Gainsborough Police

08/11/2026

We would like to speak to this woman, who may have information about an incident in Gainsborough.

On 9 August between 1.50pm and 2.20pm a child of secondary school age was believed to have been slapped in Parnell Street, Gainsborough. He did not sustain serious injuries.

As part of our investigation, we are sharing a photograph of a woman we’d like to speak to.

If you recognise the woman, or have any information that could help our investigation, contact us:

- Call PC Danny Binks on 07484 431096 quoting Incident 278 of 9 August.
- Email PC Binks at [email protected] putting the above Incident number in the Subject line of the email.

08/11/2026

We are appealing for information after two men on a moped stopped at a store in Gainsborough, punched a shop worker while trying to steal mobile phones, and then hit a car while fleeing the scene.

It is believed the two offenders made their way to Marshall’s Yard at around 6pm on Saturday, 7 November. The moped had been seen on both Cross Street and Spring Gardens prior to the incident.

The offenders then entered the store and tried to take the phones. During the incident a man working there was punched and was also threatened with a knife. Thankfully, he was not reported to be injured.

A crowbar, which one of the men carried into the shop, was later recovered, as was a motorcycle helmet.

The men got back onto the moped which drove into the back passenger door of a car in the Marshall’s Yard car park. The offenders did not stay at the scene but instead the moped drove through a red light and left the area. It is believed the offenders then made their way onto Ropery Road.

We are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, saw the moped being driven either before or after the incident, or anyone with CCTV/dashcam footage to contact us.

▶️ Call 101 quoting Incident 355 of 7 November.
▶️ Email DS Rachael Sadowski at [email protected] putting the same incident number in the Subject line.
▶️ Contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

05/11/2026

As the darker mornings and earlier evenings continue, we are experiencing a seasonal increase in acquisitive crime, particularly burglaries, across West Lindsey.

On 29th October 2026, police received a report of a residential burglary on Prebend Lane, Welton. During the incident, a handbag containing a small amount of cash and a bank card was stolen. The offence is believed to have occurred between 11:00am and 7:35pm, with entry gained through an insecure front door.

Later that day, at approximately 6:00pm, police were called to a burglary at a construction site on Foxby Hill, Gainsborough. Offenders forced entry to the site by breaching the perimeter Harris fencing. A container was targeted, with wiring and diesel stolen, and a mini digger was also taken from the premises.

On 30th October 2026, police received a report of a burglary at a property on Caistor Road, Market Rasen. The occupant had been away from the address between 25th and 30th October and returned to find a window ajar. Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing.

On 2nd November 2026, officers attended reports of a house fire on Salisbury Street, Gainsborough. Due to the severity of the blaze, two fire engines attended alongside police officers. Following initial information received, a 55-year-old male was identified as a suspect and arrested on suspicion of arson. However, as enquiries progressed, he was released with no further action. The investigation culminated on 5th November when Anthony Waring, aged 50, was charged and remanded in custody for arson with intent to endanger life, arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and possession of a Class A controlled drug.

In the early hours of 5th November, at approximately 4:00am, police received a report from a member of the public that an individual was trying vehicle door handles on Kestrel Avenue, Gainsborough. Following a prompt response by officers, a 52-year-old male was detained and arrested on suspicion of vehicle interference. At the time of writing, he remains in police custody while enquiries continue.

Halloween saw a notable increase in reports of antisocial behaviour across Gainsborough. These incidents predominantly involved a small group of individuals already known to both Lincolnshire Police and West Lindsey District Council. I fully understand and share the community's frustrations regarding the time required to progress through the enforcement processes available to both organisations, as these do not always deliver the immediate resolution residents understandably expect. I am currently working with a local councillor to arrange a community meeting where residents will have the opportunity to discuss the impact of antisocial behaviour and hear about the measures being taken to address it.

We have also seen an increase in reports of so-called “Nottingham Knockers”. These individuals typically cold-call at residential addresses attempting to sell household items, often claiming to have recently been released from prison. Several residents have reported that these individuals have been persistent, verbally aggressive, or intimidating when attempting to make sales. I would encourage residents not to open the door to anyone they do not recognise or are not expecting. Free “No Cold Callers” stickers are available from Lincolnshire Police upon request.

I continue to seek volunteers to support the development of the Police Cadets programme. Cadet sessions will run on Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm during school term time. Anyone interested in volunteering as a Cadet Leader can find further information via the Lincolnshire Police website under Cadet Leader Volunteer (Ref: 38).

Finally, I would encourage residents to ask family members, friends and neighbours to sign up to Lincs Alert. This free service provides local policing updates, crime prevention advice and community safety information directly from Lincolnshire Police.

Thank you for your continued support.

Stay safe, remain vigilant, and please continue to work with us to help keep our communities safe.

05/11/2026

Enjoy Bonfire Night Safely 🎆

Bonfire Night is a chance for friends, families and communities to come together and enjoy the celebrations safely.

As we head into the festivities, we're working alongside our partners, including West Lindsey District Council to help keep people safe and respond to any issues that arise.

If you're celebrating, please do so responsibly:

✅ Attend organised displays where possible
✅ Follow safety guidance when using fireworks
✅ Be considerate of neighbours, young children and pets
✅ Respect your local community and those working to keep people safe

Fireworks can cause serious injury and distress when used irresponsibly. Misusing fireworks or using them in an anti-social manner can have serious consequences.

Officers from local policing teams and wardens from City of Lincoln Council will be carrying out patrols throughout the Bonfire Night period to provide reassurance, engage with local communities and help prevent anti-social behaviour.

We encourage parents and guardians to speak with young people about staying safe, making responsible choices and understanding the risks associated with fireworks.

The vast majority of people celebrate Bonfire Night without incident. By looking out for one another and showing respect for our communities, we can help ensure everyone enjoys the festivities safely.

If you witness anti-social behaviour, report it online or by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

05/11/2026

A 50-year-old man has been charged following a fire at a property in Gainsborough.

Emergency services were called to a house in Salisbury Street after we received a call at just after 11pm on Monday, 2 November. No injuries were reported.

We have since arrested and charged Anthony Waring, of Salisbury Street, with arson with intent to endanger life and possession of a Class A drug.

He is due to appear at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court today (5 November).

04/11/2026

It was midnight, near Gainsborough, around 2011, when a 17-year-old boy was found wandering alone on a rural road. The boy had been driven into the countryside and left there by his father following a family argument. The officer who happened upon this boy picked him up and gave him 20 minutes of his time, offering calm and grounding advice that was never forgotten. In fact, it is this moment that is credited with changing the course of this boy’s life forever. We don’t yet know who this officer is, but we would like to find out so he can know the difference he made.

This is the correspondence we received:

“I am writing with an unusual request. Approximately 14 to 15 years ago (around 2011–2012), I was a 17-year-old living in Gainsborough with my family in an insular, high-control household.

“Following an intense family dispute, my father drove me roughly 30 minutes north into the countryside outside Gainsborough (likely along the rural roads heading north toward Scotter / Blyton / North Lincolnshire) and left me stranded on the road at midnight.

“After I had walked for 15-25 minutes in the pitch dark, a young Lincolnshire Police officer on solo patrol drove past, turned his vehicle around, and picked me up. He was roughly 25-35 years old at the time. I told him what had happened, and instead of taking me back or treating me as a problem, he gave me 20 minutes of calm, grounding advice: "You’re about to be 18 and then you can go live your life. I don’t understand what you’re going through, but I see that you’re able to take care of yourself, and I believe in you."

“Those 20 minutes gave me the courage to step out, build an independent life, and forge a successful career.

“I have never forgotten that officer. I would love the opportunity to let him know the lasting impact he had.

“If you could share this brief description on your internal intranet, staff noticeboard, or with the West Lindsey / Gainsborough team to see if anyone recognizes the memory, I would be deeply grateful.”

Although this was 15 years ago, we would like to identify this officer and we are making enquiries within our Force. It’s possible the officer may have retired or moved elsewhere so if you know of any officers in Gainsborough around 2011-2012, please share this with them and email [email protected] with any information.

29/10/2026

*** Message from Inspector Head ***

Good afternoon,

Firstly, a word of warning that this is a lengthy update due to the significant operational demand experienced across the area during the past week.

Unfortunately, since my last update, we have attended a number of tragic incidents in which individuals have sadly lost their lives.

On 27th October, officers attended Bishopgate Road, Glentham, following reports of a road traffic collision. Despite the best efforts of police officers, paramedics and a member of the public who commenced CPR, a 61-year-old male motorcyclist sadly passed away at the scene. Our thoughts remain with his family and friends during this extremely difficult time. You can read our appeal for information here: Appeal after fatal collision at Glentham | Lincolnshire Police

On 26th October, residents may have noticed a significant police presence on Gipsy Lane, just off the A46. Police officers, supported by Lowland Rescue, were conducting enquiries to locate a missing 54-year-old man. The search operation lasted approximately 40 hours and utilised considerable resources, including drones, before the individual was located safely. I would like to publicly recognise Lowland Rescue for the outstanding work they undertake and the invaluable support they provide to police during these complex and resource-intensive searches.

Also on 26th October, residents of Scothern will have witnessed a significant emergency services response, with multiple fire engines attending a serious house fire while police officers assisted with traffic management and maintaining a cordon. Despite the courageous efforts of neighbours and the first firefighters on scene, the fire had taken hold of the property and, tragically, an 81-year-old man lost his life. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the wider community.

On 23rd October, emergency services attended Brigg Road, Riseholme, following reports that a 68-year-old man been struck by a heavy goods vehicle. Despite the efforts of members of the public who commenced CPR and attending paramedics, the man sadly died at the scene. My thoughts are with his family and all those directly involved in what was undoubtedly a traumatic incident. You can read our appeal for information here: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1588129373354144&set=a.487255916774834

Vehicle Crime

We continue to see an increase in vehicle-related crime across the area.

A Volkswagen Golf was stolen from Ingamells Drive overnight between 21st and 22nd October. Colleagues from Nottinghamshire Police subsequently located the vehicle, which was displaying false registration plates, and found two individuals working on it. Two men, aged 18 and 20 and both from Nottingham, have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

On 22nd October 2026, officers were called to Gainsborough Road, Willingham by Stow, following reports that a trailer carrying a Porsche 911 had been stolen. Due to the security measures in place, officers were able to locate both the vehicle and trailer in the Drinksey Nook area. Both were successfully recovered and returned to their owner. Enquiries to identify those responsible remain ongoing.

On 24th October 2026, a Peugeot scooter, registration, was stolen from the Co-op car park on Front Street, Morton. Unfortunately, the scooter remains outstanding, although it has since been sighted in Gainsborough where it failed to stop for police.

On 25th October 2026, police received reports that a Toyota Hilux, registration had been stolen overnight without keys. The vehicle was subsequently recovered by South Yorkshire Police in the Doncaster area. Unfortunately, due to evidential difficulties, no suspects have yet been identified.

Other Significant Incidents

Evans Halshaw Ford on Lea Road, Gainsborough, continues to experience incidents of criminal damage affecting vehicles on its forecourt. Officers are working closely with the business to identify those responsible and take appropriate action.

Antisocial Behaviour

Police continue to receive reports of antisocial behaviour across the district. Current reports are predominantly centred on Market Rasen and Gainsborough.

In Market Rasen, concerns largely relate to two males aged 16 and 17. Police and partner agencies are fully aware of the issues and are progressing interventions through the staged antisocial behaviour process. A Community Protection Warning has been issued to one of the individuals; however, it is recognised that further intervention and support will be required from both police and partner agencies to address the behaviour effectively.

I fully appreciate the frustration this is causing within the community and would encourage residents to continue reporting incidents promptly while allowing the appropriate processes to be followed.

In Gainsborough, reports are more widespread and involve a number of young people engaging in behaviour including intimidation, verbal abuse and actions which are negatively affecting local businesses and residents. Incidents involving gates being kicked and windows being struck have left some vulnerable residents feeling unsafe in their own homes, which is entirely unacceptable.

Police and West Lindsey District Council are aware of many of the individuals involved and are actively working through the antisocial behaviour process. One individual is currently subject to an Acceptable Behaviour Agreement, with further formal action available should breaches occur.

Police will also be escalating concerns regarding the more serious offenders to Children's Services so that appropriate support and intervention can be provided. Once again, I would encourage residents to continue reporting incidents and thank them for their patience while these processes are progressed.

Investigations and Court Outcomes

Unfortunately, due to the current staffing pressures affecting the force, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have recently been required to support colleagues with serious incidents in the east of the county. This has inevitably impacted investigative capacity and workloads across existing enquiries.

Murder of Danny Fowler

On 23rd October, Ryan Townhill, 29, of no fixed address, was found guilty of the murder of Danny Fowler following his death in Market Rasen in March 2026. He was also convicted of possession of a bladed article.

Following the same trial, Shannon Doocey, 31, of Mill Street, Market Rasen, was found guilty of murder, possession of an offensive weapon in connection with Mr Fowler's murder, affray, and possession of an offensive weapon relating to an earlier incident in Waterloo Street, Market Rasen, in September 2025.

Martin Doocey, 55, of Waverley Court, Market Rasen, was convicted of manslaughter and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with the September 2025 Waterloo Street incident.

Sentencing is scheduled for 17th November 2026.

My thoughts remain with Danny Fowler's family and with the wider Market Rasen community, recognising the significant impact this case has had locally.

Police Cadets

Finally, following the strong level of interest in the new Police Cadet cohort for Gainsborough, we are now seeking volunteer Cadet Leaders to support officers in delivering the programme.

Further information, including application details, can be found here:

https://gbr01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lincs.police.uk%2Fpolice-forces%2Flincolnshire-police%2Fareas%2Fcareers%2Fjoin-us%2Fvacancies%2Fpolice-support-volunteer-vacancies%2Fcadet-leader-volunteer-ref-382%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmichael.head%40lincs.police.uk%7C0d1e4184f9f04b94e50f08df34db7579%7C64bdf0f9219d4cdc88ea2737325b4d26%7C0%7C0%7C639287789317607669%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pCv%2BqoPDGnhvTWHAid3h8IPlNjO4WyEz8NQpr%2F22yY4%3D&reserved=0

In light of a number of recent incidents that have affected communities across the county, we would like to remind residents that support and advice are available for anyone who may be experiencing difficulties. There are a range of organisations and community services, such as the crisis team, that can provide guidance, information and assistance, and we encourage anyone who feels they may benefit from support to seek help.

I would also encourage residents to ask family members, friends and neighbours to register for Lincs Alert to receive local policing updates and community safety information directly from Lincolnshire Police.

Thank you for your continued support.

Stay safe, remain vigilant, and please continue to work with us to keep our communities safe.

We are appealing for witnesses following a fatal collision on the A15 Brigg Road in Lincoln, near the Riseholme Roundabout.

The collision occurred at around 11.15am on Friday 23 October 2026 and involved a HGV and a pedestrian.

Sadly, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

We are asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage of the incident, to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected], quoting incident 162 of 23 October 2026.

26/10/2026

PC Clare seized this modified mini moto bike today after it has been repeatedly linked to anti-social behaviour and causing a nuisance within the local community. Enquiries established that the bike was being ridden on public roads without valid insurance presenting a risk to the rider and other members of the public. As a result, it has now been taken off the streets.

We understand the impact that illegal E-scooter and bike use can have on residents, including noise, intimidation, and danger to other road users and pedestrians. We will continue to take action against those who choose to ride vehicles illegally or engage in anti-social behaviour.

If you have information about nuisance bikes or anti-social behaviour in your area, please report it to us.

26/10/2026

POLICE APPEAL:
Police are investigating a report of anti-social riding and an assault that occurred on Ashfield on 05/10/2026 at approximately 15:14 hrs.

We are appealing to anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell camera, dashcam, or other footage covering the area at the time of the incident, or showing a male leaving the scene, to please come forward.

If you have any relevant footage, please submit it to the investigating officer - [email protected]

20/10/2026

PC Cory Phillips is an outstanding Student Officer whose professionalism, commitment to learning, and determination to make a positive difference have distinguished him throughout the early stages of his policing career.

Cory has consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to personal development and public service. He is a valued and respected member of the team, earning the trust and admiration of colleagues through his enthusiasm, work ethic, and willingness to embrace every opportunity to learn.

During a period working within the Central Custody Team, Cory made a significant contribution to improving processes and developing guidance that has benefitted officers across the force. His influence was such that colleagues and partner agencies alike recognised the positive impact he made.

Cory is known for his eagerness to attend incidents, willingness to take on challenges, and unwavering commitment to developing his skills. Through his positivity, resilience and dedication Cory has demonstrated an exceptional ability to build relationships and improve the organisation around him.

For this invaluable contribution, Cory received the Stacey Pike Student Officer of the Year Award at our ceremony last month. We would like to congratulate Cory and thank him for his service. 💙