more easily by using a greenfield site, but for the long-term benefit of Grimsby it would be better for brownfield sites to be built on first.

"I can imagine that the people in Humberston don't want any more development there."

Mr Swaby also said the deteriorating state of Freeman Street was a major concern, and added that it would take a huge "catalytic" project, such as a giant casino, or even a passenger ferry terminal, to revive its fortunes.

"We have got magnificent cargo ships coming into Grimsby but we haven't got a passenger facility, which is a shame."

Residents have until Friday, December 7 to have their say on the Local Plan.

You can comment online at http://nelincs.objective.co.uk/portal/, email newlocalplan@nelincs.gov or send written responses to Spatial Planning, Origin One, 1 Origin Way, Grimsby, DN37 9TZ.

HE IS selling himself as the man of the people among the politicians and police officers.

Neil Eyre is the former soldier and project manager in the running to become the first Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner.

Despite having no experience of either politics or policing, Mr Eyre believes he is the best candidate to represent what the people want.

"I am somebody that is sick and tired of the political establishment," he said.

"I am just one of the voters. I have no delusions of grandeur, no aspirations of power, I just want to do the job."

Mr Eyre, 34, says he firmly believes the £75,000-a-year job should be taken by a "normal person".

He is sitting in his favourite Scunthorpe café, days after securing the £5,000 deposit needed to run by just a few pounds.

Standing as an independent candidate, he has had to rely on donations from friends, family and members of the public to raise the money to stand.

He is wearing a black t-shirt emblazoned with the words "independent revolution", which he has been selling to fund his campaign.

Currently unemployed and receiving Jobseekers Allowance, and with two young daughters to provide for, he admits campaigning is leaving him "skint".

"I was supposed to be going to a meeting in Hull a few days ago, but I had to cancel because I didn't have money to put petrol in the car or to pay the toll," he said.

"Getting the deposit went right down to the wire.

"I only got the money together just before the deadline.

"But I had a lot of support and I was determined to do it."

Like all the candidates, Mr Eyre must secure five per cent of the votes to see his deposit returned.

With so much to lose – and, he admits, only a tiny chance of being successfully elected next month – just why is he doing it?

"I firmly believe the electorate deserve a choice – a real, honest choice," he says.

"I wouldn't see myself as having power over thousands of people, more as a custodian of the police force.

"People have heard the false promises and the lies from politicians and members of the establishment so many times before.

"Why will this time be any different?

"A lot of people I have spoken to say they don't think a politician should be involved with the police, and they really don't want Lord Prescott, so I think it could give me the edge.

"The other independent candidates are a former MP and a retired police officer.

"I am the only one that is truly independent.

"I will listen to people and their priorities, take them on board, and try to reflect them in what I do."

Mr Eyre served nine years in the Army, before leaving to set up his own business working as a project manager on IT and telecommunications projects.

His latest contract ended earlier this year, leaving him unemployed and deciding to stand for the role as police commissioner.

After weeks of campaigning and meeting residents, he says his priority is to protect frontline policing.

"The majority of people I speak to don't want to see frontline policing affected by cuts," he says.

"Crime is still going down, so why change something that isn't broken?

"I want to know what people's priorities are and then see what we can live without.

"I don't want frontline policing to be cut, so I will be looking at non-essential services and getting rid of the ones we don't need.

"What I want to do is go in with a blank piece of paper and start from scratch, without changing anything operationally.

"Everything I do will be based on reason, logic and evidence – like the police themselves."

He says, if elected, he will be "completely transparent", producing monthly reports of his activities and refusing to claim expenses.

He clearly wishes to capitalise on what he believes is an increasing amount of mistrust in politicians.

He said: "People need to think about when they have voted before.

"Did the political parties do what they promised? If they let a politician win, the same things will happen again and again.

"Do they want this to be like a local council or general election, where the parties only care about winning their seats?

"Or do they want someone who, too, is sick and tired of all that?

"I am just a private citizen who is putting their head on the chopping block.

"I'm quite boring, like most people.

"I go out occasionally at the weekend, I take the kids to the park, I see my friends and family for a natter.

"I am just normal, like everyone who will be voting.

"I am not a special one, I am not Jose Mourinho, and going to go in and make everything run on my own brilliant ideas. I just want to listen to the people and give them what they want."

MEETING Team GB Olympic medal winners was a golden moment for students from two Cleethorpes schools.

During their annual day of cycling at the Games' iconic Velodrome, students from Cleethorpes and Tollbar Academies were inspired when they met five-times World Champion and Olympic gold medallist Ed Clancy and his medal-winning team-mates.

The chance meeting was totally unexpected and thrilled the young students, who used the inspirational meeting to spur them on in a series of challenges, including a one-lap flying time trial.

Kyle Foxon, 15, from Tollbar Academy, and Shannon Gamble, 14, from Cleethorpes Academy, were the fastest students to complete the trials.

Kyle said: "It was an amazing opportunity to meet Ed Clancy and his team-mates at the Velodrome.

"We didn't have a clue that they would be there and they were so friendly and happy to pose for pictures with us. It made a great day even better."

Along with explosive sprinter Ed, they also met team sprint Olympic Gold medallist Phil Hindes and team pursuit World Champion gold medallist Andy Tennant and with BMX Olympic finalist Liam Phillips, all posed for pictures with the students.

Cleethorpes Academy organised what has become an annual trip to the National Cycling Centre, during which the students have the chance to cycle round it.

Cleethorpes Academy curriculum leader for PE, Rob Allenby, said: "We have been visiting the Velodrome for a number of years now and each time we go the students are thrilled to have the opportunity to cycle in such an amazing arena.

"Sport is very important at Cleethorpes and Tollbar Academies and we try to give students a chance to take part in as many diverse disciplines as possible.

"Cycling is massive in the UK right now, thanks to athletes like Ed Clancy and his fellow team members, so we were delighted to meet them and to pass on our congratulations for their efforts this summer.

"For the students it was an awe-inspiring moment, to have so many Olympic medallists together before them, and it was a great end to the day."

A SOLDIER who has finished his fourth and final tour of Afghanistan will be given a warm welcome on his return home.

Bombardier Ricky Huntley, 28, will return home to Immingham this Friday, and his family have organised a 1940s-themed party in aid of Help For Heroes to celebrate his homecoming.

The event will also be in memory of Immingham Royal Marine Mathew Ford who was killed in the warzone in 2007.

Ricky's mother Joan Huntley, and aunty Janine Mills, have organised the party – which will take place two days before Remembrance Sunday – at Immingham Golf Club, from 7pm, and tickets are still on sale.

Joan said: "Words cannot explain how excited we are for his return. We have lost so many young men and women out there, it is terrible. Whenever I hear of a soldier being killed, I put myself in their mother's place.

"I am delighted my son is coming home, but at the same time I feel so awful for those who have lost their children out there."

Following Mathew's death, Joan wrote to his mother, also called Joan, and organised a fundraising event in his honour on St George's Day in 2007.

She said: "It was a really big event and it went very well. We always said we would do another one so it seems fitting to do one now that Ricky is coming home."

Tickets are still available for the event, and can be ordered by calling 07811 098850 or can be bought on the door.

A BABY boom is the reason for a new nursery building at Old Clee Primary School.

And the purpose-built facility, funded by North East Lincolnshire, is already at full capacity despite there being room for ten more children than previously.

The original nursery was in two classrooms, and catered for 75 three to four-year-olds, but the new open-plan extension to the school can hold 85.

Head teacher Steve Gallaway said: "The demand for places has been increasing every year which is why we have had the nursery built.

"The number of births are increasing every year in Grimsby and we are hoping this improved facility can help with the demand."

According to the NHS Information Services, there were 2,739 births in 2010 and 2,764 in 2011 in North East Lincolnshire.

And this year, between January and August, there were 1,816.

Mum Leanne Williams , found a place for her three-year-old daughter Matilda Fifield at Old Clee.

She said: "The nursery is fantastic now and looks so much bigger and brighter than the old rooms.

"I attended Old Clee Primary School when I was younger, which is why I wanted my daughter to attend."

The nursery also has an extended outdoor play area, a large indoor play area, toilets and a kitchen.

Leienna Webster, 3, has joined the nursery, and mum Jodie Webster, said: "I'm pleased I have found a space for Leienna in this nursery and she thinks it is very pretty and nice.

"It's easy for the children to get around and it is very open so they can see where everything is.

"She will also enjoy the outdoor space."

Two Grimsby University students are gaining real-life work experience at the nursery as part of their child-care course. Kim Parker, 17, is on an eight week placement.

She said: "I started off working in the old nursery and this one is so much better and more spacious.

"I am enjoying the experience and when I am older I want to be an early years practitioner or a nanny."

A PROJECT to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee year is making a tree-mendous difference.

Residents on Scartho Top are being greeted by a new leafy addition to the street scene in the form of 60 new trees.

The planting on the verges of Scartho Park and the surrounding area started on Monday, and is expected to be completed within a week.

Councillor Mick Burnett, portfolio holder for tourism and culture, from North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "Many organisations have come together to make this possible and it's one of a number of tree planting projects within the borough to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

"The trees will help to transform this road, which is the gateway to a popular housing area for families, and will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

"It is planting for the future and in 10 years time it will look fantastic.

"It was a great idea to do this and it has been a pleasure to work with all the sponsors."

North East Lincolnshire Council in partnership with Balfour Beatty Living Places has worked closely with a number of sponsors and housing developers who have contributed to the tree planting. Linden Homes sales director Steve Woomble said: "It has been a truly remarkable year in terms of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and this scheme allows us to become a part of local history in marking the 2012 milestone.

"The trees will not only enhance the local area, but will be enjoyed by everyone living in and around Scartho Top – including many of our own residents."

Managing Director of Cyden Homes, Simon Dyson, added: "We are proud to be supporting this event and The Queen's Diamond Jubilee has marked a memorable year for England and across the world. It is appropriate to be commemorating 2012 with a contribution that will last in the memory whilst creating an environment that will benefit residents both today and in the future."

And Redrow Homes Construction director, Ross Walton, said: "By planting these trees in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee year we're ensuring that the occasion is remembered not just by those living at Scartho Top now but those who will live here in the future."

Residents in the area have welcomed the additional trees.

Beckie Allen of McCarthy Close, said: "I like the trees but I have a feeling that some of them might be pulled up.

"I know lads around the area like to play football in some of the green areas so we will see how long some of them last.

"But the planting has been a good idea and makes the area look more defined."

Student Melissa Kirby, 16, from Grimsby said: "I have noticed the new trees and they look great.

"We need more green areas everywhere in town."

"MICHAEL'S legacy is to give hope to families who fear they will never find closure after their loved one goes missing."

Those were the words of Ann Stockton, the sister of Michael Sutherland whose body has finally been identified – 23 years after he took his life on Cleethorpes beach in September 1989.

As reported, Mr Sutherland's body was washed up on Weybourne beach, in Norfolk, but he was never identified – despite a six-month investigation there.

Villagers in Weybourne held a funeral service for the unknown man in April 1990 and he was buried in an unmarked grave.

It wasn't until last year when – thanks to advances in forensic science – police exhumed the body and matched DNA to that of a member of Mr Sutherland's family, bringing an end to the mystery.

His sister, Ann, 67, from Cleethorpes, said: "I just broke down in tears when I found out they'd finally found him.

"It was such a sense of relief that it was all over, but at the same time we started grieving all over again."

Born at Nunsthorpe Maternity Home, Mr Sutherland attended Nunsthorpe Junior and Chelmsford Secondary schools before working at Osmond Aerosols and the Kingsway Hotel, where he was a bellboy.

He was living on the Yarborough estate and studying maths and English at Grimsby College when he went missing, aged 34.

Mrs Stockton added: "He was such a polite and well-presented young man with impeccable manners. He was generous, kind, gentle, understanding and a very good brother.

"He suffered from learning difficulties which made him anxious but all he really wanted in life was to find a girl, settle down and get married. He would have been a wonderful husband."

Mrs Stockton recently made the 118-mile journey to Norfolk with other family members for a memorial service, and said: "I wanted to thank the people of Weybourne for the way they treated Michael.

"I read a eulogy about his life and what he was like.

"I also talked about how amazing DNA is these days and how anybody who has lost a loved one should not give up hope that they too will find closure.

"It took 23 years for us, but science is so advanced now that it could take 23 weeks for somebody else."

An inquest into the cause of Michael's death will be held in Norfolk at a date to be confirmed.

Keep reading your Grimsby Telegraph for details of a memorial service to be held for Mr Sutherland at St Andrew's Church, Grimsby, in the new year.

THE developers behind the £8 million Premier Inn planned for Cleethorpes hope to submit a planning application by the end of the month.

The news has delighted residents who are eager to see the vast plot of land at the Meridian Point development site in Kings Road built on.

And if the application gets moving, developers are hopeful it could be built in time for the greatly-anticipated Britain In Bloom awards ceremony to be held in October next year, which will bring 500 delegates from across the country into the resort.

As reported, Cleethorpes In Bloom missed out on hosting the awards last year because there was a lack of "adequate accommodation" for the judges and competitors from other towns to stay in.

A spokesman for Premier Inn, which is owned by Whitbread, the UK's largest hotel company, said: "The Cleethorpes Premier Inn is still in legals and we are hoping to exchange legal contracts by the end of the month.

"A planning application for the scheme is expected to follow very quickly after that."

Some bed and breakfast owners in Cleethorpes have welcomed the 84 bedroom hotel, believing if there is more accommodation there it will attract more people to the resort, which can only benefit them.

Chairman of Cleethorpes In Bloom and owner of the Adelaide Guest House, in Isaac's Hill, Bob Callison, believes the arrival of the Premier Inn will bring three-tier accommodation – high-end, budget and lower-end – which will force out the under-performing hotels.

But he is not hopeful it will be built in time for Britain In Bloom, and as a result, the committee has lined up plans with other hotels such as the Humber Royal, in Little Coates Road, Grimsby and the Oaklands in Barton Street, Laceby.

Mr Callison said: "If the application is approved it will be a good thing, but there is no way on God's Earth it will be ready for next year, in my opinion.

"I understand other hotels are worried, but I don't know one seaside town that just has one hotel.

"It will mean we have the more expensive, budget and lower priced hotels available. It will force some of the ropier ones out.

"The good hotels will survive and the poorer ones won't."

As reported, the owner of the Kingsway Hotel is worried about the budget hotel chain coming to the resort, as are the owners of Clee House Hotel and Bistro, and the smaller bed and breakfasts along Isaac's Hill and Clee Road.

Developer Maltgrave Developments has been keen to build a hotel on the land since 1999 but has not been able to take the plans forward until now because of the fragile market.

If given the go-ahead, building work will start in February. It will be completed in two phases – the first will see 60 bedrooms and a Brewers Fayre restaurant with bar being built and the second will be an extension with a further 24 bedrooms.

Keep reading your Grimsby Telegraph for updates.

A MAN who sparked a two-hour stand-off with police after climbing on to the roof of a Grimsby supermarket is set to be transferred to Rampton high security hospital.

Samuel Ford is expected to be moved from prison to Rampton because of serious concerns about his mental health, a court heard.

The 22-year-old, of Duke Street, Grimsby, is due to be sentenced on a charge of attempted robbery following a knife incident at the Asda supermarket in January and a separate offence of arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, at a Hull mental health centre.

But he was not brought to Hull Crown Court for a hearing because he was said to be not fit to attend.

Defence barrister Louise Reevell told the court that Ford was expected to be transferred shortly from Hull Prison to Rampton high security hospital, near Retford, Nottinghamshire.

"Now they don't unlock his cell unless there are five prison officers there," said Mrs Reevell.

"They will want to transfer him as soon as possible."

Further psychiatric reports would be prepared on Ford before any hospital order was made, the court heard.

Judge David Tremberg said two doctors would need to provide reports and one of them would need to give evidence to the court before a final decision was made.

The case was adjourned until December 3 pending the preparation of further medical reports.

As reported in January, police were involved in a two-hour stand-off at Asda after they received a report of a man on the roof of the supermarket.

He was thought to have had a knife and to have run through the store and threatened a member of staff before climbing on to the roof.

A crowd of people gathered in the Asda car park and police cordoned off the area. Police vehicles, an ambulance and a helicopter were called in.

Ford was later arrested after being persuaded to come down. A second male, a 16-year-old youth, also climbed on to the roof.

The separate arson offence involves an incident at the Miranda House mental health centre, Hull, in which he is thought to have set fire to a mattress.

As reported in November 2008, Ford was given an anti-social behaviour order at Grimsby Magistrates' Court.

ASWAD Thomas says Grimsby Town must learn fast from their bitter blow at Hyde if they are to be promotion contenders this season.

Tuesday's 3-2 defeat at Ewan Fields was the first time the Mariners have lost on the road since their 2-1 reverse at Fleetwood Town in March.

Thomas and his team-mates were proud of their unbeaten run on the road and were disappointed by the manner in which it ended.

The 23-year-old left-back, pictured, said: "We're gutted that the away run ended at Hyde and it obviously wasn't the result that anybody wanted. It was disastrous really.

"The record was something that we were proud of and, although all runs have to come to an end, it was disappointing that it ended there.

"But now it's about picking ourselves up and putting together another run, because that's what gets you up the table.

"We need to start picking up results if we want to be there or thereabouts come the end of the season, so that's what we need to do."

Thomas rubbished suggestions that the chance to go top of the league – had Town won and results elsewhere gone their way – put any added pressure on the players for the game in Lancashire.

He said: "Playing for a club like Grimsby Town, there is always going to be a pressure to perform and do well – and it's up to us as players to deal with that.

"It was a good opportunity for us to go top, but it's one that we didn't take. But you'd like to think that there will be plenty more opportunities for us to move further up the league over the course of the season.

"As players, we need to learn from this experience and grab those opportunities when they present themselves."

The full-back also paid tribute to the Mariners fans who made the journey to Ewen Fields, saying their "first-class" support deserved better.

He said: "The fans have been top notch all season. The following at Tamworth and then against Hyde was first class.

"They really do get behind us and genuinely, as players, it does help and we do appreciate it. It is just a shame that we couldn't get the result that they deserved to go home with."

Ahead of Saturday's home clash against Woking, he added: "Now it's about giving the fans something to cheer about.

"We're at Blundell Park on Saturday and we'll be expected to perform and get the three points – and we'll be looking to give them that."

THE demolition of two 1890s buildings could begin by early next year if plans are approved.

Originally part of Grimsby's Diana, Princess Of Wales Hospital (DPOW), the Havelock and Cordeaux buildings located on the site are now owned by the Homes and Communities Agency.

The HCA is the national housing and regeneration delivery agency. It provides investment for new affordable housing and to improve existing social housing, as well as for regenerating land.

Its aim is to demolish the derelict buildings so that the land can become more attractive to housing developers.

In 2009, the organisation received planning consent for more than 100 new homes to be built.

It now plans to make the site available for housing development in 2013 and started marketing it to developers earlier this year.

HCA area manager Richard Crabtree, said: "We have submitted an application to North East Lincolnshire Council for demolition, after receiving advice that there is a very limited market for conversion of the buildings into new homes.

"We are investing in this site to make it more attractive to housing developers and to ensure development starts on the site more quickly.

"This is in line with the Government's objective to get housing development under way on publicly-owned land."

Both the Havelock and Cordeaux buildings date back to the 1890s and were originally constructed for the Grimsby Union Workhouse.

After a number of changes in use they were then taken over by the National Health Service in the late 1940s.

They currently stand empty and are deemed to be suffering from lack of maintenance.

In addition, the company is currently in the process of demolishing the former 1960s day hospital on the same site, which also aims to make way for new homes.

If approval is granted, Mr Crabtree expects demolition to start by early next year and last for around three months.

He said: "We will be offering the site on build now, pay later terms to help with developer cash-flow in the current market.

"It will also maintain momentum so essential new homes are delivered on the site.

"The new owners will draw up detailed layouts and plans for new homes, which will be the subject of further consultation with the local community as part of future planning applications."

A spokesman from North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "We have received Homes and Communities Agency's application, it has been validated and now lies with planning officers to make a decision."

POLICE believe a 400-home development in Humberston could provide a hotspot for crime and antisocial behaviour.

Design experts from Humberside Police were invited to comment on Keystone Developments' outline planning application for land off Humberston Road.

And crime prevention design adviser Andy Robinson highlighted a number of flaws which he believes would lead to "the opportunity for criminal activity and anti-social behaviour."

He expresses concerns that areas such as public footpaths, cycle paths, parking courts and a children's playground could attract criminal behaviour because they are isolated by trees and bushes in the plans.

Meanwhile, issues over street lighting could mean the network of paths, the play area and two sub-stations could also be used for criminal activity.

He said: "Networks of separate paths to unsupervised areas facilitate crime and anti-social behaviour and should be avoided."

He said that the suggested location of the play area – intersecting a number of the proposed paths – could also create the opportunity for "harassment or for passers-by to be otherwise put in fear."

He recommended play equipment for young people of all ages be included to try to counteract this.

"Such provision can be effective in preventing criminal behaviour, although care should be taken to ensure excessive numbers do not congregate in any one area," he said.

His report reveals that acquisitive crimes, such as burglary, and criminal damage have been the main issues reported to police in the surrounding area in the last 12 months.

He added: "Any development should be designed in order to best counteract criminal activity that is currently being experienced in the surrounding area so as not to create any disproportionate increase.

"I have concerns that the development will be effectively open along its southern boundary.

"This, coupled with the suggested routes through the development, will create the opportunity for criminal activity and anti-social behaviour."

Nikki Hales, from the Save Our Fields campaign group, said she is pleased that these potential issues have been flagged up.

She added: "This report has reinforced the views of our group.

"With all of the cutbacks that have occurred, police are struggling to deal with the problems they have already got, without developers increasing their burden further.

"The same could be said of all of the other developments that are being proposed."

As reported, residents are furious over plans for three housing developments in Humberston – these 400 homes from Keystone Developments, 400 at Millennium Park and 110 on the old Humberston Park golf course.

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.

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

To replay the discussion, click on the console below:

THE November edition of Cleethorpes AC's winter 5K series attracted its biggest ever field.

A bumper midweek turn-out of 140 took part on the promenade course on a cool, windy evening.

Louth AC's Paul Jackson, pictured, took first place in 17.06. One of the runs of the night came from second-placed Richard Harris, of Wolds vets, who posted 17.11. Cleethorpes AC's Kevin Green was third in 17.25.

First female was Ellie Kitchen, of Bingley Harriers (19.33).

The field was boosted by several younger runners who chose to move up in distance from the 3k event.

Key: Position, name, age, club, time

1. Paul Jackson 40 Louth AC 17:06; 2. Richard Harris 42 Wolds Vet 17:11; 3. Kevin Green 30 Clee AC 17:25; 4. Trevor Green 35 Clee AC 17:42; 5. Adam Dalton 25 Louth AC 17:51; 6. Ed Huxford 36 Clee AC 17:53; 7. James Woodhouse 45 Clee AC 17:56; 8. Scott Indian 33 Clee AC 18:04; 9. Paul Evison 45 Clee AC 18:14; 10. Stuart Cragg 40 Louth AC 18:24; 11. Paul Allcock 24 Clee AC 18:26; 12. Andy Pegg 43 Wolds Vet 18:27; 13. Bob Stocks 53 Wolds Vet 18:30; 14. Paul Freeman 49 Wolds Vet 18:41; 15. Stuart Wells 41 18:52; 16. Pete Hutchinson 54 Wolds Vet 18:54; 17. Andrew Thomas 46 Louth AC 18:55; 18. Chris Woodforth 36 Clee AC 18:57; 19. Jon Dollery 16 Clee AC 19:01; 20. Jason Clark 42 Clee AC 19:03; 21. John Fowler 50 Clee AC 19:04; 22. Mark Atkinson 25 Louth AC 19:06; 23. Howard Justice 32 Clee AC 19:07; 24. Tony Hooper 37 Clee AC 19:09; 25. Darren Rowe 36 Clee AC 19:11; 26. Andy Garside 43 Wolds Vet 19:12; 27. Luke Nuttall 14 Clee AC 19:14; 28. Nick Gregory 49 Clee AC 19:21; 29. Nigel Plaskitt 42 Wolds Vet 19:25; 30. Jamie Kirkham 14 Clee AC 19:28; 31. Kevin Wilson 48 19:32; 32. Ellie Kitchen 23 Bingley Harriers 19:33; 33. Keith Vickers 50 Louth AC 19:51; 34. Paul Barley 48 Clee AC 20:09; 35. Mark Thurman 39 Clee AC 20:13; 36. Ruth Wilson 43 Gainsborough 20:18; 37. Nik Forman 53 Clee AC 20:18; 38. Tom Nuttall 14 Clee AC 20:26; 39. Mike Mahoney 39 Clee AC 20:27; 40. Sean Robinson 36 20:33; 41. Chris Atkin 37 Clee AC 20:36; 42. Steve Green 62 Wolds Vet 20:38; 43. Chris Wray 40 Clee AC 20:39; 44. Dave Jobson 56 20:42; 45. Oliver Myers 14 Clee AC 20:58; 46.Dave Smith 39 Clee AC 21:01; 47. Jo Black 24 Clee AC 21:03; 48. Michael Dean 50 Louth AC 21:05; 49. Andy Yorston 49 Clee AC 21:07; 50. Beth Barley 14 Clee AC 21:10; 51. Mark Hodson 49 Wolds Vet 21:14; 52. Paul Greenwood 54 Clee AC 21:16; 53. Andrew Gristwood 48 Clee AC 21:24; 54. Scott Gillespie 47 Wolds Vet 21:32; 55. Julian Atkin 39 Clee AC 21:38; 56. Mandy Aisthorpe 48 Clee AC 21:39; 57. Derrick Noble 53 Clee AC 21:44; 58. Debbie Simpson 40 Louth AC 21:47; 59. Steven Holgarth 14 Louth AC 21:49; 60. James Nurse 39 Wolds Vet 21:52; 61. Steve Sharpe 48 Clee AC 22:01; 62. Frank Thomas 52 Wolds Vet 22:05; 63. Emma White 41 Clee AC 22:07; 64. Helen Robinson 36 Grimsby Harriers 22:11; 65. Trudy Roberts 44 Louth AC 22:12; 66. Lucy Gash 11 Grimsby Harriers 22:26; 67. Ann Knowle 44 Wolds Vet 22:33; 68. Edward Enright 57 Lincoln and Dist 22:35; 69. Paul Brown 46 Wolds Vet 22:38; 70. Charlie Ellis 13 22:40; 71. Steve Hall 44 22:41; 72 Dave Edwards 65 Wolds Vet 22:45; 73. Pete Crow 51 Louth AC 22:53; 74. Richard Sutherland 32 Clee AC 23:00; 75. Dave Betts 49 Clee AC 23:02; 76. Wayne Carlisle 41 23:04; 77. Tracey Gibson 48 Wolds Vet 23:08; 78. Ian Smith 44 Clee AC 23:14; 79. Louise Yorston 23 Clee AC 23:16; 80. Callum Ely 14 Clee AC 23:24; 81. Chris Greenhalgh 45 Wolds Vet 23:27; 82. Sian McCourt 34 Clee AC 23:31; 83. Andrew Clarkson 47 Wolds Vet 23:32; 84. Dianne Pegg 44 Wolds Vet 23:37; 85. Thomas Morley 14 Clee AC 23:46; 86. Alan Cook 40 23:53; 87. Emily Sutherland 26 Clee AC 23:53; 88. Sarah Waterson 24 Clee AC 23:54; 89. Clive Thornley 55 Wolds Vet 24:00; 90. Karen Hames 60 Wolds Vet 24:11; 91. Lauren Bell 15 Grimsby Harriers 24:23; 92. Ann Mortimer 49 Wolds Vet 24:25; 93. David Peck 39 Clee AC 24:39; 94. Richard Smith 45 Wolds Vet 24:45; 95. Natalie Stainton 15 Louth AC 24:48; 96. Mick Blowers 61 Wolds Vet 24:50; 97. Joanne Brogben 46 Wolds Vet 24:52; 98. Sharon Margarson 41 Mablethorpe 24:53; 99. Lisa Harkess 32 Louth AC 24:54; 100. Jane Cope 49 Louth AC 25:11; 101. Maurice Foxon 69 Wolds Vet 25:17; 102. Jayne Smith 46 Wolds Vet 25:19; 103. Ros Jackson 54 Louth AC 25:20; 104. Susan Green 61 Wolds Vet 25:35; 105. Nicola Wright 36 Wolds Vet 25:36; 106. Hannah Colman 37 Clee AC 25:42; 107. Simon Harrison 45 Louth AC 25:43; 108. Leona Bellamy 35 Clee AC 25:53; 109. Fiona Lawrie 51 Louth AC 25:56; 110. Jason Neilson 40 Clee AC 25:57; 111. Rebecca Jex 14 Clee AC 25:58; 112. Will Portlock 13 Clee AC 25:59; 113. George Johnston 14 Louth AC 26:02; 114. Alan Williams 62 Clee AC 26:08; 115. Katie Sandal 30 Clee AC 26:11; 116. Sam Jensen 36 Clee AC 26:45; 117. Tony Martin 46 Clee AC 26:46; 118. Kim Tetley 26 U/A 26:54; 119. Anthony Freshney 46 U/A 26:57; 120. Elaine Wilson 44 Mablethorpe 27:04; 121. Debbie Rispin 49 Clee AC 27:40; 122. Ann Marshall 39 Clee AC 27:41; 123. Kevin Musgrove 39 Clee AC 27:44; 124. Fiona Hartley 50 U/A 27:57; 125. Simon Blendell 40 U/A 28:09; 126. Neil Toyne 54 Clee AC 28:45; 127. Nina Smith 40 Clee AC 28:59; 128 Malcolm Simons 72 Clee AC 29:40; 129. Tina Thomas 54 Caistor 29:56; 130. Heidi Allenby 14 U/A 29:59; 131. Chris Allenby 44 U/A 30:04; 132. Barry Everett 73 Wolds Vet 30:23;133. John O'Keeffe 48 Clee AC 31:05;134. Kerry McNulty 46 Clee AC 31:05; 135. Hayley Clarke 30 U/A 31:23; 136. Sarak Noakes 23 U/A 31:23; 137. Jimmy Dutch 65 Clee AC 32:16; 138. Steve Barley 56 U/A 32:58; 139. Hillary Edwards 67 Wolds Vet 36:42; 140. James Clayton 37 Wolds Vet 37:46

VETERAN marathon runners and charity fundraisers Keith and Linda Tyler are currently recovering from their toughest ever challenge. They have successfully completed a trek to Everest Base Camp.

Keith, 65, said: "We decided to attempt this challenge over a year ago, and planned to undertake some really intense hill training in Wales and the Lake District, during the final two months before the trek."

However, things did not go according to plan when sadly Keith's brother Lennie, a former King of Cleethorpes Carnival Parade, was taken seriously ill.

Lennie spent six weeks in hospital followed by two in a nursing home but sadly passed away in late August, as reported.

With Keith and Linda attending Lennie during his final weeks, any thoughts of training in the hills were set aside – but the athletes were not deterred.

Just three weeks before Keith and Linda were due to fly out to Kathmandu to start their adventure, another mishap struck – Keith suffered an Achilles injury to his right ankle. However, with help from their local physio injury specialist, Martin Ellis, Keith recovered enough to attempt the climb.

Keith said: "With everything going on at that time, especially with our lack of sufficient preparation, Linda and I discussed whether or not we should cancel our plans at the last minute.

"With us both being members of the Cleethorpes Athletic Club, we could only rely on our general fitness from our running background to see us through.

"After much deliberation we finally decided to give it a try, as we had already raised over £400 towards our chosen charity for the challenge, Children with Cancer, and we didn't want to let these deserving children down."

With just one week to go, the couple were horrified to watch reports of the air disaster involving a light aircraft with 19 passengers on board that perished as it set off from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport – one of the most dangerous in the world.

Keith said: "It shocked us greatly, as we were due to take that very same flight just eight days later. Since booking the trip, the flight to Lukla was always a worry, as the landing at Lukla Airport is reputed to be the most dangerous in the world.

"The airstrip is just 465m long and situated on a mountainside ledge, with a 1,000ft drop off at the front end of the landing strip, and a cliff face at the other end.

"It was stated on the TV that there had been six serious accidents there in the last two years alone. That incident at Kathmandu did not help allay our fears".

Despite their concerns, on Wednesday, October 3, Keith and 59-year-old Linda set off for Kathmandu to attempt their adventure in Nepal.

Linda said: "The flight to Lukla turned out to be very exciting and the scenery below us amazing.

"We were relieved though to land safely at Lukla and we joined our group of eight fellow trekkers for the climb up to Everest Base Camp at 17,585ft."

Keith said: "The seven-day climb to Everest Base Camp took us through some really spectacular and breathtaking scenery.

"Some of the overnight stops, however, were in very basic accommodation, some without any facilities, or even running water.

"Linda suffered with a severe cold during the overnight freezing temperatures, and I caught a nasty tummy bug during the journey through the mountains.

"I was pretty washed out by the time we reached our target at Everest Base Camp, and I knew the three-day descent back to Lukla would prove an even tougher challenge for me. It was not made any easier when I developed a severe chest infection on the way down to Namche Bazaar. I was so poorly on the way down that I could barely walk in a straight line.

"One of our fellow trekkers and one of our Sherpa guides walked on the outer edge of the cliff path to ensure I wouldn't fall over the 2,000ft drop and they kept me on the inside of the path. At Namche, a call was made to a doctor in Kathmandu for advice on suitable medical treatment, and a strong antibiotic was prescribed.

"I had to face the final day's trek from Namche to Lukla, which although it was only a 13-mile walk in actual distance, included some really deep descents and tough climbs along the way".

Linda said: "Keith had to mentally zone out and just concentrate on following the feet of the Sherpa guide in front of him."

Thankfully, both Linda and Keith made it safely back to Lukla, where Keith declared never to tackle any more high altitude challenges.

Keith added: "I have done many tough challenges in recent years including running 34 full marathons, two climbs up Kilimanjaro, I've cycled across Rajasthan, done a 10-mile non-stop swim, and many other similar feats, but without a doubt I found this the toughest.

"Being poorly along the way didn't help, but I was so relieved to complete the challenge, thanks to Linda's invaluable help and that of the Sherpa guides too.

"Linda too has faced tough challenges before, including 21 marathons, and climbing Kilimanjaro, and she also found this to be the toughest so far."

Linda added: "We were so relieved to get back to Lukla and complete the trek. Though still recovering from this ordeal, we are now preparing for our next marathon challenge, which is in Orlando in January."

It is still not too late to donate towards Keith and Linda's Everest Challenge, which can be done online at Virgin Money Giving.

Just go to their website and enter Keith Tyler which will direct you to their web page. Or send a cheque (made payable to Children With Cancer) to Westwold Cottage, Owmby Lane, North Kelsey Moor, Lincolnshire, LN7 6HE.

WINTER is here – and so is the Winter Exhibit at the Gate Gallery.

An exciting mix of work is on display including new paintings by Sarah Webb and Sharon Winter and a number of natural prints by textile artist Alice Fox.

It's at the Grimsby gallery, in Brighowgate, from now until Saturday, January 12.

An unusual addition to the three-dimensional art on show, is work by Franklin College graduate, Samantha Laight.

Titled Faith In Evolution, this selection of wearable art uses nature as a core inspiration and also as a way to shock the viewer.

The stunning head-pieces which are based on traditional millinery, are made from birds and feathers sourced often from local farmers. Artist Samantha said: "I work in my unique way by working with taboo materials in today's young artists and designers.

"I had taken great influence from Alexander McQueen's fascinators and the use of feathers throughout his fashion house.

"I wanted to experiment with what fabrics famous designers are using and release my young and fresh approach to a beautiful old past time.

"Every hat is individually crafted, from each nest topper to the hand crafted roses.

"Each hat has numerous, beautiful patterns and textures that nature has created."

Vicky Hartung, owner of Gate Gallery, said: "As a trustee of the Franklin Trust, I was invited to see Samantha's portfolio when we awarded her one of our annual bursaries this summer.

"I was struck by her confidence and originality, and decided to offer her the opportunity to show her work at my gallery.

"All artists are different, arriving at their destination in different ways.

"It may seem a little strange to have feather fascinators on display alongside etchings and oil paintings, but the great thing about a mixed show is how the connections reveal themselves."

The Gate Gallery is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am till 4pm and by appointment.

For further information, contact Vicky Hartung on 07758 244487.

THESE children have swapped their gold stars in class for a more prestigious award.

Green-fingered little ones from Grimsby's Lisle Marsden C of E Aided Primary School, have won not one but two In Bloom awards this year.

After viewing the school's outdoor quiet area and allotments, judges from Grimsby In Bloom were delighted and crowned them worthy winners of the Best School Garden category.

However, the celebrations did not stop there as the school went on to win the same category in the East Midlands In Bloom competition.

Kayleigh Virgo, 10, is involved with both the cooking and garden club at the school.

She said: "We pick the vegetables out of the allotments to use in our cooking club.

"It is really fun to have a school garden. We come out everyday to tidy it up.

"I am really pleased we won the awards."

In conjunction with a first-place certificate, the school also received a £30 voucher from Pennells Garden Centre and two bat boxes made by some young offenders.

Holly Harris enjoys learning about the environment through the garden.

The 10-year-old said: "We learn about how vegetables grow and what we need to do to help look after the plants and wildlife.

"I find it all really interesting but my favourite part is cooking the food we grow.

"I have made rhubarb punch and muffins before during my time at school."

Teaching assistant Liz Wheatley is delighted with how well they have done in this year's In Bloom competition.

She said: "We knew the children had put a lot of work into the garden and allotments but we were clueless as to how far we would get in the competition.

"This award just recognises their constant efforts.

"But it could not be done without the dedication of the school's five teaching assistants, who go out into the garden each day with pupils.

"I believe the allotments aid children's learning as they have to be hands-on in order to maintain it."

Grimsby In Bloom judges were delighted with pupils' enthusiasm when talking about their garden.

Elaine Atkinson, chairman of Grimsby In Bloom, said: "I think it is brilliant that the children have so much control over the look of their outdoor space.

"What is more impressive is that the food they grow goes straight into the cooking club.

"It is then turned into a delicious meal.

"As judges we could not fault them anywhere and they were deserving winners of the category."