Tributes have been paid in memory of a Watch Manager from Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue with Gainsborough Fire Station, described as a true gentleman and a friend to so many”.
Watch Manager Simon Gibbs (Risk Department – HQ), whose first station was Gainsborough, had been been fighting bravely with a long-term health issue.
The 54-year-old sadly passed away at around 10.30am on Tuesday, March 29 at St Barnabas Hospice with his wife Marina beside him.
Simon joined Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue in September 1994 and worked in the service for 27 and a half years.
As a mark of respect both Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue’s and Lincolnshire Police’s flags will fly at half-mast at the headquarters in Nettleham in his memory.
Gainsborough Fire Station said: “It is with great sadness that we have to confirm the passing of our much respected and loved colleague Watch Manager Simon Gibbs.
“Simon has been fighting bravely a long term health issue, which unfortunately he has lost the battle with. Simon passed away at approximately 10.30am this morning (29th) at St. Barnabas Hospice with his wife, Marina, beside him.
“All our thoughts are with Marina at this time and it is hoped you will understand her wish for privacy at this time so she is able to come to terms with the loss of Simon. We will of course communicate funeral arrangements as and when they have been confirmed.
“As a mark of respect, both LFR’s and Lincolnshire Police’s flags will fly at half-mast at Fire and Police HQ at Nettleham in memory of Simon. This is such terribly sad news, Simon was such a genuinely lovely guy to know – Rest in Peace.”
The announcement by Gainsborough Fire Station prompted a plethora of tributes to the much-loved man.
Emma Henry said:” I am very sad to hear this, he was so funny and always had a smile on his face when we worked together.
“He was such a lovely man and he will be missed so much. RIP Simon and my deepest condolences to his family.”
John Crowder said: “An absolute legend, who I thankfully had the pleasure to work with, a true gent with a big heart, who would absolutely dislike this demonstration of public affection for him, time now to rest my friend and be at peace. Going to miss you.”
James Baker said: “Absolutely heart broken. Such a fantastic man and I am so lucky to have had him in my life. Take it easy big man.”
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The final in the latest series of road closures for works on the A1, as part of the Grantham Southern Relief Road project, has been temporarily postponed
A weekend northbound A1 closure was due to be in place between 8pm on Friday, May 20 and 6am on Monday, May 23.
However, Lincolnshire County Council said the closure has been temporarily postponed and once new dates have been confirmed they will be shared.
Works on phase three began in April this year, with the council anticipating that winter 2023 will be the completion date for the relief road.
This will be with the view to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, and provide opportunities for growth in the local economy.
The £102 million Grantham Southern Relief Road project has been led by Lincolnshire County Council, supported by South Kesteven District Council, Highways England, Greater Lincolnshire LEP, Network Rail, Homes England, the Department for Transport and local business contributions.
Safety improvements have been carried out at corner where numerous accidents have occurred in East Keal.
The council is looking into what else can be done to prevent motorists from coming off the road at Hall Corner, while police are looking into the possibility of fitting a speed camera.
A cement lorry recently overturned on the corner in February.
Lincolnshire County Council has found a slight dip in the road where Blacksmith Lane meets the A16 could be the reason why heavy vehicles travelling at excessive speed are tipping over.
It is considering whether to smooth out and realign the road, but says it is concious of the impact that closing the A16 would have on traffic and local businesses.
Several safety improvement measures have already been put in place, including ‘slow’ markings, enhanced bend warning signs and improved chevrons.
Problems have been found with the road surface on the corner. | Photo: Google Street View
Lincolnshire Police are assessing whether a speed camera on the corner would be beneficial, and will be taking speed readings in the coming weeks.
Larger barriers and longer safety fencing have been proposed by the public. However, the county council says that in order for it to be big enough to withstand the impact of overturned vehicles, the cost can’t be justified.
Either the local parish council or the country council could also explore whether to fund a reactive speed sign on the location.
Richard Davies, executive member for highways, said: “We are very thankful to the residents and members of the parish council who have given us their ideas and support in what can be done at Hall Corner. Local knowledge and personal feedback are cornerstones of what we do in terms of delivering the best solutions in the most informed way.
“There has already been much done at this bend to try and mitigate the issues faced and we now have more planned for this particular area that will go on to encourage all road users to drive accordingly in line with the road and conditions.
“I would like to thank everyone involved so far for their input. We will all work together to get the best resolution we can for Hall Corner.”
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