A SECOND World War paratrooper veteran came within a whisker of being duped into parting with cash from his pension.

The 87-year-old was being offered a flat screen TV with an estimated value of £1,689 if he sent a cheque for £20 and his bank details to an address in France.

The war hero, who did not wish to be identified, visited his friend Stephen Kirk, to ask him for a cheque.

Immediately he warned the pensioner he was about to be duped by the scam.

Mr Kirk, 58, of Solomon Court, Cleethorpes, is chairman of Beaconhill Connect residents' association. He believed straight away that the war veteran was close to becoming a victim of the scam.

"The second he showed me the offer I knew it was a scam," he said.

"The alarm bells rang immediately. Most people know that if it is too good to be true, it probably is.

"It is disgusting they are targeting elderly people.

"If anyone else gets them they should let Trading Standards or the police know about it."

Mr Kirk added: "The closing date on it was December 31. How do they manage to cash the cheques?

"Why don't they get them raided?"

Mr Kirk said: "I was extremely angry to think they are targeting elderly and vulnerable people."

He said it was the third scam he had read about.

Mr Kirk said: "They are all similar.

"They follow the same format, but have different addresses."

The latest scam had the address of Vitamail, Carros, in France.

A North East Lincolnshire Council spokeswoman issued a stark warning to residents.

"Scams come in many different guises and can come through phone, SMS, email scams, door-to-door or even face-to-face," she said.

"But they are all designed to creatively part you and your money using techniques around persuasion, befriending victims, often sending you a gift for a small contribution and simply just lying.

"Scammers obtain your details often legitimately through 'direct marketing companies' after you have responded to an attractive tempting offer or competition.

She added: "It is clear, there is a scam out there waiting for everybody whether online, telephone, post, email or face-to-face but they all have a common thread, they all sound too good to be true.

"Each scammer is a professional in their own field, sounding wholly convincing and are able to groom their victims, often forming relationships with the most vulnerable to ultimately get their hands on your cash."

Last month we revealed how former railway worker Ken Fuller, 80, of Grimsby, received an email claiming to be from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, inviting him to claim a "tax refund" of £469, following "annual calculations of his fiscal activity".

To claim his rebate, all he had to do was fill in the attached refund form and submit it by the following day.

Like most scams, it sounded too good to be true, and it was. Mr Fuller, of Grimsby, suspected all was not as it seemed, and called HMRC which confirmed it was a fake.

Ken, of Timberley Drive, said he wanted to warn others to be vigilant against such scam attempts, so people don't fall victim to their cons.

Such attempts to extract money from the vulnerable have become more prevalent in recent years with the advent of the internet.

Age UK said: "Sometimes it's difficult to spot the difference between scam mail and offers from legitimate companies".

A spokesperson said: "If you receive something you think may be a scam, don't respond. Talk about it to someone you trust such as a friend or family member, or call Age UK Advice on 0800 169 65 65."

If you suspect you've been the victim of a scam, or wish to report any other matter to Trading Standards, contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 040506.

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A FARMER accused of being a key part of a £5 million scam to defraud taxpayers through the sale of red diesel was allegedly "calling the shots behind the scenes".

He allegedly told "utter lies" and "complete nonsense" over his role in a conspiracy, a court heard.

Michael Wilmot, 72, of Low Road, Osgodby, near Market Rasen, denies conspiracy to evade paying excise duty on Government-subsidised fuels between March 1, 2006, and March 30, 2012, and conspiracy to cheat Her Majesty's Revenue.

With him in the dock are his stepson, Market Rasen town councillor David Strachan, 50, of Peak Mews, Market Rasen; Wilmot's cousin, Charles Trafford, 59, of Glebe Farm Cottage, Osgodby; Tracie Morton, 50, of Toft-next-Newton, near Market Rasen; Michael Taylor, 38, of Waterloo Street, Market Rasen; and Marion Tompkins, 57, of Little Tows, near Ludford. They all deny both charges.

The prosecution at Hull Crown Court claims that the six were part of a big conspiracy to con taxpayers out of more than £5 million through the sale of "massive" amounts of Government-subsidised red diesel.

A network of companies was allegedly used to disguise the operation.

During cross-examination, Wilmot denied completing forms for companies or employing drivers allegedly forming part of a scam.

"I had never employed any drivers," he claimed.

Prosecutor David Dixon accused Wilmot of talking "utter lies" and "complete nonsense" over his links with companies.

Wilmot replied: "Absolutely not."

Mr Dixon claimed Wilmot had "invented" large parts of his story.

Wilmot replied: "I don't invent stories."

Mr Dixon asked: "Do you change your story?"

Wilmot replied: "Not very often."

Mr Dixon told Wilmot: "You were calling the shots behind the scenes. You were using different people to be nominees or secretaries to sort things out for you."

Wilmot replied: "No, definitely not."

Mr Dixon asked why he had withdrawn cash from a company he had links to but Wilmot claimed he was only drawing out wages for another man, once every couple of months.

Mr Dixon accused Wilmot of using "many haulage companies to run all over the place using red diesel bought from Mr Trafford".

Wilmot claimed: "No way."

Mr Dixon claimed Wilmot used "a variety of people to do your bidding" but Wilmot denied this.

The case continues.

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A COUPLE who found themselves caught up in a military coup in Thailand's capital Bangkok have safely returned home.

Kevin and Karen Pawson, who live on Grimsby's Willows estate, flew out to South East Asia last month for a holiday, spending time in Koh Samui before moving on to the capital Bangkok – the same day that Thailand's army chief announced the military-imposed martial law.

The coup, after days of inconclusive talks between the main political factions, followed months of instability.

A curfew was declared, effective across the country from 10pm to 5am local time.

But Kevin, 52, a stevedore for GBA Group, said the trouble didn't affect their holiday at all.

"It's strange to be back," he said.

"Not once did we feel threatened at any point, the locals were actually concerned for us.

"In fact I was hoping the airport would be occupied so that we couldn't come home, that was how much I was enjoying myself!"

This is the ninth time the couple have visited Thailand, since their first visit in 2002.

It was also an interesting holiday for different reasons, as their 24-year-old daughter Lyndsey Pawson getting engaged to fiance Wayne Hopper at Koh Samui.

Around 800,000 Britons visit Thailand every year and those there now will need to be indoors between 10pm and 5am under the terms laid down in the "bloodless" coup.

The advice to travellers from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office remains unchanged, simply warning holidaymakers to stay away from protests.

Despite the increased military presence, tourism officials reassured travellers that the takeover should not affect them.

Kevin added: "We saw police usher people about but that was mainly to keep the traffic flowing, we didn't see any violence.

"It hasn't put us off going in future at all.

"In fact our daughter is getting married there in two years' time, so that's already been pencilled in.

"It's hard for us to get involved in the politics too much as we have a lot of friends over there on both sides.

"But I can't see it ending any time soon, I think it will get worse before it gets better."

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GUY Martin praised Michael Dunlop after the eight-time Isle of Man TT winner denied him his first victory at the event.

Kirmington's Martin claimed his 14th podium finish at the TT with a fine second place in Saturday's opening Superbike encounter.

The 32-year-old – on board his Yoshimura powered GSX-R1000 Tyco Suzuki – finished 20 seconds behind the Northern Irishman following a 226-mile race in sun-drenched conditions.

Martin was pleased with his display, especially after holding off third-placed Conor Cummins in the closing stages of the six-lap contest.

"That was a good effort and I really enjoyed it but I suppose it's another second place," he remarked.

"The bike never missed a beat and the boys did a mega job, but I have to take my hat off to Michael (Dunlop) as he's riding well.

"I knew Conor (Cummins) was catching me on the final lap and I actually thought I might have to re-pass Michael on the road and make an extra big effort, but I right enjoyed that."

Martin's fastest circuit was on lap two when he roared around the course at an average speed of 130.969mph.

Meanwhile, his team-mate William Dunlop finished sixth with a personal best TT lap on the sixth and final circuit at 130.239mph.

Team manager Philip Neill said: "That will do nicely to start race week at the 2014 Isle of Man TT.

"We obviously want to win and each year we give it our very best efforts. However, I've said it before and I'll say it again – these races are not easily won and it's important to remember that.

"Our GSX-R1000s have performed faultlessly all week and both our riders gave their best efforts, so to come away with both bikes in the top six and one on the podium is great for us and for our sponsors.

"A big thanks to Guy, William and everyone involved with Tyco Suzuki for their efforts, and we now look forward to pushing for more podiums throughout the week."

William Dunlop added: "I wanted to relax and let the race come to me, but I relaxed a bit too much in those opening laps.

"When Conor came past, I could run with him quite easily but made a little mistake into Parliament Square Ramsey.

"I'm happy enough with sixth place as the bike worked well and I know there's more to come in Friday's Senior.

"And to knock in my best ever lap on lap six… yeah that was pretty good and shows how well the Tyco Suzuki is working – and the confidence I have in the whole package."

Non-league blogger of the year 'Too Good To Go Down' takes a look at Grimsby Town's season tickets and matchday prices for 2014/15...

ON the face of it, it's great news for supporters that season ticket prices have been frozen for the 2014/15 campaign.

I'm a great believer in rewarding supporter loyalty and, despite the fact I'm sure Paul Hurst will want as competitive a budget as possible, pegging ticket prices for the next 12 months is a boost to hard-pressed supporters.

There hasn't been a lot to cheer about for some time now and Town fans have had to put up with watching Conference football at league prices for the last few years.

Granted, the two last seasons have seen Town reach the play-offs, but I really don't think an increase could have been justified. So credit where it is due to the powers that be at the football club for their stance this season.

I know some supporters would love to see prices lowered, but that's hardly realistic. A price freeze is the next best thing.

I also welcome the news the club is to reward older supporters by introducing a special, cheaper season ticket for the over 75s. I'd be interested to know how much of our supporter base will take up this offer.

However, I really do think the club has missed a trick in once again not catering for a proper student season ticket at a reduced price.

Last season Grimsby Town hiked the cost of a ticket for a student at university by 190 per cent.

At the start of the 2012/13 season, a student aged between 15 and 21 could buy an 'early bird' season ticket for £110. But last season the club limited the offer to those aged between 15 and 18, meaning those in further education had to pay £319.

I hoped the club would look at this issue for next season and I know the Mariners Trust queried this on the fans' behalf. Sadly, for next season at least, this won't change.

I think it's a blow to future generations of Grimsby Town supporters who we should be encouraging through the turnstiles, not giving them excuses not to come to Blundell Park.

When we're competing against Premier League football on our doorsteps and Sky Sports in every household, the club should be doing everything it can to get people in the ground, especially the very same supporters we'll be relying on in years to come.

My student days ended a long time ago, but that doesn't mean we should turn our backs on a section of our supporters.

I'm told the club has concerns about policing the age limit and those who may abuse the student ticket system, but if it works at other clubs why can't it work for Grimsby Town?

Overall, full credit to the club for freezing prices – but I think they've missed a trick for future generations and the students of Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

What do you think? Tweet me @toogoodtogodown or let me know at www.toogoodtogodown.co.uk

THE number of serious cases of abuse and emotional neglect reported to the NSPCC by North East Lincolnshire children has risen by more than a quarter in just 12 months.

A spokesman for the charity said in 2013-14, staff had helped 16 local youths who had contacted its helpline.

Of these, 14 cases were so serious they were passed to Humberside Police and social services for further action, compared to 11 last year – a rise of just over 27 per cent.

And today, the charity has called on Grimsby Telegraph readers to pass on any concerns they have over the welfare of children in the area.

The news came as the NSPCC voiced concerns over national figures, which showed that it was referring almost 50 per cent more neglect and abuse cases to police and social services compared to last year.

Across the UK, more than 60,000 people have been offered help and support by the helpline this year – an increase of 20 per cent on last year.

It also follows revelations the Government is to consider the introduction of the so-called Cinderella Law, which would update the offence of child cruelty to include neglect and emotional abuse.

Sandra McNair, NSPCC Midlands regional head of service – which includes North East Lincolnshire – said: "Emotional neglect and abuse cause real harm to children and we are supporting more people than ever before.

"As a result of this we are able to recognise the most serious cases and are referring an unprecedented number of emotional neglect and abuse cases to children's services and the police.

"We must ensure we support children's services and that the police are given better powers to prosecute those who subject children to emotional neglect and abuse.

"But a law alone is not enough – what we really need to do is work together to prevent this abuse happening in the first place."

To report concerns call 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk or text 88858

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A MAJOR Humber bank firm has pledged more than £20,000 towards new treatment rooms at St Andrew's Hospice's.

Cristal Pigment UK, formerly Laporte, SCM and Millennium, has donated £22,400 to fund the Cristal Treatment Room at the hospice when redevelopment work is complete.

St Andrew's Hospice and the Grimsby Telegraph launched the Building On Care campaign earlier this year to raise £2.5 million of the £6.5 million needed to transform the hospice, as reported.

Hospice bosses are now hoping that Cristal's donation will encourage other companies to come forward with donations.

Sarah Spence, from Cristal, said: "Cristal employs more than 450 people in the local area and provides employment for another 150 contractors, so St Andrew's Hospice is a charity which is close to many of our people's hearts.

"Many of our people's family members or friends, as well as people in our community, have needed the services and support of the hospice.

"That is why Cristal feels it is so important to support them and why we are very proud to put our name to this special place."

The room will be one of several treatment rooms for therapies, providing a range of relaxation, physiotherapy and fun sessions.

It will be included in phase two of the new build, in 2015, as part of the new health and wellbeing centre.

Sarah added: "Caring is one of Cristal's core values and caring for our community has been an important part of our business throughout our 60 years on the Humber bank.

"Cristal has had a long affiliation with the St Andrew's Hospice, regularly making the charity the beneficiary of fundraising activities as well as regular donations.

Jane Whenham-White, from St Andrew's Hospice, said: "Everyone is overjoyed at this generous contribution to our redevelopment, which will see new facilities created to increase the amount of patients we care for.

"We hope other organisations will follow suit; and that Cristal's donation will start the ball rolling for the corporate sector to show its firm support for the hospice.

"The redevelopment is being carried out to ensure the hospice's services are here for those who need it now, and for those who will need it in the future.

"We need corporate support more than ever to ensure we continue to provide first-class care in what will be one of the best facilities in the country.

"Scores of people throughout the region are involved – now we are calling on the business world to play its part."

Find out how your company can play its part by calling the hospice on 01472 350908.

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STEVE Wraith hopes Grimsby Town's frozen ticket prices for the coming campaign will result in bigger crowds at Blundell Park.

The club's accounts manager says the pricing for the 2014/15 season was decided with supporters in mind as bosses chose to continue with the pricing structure of last term.

As these tables show, admission prices will remain the same across all stands, with the cost of a full-priced adult ticket remaining at £18.

Fans can still claim a £2 'early bird' discount in all stands barring the Upper Findus, while accompanied 'Ancient Mariner' fans – over the age of 85 – can claim free entry.

There are also concessions for students and unemployed supporters in the Pontoon, with tickets priced at £12 – or £10 if bought before 1.30pm on a matchday.

And speaking to the Telegraph, Wraith said that he hoped by sticking with last season's prices, the club would now be able to look forward to bumper gates in the coming campaign.

He said: "The fans have been central to our thinking when deciding on both the season ticket and regular matchday prices for this year.

"Keeping them the same next year is a real signal that we're thinking of the fans.

"We've come up with a couple of new offers, especially for our older fans, where we've introduced free matchday entry for accompanied over 85s.

"Hopefully what we've brought in along with this new structure will result in a boost in attendances at Blundell Park next season."

He continued: "It's been an incredibly positive month at the club, with the three lads re-signing, Chris Doig being confirmed as the new assistant manager and the three Youth team lads turning pro.

"I haven't heard much negativity from the fans and I reckon they'll be just about ready to either invest in a season ticket or more matchday tickets across the new season.

"Over the next few weeks, I'm sure we'll be seeing plenty of new players coming through the door.

"Hopefully those signings will excite the fans and we'll see even more back at Blundell Park next season."

GRIMSBY Town bosses are aiming to hit the magical first-day target of £20,000 as season tickets go on sale today.

Last year, an 'unprecedented' response generated almost £15,000 on the first day of sales, with a total of 80 season tickets being snapped up by Mariners fans.

This time around, having frozen season ticket and matchday prices for the forthcoming campaign, ticket bosses are hopeful of repeating that opening-day success today.

Speaking to the Telegraph, accounts manager Steve Wraith said: "Last season's opening day of season ticket sales was absolutely incredible.

"To bring in nearly £15,000 worth of receipts was absolutely incredible and really got the sales off to a flying start.

"We sold 80 season tickets on that first day and 27 of those were sold to new or returning holders, which is always really encouraging.

"That sort of response was pretty unprecedented to be honest, but it would be incredible to top that today and reach £20,000 worth of sales for example.

"It's ambitious, but with the fantastic support that we all know this club has, you never know."

Wraith believes that the frozen prices and the expected arrival of 'exciting' signings over the summer can help the club to increase its season ticket membership for 2014/15.

He continued: "We looked at other clubs throughout the league to see what they're charging and we've tried to keep it very competitive.

"Everything seems to be going up in price at the minute, but by keeping the ticket prices at the same levels as last season, it shows that we're thinking of the fans.

"Last season, we ended up with just under 2,100 season ticket holders and it would be fantastic to get them all back again, as well as a few new ones.

"The way for us to do that is to keep the prices keen and sign some new, exciting players, who are on the way."