Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance on track to have busiest year on record
With just one more month to go before the end of the year, the LNAA crew are close to matching the total number of missions in 2022.
As of December 1, LNAA has responded to 1,617 emergencies in 2023. Last year the total number of missions was 1,620. This is why they are taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge – a one-week campaign that aims to double donations and raise £70,000.
CEO, Karen Jobling, said: “The rising number of missions indicates the crucial role that LNAA plays in delivering life-saving care to those in need across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. By taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge we hope to hit the £70,000 target to enable us to get to more patients this winter.”
Grantham cyclist Mark knows first-hand the difference that the team of highly skilled doctors, paramedics and pilots can make.
Mark suffered a traumatic brain injury and was left fighting for his life after being hit by a car. If it wasn’t for the crew of Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, Mark believes he would not have survived.
It took less than 15 minutes to fly Mark to Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC). Other injuries included punctured lungs, numerous broken bones and multiple rib fractures. His right leg was so severely damaged that surgeons had to shorten it by 1.5cm and put his leg into a metal frame, so the bones could regrow and reconnect effectively.
Mark was in a coma for five weeks and his chance of survival was low. He received extensive medical care, and eventually transferred to a rehabilitation unit to help prepare him for when he could eventually go home and live an independent life.
Mark said: “It was there that I realised how badly injured I was. Everyday things were suddenly too hard for my brain to work out. It was surreal. I knew my name but couldn’t write it.
“I had to learn to get dressed, clean my teeth and do all those simple tasks including household chores and creating recipes with just two items in them as I could never get a third – it was all too much for my brain.”
Eight years later and Mark is still recovering.
“Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance saved my life that day,” said Mark. “It makes me sad to realise how much I have changed, and it must hurt my wife, Karen immensely to know the person I was has gone, but I am alive and well and we will do our best to look to make a future that we want.”
The charity’s goal is to be by the side of more patients like Mark. Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance needs to raise £10million this year to operate 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week and give patients the best chance of survival.
To help LNAA carry out this work you can support the Big Give Christmas Challenge. All you need to do is visit https://www.ambucopter.org.uk/BigGive and make a donation before midday on Tuesday 5 December.
South Lincolnshire lottery raises almost £35,000 in its first year
The South and East Lincolnshire Community Lottery has raised £34.7k in Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland during its first year, supporting local community groups and charities such as Blackfriars Theatre and Arts Centre, Woodhall Spa Cricket Club and Moulton Windmill.
Boasting a regular player base of over 590 residents every week, a typical week for the community lottery scheme can see more than £600 raised for good causes.
60% of the ticket proceeds from South & East Lincolnshire Community Lottery go to charities, voluntary organisations and other not-for-profit groups with the remainder being put towards prizes, operating costs and VAT.
Councillor Emma Cresswell, Boston Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Communities and People, Councillor Sarah Devereux, East Lindsey District Council Portfolio Holder for Partnerships and Councillor Tracey Carter, South Holland District Council Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Facilities, said: “We are delighted that as a Partnership we have been able to bring forward this scheme which has a direct impact on residents’ lives. We are able to support community initiatives that don’t have access to regular income streams, and can continue to help people across the sub-region.
“The South and East Lincolnshire Community Lottery continues to have our full support, and as a collective we would like to take this opportunity to encourage more people to play it each week, and for any good causes out there that aren’t involved to get in touch so we can get you on the scheme.”
Not-for-profit company buys Glanford Park
Glanford Park has been bought by a not-for-profit company, securing the home of Scunthorpe United for generations and creating a new, sustainable future for the club which has played at the ground since 1988.
As part of the deal, an anticipated 100 jobs are expected to be created from developments around the ground, along with up to 150 homes for older residents and people with complex needs on an area which already has outline planning permission.
Club owner owner Michelle Harness said: “Wanting to bring Glanford Park back to Scunthorpe United supporters and the community was the reason I stood up in the first place, along with the Board of Directors. To all of us, it’s why we’ve been working hard every day and every night. It means a lot to the Board, it means a lot to me, and I know hugely that it means a lot to the fans.
“Going forward, we need to continue to tackle the extreme levels of debt that were left with the club when we took custodian. Donations from local businesses and people around the town have been totally humbling, and it shows how desperate everyone in the area has been to keep their beloved football club going.
“All of the additional money that we’ve been able to get in is helping to pay off our debt and get us one step closer to being more sustainable as a football club, which we are striving to do every day.
“The hard work doesn’t stop. In fact, it truly does start today. We got our football club back. We got Glanford Park, our home, back and now, we must fight to keep it, and the only way we can do that is through donations, sponsorship, buying tickets and merchandise, and supporting as many of our initiatives as you possibly can.”
Holly Mumby-Croft, MP for Scunthorpe and Vice-Chair of the Towns Fund Board, said: “This deal represents a bright new future for club, for the community and for our town – it has been backed by Government cash.
“Securing the ground as Scunthorpe United’s home will be a welcome relief to fans who now know that the team will always be able to play at Glanford Park.
“We have had meetings with the club and with Government to get the right deal in place to make sure the community is a key part of developing a new sustainable future. Glanford Park not being in the hands of any one single person was critical to securing that new future.
“Lots of people have been in touch with me, supporters and local residents alike and I’ve listened. It’s great to be able to confirm that through working with the council and the club we can now start to build further.
“Michelle has shown a real passion for the club and the fans, she has been a pleasure to work with and her iron will has ensured the deal has been completed.”
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Government has provided a lot of cash to back communities across North Lincolnshire in recent years and today marks another such occasion.
“The ground is safely in the right hands to create a new future for the club and the revenue generated will ensure a good deal for taxpayers and that more money can be reinvested back into the ground and the host of community activities for young people and families.
“The new jobs that will be created and the new homes for older people – which is more than a third of the population here, are key parts of building a brighter future.”
For Scunthorpe United, it is another monumental milestone in the resurrection of the football club. The primary focus of the Board of Directors when they took over as custodians of the club was to bring Glanford Park back to the fans, and back to the community.
By completing the deal in a community interest company, Glanford Park will always be protected within the community, and will never be at threat, regardless of any changes to the Board or future ownership.
Image courtesy of Google maps
Boston to host historic celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party
History enthusiasts are being told to mark their calendars, as on December 16 Boston will honour the 250th Anniversary of the Boston Tea Party – a pivotal moment that forever shaped the course of American history.
The commemorative activities are set to unfold in various locations, promising a day filled with educational and entertaining experiences.
The celebration kicks off at 11am, with activities planned in Boston Guildhall, St Botolph’s Church ‘The Stump’ and the Market Place (weather permitting). The venues involved, working in partnership with Transported Art, have created the day’s activities and events.
For those eager to delve into the historical narrative, Boston Guildhall will host a ‘Talk & Tea’ event starting at 11am. Dr. Scott will present a comprehensive history of Boston’s role in the American story. The talk is free, but booking is essential due to limited space. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to taste the actual tea varieties that were thrown into Boston Harbour after the talk. Additionally, the Guildhall will host tea-themed arts activities throughout the day, providing engaging experiences for families.
Beyond the Guildhall, the town will come alive with a display of Lanterns & arTEA activiTEAs at The Stump. Also available, and starting from The Stump, is a free trail through the town for locals and visitors to explore. Redcoats Re-enactors will add a touch of historical authenticity to the festivities, offering a glimpse into the past.
Cllr Sarah Sharpe, Portfolio Holder for Culture for Boston Borough Council, said: “I’m thrilled to see Boston embracing its rich history with the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. This event not only offers a fascinating journey into our town’s pivotal role in American history but also provides a unique opportunity for our community to come together.
“The ‘Talk & Tea’ event at Boston Guildhall, coupled with tea-themed arts activities, reflects our commitment to both education and enjoyment. Let’s celebrate our heritage and create lasting memories on this historic occasion.”
Image: Boston Guildhall – courtesy of Google maps Lincoln special school to be improved thanks to £15m investment
A Lincoln special school will offer pupils much-improved facilities thanks to a £15m investment.
A new teaching block is being created at Lincoln St Christopher’s School to replace an old building that is no longer fit for purpose. The new space will include eight classrooms, a food technology and social skills room, a hall and kitchen, small group rooms and calming spaces. The new block will also provide a medical inspection room, hygiene facilities and staff and meeting rooms.
Other parts of the existing school will also undergo some remodelling work to provide two further classrooms and therapy spaces, with a further two classrooms being refurbished and upgraded. Outside, there will be improved playing areas, a horticulture area and sensory garden, as well as improved car parking and access for minibuses.
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “The council wants to ensure that all children can access high-quality education, as near to their family and local community as possible. To help achieve that, we’re investing £100m in improving our special schools.
“St Christopher’s School has experienced significant growth over the last few years, and, earlier this year, we opened a second site that will accommodate St Christopher’s primary-aged pupils moving forward, helping meet the rising demand for places.
“We’ve now turned our attention to the secondary-school site to ensure that it will be able to meet the needs of a wider range of pupils in future. This will mean more pupils with SEND can attend their local school rather than having to travel large distances for their education, which will be of great benefit to both the children and their families.”
Janette Kennedy, executive headteacher – Lincoln Saints Federation, added: “With an ever-growing demand for special need places, St Christopher’s are very excited about the opportunities the new build offers our students and the wider community.
“It is essential for both our families and young people, to create opportunities which enable them to access high-quality, special education close to home. The excellent work being carried out across Lincolnshire special schools will enhance the future prospects of our children and young people, and we are very proud to be a part of this journey.
“We look forward to welcoming our students back over the course of the coming year.”
The building work is being carried out by Wates and is due to be completed in late 2024.
Image courtesy of Lincolnshire County Council Historic footbridge returns to rightful place over the Fossdyke
Saxilby footbridge, which crosses the Fossdyke, is back in its place in the village, as it has had much-needed refurbishment.
The bridge was successfully lifted into place by crane and it is now to undergo up to 10 working days of onsite remedials to get the bridge fully operational to the public.
The remedial works include fixing of the stanchions, bolting all the sections of the bridge together, installing the last sections of GRP decking and making good.
West Lindsey District Councillor Paul Lee who represents the Saxilby ward, was pleased at how much work has gone into the whole project.
He said: “It’s great to see the footbridge back in its place over the Fossdyke once again. To see the bridge in its different repair stages compared to its renewed condition has been very interesting and I hope the local community will enjoy the footbridge being back and better than ever.”
Luke Matthews, Senior Building and Projects Officer, was delighted to see the success of the lift.
He said: “It was great to see the bridge back in its rightful place all repaired and restored for up to 25 years. This has been an interesting project to work on and I would like to thank Universal Coatings for their hard work and determination on this project. We hope the residents of Saxilby enjoy the benefit of the bridge for many years to come.”
Managing Director at Universal Coatings UK, Philip Bingham said: “We are delighted that the footbridge is back in place after months of hard work from our talented team who make projects like these successful. It’s been great to work with West Lindsey District Council and we look forward to see the bridge fully operational soon.”
Image courtesy of West Lindsey District Council
Construction of key highway infrastructure to serve new Gainsborough housing development to start in New Year
Works to improve a busy junction in Gainsborough to improve capacity and safety will start in January.
The new roundabout between Foxby Lane and Lea Road is being delivered by Keepmoat as part of its housing development at Warren Wood.
The housebuilder is currently developing land at Foxby Lane and is investing in highway improvements to maintain and develop local roads for new and existing residents.
Sally Grindrod-Smith, Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities at West Lindsey District Council, said: “The development is part of a wider Southern Urban Extension scheme, which the Council secured £2.2 million of Homes England funding for.
“This housing scheme forms an important part of our Invest Gainsborough Programme to regenerate the town and deliver our vision for a sustainable, vibrant and thriving community.”
Keepmoat has appointed PBS Construction to carry out the work, which will start on 8 January next year and is expected to be complete by the end of June 2024. The work will include the reconfiguration of the road and footpaths.
It will also include re-routing utilities and services to enable the creation of a roundabout to replace the current T-junction between Foxby Lane and Lea Road in Gainsborough.
Cllr Trevor Young, Leader of West Lindsey District Council, who is also a ward councillor for Gainsborough, welcomed the news. He said: “I am pleased that this vital work will begin on the new roundabout, which will ensure the right infrastructure is in place to meet the needs of the people of the town and to those moving to the area.
“Whilst we appreciate there will be some disruption in the short-term, the new roundabout will help to improve traffic flows and road safety.”
Richard Gough, Commercial Director for Keepmoat Yorkshire East, said: “At Keepmoat we’re committed to delivering excellence across our sites. We’re proud to be bringing the people of Gainsborough the Warren Wood development and supporting their Regeneration Programme through improving the surrounding road network and infrastructure.
“We are fully committed and invested in bringing you quality new homes and ensuring the existing area is developed into a robust network for future generations.”
Road users are advised that delays will be possible while the works take place, but the contractors will work to minimise any disruptions where possible.
Image shows illustrated map of the new roundabout.
Works to better highlight Sleaford monument confirmed
Improvements to the area around Handley Monument which will better highlight its importance as an historic Sleaford landmark will start in January 2024.
North Kesteven District Council is using the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to make improvements which will highlight and reflect the character of the Grade II listed Handley Monument by uplighting it and improving the space around it. The changes include:- A new electricity supply and low energy LED feature lighting, to highlight its architectural features and fully showcase it as a gateway feature to Sleaford town centre as people enter via Southgate.
- An information board detailing the monument’s history and Henry Handley who it commemorates.
- Two new planters, each filled with a mix of planting to brighten up the area and with benches incorporated. Both of the existing trees are being retained within the planters.
- Re-paving the area around the new planters, and giving the rest of the existing paving around the monument a good clean.
- A new bicycle rack incorporated into one of the planters.
- Removal of bollards where safe to do so, for better flow and accessibility by reducing the amount of street clutter.
- The existing private access to the land behind the properties next to the monument will be maintained.
What the Dickens! Market Rasen ready for four days of Christmas celebrations
Market Rasen Town Council have announced their forthcoming plans for a traditional Dickensian festive season.
On Wednesday 6 December 2023, the Christmas Tree and festive lights will be going up in the Market Place, ready for the start of the celebratory season.
The Town Council will also be organising a special light event and children’s party in the Market Place on the same day, with free hot dogs for the under 12’s. Food will be on sale too with music from 4pm to 6pm.
On Friday 8 December, a Rotary and Civic Carol Service is to be held in the Methodist Chapel on Union Street from 6.30pm onwards.
The town’s annual Christmas Market will take place on Saturday 9 December in the Market Place. To light up the event there will be stalls, entertainment and refreshments from 12pm to 4pm.
There will be a Dickensian theme throughout town and people are being encouraged to dress up – no Ebenezer Scrooges allowed! Independent shops are also to come on board with a shop window competition.
Finally, after the success from last year’s Santa Run, plans for this year’s Santa Run arranged by the Rotary, will be held on Sunday 10 December 2023.
Cllr Jo Pilley, Mayor of Market Rasen, expressed her excitement for the upcoming themed events. She said: “With Christmas close at hand, it is the season of hospitality, merriment and openheartedness. We call to our friends and family around us to join us for these special events in celebrating Christmas and the work of Charles Dickens.”
Alexandra Dock Housing site released to market
An opportunity to create a brand new housing development on brownfield land near the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre has been released.
The site, behind the newly renovated Garth Lane waterfront area, has been earmarked by the Council for urban housing and the Council is now looking for a development partner to come forward to drive the project forward.
The 6.25 acre town centre site bordered by Fisherman’s Wharf and the River Freshney will eventually see a community of around 130 homes with supporting commercial accommodation.
The frontage of the site, bordering Alexandra Dock, was completed in 2021, and includes the new footbridge over the River.
This area was identified for homes in Grimsby’s Town Centre Masterplan, which is supported by Homes England, and is cited as an ideal location given the water nearby and the improvements that have already taken place.
Investment worth approximately £7.8m to support the development at this site has already been secured through the Government’s Towns Fund.
Cllr Philip Jackson, leader of the council with responsibilities for the economy, net zero, skills and housing, said: “The main objective of this work is to create a place that connects the town and its community with its waterside, creating a fantastic urban living environment.
“There’s a long way to go yet, and developments of this scale don’t happen overnight. But we are working to improve the town centre as a whole and this is part of that vision. Step-by-step we want to change how our town centre is used and enjoyed as a whole.”
Potential bidders can view documentation on www.find-tender.service.gov.uk– external site. Selected developers will then take part in a competitive dialogue, followed by an invitation to submit formal tenders to develop out the site from 2024 onwards.
Image courtesy of North East Lincolnshire Council
