Sadly, it was a tragedy that could have been avoided.

Had work been carried out properly by builder David Johnson, he would today no doubt be running the business he had taken great delight in setting up.

Builder Johnson, however, through ignorance, neglect, or downright laziness, botched a repair job on a chimney at his home.

Mr Schenker died from carbon monoxide poisoning after the flue from his boiler became blocked at Johnson's hands.

The sentencing of Johnson to three and a half years in jail will not bring Mr Schenker back.

But it will hopefully serve as a reminder to Johnson – and builders everywhere – of their responsibilities. And it might just prevent another innocent householder from a similarly untimely death.

Heed the police chief's concerns
There is no getting away from the fact that the influx of mainly Eastern Europeans in recent years has had an affect on life in the city.

It is often quoted by the authorities that schools and health services have been stretched to the limit.

And Chief Constable Julie Spence has not shied away from calling for more money to cope with difficulties faced by her force, dealing with crimes committed by these newcomers - whether that be the language barrier or straightforward cultural differences

Today she outlines new concerns. It is to be hoped the powers that be learn from previous mistakes and act sooner rather than later.