A WORRIED parent has welcomed the news that a crossing patrol is to be reinstated near a Grimsby school – but is saddened it won't be until February.

Michael Codd, 36, of Lincoln Boulevard, has launched a petition demanding that a crossing patrol be put in place in Lord Street, at the junction with New Cartergate – a road crossed by pupils and parents heading to Ormiston South Parade Academy.

The school has been without a crossing patrol since September, following the retirement of the previous lollipop lady in the summer.

Mr Codd, whose five-year-old daughter Layla attends the academy, said it is a miracle that nobody has been injured.

North East Lincolnshire Council has announced that the vacancy has now been filled, and that the new crossing patrol will start after the February half-term.

But Mr Codd said that is too long to wait.

He still intends to present his petition, which has been signed by more than 600 people, to the next meeting of the West Marsh Neighbourhood Watch group in January.

The petition also includes a demand for a light-controlled crossing to be installed in Alexandra Road – another route well used by pupils and parents going to school.

He said: "I have mixed emotions. I'm pleased that they are filling the position but I'm saddened that it won't be until February. We should have something for when the children go back in January.

"I have witnessed a good half a dozen near misses. The crossing is on a bend, and it's quite a dangerous road full stop. There are a couple of bends and numerous blind spots.

"Drivers don't pay attention and speed. It's a miracle a tragedy hasn't taken place. I am campaigning to prevent that from happening.

"With the winter weather and fading light it's vital we get something in place for January. We have been quite lucky with the weather up to now but if we get black ice on the road it's going to be quite easy for cars to veer off.

"At least if people could see there was a crossing patrol they would take a bit more care, rather than tearing round the corner like Lewis Hamilton at Silverstone."

Councillor David Watson, portfolio holder for Environment and Housing at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "Working in partnership with Cofely, we can confirm we interviewed some potential candidates last week and subject to clear DBS and references have recruited to this position.

"The new school crossing patrol is due to join us on Monday, February 23, 2015 after the half term break.

"At the moment we have 34 crossing patrols in post and ten vacancies we are actively seeking to fill.

"If any parents or anyone else is interested in one of these rewarding positions, please contact the traffic section on 01472 324490."

Jane Nolan, principal at Ormiston South Parade Academy, said: "I'm delighted to learn that the council has been successful in securing a new school crossing patrol.

"The road safety education department regularly comes into school to work with our children in relation to road safety awareness and I'm very pleased with this positive partnership."

THE developer behind plans to build new homes and offices in Old Clee has insisted a geothermal power plant remains firmly on the agenda – despite claims to the contrary.

A meeting of the Old Clee Residents' Action Group (OCRAG) was told that the drilling of boreholes to harness heat from underneath the ground did not feature in the latest plans for Old Horses Field.

However, businessman Charles Ranby-Gorwood, who is behind the proposal to build 25 homes and offices on the 2.2 hectare site, told the Grimsby Telegraph that geothermal was still "very much part of the plan".

OCRAG chairman Chris Nichols told the meeting at The Empire pub in Runswick Road that he had seen updated plans – which were presented to North East Lincolnshire's planning committee earlier this month – which did not include a drilling site or facilities for pumping water.

But Mr Ranby-Gorwood said the plans were not significantly different to those presented to the public at an exhibition at Old Clee Church Hall in August.

As previously reported, the proposals include the harnessing of geothermal heat to power the homes, office buildings and a community greenhouse on the site, were displayed at a public exhibition.

OCRAG was formed to fight the development, which residents fear will harm the unique character of the area and create traffic chaos. Access to the site is proposed through Church Lane.

Mr Ranby-Gorwood said: "Geothermal is very much part of the plan and that was confirmed to the committee. There's really very little change since the public meeting."

"If Mr Nichols would like to clarify things he is more than welcome to contact me."

He said a planning application would be submitted some time in the new year.

Mr Nichols told the action group meeting that members of the public had been excluded from the presentation given to the planning committee on the grounds of commercial sensitivity.

Residents expressed concerns about a lack of transparency but ward councillor Matthew Patrick (Lab, Heneage) assured them: "Whatever happens the planning committee at which this is decided will be open to the public."

In a statement, Councillor David Watson, portfolio holder for environment, said: "We offer the chance for people proposing a major development to speak informally with planning committee members as part of the Major Applications Planning Service (MAPS).

"This allows committee members to hear first-hand the proposals, and to identify any issues which they would expect to see addressed if an application is submitted.

"It is not a meeting to decide whether the proposals will be supported or not."

Mr Nichols said the group needed to start a co-ordinated fundraising programme in the new year.

As reported, it is hoping to raise £1,500 to pay for a traffic survey to support their case against the development.

He said local band The Dangerous Brothers were fully supportive of the cause and were quite willing to put on a concert at The Spiders Web free of charge.

He added: "We could have other fundraising activities such as a bingo night, tea and coffee and cake mornings."

Mr Patrick suggested an event focusing on the history and heritage of Old Clee, adding: "It would remind people what we are fighting for."

A YEAR in business has flown by for Grimsby clothing boutique Love From Italy.

Alex and Garry Scales were a couple who were facing the prospect of unemployment, prompting them to switch careers and open a ladies fashion store in the town centre.

Love From Italy, a business based across the road from shopping giant Freshney Place in West St Mary's Gate, initially started out with a market stall before the couple bravely decided to take the plunge and open a store.

Now things are going so well, plans are afoot to open a further store in the area within the next year.

"We've now been open a year and things have gone really well," Alex said.

"It's certainly been better than we had ever hoped it would.

"We had no history in this field or industry so we've had to start with a blank canvas. But our previous jobs were both at risk with constant cutbacks so we wanted to take a chance, and so far it's worked out well.

"We have a lot of loyal customers but there's also those people who come in and say they've decided to check us out for the very first time."

The couple, who are born and bred in Grimsby, employ two staff at the shop.

"It was actually our daughter's idea to go with this name for the shop, as we started out with a lot of Italian designs," Alex added.

"But we've actually branched out now and we host a number of exclusive, high-quality products.

"I think customers like it here because there's a nice feel, they don't feel uncomfortable or intimidated – that's why they come back.

"I think we offer something different to the shops in Freshney Place. We don't offer the same old kind of stuff, we're a bit quirky and more individual, meaning people have the chance to get something a bit different.

"It's also the personal service as well which people like, hence why some come in here two or three times a week."

Alex was concerned for her own job due to cuts, and Garry, who worked as a scaffolder, said the work available was becoming less and less.

The idea to create a new business came from Alex's friends at work, who often enquired where she bought her clothes. She said: "I have always looked for unique and boutique-style clothing.

"I would often be asked 'where did you buy that? It looks really nice.'

"When Garry and I were facing the prospect of unemployment we decided we needed to act fast to secure our future.

"I asked my work colleagues if I was to bring some clothes in would they be interested in buying them, and they all responded yes.

"So we bought a few pieces and they all sold. We thought this could be a good little business."

Alex hopes to bring the boutique-style fashion wear to the average shopper.

"We stock boutique fashion and accessories, but we do not want to alienate the average shopper," she said.

"You can walk into some boutique shops and feel lost but here we hope people will feel comfortable to browse at their pleasure.

The women's boutique has a number of offers throughout the year which can be found on their Facebook page.

You can find the shop on Facebook by searching With Love From Italy.

Or to find out more information, call 07735 439285 or e-mail lovefromitaly@hotmail.com

"WE'RE deeply and bitterly disappointed that we cannot keep it going."

That was the reaction of two passionate organisers of the Cleethorpes Air Show which, as reported, will not be going ahead next year.

Mark Sweeney and Andy Almond-Bell, both 53, have helped to successfully stage the fun-filled family event for the past three years but have been forced to stop the regional spectacle for 2015 due to funding problems.

The huge two-day event drew in 200,000 visitors over the weekend in July this year, boosting the local economy by around £7.5 million.

But organisers say it is no longer viable to bring attractions like the Red Arrows as well as other entertainment as part of the show.

They say costs of around £70,000 are a minimum.

Mr Almond-Bell said: "It's not just about aircrafts coming in and doing a display and clearing off – there is more to it.

"The infrastructure and logistics behind such an event are huge and our number one priority for such an event is health and safety.

"We were a team of dedicated volunteers who put hundreds of hours in each year to make the air show happen.

"We made sure we had all the necessary aviation insurance, ground to air communications, a PA system, and strict rules and regulations were in place with regards to safe distances and flight lines – it takes a year of planning.

"We are very grateful for the support we've had, it is going to leave a gap in their schedule as well."

Mr Sweeney conceived the idea for an air show in the North East Lincolnshire resort. The self-confessed "anorak" recalled seeing a show himself in Cleethorpes in 1975 and from that point he always wanted to bring such an event back to the east coast.

He said: "It was about 2005 and I was sat in my garden with a former air show director and I said there were no major events along the east coast and I wanted to create something sustainable for the people of this region with a feel-good factor.

"We are very proud of the event and how it has grown but we've often put our own personal money in to keep it afloat because we are passionate about this area and region. The people who live here deserve a major event.

"It's a free event that caters for everyone and the public have been great and we've received many supportive comments recently. Seeing them enjoy the events over the past few years have made everything so worthwhile, especially the look on children's faces when they see the aircraft, is special."

In comparison, other similar events elsewhere in the country may cost a family more than £60 in admission alone, and donations during the Cleethorpes show did not make enough to keep it going.

Organisers say they were still working to a deficit despite being grateful for all the contributions that were given.

Mr Almond-Bell added: "It is a real shame that we cannot keep it going to the same magnitude; if the council can sustain it then great, we wish them all the best. An established model is in place, we've managed to establish a certain standard and we hope it can continue."

As reported on Christmas Eve, Cleethorpes will still have an air show in 2015, after organisers of the annual Armed Forces event pledged that the second day of the weekend in June next year would include a military air display.

THE following people have been sentenced at Grimsby And Cleethorpes Magistrates' Court:

Stefan Yull, 31, of Beeson Grove, Grimsby, admitted failing to comply with a community order made by Grimsby And Cleethorpes Magistrates' Court on May 15, 2014. The order was made more onerous to have treatment for drug dependency at Foundations, in Queen Street, Grimsby, for 19 weeks and he was ordered to pay £40 costs.

Nicky Clark, 33, of Barcroft Street, Cleethorpes, admitted driving while disqualified in Grimsby Road on September 19, 2014. She was disqualified from driving for 12 months, committed to prison for 12 weeks, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £85 costs and an £80 victims' surcharge.

Hannah Corrigan, 20, of Lister Street, Grimsby, admitted using threatening behaviour, assault by beating and being in possession of an offensive weapon, a glass, on November 29, 2014. She was given a 56-day curfew to end February 13, 2015, and ordered to pay £200 compensation.

Peter Meagher, 43, of Tivoli Gardens, Grimsby, admitted stealing an electric razor, valued at £75, belonging to Sainsburys on November 18, 2014, while subject to a 12-month conditional discharge for theft. Original offence: stole mascara, valued at £82.95, belonging to Boots on September 1, 2014. He was given a six-month community order to participate in a refocus activity for five days, be under curfew for 28 days to end January 16, 2015, and ordered to pay a £15 victims' surcharge.

Laura Mussell, 25, of Carnforth Crescent, Grimsby, admitted using threatening behaviour on November 29, 2014. She was ordered to be under curfew for 56 days to end February 13, 2015, and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £60 victims' surcharge.

Michelle Sison, 44, of Stanley Street, Grimsby, admitted being drunk and disorderly in Freeman Street on November 25, 2014. She was given a nine-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £30 compensation and £40 costs.

Dale Lond, 28, of Rutland Street, Grimsby, admitted stealing two heaters from Asda on November 24 and chocolate bars from Poundland on November 25. He was given a one-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay a £15 victims' surcharge.

Susan Stolworthy, 50, of Ainslie Street, Grimsby, admitted drink-driving and careless driving on October 2. She was fined £250, banned from driving for two years and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £25 victims' surcharge.

A RETIRED district nurse who cares for his two sons was left heartbroken when thieves broke into his car and stole his tools.

Bruce Johnston, of Oak Way in Cleethorpes, said his family felt scared and vulnerable after the incident and said they were left disappointed when police failed to turn up to investigate the crime the next day.

Thieves cruelly broke into the car which was parked in Hollingsworth Close – just yards from the family home – on Sunday, smashing two windows and rear lights before making off with £500 worth of tools and equipment essential for allotment work.

Mr Johnston, who is now a carer for his two sons who both have learning difficulties, told how the family were only alerted to the crime having heard a knock at the door that night.

He said: "It happened about 11pm, the car alarm didn't go off and it wasn't until a neighbour knocked on our door that we knew anything had happened.

"It's terrible that this happened to us but what really gets me most is that we reported it to the police on Sunday night and still nobody has been around to see us – it's shocking.

"On Sunday night they told us that no one was available and we tried again on Monday morning and they told us that the frosty weather would have contaminated the crime scene overnight leaving the slim chance of us getting our stuff back even slimmer."

The 62-year-old continued: "I know they can't be everywhere at once and there's probably not much they would have been able to do anyway but they could at least show up and make their presence known.

"To me it just seems like they've ignored us."

"The incident has really affected the whole family. We all feel very vulnerable right now – none of us could sleep afterwards.

"I'm so angry that it happened but what makes it worse is the police ignoring us – these criminals would steal everything if they could."

Humberside Police said in a statement that various lines of enquiry were considered in the aftermath of the break-in.

A spokesperson for the force appealed for anyone with information to get in touch as soon as possible as investigations into the break-in continue. The force said: "A vehicle was reported to have been broken into in Hollingsworth Close in Cleethorpes between noon and 11.10pm on Sunday, December 28.

"A tool bag containing various tools was taken from the vehicle.

"Various lines of enquiry including forensic opportunities were considered as part of the investigation into the theft."

Anyone with any information which may assist police further is asked to call 101 quoting crime reference number AB/2088783 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

A BUILDER who was caught drink-driving would be left "totally marooned" in the village where he lived and would have to buy a bicycle, Grimsby magistrates heard.

Nicholas Ingamells, 40, who lives on a Tetney caravan site, admitted drink-driving on December 5.

He was collared in Woodsley Avenue, Cleethorpes, at night and a breath test revealed he had 69mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

Ingamells told the court he would never have driven if he had known he was over the limit. He would be "totally marooned" if he lost his licence and his self-employed business would suffer.

"I have made it ever so hard for myself," he said. "I will buy myself a pushbike.

"There will be some good coming from this. I am sorry I made such a poor decision to drive. I am so regretful for it."

Ingamells had a previous drink-driving conviction in 2003.

He was fined £500, banned from driving for 18 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and a Government-imposed £50 victims' surcharge.

IT IS not every day that you find yourself in the company of one of the globe's leading icons, but the stock of a singer from Immingham has never been higher.

Swing king Gary Williams, 44, who has also previously lived in both Grimsby and Cleethorpes, recently received a rave review from a national newspaper – giving him a better star rating than much-loved star Michael Buble.

He was performing a Christmas show in London at a popular cabaret venue called Crazy Coqs for which The Times gave him four stars, out of a possible five.

In the same list they gave Buble's concert at the capital's O2 arena just three stars.

Gary, who played a local gig at the Parkway Cinema in Cleethorpes last month, said: "It is such a relief when the show is received well, you never know what the reviewers will think.

"It's so subjective. One person could love the show and another hate it.

"Space in national newspapers is so limited these days that it's hard to get reviewed at all.

"We waited two years for The London Evening Standard to come along and almost ten years for The Times, that's why it's such a relief when they like it."

When asked about what he enjoys most about performing, he said: "I like entertaining people. Of course I love to sing but I think of myself as an entertainer more than a singer.

"I like making people laugh and helping them remember special moments in their lives through the songs I sing."

He recalls "many happy memories" during his time with Grimsby-based Stage One Theatre Group where he developed his love for theatre and singing, taking part in productions of Guys And Dolls, My Fair Lady and South Pacific.

He added: "That all gave me the confidence to get my own act together.

"I got a PA and started singing solo in the Beachcomber and local pubs and clubs.

"It was hard work and I'd come home in the early hours stinking of cigarettes, but the experience was invaluable. I wouldn't change a minute of it.

"It's always such a pleasure to perform in the area.

"If I'm completely honest when I was young I couldn't wait to get out and see the world. I was ambitious.

"As I got older I mellowed out and now have such affection for Grimsby.

"I've toured up and down the country and visited lots of towns.

"What makes Grimsby special is its people.

"Grimsby people are friendly, genuine and sincere. I feel such a connection with the area through the people."

Gary will return to the Parkway, in Cleethorpes, on Sunday, May 3, with his Frank Sinatra show. Tickets are on sale now and you can find details by visiting his website at www.garywilliams.co.uk

AWARD-winning blogger Too Good To Go Down dissects Grimsby Town's dismal derby defeat to Lincoln and ponders potential January signings...

YOU'D be forgiven for thinking the attendance during Sunday's 3-1 home defeat to Lincoln was a lot less than the 7,100 who packed Blundell Park, such was the lack of atmosphere.

Unfortunately for the home fans who sold out their stands, Town failed to turn up in front of the big crowd as Lincoln's supporters celebrated Christmas by taking six points from their Lincolnshire rivals.

There was nothing to shout about for the home supporters, as Lincoln scored twice just before half- time to set up their fully deserved victory.

It was cold and quiet in the stands with desperately disappointing fare served up on the pitch.

It's not the first time the Mariners have frozen in front of a big Blundell Park crowd – can anyone remember the last time we played in front of 7,000+ at home and won?

Town's away form is something to cherish and the 1-0 win at Macclesfield on Boxing Day was a fantastic result. Two defeats in 13 away games is certainly promotion form.

But the home form continues to be inconsistent and is the reason why the Mariners are behind Barnet in the table. Seven wins from 14 home matches isn't great going – and take out the seven goals against Alfreton and we've netted just 16 from 13 matches, not enough to win matches.

With the January transfer window set to re-open this week, attentions will be turned to potential incomings and I suspect a new striker – if Paul Hurst can find one – may have to be top of the list.

Something else which has alarmed me in recent home games is our defending at corners. Town have conceded carbon copy goals against both Forest Green and Lincoln as a result of failing to close out an attacking player picking up a loose ball.

Admittedly both Stokes and Adams' goals in the two matches were both great hits, but I'm not sure I'd be happy if I was manager with the fact both players managed to strike the ball unchallenged.

Adams, in particular, was in acres of space before unleashing his goal of the season contender. Town failed to clear their lines but had so many players deep in their own box, there was nobody able to win that crucial second ball.

In contrast, Lincoln kept two or three players up front when defending their own corners, which allowed them to break quickly and effectively as they often seemed quicker to the loose balls as they were cleared.

I'm sure there's a good reason why Town feel the need to have so many players so deep in their own box, and no player on the edge of it, so if someone can enlighten me I'd be grateful!

Sadly for Town, that wonder strike on Sunday changed the game completely and the Mariners never recovered from the sucker punch.

There's still a long way to go, but lessons need to learned if we're to make it third time lucky in the Play-Offs this spring.

A GRANDFATHER accused of murdering his own nine-year-old grandson has appeared at Lincoln Crown Court.

Stewart James Greene nodded only to confirm his name during the 12-minute hearing held yesterday morning.

The 64-year-old is accused of murdering his grandson Alex Robinson on December 23.

No pleas were entered and there was no application for bail.

The Crown Prosecution Service were represented by Robby Singh and Greene was represented by Tim Spencer QC.

Greene, of Danes Court, Grimoldby, near Louth, was remanded in custody by Judge Michael Heath.

He will next appear at Lincoln Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on April 24.

Greene was arrested on December 23 after emergency services were called to a terraced house in Pennell Street, Lincoln, where his grandson lived.

Alex was rushed to Lincoln County Hospital by ambulance but died shortly afterwards.

Greene was later charged with murder on Christmas Eve after police received details of a post-mortem examination on the boy.

The cause of Alex's death has not been revealed.

As reported, friends and family paid tribute to the nine-year-old on Facebook.

His father John Robinson wrote: "My little boy up in heaven the brightest star shining ever xxx."

One of Mr Robinson's relatives, who uses the name Gen Robbo, wrote: "My beautiful nephew the brightest star in the sky."

And Jamie Bolam wrote on Mr Robinson's page: "Gutting is not the word John. I know how much your kids mean to you, life is so cruel and no words will make your loss better. RIP Alex."

Neighbours in Lincoln also spoke of their shock.

Paula Smith, 43, said: "I feel so sorry for the family. I used to see the little boy going up and down the street on his scooter being followed by his little sister.

"I can't believe that this has happened. It's tragic and it's awful.

"He was such a pleasant little boy who always said hello."

GRIMSBY Town boss Paul Hurst is hopeful that their derby defeat to Lincoln City won't take too many off the gate for the New Year's Day visit of Macclesfield.

A huge home crowd of 6,302 were stunned as the Imps sealed a league double over their fierce rivals for the first time since the 1976/77 season.

Hurst maintains that, despite the defeat, the home fans inside Blundell Park still witnessed some good football and, on another day, could have been the ones celebrating at the final whistle.

He said: "Of course there are one or two that are unhappy and said one or two things that I felt were unfair on the team – but I think they saw that the lads put a shift in, played some good football and on another day they would have seen a lot more goals from us.

"I'll have to watch the game back, but my genuine thoughts stood on the sideline on Sunday was that we hadn't played that badly – because we didn't.

"We put a big effort in but it wasn't quite meant to be.

He added: "It's great when there's that kind of crowd and that kind of atmosphere – it's a shame we couldn't send them home happy – but in general, we've done okay in that respect this season and hopefully they'll be back on New Year's Day for what is another big game for us."

Carl Magnay and Scott Neilson were both forced off through injury against the Imps, while Craig Clay also sustained a knock to his ankle.

However, Hurst is hopeful that the trio may be able to recover in time for Town's 2015 curtain-raiser.

He continued: "Carl got a knock on his ankle in a challenge early in the first half and Craig's is also an ankle problem.

"You get these things and you have to get on with it. Hopefully they're not too serious and they can be back available to us again soon."

THE NUMBER of children being permanently excluded from school rocketed from just five to 23 in the space of a year in North East Lincolnshire.

However, this figure is still well down on the school year of 2010-11, where 63 schoolchildren were excluded, and 61 during 2011-12.

It was claimed that the figures were so high between 2010 and 2012 as leaders took more of a "zero-tolerance" approach to bad behaviour.

In 2012, Councillor Chris Shaw, the leader of North East Lincolnshire Council (NELC), claimed that exclusion levels had "surged" since schools started converting to academies.

Councillor Ray Sutton is the chair of NELC's Children and Young People scrutiny panel.

A report on school exclusions was one of the items considered at their most recent meeting.

Councillor Sutton said: "The number of permanent exclusions at secondary schools has gone up again after dropping in previous years.

"Academies are becoming increasingly responsible for the future performance of those they exclude and the money follows the learner.

"Members therefore expressed caution at the increase and wanted reassurance that all secondary academies are working consistently to create support structures that will avoid permanent exclusions.

"For instance there was a discussion about the many ways of interpreting 'defiance' and weighing its severity.

"At primary level, there had been only two permanent exclusions and a fall in fixed-term exclusions from 141 to 122. They heard that the exclusion pattern in primary education is being monitored carefully."

Last year it was revealed that schooling for badly behaved children can cost taxpayers more than £20,000 a year for each pupil.

Government figures showed in 2013 that the percentage of students excluded in North East Lincolnshire is the highest in the UK – at 0.21 per cent – with some expressing fears that academies were excluding challenging children to lift attainment figures.

National figures for 2012/13 also showed that 670 children were permanently excluded from primary schools in England, accounting for 14 per cent of all exclusions – with physical assault on an adult the most common reason.

Councillor Tim Mickleburgh (Lab, West Marsh) said: "It seems after past problems with certain educational establishments that those being excluded are only being excluded because of serious factors such as violence to members of staff."

Councillor Iain Colquhoun (Con, Waltham) said a scheme launched in 2012 by the council alongside its education partner Serco has made a "considerable" difference.

The Behaviour and Attendance Collaborative (BAC) involves weekly meetings at all academies and schools to share ideas on dealing with challenging behaviour.

Councillor Colquhoun said: "BAC had a dramatic effect in year one in reducing exclusions. And it does appear that it is still working.

"Exclusions are slightly up on last year but it's nothing that is too upsetting."

Has your child been excluded from their school? E-mail us at newsdesk@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk to share your story.

A GP, writer and poet is about to have his debut novel published.

Dr Robert Jaggs-Fowler is the senior partner at a medical practice in Barton-Upon-Humber, where he has worked for 25 years.

He is also a published writer and poet and won the Lincoln Book Festival Prize for Fiction in 2005 and the Fathom Prize for Poetry in 2010.

Now, he is making his first foray into the world of novels with Lamplight In The Shadows.

The story, mostly set locally, focuses on a young, newly-qualified GP.

Robert said: "Lamplight In The Shadows links the two worlds of medicine and the church against a backdrop of human desires and relationships.

"It is a thinking-person's love story, falling into the genre of an 'intellectual romance'.

"It was born out of a life-long passion for books and writing, the privilege and experiences of being a rural GP for 25 years and the resultant exposure to the tapestry of interwoven complexities of many people's personal lives.

"Inevitably, a writer draws on his own experience and the people he knows when forming a story.

"Combined with my own multiple and diverse interests, along with a lifelong struggle with my own sense of religious vocation, a story gradually evolved to link these many strands and the two professions of medicine and the church.

"That said, no one character represents anyone in real life, so patients may be disappointed if they think they are going to appear in it."

Set in the early 1990s, the story alternates between the rural backdrop of East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, with forays into the Yorkshire Dales, North Devonshire and Malta.

Dr James Armstrong, a young, newly qualified GP, lives with his wife Janice in Barminster, where he is busy laying out plans for their future.

However, his search for a medical partnership is complicated by a long-term and persistent sense of being called to ordination in the Church of England.

While exploring the possibility of a dual professional life as a doctor-priest, he accepts a position as a locum GP in a practice in the quiet market town of Bishopsworth.

Once there, his world is thrown into chaos when he finds himself powerfully drawn into an emotional drama that brings into focus the underlying difficulties of his own bleak relationship.

Torn between his loyalty to his wedding vows and his strong Christian principles, James is left battling powerful emotions that make him question all that he has previously stood for.

He needs to make some difficult decisions – decisions that will mean winners and losers. But what is he prepared to sacrifice and at what price?

Robert said: "Lamplight in the Shadows explores the complex tensions between perceived duty and misplaced loyalties, passionate love, and the inner drive and yearning of priestly discernment.

"With a cast of characters richly drawn from rural society and religious settings, the story is one of diverse desires.

The result is an intellectual romance with a touch of humour."

A Kentish man by birth, Robert has degrees in medicine and law and is currently a part-time postgraduate theology student at Durham University.

He also regularly writes columns for the Grimsby Telegraph and for The Journal.

Asked how a busy doctor manages to find the time to write, Robert said: "I get up between 4.30am and 5am in order to write for a couple of hours before heading off for the surgery."

The early starts obviously work as Robert is not new to the world of publishing, having had his first collection of poetry A Journey With Time published in 2008.

An academic text, The Law And Medicine: Friend or Nemesis? followed in 2013 and he is now working on his second collection of poetry and a second novel.

A former Major in the British Army, Robert served with the Royal Army Medical Corps for 11 years.

He is a member of the Society Of Authors, The Poetry Society, and the Royal Society Of Literature.

Robert is a keen supporter of the arts, and is a patron of the Barton Amateur Dramatic Society, a vice-president of the Barton Town Band and a patron of the Duck Egg Theatre Company.

He is a trustee for the Barton Relief In Sickness Fund.

His musical interests include playing the piano, alto and tenor saxophones, classical guitar and clarinet.

In his spare time, he enjoys hill walking, ornithology, photography, reading, and appreciating fine wines and malt whiskies.

In addition to his work as a GP, he is the medical director for the North Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and a GP board member for the CCG governing body.

He additionally fulfils the roles of named doctor for safeguarding (children and adults), and is the clinical lead for mental health services.

He also undertakes work as a GP appraiser.

Robert has been a member of the St John Ambulance for more than 43 years.

Formerly a county commander (Humberside), assistant chief commander (England), acting chief medical officer (England), and a trustee for the ambulance and priory, he currently serves as a member of the Ceremonial Group for the Priory of England and the Islands at St John's Gate in Clerkenwell, London.

Lamplight In The Shadows is officially due for release on February 28, 2015, published by Troubador (www.troubador.co.uk/book_info.asp?bookid=3074).

It will be available through all major booksellers but signed copies are available now by contacting Robert via his website, www.robertjaggs-fowler.com

IT was on his bucket list to reach Base Camp at Mount Everest.

Despite suffering a broken nose in a rockslide, sunburn and sleep deprivation, Jason McCusker is proud to say he's done it.

The Humberside Police officer, based in Grimsby, spent 22 days in Nepal in October, and was caught up in the severe weather which caused several fatalities.

He chose to raise money for St Andrew's Hospice, a Grimsby charity he supports wholeheartedly.

He completed the grueling trek with good friend and fellow police staff member Andy Thorpe, who raised money for London's Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Jason recalled his "amazing and surreal" experience.

"Overall it was one of the best things I've ever done in my life," he said.

"But there were some hairy moments, and weird ones too.

"One thing I wasn't really expecting was that a few of us felt unwell because of the weather.

"It was 20 degrees in the day time and minus five at night. Those changes in temperature were strange to deal with as we'd be in shorts and then in thermals, wrapped up in a sleeping bag and nursing sunburn!

"In Katmandu, the temperature was even hotter, at about 25 degrees. It was like being in Tenerife, and it is a beautiful place. I'd love to go back to visit some time.

"I'm not sure if it's because I'm ex-British Forces but I like to think I coped well. I've been all around the world and done all sorts of things."

Jason served from 1986 to 2000, including in the Falklands.

He continued: "My previous experiences meant I was already prepared emotionally for the challenge, because that is one of the biggest things to face when tackling something like this.

"Obviously you have to be prepared physically too, but mental and emotional stamina is so important.

"You're tired, and it's draining. We had to get up at 6am, and I couldn't really sleep at night, perhaps two hours at the most. I would just lay there and think."

Jason completed the challenge with eight others.

"The comradeship was great," he said. "We supported each other and kept each other going. When we got to Base Camp, the girls were crying and the guys were giving hi-fives. It was brilliant and very surreal. It's like the surface of the moon, and there are no paths so you have to walk through rocks.

"The peacefulness, if the landscape wasn't so beautiful, would be eerie, actually.

"As we approached Base Camp, we could see people in the distance and then all of a sudden we were there.

"I felt relief. I got there, looked around and there was a moment when we were silent and just looking at each other.

"It was total incomprehension for a while, and then a shiver went through me and I thought 'We've done it'.

"It's a feeling I will never ever forget."

Jason wanted to tackle Everest because it was on his bucket list. He lost two stone in weight during the 22-day trip in October, living on garlic and noodle soups, and macaroni.

Perhaps even more dramatic than reaching Base Camp was when the party was affected by sudden bad weather, which caused several fatalities.

Hundreds of people became trapped in the Himalayas after the area was hit by a sudden snowstorm.

Jason was caught in a rockslide which broke his nose, fractured his cheekbone and gave him a black eye.

"I had concussion because I basically hit the rockface," he explained. "I was more upset that it had broken my sunglasses! There were avalanches and rockslides, and I fell over, hitting the mountain with my face.

"I could hear the rocks as they fell. It was nerve-wracking to say the least!"

Jason lives in Grimsby with Tracy, and has a son, Ben, 21. The family have a menagerie of pets; a foal called Destiny, and six chickens – Brian, Keith, Thomas, Dowager Countess Lady Violet, Lady Mary and an unnamed one.

They also have three dogs, George, a long-haired Jack Russell, and brothers, black Labradors Doyle and Bodie, who are named after characters in the TV show The Professionals.

Doyle was diagnosed with cancer before he left for Everest. "I took hundreds of photos in case I never saw him again, but now he's having treatment and putting on weight, so he's doing well.

"I felt like I'd been away from home for so long."

Jason, who has worked for Humberside Police for 14 years, raised more than £3,000 for St Andrew's Hospice through the trek.

He now wants to swim with sharks and run with the bulls in Pamplona – two more ticks off his bucket list.

And he has set himself a task for 2015 – to embark on 12 different challenges, one a month, all for the hospice.

"I'm not quite sure what yet," he added. "I do fancy breaking a Guinness World Record. Basically ... watch this space!"

The following people have been sentenced by Grimsby magistrates:

Andrew Paul Dickinson, 31, of Brereton Avenue, Cleethorpes, admitted two offences of fraud by advertising bike parts for sale on August 26 and November 11 last year. He was given an 18-month conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £250 compensation.

David James Murray, 36, of Grimsby Road, Cleethorpes, admitted assaulting Robert McGill and damaging clothes belonging to him on March 7 and failing to attend a follow-up drug assessment on April 4. He was given a one-year conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £200 compensation.

Joanne Peacher, 45, of Barnard Walk, Immingham, admitted making threatening 999 telephone calls on September 30, October 9, December 7, 19 and 21. She was given a 12-week suspended prison sentence and was ordered to pay an £80 victim surcharge.

Terry Walker, 31, of Haycroft Street, Grimsby, admitted stealing fishing equipment and damaging windows between October 1 and 4. He was given a one-year supervision order, with nine months' drug rehabilitation and was ordered to pay £250 compensation.

January will see the woman in black make another terrifying appearance in The Woman In Black 2: Angel Of Death on January 2. Forty years after the first haunting at Eel Marsh House, a group of children evacuated from Second World War London arrive, once again awakening the house's darkest inhabitant.

February will have you hot under the collar as E.L James' bestseller 50 Shades Of Grey hits cinema screens.

The film released on February 8 follows literature student Anastasia Steele whose life changes forever when she meets handsome, yet tormented, billionaire Christian Grey.

March will see the search for the owner of a familiar glass slipper begin again as Disney release a live action version of Cinderella, bringing the magic back to audiences on March 13.

Lily James stars in the title role, with Cate Blanchett as the Stepmother and Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother.

April sees Furious 7 zoom onto cinema screens. After Paul Walker's tragic death in 2013, this film became more than just the seventh installment in this series, instead becoming a goodbye to him and his Fast And Furious family.

May 1 will see The Avengers reunite once again in The Avengers: Age of Ultron. With S.H.I.E.L.D. destroyed, Iron Man, Tony Stark attempts to create a peacekeeping program with Ultron, a self-aware, self-teaching artificial intelligence. This backfires when Ultron decides that the human race is the enemy and must be destroyed forcing The Avengers to team up again to save the world.

Mad Max is set to be rebooted on March 15 with Tom Hardy in the lead role. Max, now alone in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, meets Furiosa played by Charlize Theron and helps her across the dangerous desert.

June 12 will see another sequel set 22 years after the events of the original, Isla Nublar, now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World, as originally envisioned by John Hammond.

After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, the park's geneticists create a genetically-modified hybrid dinosaur to boost visitor attendance, which soon runs wild on the island.

On June 19, Pixar will release another gem, Inside Out. The film will be set in the head of a young girl, Riley Anderson, where five emotions – Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear and Sadness – try to lead the girl through her life.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is set to make a return to the Terminator series for the first time since 2003 in Terminator Genisys on July 1. Set in 2029, John Connor, the leader of the resistance, continues the war against the machines. At the Los Angeles offensive, John's fears of the unknown future begin to emerge when spies reveal a new plot by Skynet that will attack him from two fronts, past and future, and will ultimately change warfare forever.

July sees Despicable Me's iconic Minions getting their very own movie. This time we learn more about the origins of the Minions, who have existed since the beginning of time, evolving from single-celled organisms into beings who have only one purpose: to serve history's most despicable masters.

Peter Pan will fly back onto screens on July 17. In this story we follow Peter before the events of the Darling children, taking us back to the origins of Peter himself. He is taken to a mysterious new place called Neverland, ruled by Blackbeard played by Hugh Jackman. He befriends a man named James Hook and they come together to fight off the evil pirate.

August 7 heralds the arrival of The Fantastic Four in another reboot, this time with Miles Teller, Michael B. Jordan, Kate Mara and Jamie Bell taking on the roles of the new Fantastic Four, and their fight against Dr Doom will be as real and action-packed as ever.

Everyone's favourite childhood horror stories are also set to haunt our screens once more on August 7 as R.L. Stine's Goosebumps get the big screen treatment. This time a young boy teams up with the niece of young adult horror author R.L. Stine after the writer's imaginary demons are set free on the town of Greendale, in Maryland.

September 18 will have us scaling a mountain with Jake Gyllenhaal as he joins Keira Knightley in a trek up Everest.Will the pair survive after the climbing expedition is devastated by a severe snow storm?

Check into Hotel Transylvania again as the sequel hits screens on September 25. This time it's a collision of supernatural proportions as old-school vampire Vlad arrives at the hotel for an impromptu family get-together.

October 2 will bring some horror to Halloween month withVictor Frankenstein. Told from the perspective of Igor, played by Daniel Radcliffe, we see the troubled young assistant's dark origins, his redemptive friendship with the young medical student Viktor Von Frankenstein, and become eyewitnesses to the emergence of how Frankenstein became the man who created the legend we know today.

Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book is set for a live action release on October 9. The Disney reboot will see orphan boy Mowgli raised in the jungle with the help of a pack of wolves, a bear, and a black panther.

November 9 has Bond back on top form in Spectre, where Daniel Craig will be reprising his role as the famous British spy. The movie tells the story of a cryptic message from an unlikely source that sets James Bond navigating the layers of a sinister organisation known as SPECTRE.

"Fire is catching and, if we burn, you burn with us" will be on everyone's lips as we return to Panem for the epic conclusion to the Hunger Games on November 20. Picking up immediately after the events of Mockingjay – Part 1, Part 2 will follow Katniss Everdeen as she battles her through The Capitol but her true enemy may not be who it seems.

December 18 brings an end to the year with the film we've all been waiting for: Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Set approximately 30 years after the events of Return Of The Jedi, The Force Awakens brings old faces Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher alongside new ones John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, and Adam Driver in the fun and endless universe that George Lucas built. Now heralded by J.J. Abrams, the Star Wars adventures continue in a new and exciting fashion.