Wins for Bracebridge Heath, Grantham and Bourne, with all three taking 20 points, retained the status quo at the top of the Readers Lincolnshire ECB Premier League.

And fourth placed Woodhall Spa also took 20, leaving them 16 points behind Bourne.

Sleaford moved up to sixth with victory over Grimsby Town who remain bottom, but are now only one point behind Spalding.

On what proved to be a bowlers’ day, Dan Freeman took seven wickets for 32 for Grantham while Bourne’s Tom Dixon took six, as did Joe Irving for Woodhall, Grimsby’s Neal Snell and Jonny Miller for Lindum.

Mat Dowman hit the day’s highest score of 86 as Grantham finished on 228 for nine at home to Alford, who had no answer to Freeman’s onslaught and were all out for 70.

At home to Bourne, Louth had 101 on the board before the first wicket fell – Laurence Scott for 62. Medler went on to make 48 but wickets then fell steadily, Dixon taking six for 42 and the innings ended on 171.

Arran Brindle then took a wicket with the first ball of the Bourne innings but Jordan Temple and Sam Evison put on 68, Temple hitting 60 as Bourne claimed a four wicket win.

Boston’s batsmen were unable to make much headway against Bracebridge Heath’s bowlers at Cross O’Cliff Court and were all out for 60, a total the home side overtook for the loss of four wickets, Vikram Atri hitting an unbeaten 49.

Joe Irving put in a man-of-the-match performance for Woodhall Spa, hitting 59 runs and taking six for 16 as Woodhall recorded the day’s highest total of 237 for eight, before bowling Spalding out for 75.

At Sleaford, Grimsby captain Neal Snell’s six wicket haul couldn’t prevent his side going down to defeat. Andy Hibberd hit 60 of his side’s total of 231 for nine, before Grimsby were bowled out for 103.

And at Market Deeping, Lindum were restricted to 176 for eight. The home side were looking comfortable on 67 for two when Jonny Miller joined the attack to take six wickets for 10 runs in his seven overs and leave Deeping all out for 95.

Deeping are now four points up on Spalding and only two behind Louth and six behind eighth place Alford.

Results: Louth 171 (Scott 62, Dixon 6-42), Bourne 172-6 (Temple 60); Boston 160, Bracebridge Heath 161-4; Woodhall Spa 237-8 (Irving 59), Spalding 75 (Irving 6-16); Lindum 176-8, Market Deeping 96 (Miller 6-10); Sleaford 231-9 (Hibberd 60, Snell 6-60), Grimsby Town 103; Grantham 228-9 (Dowman 86), Alford 70 (Freeman 7-32).

Members of a drugs gang which brought hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of cocaine and heroin into Grantham have been given jail sentences totalling 40 years at Lincoln Crown Court.

Supplies of the drugs were brought in from North London and Luton in an operation headed up by Jermaine Francis, a Londoner who had moved north to live in Grantham.

Couriers travelled by car, private hire vehicles and mainline trains to bring drugs back to Lincolnshire.

Richard Thatcher, prosecuting, said that an estimated four kilos of cocaine and heroin were brought into Grantham with a street value of more than £350,000.

He told the court: “This was a conspiracy to import Class A drugs into Grantham from London and Luton over an eight month period. There were some 73 trips. The approximate valuation of that conspiracy is four kilos which had a value of a figure in the order of £375,000.”

Police carried out a lengthy undercover surveillance operation which led to couriers being detained only for the leaders of the gang to then recruit new couriers to replace them.

Jermaine Francis, 38, of Albert Street, Grantham, and Paul Cato, 45, of Carlton Crescent, Luton, were each jailed for eight years after admitting two charges of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs between March 6 2015 and November 4 2015.

Cato, described as the Luton supplier, was given a 12 month consecutive jail sentence after admitting possession of an illegal weapon and ammunition after a stun gun and a bullet were found during a search of his home.

Francis was also given an indefinite serious crime prevention order aimed at restricting his activities after he is released from custody.

Jordan McGlann, 20, of no fixed address but from the Grantham area, also admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin. McGlann, who was described as “the right hand man” of Francis, was sent to a young offenders’ institution for six years.

Five men and a woman who acted as couriers to transport cocaine and heroin were also jailed.

Kwame Appah, 44, of Gordon Road, Finchley; Clifton Hunte, 56, of Bailey Hill Court, Luton; and Dilem Ozbahadir, 23, of Huntingdon Road, Edmonton, each denied conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin but were found guilty by a jury following trials. Appah was jailed for four and a half years, Hunte for four years and Ozbahadir for three years.

Joseph Newman, 21, of Earlesfield Lane, Grantham, admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin. He was jailed for three years

Jake Gaughan, 20, of East Avenue, Grantham, admitted one charge of conspiracy to supply cocaine. He was given 30 months at a young offenders’ institution.

Regan Carter, 19, of Huntingtower Road, Grantham, admitted one charge of conspiracy to supply cocaine. He was given 16 months in a young offenders’ institution suspended for 12 months with 150 hours of unpaid work and a rehabilitation requirement of up to 20 days.

A tenth defendant, Jack Plackett, 21, of Barrowby Road, Grantham, was jailed for eight months back in December 2016 after he admitted possession of cannabis with intent to supply.

Four other defendants are due to be sentenced on later dates for their roles in the conspiracy.

Andrew Fitch-Holland, for Francis, said he has already spent almost two years in custody after being held on remand since his arrest but he realised he faced a substantial sentence.

Shahid Rashid, for McGlann, said his client had no previous convictions and was much younger than Francis.

“The trigger event was that his best friend got run over by a car. As a result of that he became involved in the use of cannabis and as a result became involved in this conspiracy.”

Shaun Esprit, for Cato, said that he apologised for what he had done and is now planning to stay out of trouble in the future.

Andrew Fitch-Holland, for Appah, said his client had made “a catastrophic error of judgement” in becoming involved in the conspiracy. He said Appah, whose family now face losing their home, has been studying for an Open University degree while on remand in custody.

Sean Poulier, for Hunte, admitted his client had a previous conviction for the importation of cocaine. He told the court: “Mr Hunte was homeless and was living with Cato for a short time. It may be that he felt obliged to assist.”

Sean Poulier, for Osbahadir, said she became involved after being reunited with a former boyfriend who was part of the conspiracy. At the time she was a university student studying psychology.

Andrew Fitch-Holland, for Newman, said he was involved in 10 trips as a courier. He added “He had a serious cocaine addiction. His remuneration was in drugs and not in money.”

John McNally, for Gaughan, said he was not aware of the scale of the conspiracy and his involvement was purely as a courier.

Sunil Khanna, for Carter, said he was only 17 when he took part in the conspiracy and made just two trips to London accompanied by McGlann. Mr Khanna said that Carter since stayed out of trouble and now has a full-time job.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Myers, who led the investigation, said: “Whatever the level, from street dealing to highly organised distribution, we will seek-out drug crime and make it our mission to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Deputy mayor Councillor Lynda Coutts joined staff and residents at Harrowby Lodge Nursing Home, in Harrowby Lane, for the official opening of their garden last week, after local schoolchildren gave it a long-awaited makeover.

Residents at Harrowby Lodge wrote to Year 1 children at Little Gonerby Infant School to ask for their help in revamping their patio area ahead of their summer fete next month.

Since then, the children and the Year 1 team have been working hard on planning their garden designs and have visited the nursing home to share and critique their designs with the residents.

Year 1 teacher Sarah Marsden has enjoyed watching the interaction between the children and residents. She said: “To continue with our ‘inspiration’ themed project, we received a letter from the staff and residents at Harrowby Lodge asking for their help. The children spent the term planning, talking to the residents and designing garden items such as painting colourful plant pots, eye catching sun catchers and bird feeders, which they placed and hung around the garden.”

Harrowby Lodge events co-ordinator Suzanne Cammies was pleased with how well the children and residents worked together.

She said: “The children learned a lot from their visits. At first their ideas included a jacuzzi and a trampoline but after speaking to the residents, they came up with ideas more suited to their needs.

“As some residents explained that their eyesights were not as they once were, the children made sure they used really bright paint colours.”

The garden has proved a huge hit. Resident Pauline said: “It’s fantastic.”

To thank them for their efforts, the children helped to host the official opening last Thursday, where they entertained the guests with two songs that they had learned especially for the day.

Mrs Marsden added: “It was a great community project bringing together old and young.

“This is not the end of the project and we hope to stay in touch with the home and continue to visit and work with them in the future.”

Coun Coutts opened the garden. She said: “What a lovely home with many happy friends. The children were fabulous and very well behaved. I throughly enjoyed their lovely singing and all the happy faces.”

Children’s beaming smiles brought sunshine to an overcast sky on Saturday, for the second annual Festival of Excitement.

Families spent hours enjoying the thrills and spills of the event, organised by the Grantham Journal Children’s Fund and held at the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

The highlight of the day was a ride in a rally car. Several drivers brought their racing vehicles to the event to give an adrenaline-fuelled ride for older children and adults.

And their grins when they climbed out afterwards said it all.

Not only that, there were pony rides, fairground rides, inflatables, exotic animals, rides on a double decker bus and vintage fire engine, crafts, children’s entertainment, a sensory room and more.

Displays were given by dancing dogs and the Beth Cresswell School of Dance, both of which finished to enthusiastic support.

Roy Wright, chairman of the Grantham Journal Children’s Fund, said: “Laughter and happiness was the order of the day at this year’s event and there was plenty of both on show.

“The Commanding Officer at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks provided the venue and with the help of lots of friends we provided the fun and excitement. My thanks to my lady trustees Sharon and Marie for all of their hard work, ably supported by Grantham Carnival and Events and the Lions, with local businesses doing their part.

“Exciting and nerve-jangling rides in rally cars was the main part of the day and these were given by drivers from far and wide, including local lads Tony Wright, Jamie Elston and David McMullan, all controlled by Dukeries Motor Club.

“Chris Wright spent the day on his hands and knees making sure passengers were safely and securely strapped in.

“To say it was a tiring day would be true but our reward was the obvious delight given to our special little friends and their families.

“My sincere thanks to all involved.”

All three trustees of the registered charity are proud to be able to put on the Festival of Excitement free to families with a disabled child. We understand that days out are not always easy, nor affordable, which is why every element of the day caters specifically to disability needs.

Grantham United Flying Club’s race from Bedhampton was won by Mr and Mrs Gilbert won with three yearlings, with good returns.

Seven members sent 129 birds

Results: 1 Mr and Mrs L. Gilbert 1366.17, 2 Mr and Mrs L. Gilbert 1361.17, 3 Mr and Mrs L. Gilbert 1360.81, 4 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1348.53, 5 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1346.97, 6 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1340.78, 7 T. and J. Ramm 1335.16, 8 C. Creighton 1334.19, 9 E. Crawford 1292.15, 10 J. Ablitt 1281.15.

Grantham UFC’s race from Lyndhurst was won by T. and J Ramm with a six-minute lead.

Six members sent 106 birds.

Results: 1 T. and J. Ramm 1647.28, 2 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1579.98, 3 Mr and Mrs L. Gilbert 1569.66, 4 Mr and Mrs L. Gilbert 1561.24, 5 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1550.24, 6 C. Creighton 1534.07, 7 T. and J. Ramm 1507.70, 8 J. Ablitt 1420.54, 9 D. Parker and son and Rogerson 1366.59, 10 T. Gilbard 1158.08.

Former King’s School student Nick Barrett will be at WH Smiths from 11am on Saturday (July 22) with copies of ‘Advent Term (or Snowmen don’t wear Thermals...)’.

It is the second in a series of comic novels Nick has written based loosely on his days at King’s. As Nick said: “It’s faster, it’s funnier, and the puns are even worse...”.

The second book continues the story of Nicky, now 13, who is older, slightly taller, and still baffled by the bizarre institution that is St Onan’s Academy. The book follows on from Nick’s first novel called Michaelmas Term (or Why is that Boy Naked?).

Nick grew up in Great Gonerby. He has lived in Essex for 17 years where he worked as a manager for the Royal Mail until retirement. Before that he played drums in bands and was a session musician, stand-up comedian and roadie.

Nick has always been keen on writing and the bug began when he started writing lyrics for songs. He had been thinking seriously about writing a book for a few years and when he wrote a letter to his brother about his school years, totalling 2,000 words, he realised he might have something.

Schoolchildren swapped their uniforms for medieval dress as part of their ‘castle’ topic last week.

Denton Primary School joined key stage one pupils at Harlaxton Primary school last Thursday for a day of medieval festivities including juggling, jousting and a banquet.

Harlaxton Year 1 teacher Michele Timson helped to organise the day. She said: “We have been learning about castles this term and wanted the children to experience a day of medieval festivities. As well as lots of kings and queens, we also had a lot of Maid Marions, jesters and knights. Everyone made such an effort and looked great.”

Teachers were not exempt from dressing up with many turning up in long flowing dresses and head dresses.

Mrs Timson contacted Nottingham Building Society to ask if they could borrow their Robin Hood mascot costume. Branch manager Sarah Wallace went one better and dressed up in it herself to greet the pupils as they arrived at school.

She said: “We were only too happy to help when Michele asked us. Robin Hood went really well with their theme and it gave us the opportunity to help out the local school community. Robin Hood went down really well with all the children. Their faces were a picture when they arrived at school in the morning to find a giant Robin Hood waiting to greet them.”

Sarah spent the rest of the morning interacting with all the children, singing songs on stage and taking part in some of the activities.

Classes took turns to rotate around the various activities that included making jousting sticks, bowling, tennis skills and juggling before feasting on cheese, fruit and bread at their medieval banquet.

Mrs Timson added: “The children loved eating from gold plates and drinking from silver goblets. We also learnt the national anthem although we made sure to change it to ‘God save the King’ as opposed to queen in keeping with the time.”

Year 1 and 2 pupils took a trip to Sherwood Forest on Monday to round off the term.

Lincoln League

Division Three

Barkston & Syston 113-9

Hykeham 87

After losing last week, third placed Barkston were looking to make up for it against Hykeham who lie second.

Losing the toss and being put into bat, things did not bode well when they found themselves three wickets down after three overs – for just three runs.

With only one batsman making double figures, Alan Goode (57no) on his debut, the chances of winning did not look good.

But the tail wagged a little, pushing the score to 113-9, with Barkston’s second highest scorer being their wicket keeper with 15 byes.

Hykeham might have been confident but Barkston’s bowlers had there tails up.

M. Baker made 30 but wickets fell at regular intervals and Barkston then had the belief they could win.

With Daniel Parker bowling taking four overs for 17 runs off eight overs, Adam Jameson a very tidy 2-28 off 10, with some sharp catches by P. Johnson and S. Edwards, things started to turn in Barkston’s favour.

Then on came Jack Goode, playing his first game for the mighty Stags. He took 3-10 off four overs and suddenly Hykeham went quiet as they recorded their lowest score of the season.

At this week’s meeting in South Kesteven District Council of the Development Management Committee a number of residents spoke out raising concerns regarding the significant expansion plans for Grantham.

As a neighbouring ward Councillor for St Vincents Ward, whose residents will be most affected by the plans to develop Spitalgate Heath, I listed a number of the key issues. Despite the scale of this development being the size of a new town, there was no specific commitment to deliver homes that will meet the needs of lower income local residents. The proposals around ‘affordable housing’ have so far been overshadowed by the cost of the Southern Quadrant Relief Road, which the landowner is required to make a significant contribution towards. There was little mention of Social Housing at the meeting. Other concerns regarding the significant highways impact on traffic going INTO Grantham, especially roads off the McDonalds Junction and Harrowby Road were given little weight. So severe is this that LCC Highways have unusually taken the step to limit the site to no more than 150 new homes until the Relief Road is completed. However many locals query the assumptions about the severity of impact once the Relief Road is built.

After some debate over the purpose of the meeting, the committee finally voted to move forward with how the money raised by the site through Section 106 funding to be considered in a few months. If the scheme is to be viable and benefit our town they must commit to a 35 per cent affordable housing quota. They must address the traffic and provide pedestrian facilities at the McDonalds Junction. They must invest in increased Car Parking in Grantham Town Centre. They must prevent significant traffic down Harrowby Road. They must reconsider the River walkway opposite Anson Close. The proposed irreversible destruction of buried archaeology including a Roman Town should not go ahead. Grantham is just over an hour by train from London and could have a share of the £billions generated in tourism. We will be short-sightedly bulldozing over two thousand years of history, after some photographs and artefacts have been taken, losing a valuable opportunity forever if the current scheme goes ahead.

Thanks to Government policy, South Kesteven District Council has little or no say in the future of vital health services which serve our community under threat which include Grantham A&E and the Glenfield Hospital Children’s Heart unit, yet has a Duty of Care for the wellbeing of its residents. SKDC has little money to build new homes itself, yet has the responsibility to house those in need and meet housing targets. This makes SKDC heavily reliant on private landowners and developers. The Council will be penalised by this Government if it does not. Government policy puts the Council in a conflicted position as it relies increasingly on the funds from Council Tax and bonuses from new development in future to run key public services across the District. Major investment is needed in our area. If it is to go ahead without damaging what we have then the Government must also be prepared to contribute more towards the infrastructure we all rely on. And, without adequate health and social care services in place it will be more than money at stake.

Six members of Grantham Running Club travelled to St Ives in Cambridgeshire on Sunday for the 25th annual running of the St Ives 10K.

A record field of nearly 600 runners were met with warm, humid conditions with a stiff breeze making conditions far from ideal for running.

The course was an undulating 10K out and back course with a steady, long incline leading up on to the top of the windswept airfield, which affected the pace of many of the runners.

First home for Grantham was Catherine Payne in a time of 45min 46sec, giving her first place in the FV50 category. Hot on her heels in a time of 47:21 was Robert McArdle, shaving a few seconds off from the previous year’s race.

Ady Walker recovered to finish in a time of 50:12 after struggling to cope with the windy conditions on the airfield, just a few seconds outside his PB set on a much easier day.

The next three Grantham runners were all graduates of the club’s successful 10 weeks to 10K 2017 course. Julia Hallam led the trio home in a time of 1:04:35 with Julia saying that she was determined to break the 60 minute barrier before the end of the year.

Claire Fritz came home in a time of 1:13:04 despite suffering stomach cramps at 6km.

CJ Walker completed the field of Grantham runners in a time of 1:16:44 after suffering from a recurring injury in the very early stages of the race.

All the Grantham runners enjoyed the challenging course and said that they looked forward to next year’s event.

+ Grantham Athletic Club’s Arthur Short continued his recent good form with a time of 40:50 at the Cambridge County Championship race at St Ives.

Despite the tough conditions, Arthur managed to shave 37 seconds off his 2016 time to finish fourth in his age group.

Grantham & Melton Association

Division Two

Welby Cavaliers 111

Barrowby 112 -4

Barrowby took a well deserved victory on Sunday, with Craig Turner taking centre stage for them.

Barrowby put the visitors into bat and were soon amongst the wickets. Turner did the early damage, causing havoc in Welby’s top order with some good assistance from his team-mates in the field.

Steve Harper took three catches behind the stumps and Matt Haisman clung on superbly to a catch-of-the-season contender. Turner had five of the top seven batsmen back in the pavilion with Welby reeling at 34-7. He finished with figures 5-17 off eight overs.

Matt Veasey’s golden arm of spin brought him figures of 2-22 but Welby rallied to make a respectable score of 111. Jack Knight took two wickets and was ably supported by youngster Joseph De’ath at the other end, who was unlucky not to bag a wicket on his club debut. Dion Dexter took the other wicket to round off a fine spell of bowling.

Barrowby set about the target with Harper finding regular boundaries. Welby kept themselves interested with two early wickets, before Turner joined Harper at the crease.

Harper was going well until he dragged one on to his own stumps for a useful 31.

And so it was left for Turner to take charge to see his side home with a steady yet fluent 43 not out, rounding off a fine individual performance.

Last week, the Journal reported that Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill said that council services are “at breaking point”. Has Mr Hill only just noticed that?

Council services, together with almost every other public service, reached breaking point many years ago. Hundreds of thousands of people all around the country have been protesting against government cuts for decades.

Even here, in ultra-Conservative Grantham, thousands of us have marched against the disgraceful cuts that have led to the partial closure of our hospital’s most essential service – its A&E department.

Killing off public services through starvation of funding is a core principle of capitalism, the economic policy practised mainly by Tories, but also some deluded Labour politicians such as Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.

The reason for killing the public sector, they would argue, is that it allows the private sector to provide essential services instead. This is desirable, they would say, because the private sector does things better. No matter that there’s not a scrap of evidence to support this claim. No matter that there’s a mountain of evidence to prove the exact opposite – that public services are best left in the hands of a properly funded state.

Although Tory politicians are largely responsible for creating this situation, Blairites in the Labour Party are arguably even more culpable – because people expect better things from Labour than a seamless continuation of Tory policies.

But there are two other groups who are also responsible.

The first of these is the mainstream media, for it’s the media who have not only failed to hold four decades of capitalist governments to account, they’ve actively promoted the vile practice of capitalism, a practice which could properly be described as downright evil. And people tend to believe the mainstream media.

The second vitally important group who are responsible for the savage cuts that Mr Hill recently seems to have noticed are all of those who for the best part of 40 years have steadfastly persisted in voting for capitalist government.

We need a socialist reformation. Only socialism can save our country.

It was socialists, not capitalists, who made Britain really great – giving us the NHS, council housing, free university education, decent old age pensions, almost full employment.

The capitalists have just about destroyed it all, as even Mr Hill has finally accepted.

So the obvious solution is that people should stop voting for capitalism, and vote once again for socialism.

John Andrews

Marratts Lane,
Great Gonerby

A rector will walk from Lincoln Cathedral to her church in Claypole to raise money to buy two toilets for the building.

Rev Sonia Barron, the rector of Claypole church, will undertake the Big Walk on Monday (July 24). She will be joined by the Bishop of Grantham, the Rt Rev Nicholas Chamberlain, for the final stage of the walk from Brant Broughton to Claypole.

Rev Barron has a justgiving page to raise money for the project. She has a target of £2,000 and has so far raised more than £500. You can make a donation at www.justgiving.com

Rev Barron said: “We want, as Edward King of Lincoln encouraged, to be more Christ-like Christians. Sharing the good news of the gospel not just in words but through our actions. So in addition to regular Sunday worship, we are seeking to restore the church’s presence as the centre of the community and for wider, more regular community use to fulfill the vision of the Church to be hospitable, generous and having Christian distinctiveness.

“We want to engage with our local community appropriately and effectively. Worship has been offered in this place since the first wooden structure of the 12th century was built and the proposed work will emphasise and maintain its use as a sacred place of worship and prayer and a sanctuary for members of the village community and other visitors from further afield. It continues to be a place of historical interest for those visiting Lincolnshire and our village and through this project we hope it will become a place of pilgrimage, not only for the individual, occasional visitors but for educational group visits e.g the local Church of England Primary school.

“The primary benefit of these works are that it will help us fulfill our mission and ministry in reaching out to the wider community – living out the Christian gospel in being more outward looking in responding to human need in loving service. St Peter’s continues to be a place of Christian worship and prayer and a centre of Christian mission, reaching out into the community with the good news of Jesus Christ.

“We desire to serve our local community with hospitality, generosity, hope and neighbourliness. So through this project we want to ensure that, as custodians of this building, it is available and accessible to everyone for the foreseeable future.”

Men are being encouraged to go along to a meeting to hear about a group where they can learn new skills and improve their mental and physical health.

The Rotary Club of Grantham Kesteven is promoting the project and would like men interested in joining to go along to a meeting at Grantham Museum, in St Peter’s Hill, on Wednesday. It will take place between 3pm and 5pm.

Men’s Shed is an idea which took off in Australia. It is where men go to take part in physical and mental activities to benefit their health and also the community around them. It’s good for their social life and for their personal esteem.

A Men’s Shed is run by its members and they agree what activities should take place. They decide the 
constitution and set the rules.

Wednesday’s meeting will follow an agenda which will ask if there is the need for a Men’s Shed in Grantham and, if so, how to set up a steering group and find premises and resources.

If you are interested in getting involved as a member or can donate spare premises, old tools, equipment and 
perhaps your time, go along 
to the meeting at the museum.

More details about the organisation can be found at www.mensshed.org.uk

STOKE ROCHFORD

Last Saturday saw the fifth annual Memorial Tournament for the Chris Jones Trophy, played in ideal weather conditions at Stoke Rochford Golf Club, with some very good scores recorded on the day.

Seventy-one members and 98 guests played throughout the day and enjoyed the tremendous looking course. A full field of 169 people took part, the first starting their rounds at 6.30am and the last guests teeing off at 3.10pm

A raffle and an auction were held following the evening presentation, and were well supported, raising to date approximately £2,500 for the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance and the British Heart Foundation.

Guests and members then enjoyed a fabulously prepared buffet by Andy, Tracey and all their staff.

Results: Overall Trophy winner – Penny Hallam 42pt; Gross – 1 Nick Watson 39, 2 Meg Illingworth 35 (bk 9); Members, male – 1 Paul Knapp 41, 2 Steve Ward 40 (bk 9), 3 Rob Newham 40, 4 Jeff Purdy 39; Ladies, members & guests – 1 Hattie Dow 41, 2 Pam Watson 40, 3 Denise Parker 39, 4 Dorne Werner 38; Guests, male – 1 Les Toyne 39, 2 Jack Berry 37 (bk 9), 3 Chris Carr 37 (bk 6), 4 Ross Denton 37; Nearest the Pin 12th – John Hitchman; Straightest Drive 10th – Pete Plummer; Juniors – Jack Rawson & Sam Jones.

Barry, Rachel and Will would like to thank Stoke Rochford management for their continued support, Gareth and his team for their hard work on the course, Tracey and Andy for their work in keeping everyone fed and watered throughout the whole day, and to all members and guests for joining them on the day and into the evening to remember their son Chris.

Seniors

Blankney Seniors 5½

Stoke Rochford 2½

Stoke Rochford seniors found it as difficult as ever to win away from home.

Results: Jim Price and Trevor Harvey won 4&3, Brian Keightley and Barry Mitchell halved, Ray Beal and Mike Dickinson lost 3&2, Cliff Mills and Glyn Staines lost 2&1, Roger Green and Mike Graves lost 3&2, David Hamilton and Steve Major lost 3&2, Brian White and Phil Hewes won 1 up, John Wright lost 2&1.

BELTON PARK

Fifty-four players took part in the Belton Park men’s club championships in warm, muggy conditions on Sunday.

There were some excellent scores, particularly in the morning. However, in the afternoon a quite brilliant 64 from Levi Desmond (equalling the course record), added to his 68 in the morning, saw him win the Clements Scratch Bowl with a gross 36 hole score of 132 (10 under par) – a new course record for 36 holes.

Second best gross went to Will Hopkins (138), third was Jack Diment (141) and Harry Glenn (148) was fourth.

Best gross am – John Duke (73) on countback, Best gross pm – John Kirkup (72) on countback.

The best net 36 hole and Shaw Memorial Trophy went to Michael Green (137). Runner-up was Ed Glenn (138), ahead of Tom Cooper (139) third and Joe Clayton (140) fourth.

Best net am – James Stevenson (66), Best net pm – Tim Shaw – (69).

Seniors

Postponed from June due to bad weather, the Medal was finally played over the Woodside, with Bob Privett coming out on top with a fine net 66.

The day was windy and there was a brief shower which did not make for easy scoring, and Bob’s effort was to be commended. For captain Ray Woodcock a not so laudable performance, with a bunker resulting in a 14!

Results: 1 Bob Privett net 66, 2 Neil Hoyle 69, 3 John Sabin 69, 4 John Bilott 70, 5 Steve Daly 71, 6 Colin Musson 73, 7 Bob Blake 73, 8 Lyndon Halett 73.

Three home inter-club matches at the start of the month resulted in two wins and one defeat.

Belton Park 2

Greetham Valley 4

Ray Woodcock and David Dexter won 3-2, David Toule and Colin Musson lost 2-1, Gary Waterfield and John Browne won 3-2, Colin Thornton and Les Vine lost 1 down, Alan Lowen and John Thomson lost 1 down, Henry Knight and Ian Nesbitt lost 2 down.

Belton Park 6

Toft 2

Ray Woodcock and Mike Gulliford won 1 up, David Toule and John Browne won 2-1, Gary Waterfield and Colin Musson won 5-4, Ken Claxon and David Dexter won 4-3, Colin Thornton and Ian Nisbett won 1 up, Les Vine and John Thomson lost 1 down, Henry Knight and Lyndon Hallett lost 2 down, Mike Whitington and Chris Beckett won 8-7.

Belton Park 6½

Blankney 1½

Ray Woodcock and Ian Nisbett won 5-4, David Toule and Tony Slipper won 2-1, Gary Waterfield and John Browne won 3-2, Colin Thornton and Alan Lowen won 1 up, Ken Claxon and Chris Beckett won 2-1, Tin Win and Les Vine won 2-1, Bob Blake and Mike Whitington won 1 up, Tom Rea and Henry Knight lost 3-2.

SUDBROOK MOOR

Midway through the six month season, the Junior Intermediates’ pairings are tightly packed on the Order of Merit scoreboard.

Current title holders Scott Griffiths and Joseph Ablewhite remain at the top, following their July scorecard, but newcomers Simon Green and seven-year-old son Alfie enjoyed a splendid personal best round to share this month’s honours, leaping into second spot in the summer rankings.

Eleven-year-old Lilliya and father Martin Greene also had s personal best, adding top points to launch them to third spot. Five-year-old Owen Green with dedicated Andrew Green sit well in fourth, from grandad Stuart Smith with Blake.

Sophie Robinson played with grandad Graham Dolan, whilst James Farant brought forth another fine scorecard with his father Rob, and for them too another personal best. Other pairings adding points this month were Daniel and Chris Agapito, Alan and Reuben Staines, Adrian and Will Hands, and Ronie and Peter Alipio.

Birdies on the scorecards were positive factors in the day’s overall outcome, with one apiece for Simon and Alfie Green, Martin and Lilliya Greene, Stuart and Blake Smith, and Ronie and Peter Alipio.

Sudbrook ladies enjoyed a very sweet home result in one of their summer friendly fixtures when they met Boston West. Captain of the day Chris Thompson led the pairings to a halved match, 1.5-1.5, with an all square finish for her match with Eileen Plummer, and a very solid win for Joan Doughty with Hnin Shein, and a loss for Doreen Fardell with Amanda Roberts.

The gents’ A Team added four very vital points this month to the South Lincolnshire League Order of Merit, following results against Thorney Lakes and Sutton Bridge. This has removed any recent vulnerability for them in the bottom half of the rankings, and the future of the remaining month of fixtures looks much more rosy.

Back after a convalescence, senior David Leslie had a glowing day to win the Gordon Trophy for handicaps 21-36.

Last Thursday’s stableford scorecard of 41 points reduced his 24 handicap by 0.8. Runner-up for the trophy was Geoffrey Stothard on 39. Best card of the lower handicaps, those off 20 and below, was the consistent Barry Rohland, from Ted Johnson and Ken Wingad.

I’ve written about the ‘mythical’ southern relief road (SRR) and the Southern Quadrant several times and so far, sadly, everything that I’ve predicted (despite assurances to the contrary, from various council members), has been correct.

So – lets go for some more.

Phase 2 of the SRR will be completed – albeit late.

There will be a new retail outlet built. It will create some jobs, but it won’t put Grantham ‘on the map’.

Undoubtedly, a large number of visitors to the shopping centre will come by car, the A1 will be unable to cope with the increase in traffic, and frustrated motorists will look for an alternative route – probably through Grantham.

No one visiting the shopping centre will visit Grantham.

People from Grantham will visit the shopping centre.

If the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is sold, the housing on that will be built before the Southern Quadrant development. Which means any developers will wait. Why? Simply because it’s easier, it’s flat, it already has access into it, it already has housing on the land, and effectively the Government already owns it.

It is therefore unlikely that any housing will be built on the original Southern Quadrant site.

Phase 3 of the SRR will be put into the ‘too difficult’ box, and mothballed.

Phase 3 of the SRR would bring huge benefit to the town, it should be the priority – but it obviously isn’t.

Grantham has been ruined by successive council administrations (district and county), who have allowed it to deteriorate into the depressing shambles that it is.

I have little confidence in the ‘new’ leadership team at SKDC, some of whom, frankly, don’t look old enough to be out on their own, let alone hold a position of responsibility or influence. I seriously doubt that they have the vision, ability or experience to make the necessary changes.

Until the traffic problems are managed, the town will not improve. The town has some potential, but now, it is a place to avoid. Some areas should be pedestrianised, and some places simply need to be flattened and re-thought – the Issac Newton Shopping Centre for example.

I wish I could find something positive to say, but unfortunately, past evidence gives little point in optimism.

Finally, though, can I suggest a snappy new slogan for the council to use on any visitor or tourist information literature? ‘Grantham…once is enough’.

Name and address supplied

Witham Wheelers veteran Michael Smalley was the best of the club riders in the Sleaford Wheelers Nev Crane Memorial 25-mile time trial on the Sleaford-Osbournby-Donington course, recording 1hr 2min 59sec.

Louise George had the most profitable day. taking the ladies’ second prize in 1:07:03.

The race was won by Dan Barnett (Team Bottrill) in 53.18

Other Wheelers: 42 Graham McAndrew 1:06:49, 46 Anthony Chamberlain 1:08:17, 47 Anthony Hardenberg 1:08:30.

Also riding was Robert McAndrew (Team Jewson-MI Racing-Poly Pipe-McCann) who finished 25th in 1:01:45.

The third and final round of the club circuit time trial competition took place on Tuesday night over two laps from Gorse Lane to Croxton Kerrial, Saltby and back, finishing at Hungerton.

A stiff easterly breeze made for a tough return leg to Hungerton but didn’t slow Reece Egner, making his return to racing after a cracking his elbow six weeks ago, as he won in 36:58. Karl Baillie wasn’t far behind in 37:13, with John Pilgrim third in 37:47.

Louise George was first of the ladies in 44:38, from Sophie Hunt 47:17 and Tracey George 49:26.

Results: men – 1 Reece Egner 36:58, 2 Karl Baillie 37:13, 3 John Pilgrim 37:47, 4 Adam Egner 39:01, 5 Matthew Kingston-Lee 40:49, 6 Simon Cocker 41:34, 7 Mick Egner 41:52, 8 Michael Smalley 41:54, 9 Tony Hardenberg 44:01, 10 John Pygott 45:06, 11 Dave Herd 45:36, 12 Gary Tudbury 46:22, 13 Nev Chamberlain 46:45, 14 Bill Harrison 47:18, 15 Phil Smith 47:43, 16 Wayne Searle 48:05, 17 Jeremy Clay 50:10; ladies – 1 Louise George 44:38, 2 Sophie Hunt 47:17, 3 Tracey George 49:26, 4 Julie Clark 52:20, 5 Victoria Saffaris 53:02, 6 Andrea Egner 55:25, 7 Evangeline Searle 1:00:20.

Based on cumulative time over the three distances (12, 24.1 and 16.3 miles), Louise George (2:31:09) is the winner of the ladies’ competition and John Pilgrim the men’s in 2:03:55.

Tuesday is the next round of the 10-mile TT league. Register to ride after 6pm at Grantham Cricket Club on Gorse Lane. First rider starts at 6.45pm. All welcome.

Grantham Town suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of former Gingerbreads manager Gary Mills’ York City at The Meres on Saturday.

Always the underdogs on paper for this pre-season friendly, Town put in an improved performance in the second half, having gone into half time two goals down.

Following a steady, balanced start by both sides, the sharp looking Minstermen began to dominate in all areas of the pitch.

Both sides had goal scoring opportunities but on the 30th minute York went ahead when John Parkin stabbed in from close range, following a steady and meticulous build-up.

Grantham conceded a free kick a minute later when Alex Whittle was unceremoniously hacked down.

Josh Law stepped up and curled his effort beautifully around the Town wall, past the outstretched arm of Kieran Preston, and in off the post.

Both teams rang the changes at half time with a sprinkling of substitutes.

Town looked a stronger side in the second period and the game became more balanced.

The Gingerbreads got the reward for their efforts in the 77th minute, Ryley Thompson heading in a rebound after Lee Shaw’s shot was blocked, following a pacy set-up involving Jeremiah Dasaolu.

Thoughts of snatching an equaliser and taking the game to penalties were finally dashed in the first minute of added time when City’s Kaine Felix fired into the top of the net after Preston had made a great reaction save on the goal line.

Att: 231.

Belvoir Castle Pleasure Ride takes place on Sunday, August 6.

This is a fun family social ride run by Leicestershire and Rutland Endurance GB Group, and is open to all.

The route sets off from Lakeside within the grounds of Belvoir Castle, passing through the newly-planted Capability Brown landscape within the estate.

There will be minimal roadwork and stewards at road crossings.

There are two routes to choose from, which will include a refreshment stop for you and your horse en route – 12 miles or six miles.

There are preferred start time slots to choose from on the entry form.

Entry numbers are limited and no entries on the day.

Junior riders under 18 years can ride the event with a signed parental consent form. Ages 13-plus can ride unaccompanied but must have a responsible adult at the event.

Event information, entry fees and entry form can be found at www.belvoircastle-endurance.com

Five members of Belvoir Tri Club took part in the Market Bosworth Triathlon on Sunday.

Since 1990, Bosworth Water Park has been host on several occasions to national championship triathlon events, and is considered a perfect venue. The triathlon event covered sprint, standard, and middle distances.

Amongst the overall 350 competitors on start lines were Lorna Fox, Marijke De Groot, Naomi Worrell, Rachel Smith and Adam Madge, who all took on the standard distance, consisting of a 1,500m swim, 42km cycle ride and 10km run.

The race commenced with the swim in the boating lake before venturing on to the cycle leg, taking in beautiful views over the Leicestershire and Warwickshire countryside. The cycle was on a fast route with quiet and well maintained roads and the final part, the run section, circled the lake, with the middle and standard distance runners taking to the canal paths.

Results: Adam Madge 2hr 21min 10sec 2nd M30-34, Marijke De Groot 2:57:44 1st F45-49, Naomi Worrell 3:03:24 1st F20-24, Rachel Smith 3:08:54 4th F35-39, Lorna Fox 3:13:39.

Rachel Smith commented on her debut to triathlon: “Such an amazing event and I am in awe of all the great athletes competing. The atmosphere between competitors and the supporters cheering on the sides was just great. I felt so lucky to be part of this event.”

Adam Madge competed in the Lincolnshire Edge sprint open water triathlon at Cadney Reservoir last Sunday.

A race consisting of 750m swim, 21km cycle ride and 5km run.

The 750m swim took place in the very safe and pleasant waters of the reservoir. The 21km bike course was on very quiet but undulating and scenic roads in the Wolds, with views of the famous Lincolnshire Edge. The 5km run was flat with a little off-road section around the lake.

Adam completed the event in 1:21:24, earning him a second overall place. He said: “I was really pleased with my swim, especially with it being a much shorter distance than I usually do.

“I planned to hit it hard from the start. On the bike, my legs were still feeling the previous weekend’s race.

“I think I finished with a strong run, moving me into second place. It was great to get on the podium.”