North East Lincolnshire Council has teamed up with local volunteer group Canoe River Cleaner to boost efforts in keeping the borough’s public spaces tidy. The partnership will see volunteer-led clean-ups running alongside the Council’s Deep Clean Project, which focuses on litter removal and street maintenance across six key wards.

James Elliott, who began cleaning the River Freshney and surrounding areas during the pandemic, now leads a team of volunteers working with the Council’s Street Cleansing division. Together, they’re expanding their efforts to include community litter picks and educational sessions in local schools aimed at encouraging environmental awareness and civic pride.

The initiative recently kicked off with a litter pick in Sidney Sussex Park and nearby streets, where volunteers collected cans, glass bottles, and food packaging. With funding support from the Council, more events are planned over the coming months, blending education with hands-on action to inspire residents to take part in maintaining cleaner, greener neighbourhoods.

The collaboration marks a step towards more coordinated community engagement, reinforcing the idea that environmental responsibility is shared between public services and local people.

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue is calling for local volunteers to help launch two new Fire Cadet units in Grantham and Sleaford, offering young people the chance to gain practical skills, confidence, and experience.

Each unit will welcome up to 15 cadets, giving them a structured introduction to fire and rescue work while developing teamwork, leadership, and community awareness. The programme is open to young people interested in learning about public service or simply looking to challenge themselves in a supportive setting.

The initiative is part of a wider expansion of the Fire Cadets programme in Lincolnshire, supported by government funding to boost youth engagement and strengthen community connections. Volunteers are needed to serve as Cadet Instructors, guiding participants through training and helping to shape their personal growth.

The role is open to people from all walks of life, including those with backgrounds in emergency services, education, or community work. Volunteers will receive full training and have the opportunity to mentor young people while building their own leadership and communication skills.

Lincolnshire County Council has rolled out 10 new Mercedes-Benz Cityline 517 Pro vehicles as part of its Callconnect on-demand transport network. The addition marks a significant upgrade in accessibility and passenger comfort for communities in Spalding, Grantham, Horncastle, Louth, and Lincoln.

The 16-seat vehicles were funded through a Department for Transport grant and feature low-floor entry, access ramps, air conditioning, and USB charging ports. The upgrades are aimed at improving both convenience and inclusivity for passengers.

Mike Reed, Head of Transport of LCC said: “It is a real pleasure see these vehicles ready to start serving people. Securing funding to invest in new Callconnect buses demonstrates Lincolnshire County Council’s commitment to rural public transport.”

Callconnect, which has operated since 2001, provides flexible transport options for rural and semi-rural communities where fixed-route public transport is limited. The service combines bookable and timetabled journeys, ensuring connectivity between smaller villages, towns, and major transport links across the county.

Operating six days a week, Callconnect runs from early morning until early evening and follows a simple fare structure of £1, £2, and £3. Bookings can be made via the Callconnect and Citymapper apps, giving residents easier access to essential transport services and supporting local mobility infrastructure.