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InvestSK, South Kesteven District Council’s economic growth and regeneration company, has worked with local artists and landlords to breathe new life into an empty Stamford retail unit by creating a weekend ‘pop up’ shop showcasing local art.

The temporary shop, which featured as part of the SKDC and InvestSK Arts Around Town event last Friday, was occupied by three local artists: metalsmith Shalini Austin, felt artist Eve Marshall and stained glass artist, Cathi Prince of Shedglas Design. There was also a display of work from Art For All group at Dementia Support South Lincs.

Steve Bowyer, chief executive of InvestSK, said: “InvestSK is here to support local businesses, boost our town centres, and drive cultural and artistic growth. Bringing forward this arts pop-up shop was a great way of delivering all of those aspirations, and showcasing Stamford’s thriving arts scene.

“Our cultural strategy conversation events earlier this month had given us great insight into what local artists are looking for in terms of support, and there was a recurring theme around space – to create new art and showcase their pieces. We listened to that feedback so wanted to trial this pop-up shop concept and I’m thrilled with how well it was received.”

Shalini Austin, a local artist who makes hand-crafted decorative copper items, metal and wire jewellery and sculptures, said: “The pop-up shop was fantastic and I was so grateful to be given the opportunity to take part. The shop was really busy all weekend so it gave me great exposure to new local customers. I’d love to do something similar in the future.”

Andrew Harrison, owner of 5 Red Lion Street which was home to the pop-up shop, said: “I was delighted to work with InvestSK to make the artists’ pop-up shop a reality. I’m keen to support the local community and what better way than to help fledgling businesses and showcase the fantastic arts offer we have in Stamford.”

Councillor Matthew Lee, the Leader of South Kesteven District Council and ward councillor for St Mary’s Ward, Stamford, added: “I am delighted that we were able to respond so quickly to the call from local artists to bring forward exhibition space onto our high street. Stamford has vibrant retail and creative industries and I am keen that we continue to work together to make our town centres exciting and interesting for the benefit of residents and visitors to our town.”

Ambulance and car crash on busy road

Police were called to the Fish and Chip shop in Queen Street, Sleaford about 2045 last evening (Friday) where the two female assistants said that a man in dark clothing with his head covered brandished what they thought could have been a gun. 

The man then made off without any money. 

No one was injured. 

Because of the possibility of a firearm being used, police sent an armed response unit. 

No one has yet been arrested, the investigation continues and anyone who was in the area and saw anything suspicious is asked to call 101 in confidence.

British Transport Police officers have released a CCTV image after a report of indecent exposure on a train in Lincolnshire.

The incident happened at 9.35am on Wednesday 19 December between Lincoln Central and Sleaford stations.

A man is reported to have exposed himself and indecently touched himself while watching pornography. 

Officers believe the man in the image may have information that could help their ongoing investigation.

Anyone who recognises the man, or who has more information about the incident, is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference number 115 of 19/12/18.

Council apologises for ‘distress’ caused over Spalding Relief Road

Members of the media are invited to attend the launch of the new natural coast marketing tools at the North Sea Observatory, Chapel Point, St Leonards Drive, Chapel St Leonards PE24 5XA at 9.30am on Wednesday 6 February.

A new website and visitor guide have been created to promote the wonders of Lincolnshire’s natural coast, enticing new visitors to the county.

The new marketing tools will be officially launched on Wednesday 6 February during an event at the North Sea Observatory in Chapel St Leonards.

Cllr Colin Davie, executive member for economy and place, said: “Lincolnshire is well-known for its seaside towns, which have been popular holiday destinations for generations, but we want to remind people that our wonderful coast has much more to offer.

“There are great opportunities for walking, cycling, and bird watching all year round, and a wealth of wildlife and plant-life to explore.  

“During the warmer months, our unspoilt beaches are the ideal location for paddling, picnics, sandcastles, beach cricket and kite flying.

“And those with an interest in the natural world, will love the new North Sea Observatory, recently revamped Gibraltar Point and our many other nature reserves.

“Of course, we’d also recommend visitors take the time to go inland and visit some of our lovely village pubs and historic market towns, or add variety to their walks or cycle rides by covering the coastal grazing marshes and the Lincolnshire Wolds.

“We hope that by showcasing the many wonders of our natural coast we’ll be able to attract new visitors to the county, boosting the local tourism economy.” 

To view the new website visit www.lincsnaturalcoast.com

A Lincolnshire second hand car dealer was jailed for 12 months at Lincoln Crown Court on three different charges.

Second hand car dealer Mark Drury (45) of Garfield House, 65 Garfitts Lane, Boston, was on Friday (8 February 2019) at Lincoln Crown Court, jailed for 12 months for supplying an unsafe car, perverting the course of justice by pretending to be Trading Standards officer and attempting to remove evidence.

In August 2017, a trading standards investigation was launched after Mr Drury sold Norfolk resident, Mrs Woodlow, a ‘dangerous’ used car.

After picking up the car and making her way home to Norfolk, Mrs Woodlow noticed a banging noise coming from the back of the car. She took it to her local garage, where mechanics found both the prop shaft and both drive shafts had been removed. Mechanics then informed Lincolnshire Trading Standards.

Trading Standards then seized the car and ordered it to remain at the garage in Norfolk, in order to undergo further safety tests.

However, a day later Mr Drury arrived in Norfolk, pretended to be the Trading Standards officer in charge and tried to tow the car away Luckily, the savvy staff at the garage realised what was going on, they blocked the vehicle in, and Mr Drury ran off.

“The car was unroadworthy and in a dangerous condition when sold,” said vehicle expert, Mark Brown, who gave evidence at the case. “The rear brakes are worn out and incorrectly assembled, the prop and drive shafts had been removed and there was practically nothing holding the rear wheels on.”

Drury pretending to be a Trading Standards Officer

Judge Hirst, who presided over the case, said: “Perverting the course of justice is very serious. Mr Drury knew what he was doing and caused distress to everyone around. Mr Drury is man of very deceptive nature – a dishonest man, who twisted and turned at every opportunity to get out of the situation.”

Sara Barry, head of Trading Standards at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “In Lincolnshire we target our resources against those individuals and businesses that cause the most problems for consumers – this case was no exception. Vehicles which are dangerous and unroadworthy put all our lives at risk. This case should send out a very strong message to rogue traders – we will prosecute you and bring you to justice.”

In 2018, Lincolnshire Trading Standards received 1,169 complaints about used cars.

When buying a used car, officers from Trading Standards suggest:

– Visit www.gov.uk to check MOT history. 
This MOT history gives the recorded mileage each time the vehicle was submitted for test. It also gives details of past MOT failures and advisories.

– Do your research on the seller.
Shop around, look for customer reviews of your dealership online and ask friends and family.

– Ask questions.
Ask the dealer about the condition of the car, repairs carried out on the car, and the relevant documentation for the car such as the service history, V5C registration document (logbook) and MOT certificates.

– Check the car over.
Check the mileage online here to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with, take a mechanic with you to view and inspect the car before purchase – don’t pay on the net, and always take the car for a test drive.

– Be aware of sales patter.
Ensure any verbal claims made by the salesman are put in writing.

For further information and advice, visit the Citizens Advice consumer service on https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ (opens in new window) or call 03454 04 05 06.

To find out more about the work Lincolnshire Trading Standards does, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards 

Man attacked ex with crowbar knocking out five teeth