SO the Olympics has, after what can only be described as a glorified Coldplay concert, finally come to a close.

With the torch extinguished, I have to admit that I can look back over this summer and say, as many have before me, 'we done good'.

Previously an Olympic sceptic, I dreaded the idea of spending a summer having to settle for watching the velodrome when my favourite BBC dramas had been barged out of the equation.

Don't get me wrong, I love sport, but watching faceless athletes roar around a sweaty stadium in specially controlled temperatures? Not for me.

However, as autumn begins and flags go down, I have to accept that London 2012 has (just about), managed to convert me.

To get my head around this, I have come up with a number of reasons explaining why my cynicism is down to a bare minimum.

1 I have made up for lost time in year 9, where listening was just not the thing to do, and have finally learned about the Industrial Revolution.

Apparently it was all very dramatic and a lot of people danced.

I actually managed to come up with the relevant date in a recent sixth form discussion having watched the opening ceremony. Cheers, Danny Boyle.

2 Despite the absurd amount of money spent, I can hand on heart say there really were some priceless moments.

For me, Britain winning gold in the dressage, or 'equestrian ballet' as the nation now knows it, was especially satisfying.

Most of us can't dance as well as those horses!

The gymnastics and diving were also outstanding to watch, as well as the mighty BMX-ers.

Apart from anything else, who knew our country was hiding so many very eligible bachelors?

Add this of course the ever-beautiful David Beckham suited and booted, driving a speedboat down an illuminated River Thames at night, and it's a wonder A&E's nation wide weren't filling up with fainting women.

3 'London's going to be packed, Stratford horrific, the tube's a living nightmare'. In fact, miraculously, none of this happened.

Having visited London at the time of the Olympics, it has to be said that the atmosphere on the underground was one of smiles and mutual belonging, something I have never seen before.

I'm not blind enough to assume this will continue; one thing Londoners are best at is avoiding eye contact, but it was nice while it lasted.

As well as this, to my delight, Soho and the usual tourist hangouts were EMPTY.

I could literally skip down Oxford Street, and the queue in Topshop was just a fraction of the mile-long affair that usually has to be endured.

Okay, so this was bad for business, and the economy didn't exactly get the kick-start that Mr Cameron had hoped for, but once again it was nice while it lasted.

4 Out goes vajazzles, in come running shoes.

The Olympics has managed to create a new type of celebrity, the type that are actually legitimate role models for children.

With trash mags brimming with which z-lister went out looking rough on a Sunday, and fame-grabbing dummies 'accidentally' leaking sex tapes in order to sign up for the next reality show, watching Jessica Ennis selling skin products all over the television is actually very refreshing.

There are new idols to look up to, new personal stories to relate to, and kids doing the 'Mobot' instead of the 'slut-drop'.

Whether this is for the long term is again doubtful, but the aftermath of London 2012 has brought more than just a boost in gym memberships to the country.

If kids can be inspired by anything, it's the Olympics.

5 The ample opportunities to laugh at London's mayor.

Whether it was the overly long floppy fringe that bounced when he sneezed, or the enthusiastically crazy head-bopping witnessed by the nation when the Spice Girls reformed, or the pronouncement at the Olympic parade that "paroxysms of tears and joy on the sofas of Britain not only inspired a generation, but probably helped to create one as well", the Capital's mayor at least added some comic relief to the proceedings. Good on him.

TWO DJs are organising a nostalgia-filled tea party in aid of Age UK North East Lincolnshire, as part of their new business venture together.

Friends Steve Rusling and Richard Lake will host an afternoon tea party at Grimsby Leisure Centre, in Cromwell Road, on Wednesday, October 3, from 1pm until 4pm.

It is the first fundraiser the duo have organised as part of their new business, Lake Marketing and Events, based at the Enterprise Village, in Prince Albert Gardens.

Steve, who has been a DJ for 12 years and worked on cruise ships, said: "We both have a lot of experience in the entertainment industry and decided to put it to good use by organising a fun-filled event aimed at over 50s.

"Since my dad passed away, my mum has spent a lot of time at home on her own and I realised there must be a lot of other people in the same situation who would appreciate something to do, too."

For a small entrance fee of £3, anybody attending the afternoon tea party will get free tea or coffee and be able to enjoy a delicious scone with jam and cream.

Entertainment will include music from the 1920s to the 1960s, along with a local music student playing the piano, a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, prize bingo, dominoes and a whist drive.

Richard, who has been a DJ for 11 years and founded the business with Steve six months ago, added: "Even though our business has only been up and running for a few months, we wanted to give something back to the community.

"Although it's primarily aimed at over 50s, there will be something for people of all ages to enjoy."

As reported, Age UK North East Lincolnshire moved from The Elms to premises in Osborne Street, Grimsby, at the beginning of the year.

Chief officer Sheilagh Coulson said: "We constantly need donations to allow us to continue offering the wide range of services we do.

"We are extremely grateful to Steve and Richard for organising this event in aid of Age UK North East Lincolnshire and we hope everyone who attends has a fabulous time."

For more information or to buy tickets, go to www.event-tickets.org.uk

"WE SAVED the centre for you – now come and use it."

That is the message from kickboxing campaigners after they rescued Immingham Resource Centre from closure – and have now launched a new club there.

As reported, angry residents and clubs associated with the centre launched a petition to save the centre after North East Lincolnshire Council announced their plans to close the centre in Margaret Street earlier this year.

The campaign worked and now members of the Immingham Freestyle Kickboxing Club – formerly called Extreme Kickboxing Club – are urging more people to join their club and learn the martial art.

Run by Jamie Charlton – former fourth Great Britain champion black belt – and his niece, Stevie-Lyn Hodson, they have relaunched the club under a new name following months of uncertainty during the talks of closure.

Stevie, who took up the sport ten years ago after being bullied at school, hopes now the centre is safe more people will sign up to the club.

She said: "I was obviously so thrilled when the Resource Centre was saved. It is a home to us as a team and means I can continue doing what I love. Now we want to turn the club around and get more people involved.

"The club is friendly and fun and it helps build people's fitness and confidence whilst learning a new skill."

The club teaches kickboxing, self-defence, freestyle and fitness at the twice-weekly sessions which are for both sexes from the age of 11 and above.

Among them are Greg Morrison, 25, of Immingham, who has been kickboxing on and off for three years.

He said: "I stopped due to injury and general laziness but have come back since they started back up. I get a lot of fitness out of it and I am learning a lot.

"It is great to have a club like this in Immingham and I was concerned when they were thinking about closing it."

Kieran Hiles, 22, a trainee sports teacher, said: "The sessions cater for everyone. It is friendly and the coaches really support the new members. More people need to come and give it a go. It is here for everyone."

Gemma Drinkhall, 29, has been kickboxing for a year and was a member when it was Extreme Kickboxing Club. She said: "It teaches you how to work as part of a team and gives you a higher level of fitness. I didn't want this place to close. It is part of the local community and people should come and give it a try."

Stevie added: "People have got to just give it a go. It has helped me to fight a lot of demons from being bullied. It built my confidence and made me who I am today and I would urge anyone looking to combat bullying or self-confidence problems to give it a go."

Sessions run on Wednesdays from 8.15pm to 9.15pm and Fridays from 7pm to 9pm. For more information, contact Stevie on 07580 113489.

CLEETHORPES teenage golfer India Clyburn has followed in the footsteps of top professionals by winning the Midlands Ladies Championship.

The 15-year-old took a break from the British Open – watching her older sister Holly's superb performance at Hoylake – to win the Midlands final at Branston Golf Club, Staffordshire.

India visited the Open with her parents to support Holly who, competing as an amateur in the major, finished joint 26th – the highest placed English golfer overall.

Watching her sister competing alongside the top players in women's golf gave India an added spark for when she faced Emma Newlove, of Notts, in the final.

"It certainly made me want to play my best," said India, who won the matchplay showdown against Newlove, 4 and 3.

"It was inspiring to watch the best players in the world as one day I'd love to play in the Open.

"It happened at a crazy time with Holly playing.

"Luckily we didn't miss much of that because play on Friday, when I was competing, was cancelled due to high winds.

"It felt really good to win, particularly after the final event had been postponed for different days because of the bad weather.

"Previous winners have been Melissa Reid and Felicity Johnson, who are now both touring professionals, so I'm hoping this will be the first of some big wins and that I can follow in their footsteps."

India qualified for the Midlands Ladies Championship in July, finishing joint second in a field of golfers from Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Shropshire and Staffordshire.

After beating Staffordshire's Emily Coleman in her quarter-final, she saw off the top qualifier, Florence King from Leicestershire, 3 and 2.

In the final against 18-year-old Newlove, India was two shots down after four holes.

But the Cleethorpes youngster rallied back with a few birdies before taking the spoils 4 and 3.

The Midlands title success built on her solid 13th-place at the North of England Championships this season.

Also, India won the Lincolnshire Golf Union Les Johnson Trophy last month at Cleethorpes Golf Club.

She shot a gross 73 to win the event, finishing eight shots clear of nearest rival Lilly Far, from Gainsborough.

There are many young people living in North East Lincolnshire who are waiting to be loved and cared for by foster parents, and there's a chance for you to make a difference. The Grimsby Telegraph finds out more...

PETER'S experience of family life at home was one of neglect and violence.

When he first went into care aged nine, he could not manage his behaviour at school or home. He ran away, was excluded from education and caused damage when he became frustrated.

The youngster spent time in a residential setting with clear boundaries and routines and consistent adult guidance and support.

As a result, he has now had the opportunity to return to and settle in his education, and his behaviour has improved – although he will continue to need assistance to manage his behaviour.

Now, Peter is ready to move to a family home with a foster carer who can continue to provide consistent routines and boundaries and give Peter the life opportunities he may not have had previously.

James is also looking for a family to support him.

His parents never bonded with him. For the first three years of his life, he wasn't played with, or even spoken to.

He did not experience a nurturing, loving environment, and this has caused a developmental delay; in particular, he is behind in his speech.

Since being in care, his development has improved significantly with stimulation, love and care.

He will always need lots of support and encouragement but is now ready to move into a family home with carers who can provide this until he is an adult.

Peter and James are not alone. There are many young people living in North East Lincolnshire who need care through fostering.

And now, North East Lincolnshire Council is looking for new foster carers to ease the burdens some children are facing.

A spokesperson for the council's fostering team said: "There are a number of children and young people requiring foster care in the area.

"Some have survived traumatic, life-changing circumstances. Others have challenging behaviours or health difficulties.

"All require foster carers to provide stable, safe, calming environments to give them a chance to recover and sometimes see them into adulthood.

"Modern fostering is a career and demands a great deal of time and commitment. It often requires at least one partner to be at home, available for the child and able to deal with meetings, appointments and emergencies.

"Most of all fostering requires carers to be accountable and considerate in their dealings, even with the most challenging child.

"There is a payment package available for the carers with the required skills but foster carers do not need professional qualifications."

If you think you can make a difference and would like to know more, you are encouraged to attend one of the presentation and information events being held in Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

They are on: Monday at Cleethorpes Memorial Hall; and Wednesday at the Humber Royal Hotel, Grimsby. Presentations are at 1pm and 6pm on both days.

Councillor Ian Lindley, portfolio holder for people services at the council, added: "Foster carers are ordinary people doing remarkable things for young people every day. We would like anyone with an interest in fostering to attend one of our events next week.

"There will be presentations and opportunities to talk to foster carers, as well as social workers and residential managers and have your questions answered."

BATTLING toddler Jack Ramsey will be making the splash of a lifetime thanks to the donation of a family holiday.

The toddler, who celebrated his first birthday in June, will enjoy a holiday at Center Parcs later this year thanks to house sales executive Hannah Sheppard.

As reported, Jack was diagnosed with Wilms' tumour – a type of kidney cancer before he was even a year old.

Following chemotherapy, he underwent surgery earlier this year to remove the tumour and his entire kidney.

He is now in remission, but will need regular check ups for the next two years.

And when Hannah, who works for Linden Homes on its Freshney Green site, heard of the little boy's plight she donated the money she raised in the Humber Half Marathon to Jack.

She embarked on a personal fitness challenge this year after giving up smoking as her new year's resolution.

She raised several hundred pounds in sponsorship from the event, which along with a further donation from Linden Homes, has made the holiday possible.

Mum Jade Melin said: "It has been an extremely anxious time for us all.

"We have spent a lot of time in hospital and while Jack has been recovering at home we haven't been able to go out very much because his immune system has been so weak.

"I was completely surprised when Hannah told us she had been fundraising for Jack, we didn't know she was planning this wonderful gesture and even sponsored her for the half marathon!

"We are so grateful to everyone who has contributed."

As Jack continues to make a good recovery, the family is hoping to make the trip later this year.

Hannah said: "The challenge for me was very fulfilling – both on a personal level and also being able to do something to help Jack and his family."

GRIMSBY'S Army Recruitment Office will continue serving the area, despite a review leading to cutbacks.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said recruitment offices are due to be taken over by private firm Capita next year.

The future of the Grimsby office, in Freeman Street, has been secured, but a question mark hangs over offices in Scunthorpe and Boston.

The Lincoln office, which serves all the armed forces, is also due to continue in service.

The MoD spokesman said: "The Army will always need to recruit large numbers of high-quality young men and women so that it can continue to meet the operational challenges of the future.

"Over the next year we are changing the way in which we recruit by harnessing the expertise of a civilian firm to help us attract the people we need.

"This means there will be some changes, including a smaller number of high street offices, as we make better use of the power of the internet to process applications.

"We will maintain both our high street presence and mobile recruitment capability and the vast majority of young people will still be able to speak with uniformed personnel or reach an office within 90 minutes."

The survival of the Grimsby office, which has been established for 30 years, was welcomed by the leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Councillor Chris Shaw, pictured below.

He served with the 13th and 18th Royal Hussars as a cavalryman. His regiment has since merged with the Light Dragoons.

Having served in Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Canada and Germany, Councillor Shaw said: "I am very pleased the Army Recruitment Office in Freeman Street is staying.

"It shows North East Lincolnshire's links with the Forces is strong, and reinforces the council's pledge of signing the Forces Covenant.

"I hope the servicemen there continue to give their experience to potential recruits. They have given service at the office for quite a while."

Guardsman Sergeant Tony Saxton, 29, said there were currently 200 potential recruits going through the process at Grimsby.

There are about a dozen enquiries made at the office each day – matching Lincoln's office, which serves all three forces.

"We get people who are employed in North East Lincolnshire and throughout Lincolnshire seeking a more secure future, as well as the unemployed," he said.

"It is a good career with a good pension. It is a job for life.

"Between 60 and 70 per cent come in looking for a better life."

All recruits are matched to one of the many careers in the Army, but must have a body mass index of lower than 28.

They must be under 33 years old for the Army and under 42 for the Territorial Army.

The office also recruits a number of service women, who are drawn from nursing and administration jobs.

Sergeant Saxton explained: "There is no use having someone who is 6ft 1in tall applying for a job driving tanks. They won't fit."

A 28-year-old volunteer, who works for North East Lincolnshire Council and did not wish to be named, said: "It is a better chance and better career prospects.

"It is good to have the office in Grimsby because some of the initial visits can be just for a few minutes so you would not want to travel too far just for a couple of minutes."

FOOTBALLING legend and Sky Sports Soccer Saturday pundit Paul Merson kicked off a charity fundraiser and entertained a packed pub of fans.

The former England and Arsenal player spoke frankly about his all-star footballing career at the Seven Seas, in Scartho, to raise money for When You Wish Upon A Star and Tap And Spile FC.

Merson was known as much for his footballing career as he was his turbulent lifestyle, which often saw his name splattered across the tabloids for his antics both on and off the pitch.

Speaking exclusively to the Grimsby Telegraph, he said that although there was "no better buzz" than the one he got from playing, he enjoyed entertaining the 100-strong crowd of football fans and local players.

He said: "That is the main thing for me.

"It is great to see so many people here, especially as it is for a charity. Whatever I can do to help I will. It is a good cause, and if I can help people raise money and awareness I will."

He talked animatedly to the fans about his career and, of course, Grimsby Town and what they have to do to climb out of the conference league.

And while he showed sympathy for the Mariners and their supporters, he wouldn't go as far as saying our fans were up there with the loyalty of Portsmouth FC supporters, who he used to manage.

Event organiser and manager of Tap And Spile FC, Simon North, said: "Paul has had a great career, he was a good player and manager and he has drawn in a big crowd for the evening. People want to hear his stories.

"He is a down-to-earth bloke, which a lot of us can relate to."

Merson also signed Tap And Spile FC, Liverpool FC and England shirts, along with copies of his autobiography.

Among the fans attending was Freddy Darnell, 24, of Grimsby, who said: "It is brilliant that someone of his stature would come to Grimsby and it is great he is doing it for charity."

Lee Dimberline, vice-captain of Tap And Spile, said: "He is one of those successful players that could change a game in a minute. I always enjoyed watching him as a kid."

And while he wasn't sure if his stories would inspire players, Lee hoped the money from the night would help improve their game, adding: "It will get us a better kit, which always makes you play better. I suppose there are similarities between him and our players, only he is a lot better at football!"

Owner of the Tap And Spile Rachael Flint hoped the evening would top their recent £1,200 fundraiser for the charity, adding: "He is a lovely guy and everyone is buzzing off it. It is great for the locals to have a celebrity here."

IT was a Grimsby one-two when Carr Lane Angling Club duo James Whitley and Paul Barnstable went into battle in Doncaster.

The pair were competing in a club match at Tyram Hall.

Everyone feared the worst when league leader Matty Benwell drew the end peg, which looked ideal.

He was casting into open water at the end of the island, but the wind was in the wrong place.

There was a film of scum on the water, and things were difficult – Benwell only caught a couple of pounds.

I was also at that end, and could not get a carp no matter what I tried. I decided to fish for silvers and was kept busy on the pole.

Elsewhere, Whitley decided to fish using the long pole and pellet on the hook. This worked a treat. The carp were all of a decent size and they put up a real fight trying to make their escape.

On the next peg was Barnstable. He was also fishing shallow.

At the end of the match, it was very close. Only six ounces separated the leading duo.

Whitley just clinched it with 29.9lb. Barnstable had 29.3lb.

Third was Shane Bennett, who also caught shallow. He had 22lb.

Rob Thompson was fourth with 19.4lb. He caught on the bomb and method feeder – and also lost a really big fish on the pellet waggler, that just snapped him clean off.

Over at Saltfleetby, there was no stopping the wizard from Market Rasen, Mark Critcher. He was on one of the unfancied pegs, but this did not prevent him from winning. He weighed in 108lb from peg 21.

In second was Grimsby's Glen Tucker, who was on peg 18 and had 72.1lb.

Third was the ever-present Lee Popham who nearly always frames. He had 71.lb from peg 4.

In a midweek match at the venue, Mablethorpe's Paul Underwood won with 55.7lb off peg 3.

There is no open match tomorrow – it is today. Draw is at 11am. Fishing starts at 12pm.

The Island Pond at Messingham produced a bumper weight for one of Grimsby's top commercial pond anglers, Andy Bryant.

'Chippa' as he is commonly referred to, caught 195lb and actually lost a further seven fish which would have taken him well over the 200lb mark.

At Pasture House, the Saturday match was a real struggle. The weights were well down on previous matches.

Dave Birjoo was first with 48.4lb. He was on the main lake and fishing from peg five.

The following day, the fishing was far better and all the anglers enjoyed a decent day's fishing.

Glen Collins was top angler on the day with 76.8lb from peg 21 on the canal.

Grimsby angler Tim Chapman made good use of peg 36 on the main lake to claim second with 54.15lb, just one ounce in front Simon Miller who was also on the main lake on peg 18.

ALL 32 pairings have now been resolved for the grand finals of the 2012 Telegraph Golf Challenge which will be staged at Forest Pines next Thursday.

It promises to be a day of fierce competition in all three sections, spiced-up this year by the chance to win a brand new Hyundai i30 car for a hole-in-one at one of the par threes.

There will be a new name on the Peter Moore Trophy for men, with holders Steve Dixon and Rick Storey having suffered a surprise defeat in round three.

Their conquerors, Ben Mills and Chris Blow, are one of three pairs from Laceby Manor through to the men's finals.

But it's two other single handicap members from that Grimsby area club who might be the ones to watch.

Mark Allonby, who plays off five, was a winner back in 2008, but he has a new partner in Nigel Foster, who plays off six.

They are the lowest-handicapped pairing in the field of 16 men's finalists, although another Laceby Manor player, Rob Mackey, has the lowest individual handicap of plus one.

There are two pairings each from Grange Park and Holme Hall in the finals, plus two from Forest Pines, Ashby Decoy, Elsham, Immingham, Waltham Windmill, Immingham, Grimsby and Tetney.

The ladies final, for the Telegraph Challenge Trophy, promises to be an intriguing affair with three former winners among the field of eight pairs.

The champions of 12 months ago, June Marshall and Kate Greenwood of Forest Pines, will be back to defend their title.

But pushing them hard will be their club colleagues Cei Chaplin and Jean Walker who have been Telegraph champions twice before.

Also in contention will be 2008 winners Liz Turner, of Forest Pines, and her partner Ann Marie Coleman of Elsham.

Leading the challenge to Forest Pines' domination of the ladies section will be Grimsby pairings Julie Allen/Mary Keal and Elaine Hoggarth/Trish Goodwin.

The new seniors section, introduced for the first time this year, sees two pairings from Holme Hall into the finals.

The six other clubs represented in the seniors final are Grange Park, Elsham, Laceby Manor, Waltham Windmill, Cleethorpes and Market Rasen.

All the finalists at Forest Pines will have the chance to win a brand new Hyundai i30 car, in a deal sponsored by Read Hyundai of Grimsby and Lincoln, for the first hole-in-one at the par three seventh on the Pines section of the course.

Play begins with a shotgun start at 10am followed by a performance from David Edwards and his world famous trick shot show.

There will then be a dinner for all the finalists after which the prizes will be presented by Mark Price, managing director of GSMG.

FINAL LINE-UP

LADIES: Janet Godfrey 14 and Sue Booth 13 (Elsham); June Marshall 20 and Kate Greenwood 15 (Forest Pines); Liz Turner 12 (Forest Pines) and Ann Marie Coleman 5 (Elsham); Cei Chaplin 16 and Jean Walker 13 (Forest Pines); Julie Allen 17 and Mary Keal 18 (Grimsby); Elaine Hoggarth 22 and Trish Goodwin 20 (Grimsby); Lynne Sutton 21 and Kay Clark 18 (Forest Pines); Helen Scruton 20 and Wyn Davis 21 (Forest Pines).

SENIORS: Ed Tippett 14 and Bob Parr 8 (Waltham Windmill); Ian Ribey 12 and Vic Blanchard 21 (Market Rasen); Jim Herbert 20 and Alan Brown 11 (Grange Park); Stuart Cranidge 17 and George McIntosh 8 (Holme Hall); John Bayliss 15 and Tony Dann 12 (Cleethorpes); Pete Moss 10 and John Drust 15 (Holme Hall); Anthony Hayes 10 (Elsham) and Brian Watkinson 13 (Market Rasen); Richard Smart 19 and Chris Mauirer 16 (Laceby Manor).

MEN: Roger Davies 12 and Nick Larkman 9 (Forest Pines); Graham Hodge 13 and Colin Brand 15 (Tetney); Richard Freudenberg 15 and Darren Birley 24 (Forest Pines); Craig Brocklebank 5.9 and Jon Tyson 16 (Grimsby); Steve High 14 and Robin Taylor 13 (Elsham); Andrew Barker 12 and Nick Almey 11 (Holme Hall); Roy Cressey 20 and Tony Chapman 21 (Grange Park); Mark Drewery 11 and Anthony Clarke 6 (Ashby Decoy); Darren Hurley 12 and Sean McCarney 19 (Immingham); Tony Brown 14 and Peter Fisher 11 (Ashby Decoy); Howard Wilson 16 and Jess Bray 13 (Waltham Windmill); Mark Allonby 5 and Nigel Foster 6 (Laceby Manor); Ben Mills 24 and Chris Blow 14 (Laceby Manor); David Keightley 6 and J Martin 17 (Holme Hall); Rob Mackey plus one and George Mackey 15 (Laceby Manor); Steve Bolan 15 and Andy Johnson 14 (Grange Park).

A FORMER warehouse will be demolished after claims it was at risk of collapse.

East Lindsey District Council's Planning Committee has granted permission for the demolition of the former warehouse in Cinder Lane, opposite Kidgate Primary School, in Louth.

The site had once been a jam factory and later a saw mill.

The committee also gave the go-ahead for a replacement development scheme for the site, comprising of six dwellings with a communal garden area.

The demolition means the loss of a tall industrial chimney, which is a feature of Louth's skyline.

Andrew Clover, from Lincs Design Consultancy, representing Rodanto Ltd, said: "There has never been deliberate neglect by the applicant."

Reg Bagshaw, who lives by the site, wrote to the council stating he and his wife live in fear of substantial parts of the building collapsing onto their property, causing possible injury and damage.

Ward councillor Sarah Dodds said: "This building poses an imminent danger to the hundreds of children who walk to school.

"I do not think we can allow this imminent danger of collapse to stay any longer."

The demolition had been before the planning committee last year, but a suitable replacement scheme had not been applied for.

Town mayor Councillor Jill Makinson-Sanders said: "I have got every sympathy for the residents of Anvil Cottage, but the people who bought this site have allowed this to fall into disrepair.

"They should, being in a Louth conservation area, come up with a decent scheme but they have left it and left it.

"It might be dangerous, but that moral judgement should rest with the developers."

The new development plan, which was approved will be heard again at the October meeting for planning conditions to be agreed.

It is likely that the planning permission will only have a two year limit, to speed up the redevelopment of the site.

Following the decision, Mr Clover said: "The site has been actively marketed for sale since planning permission was granted for conversion to flats in October 2008.

"However, the site remains unsold and in this period the buildings have fallen into significant disrepair and pose a threat to neighbouring residents and Kidgate School.

"The approval of both applications will now enable the site to be demolished and will obviously be of considerable relief to residents and the school.

"We are pleased that a satisfactory outcome has finally been achieved for this site."

IT WILL be generation BMX tomorrow as bikers of all ages gear themselves up for a day of racing in New Waltham.

Families and friends will race in an open four-man race event at the £45,000 BMX track off St Clement's Way which opened less than a year ago.

Organised by Giving Young People Opportunities (Gypo), which is responsible for the track, members hope it will not only show the young riders what they are capable of, but the rest of the village too.

Gypo treasurer Chris Stanforth said: "This will be the first time we have done anything at the new tracks. It is a great way of letting people know we are here, every week, whatever the weather.

"We have got lots of really good bikers that come here and this is a chance for them to show what they can do."

The day is in association with British Cycling and will see expert officials come to the tracks to referee and watch our local kids race.

And it isn't just for children. There will also be adult races, which has attracted much attention from the old BMXers from the YMCA track in the 1980s, some of whom have children who now use the tracks in New Waltham.

Among them is Jonty Maw, who will race with his daughter Georgia, 11, son David, 5, and his nephews, Locco and Lerenzo.

Jonty's parents have sponsored the trophies in memory of his brother, David – a three time world champion BMXer – who was killed in a car accident aged 19 in 1996.

Jonty said: "Being here brings back memories from the 1980s. Me and my children all race as a family, just like I did back in the day.

"The kids love it and it has given me a new lease of life. We are all going to race on Sunday, all we are hoping for is some good fun and no broken arms or legs!"

Georgia added: "My friends get sick of me talking about BMXing but I love it! I will race, but I just want to go back to school in one piece!"

Elliott Thomson, 13, will also be racing. He is among the best bikers on the tracks and Chris has hopes of taking him and friend, Lewis Willows, to regional competitions and beyond in the future.

Elliott said: "I started coming here when it opened. It is really good and I am excited about the race. We will be able to show the village what we can do. We come here every day and we never get bored of it."

There will also be live music from DJs and the GYPO sound system, a hog and rooster roast, beer tent and shops and stands.

Trophies will be awarded to first, second and third and medals for fourth to eighth place. There will also be a raffle and an auction.

Keith Fenwick, another 1980s BMXer, whose family, among others, helped build the tracks at the YMCA, is now a fundraiser for the tracks in New Waltham – and invites local businesses to show their support for the facility, which costs more than £4,000 a year to maintain.

He said: "It is here to stay but we need to keep maintaining it and improving it.

"Sunday is going to be mint, it'll be magic, we want everyone down here, having fun and getting stuck in."

All money raised will go to Gypo. Safety equipment is required, including helmets, gloves, long-sleeved tops and pants.

More details

To find out more, visit www.facebook.com/gypo.lincolnshire or www.gypoinfo.org

THESE beautiful blooms are the result of a unique package of care ... midnight serenades from the local postmaster!

New Waltham Post Office has taken a top award in the village's In Bloom competition – for the fifth year in a row.

And owner Bob Wainwright puts the secret of his success down to going out at midnight and singing to his plants – although the Telegraph has a feeling his tip may be a little tongue-in-cheek!

He pipped the village's Purple Rose florist, which was awarded runner-up, and is now the proud owner of the Best Business Premises title five times over.

Bob said: "This is five years on the trot, so we are very pleased.

"There is a lot of work goes into the baskets. They are greatly admired by customers.

"They keep asking me what the secret is. I just tell them that I go out every night at midnight and sing to them."

Roger Breed, chairman of New Waltham Parish Council, which organises the competition, said he was disappointed there had only be a dozen entries in this year's competition.

He said: "We are very grateful to the people who did enter. There was a low entry because of the indifferent weather.

"One or two people expressed disappointment about how things had turned out or hand not bloomed, due to the weather.

"We try to keep the competition going. We normally get double the number we had."

The chairman said he was particularly saddened neither of the village's pubs, The Harvest Moon and The Farmhouse, had not entered.

Councillor Breed continued: "They don't seem to bother now. I wish other businesses did more to enhance the look of the village. I hope next year will be a lot better."

He said the judges, Paul Aitken and Don Wiseman, were particularly impressed with the allotments in Anningson Lane and singled out Eddie Harvey for his spectacular plot.

Bill Parrott was praised for his Best Kept Garden and Best Window Boxes at his home in Station Road.

He also gained a runner-up award for the Best Decorative Garden, which was won by Mrs M Turner.

THE birthday wish list of an average young woman might contain make-up, CDs and clothes, but all this kind-hearted sister has asked for is donations for a charity to help her little brother.

Katherine Stoelwinder, 18, is asking for donations in lieu of presents in a bid to raise £190 for Research Autism because her nine-year-old brother, Adam, has the condition.

A young carer for Adam, Katherine believes not enough is known about the behavioural disorder that makes life difficult for her brother, as well as her and mum Angela, of Byland Grove.

She said: "Living with Adam can be hard, especially when we are out, because people don't know a lot about autism, they just think he is being naughty, which obviously he is not.

"When I hear people talking about people with autism it can be hard because I think, yeah Adam does that but he also does a lot more. Autistic isn't all he is.

"There needs to be a deeper understanding and awareness of autism and if there were more funds raised maybe that would happen."

Autism means Adam, who recently started at Cambridge Park Special School, finds it difficult to cope in social situations, says inappropriate things and struggles to understand other people's emotions.

So severe is his autism a simple trip to the supermarket is a no-go because his hearing and sight is so sensitive the bright lights and the buzzing of freezers causes him distress.

But although life with Adam can be testing, Katherine wouldn't change her brother and loves him just the way he is.

Now she hopes other people will support her by either donating money to the cause or buying one of her delicious cakes and chocolates which will be on sale at Be Delightful in Cromwell Road, Grimsby, on Saturday from 1pm.

She added: "If I managed to raise £190 I would feel I have done something for my brother and for other people in similar situations.

"We have been through it, we know how hard dealing with it can be and if we can make another person's journey through it a little easier it will be worth it.

"At times living with Adam has been testing but we love each other and I want to help him."

To help Katherine reach her fundraising goal, visit http://justgiving.com/happybirthdaykatherine

ALL those involved in the highly successful BMX track in New Waltham should be congratulated for their hard work.

This facility really seems to have captured the imagination of both young and old alike.

Evenings, weekends and during the holidays, it is packed with young people lining up at the top to take their turn.

The only problem it may have is being a real victim of its own success – becoming so popular as to be crowded.

But what a great problem to have.

This just goes to show that if you hit upon an idea then you can give young people something to do that is positive.

The really good thing about this, too, is that it is encouraging local families to get out and get together – parents are getting involved, taking part in sport with their children, and enjoying it.

Let's hope tomorrow's event is a real success and leads to more of the same.

We need to encourage young people and adults to work and play together in this way to promote healthy sport and healthy lifestyles for all.

Well done!

POND keepers are being urged to stay vigilant after a local garden centre lost a dozen koi carp in a savage attack by mystery animals.

Tom Rutherford, owner of Millstone Garden Centre in Waltham, has erected an electric fence around his pond in the wake of last week's attack.

He and his wife Jo were shocked when they discovered the gruesome remains of the fish, valued at between £50 and £100 each, shortly after arriving for work.

Mr Rutherford said: "We were very shocked. We have never seen this type of destruction in the 30 years we have been here. There were lots of fins and scales everywhere.

"There was one fish flapping at the side of the pond. Jo put it back in the pond and it swam away, so the attack must have happened just before." Mr Rutherford is not sure what type of animal was responsible for the devastation, but he suspects it was otters.

"We think we've got a good idea. We think it was otters – maybe not an adult otter, but possibly one or two cub otters.

"Fish is their staple diet, but I don't think otters are particularly common in this area. If there is anybody out there who knows about the otter population we would be very interested to find out.

"We've always had the perennial herons and occasionally wild ducks taking a few fish but nothing on this scale.

"Some of the fish were totally eaten and others had only been half eaten. A heron wouldn't do that, and neither would a cat."

Mr Rutherford has put down two cage traps with the remains of some of the dead fish in a bid to lure the culprits back – so far, without success.

"If we ever catch anything we will take it far away and release it into the countryside somewhere."

Mr Rutherford believes the 18-inch high electric fence, which was installed on the day of the attack, will be a worthwhile investment. The pond it surrounds is home to between 150 and 200 koi carp and other species of fish.

He added: "Pond keepers have got to be very vigilant. My advice is to keep a sharp eye out for evidence of animals visiting overnight and particularly early in the morning. They do seem to prefer early mornings to take their feed."

HAS Ella got the X Factor?

We'll find out tomorrow!

The Tetney teen wowed the judges at the auditions – and made it through to Boot Camp in Liverpool.

This weekend will see her perform at the tough second stage – and we will find out tomorrow if she's made it through to judges' houses.

Ella (16), who lives with her family has, like any girl, over-packed her Boot Camp suitcase with River Island outfits, and her essential heated rollers.

Before she left, she said: "I have not been away on my own so I am quite nervous about it.

"I have really over packed...X Factor told me to take two performance outfits, but of course I have packed tonnes!

"River Island is my favourite shop, as well as random, small boutiques and vintage shops.

"There will be around 280 people at Boot Camp and we will be put into groups and then I will have to learn a song overnight.Then it's down to the judges."

Ella, who attended St Martin's Preparatory School, Grimsby, realised her love for music at 13 years old.

She added: "I've always loved music – I would always get up and dance around when I was younger.

"My family are very much into it too. My mum likes Motown and soul, when she drove me to school she would always have it playing in the car and I would sing along to it.

"My father's a fan of Frank Sinatra and swing music and my brother likes reggae."

Ella is a fan of keeping fit, knitting and playing her piano.

"I love going to my local gym La Vive in Cleethorpes. I go on the treadmill and stick in my headphones to forget about everything," she said.

"I am going to take my knitting with me to Boot Camp – I am trying to make a Harry Potter scarf for my nephew.

"I also love playing on my piano – music is something I have always wanted to do and I know it is a really hard industry to get into, but I have set my goal high. However, I have made sure I have got good GCSE grades and if things don't turn out I will go to Sixth Form at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts in Hertfordshire."

Ella auditioned with a song she wrote herself for her late grandad William Henderson.

"I started to think about the death of my grandad and it was like my world was ending," she said.

"I was on a real low and because I haven't had experience from break-ups in relationships, I decided to write about my grandad.

"The words kept flowing and I regret that I never got the chance to say goodbye to him.

"I was very close to him we used to have a family meal every Sunday and me and my brothers and sisters used to fight over who would sit next him.

"He would give me real, genuine advice and he was always dressed very smartly."

Ella used to attend Clee Academy Dance School and had singing lessons with Lesley Swaby.

She said: "It was risky singing my own song but I was encouraged to and I'm glad everyone loved it.

"My favourite artists have to be Amy Winehouse and Beyonce. Everyone has been so supportive, especially my dad. He has been my rock and so has my mum.

"My grandad, uncles and aunties in Scotland have also been very supportive.

"I think the highlights so far have to be singing to Olly Murs and being interviewed by Caroline Flack.

X Factor is on ITV1 tonight and tomorrow at 8.10pm and 7.30pm respectively.

GRIMSBY TOWN hammered their promotion rivals Luton Town 4-1 on an uplifting evening at Blundell Park last night.

Goals from Joe Colbeck, Andy Cook, debutant Ross Hannah and a second-half own goal from Dean Beckwith ensured that the Mariners ran out convincing winners – and moved into the Conference play-off places, if only for a few hours.

After joining on three-month loan deals just days before, winger Scott Neilson and forward Ross Hannah were thrown straight into the action.

They replaced Frankie Artus and Anthony Elding respectively in an otherwise unchanged team to that which started against Kidderminster.

Luton started with Jon Shaw at the point of their attack, with a dangerous looking trio of Andre Gray, Scott Rendell and Stuart Fleetwood just behind.

Luton enjoyed much of the possession early on, with Alex Lawless pulling the strings in midfield. The Hatters fired a warning shot with just over five minutes on the clock when Fleetwood found Rendell with a clever reverse pass, but the latter could only shoot wide.

But Town hit back at the other end and with eight minutes on the clock, they had the game's opening goal.

Derek Niven swung in a dangerous cross which Andy Cook nodded down to the alert Hannah who drew a point-blank save from Tyler, but the ball rebounded to Joe Colbeck who poked it over the line off the post to bring Blundell Park to its feet.

The early goal had settled the home side who were firmly on top as Niven flashed a volley just wide from 18 yards out.

The visitor's share of possession would have been a cause for concern for Rob Scott and Paul Hurst – JJ O'Donnell curled just over from the edge of the area as Paul Buckle's men went looking for an equaliser.

The Mariners' new boys were enjoying a good debut and, having played a part in the opener, Hannah tried his luck from distance minutes later, while Neilson was showing a good touch and turn of pace.

The winger, who is on loan from Crawley, skipped past his marker and whipped in a dangerous cross that just evaded Cook as Town probed for a second.

Craig Disley was booked on the half hour for a challenge on Alex Lawless and Janos Kovacs headed wide from the resulting free-kick.

But on 33 minutes, when Nathan Pond misjudged a clearance and flicked onto Rendell's head, James McKeown pulled off yet another point-blank save as the ball looked destined to fly in the top-corner.

Cook has endured a stuttering start to his Blundell Park career, but when Pond's header crashed off the ball from a superb Aswad Thomas cross – the former Barrow man reacted first and stooped to nod past Tyler and double Town's advantage six minutes before the break.

If that brought the fans to their feet, they were in dreamland just minutes later.

Hannah was set free by fellow debutant Neilson and the Yorkshireman showed good pace to nip in front of Beckwith and steer the ball past the outrushing Tyler to the delight of a packed Pontoon stand.

Pond hooked a late effort on target from a Thomas cross as Town pushed for a fourth but he was thwarted by Tyler and referee Banks called time on a remarkable half for the hosts.

Town started the second in a similar mood to how they had ended the first, with Neilson cutting in from the left-hand side and firing a vicious shot just over the bar just seconds after the restart.

But Luton were not going to lie down and when a corner found Rendell at the far post, McKeown got down superbly to keep out his powerful downward header.

With an hour on the clock, Nielson stole the ball from Lawless and launched another Town attack.

He slid in Colbeck on the edge of the area, but Tyler got down well to push his side-footed effort wide as Hannah looked to pounce.

With 25 minutes to go, Pearson crashed another header off the bar from an inviting Colbeck cross while, at the other end, the Town back line had to be alert to keep out another chance after some clever link-up between Shaw and Rendell.

But the visitor's misery was compounded when Beckwith headed past his own keeper to gift Town their fourth goal of the game with just under 20 minutes to go.

But with 14 minutes left on the clock, the visitors pulled one back when McKeown couldn't hold Howell's original effort, Rendell pounced to blot Town's copy book and deny them yet another clean sheet.

Dayle Southwell came on with 10 minutes to go as Hannah left the field to warm applause from the 4,000 strong crowd.

It had been an encouraging debut from the man borrowed from Bradford and one that showed he could be out-and-out goalscorer Town have been craving.

His replacement could have rounded off Town's night in style when Frankie Artus set the youngster racing free but Tyler saved well from his side-footed effort and Luton cleared.

Despite some late pressure from the visitors, the Mariners stood firm and saw the game out to record a win their tireless display had deserved.