PUBLIC PATH STILL CLOSED OFF

This public footpath - linking Yarborough Road and Churchill Avenue - has now been closed off for the best part of a week - at least.
However, close inspection this morning suggests it has been tidied up. There's nothing to say by whom - or, indeed, who was given the authority to close it off. Just signs and small barriers at both ends.
Isn't it usual to pin public notices up when rights of way are being closed off to the public or affected in any way?


North Lincolnshire Council is the authority which oversees public rights of way. It North Lincs is responsible for the apparent tidy-up, congratulations and thanks; if it's not North Lincs, maybe their staff should be taking a look to see when the path will reopen.
The walkway is little-used and we don't think many people can have been inconvenienced by the (hopefully very temporary) closure.

SUPPORT FOR OUR WOUNDED

Through a magnificent, all-round effort an estimated £800+ was raised for charity last night during, and after, a highly successful football match at The Hawthorns between the Brigg Amateurs Old Boys' X1 and a team representing Brigg Town FC. The final total will be published on Brigg Blog, once confirmed.

Prior to the match, the players lined up around the centre circle and they, and the crowd, observed a minute's silence in memory of members of the Armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Much hard work went into organising the game - on and off the field. Notably from Mark Cawkwell and family and Chris Faill, who masterminded the Brigg Amateurs X1. That took some doing as we had enough players to field two teams, resulting in frequent substitutions.
A buffet and disco were both enjoyed after the match in the clubhouse.
The result was unimportant but those Amateurs stalwarts reading this who didn't manage to get to the game should look away now...




...It ended in an 8-4 win for the Zebras, although Amateurs are claiming they scored the best goal of the night, Nigel Beacock drilling the ball into the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.
Brian Clark, from Broughton, kindly refereed the game - played under lights - and everyone involved is keen to thank Brigg Town FC for so generously making available their fine facilities. (Some of us could remember the old wooden green-painted changing rooms).
In turn, the players tried very hard to boost bar takings - putting back fluids being so important after strenuous exercise!
Many spectators turned out, and Brigg Town clubhouse regulars gave very generously during, and after, the match to help swell the coffers.
Last night's cash will help a team of local service personnel in their quest to undertake a sponsored trip to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, in Africa, which is planned to be a really massive fundraiser for the Help For Heroes charity next year. Each team is being set a fundraising target of £3,400 to qualify for the trek.

Here are the details, taken from the Help for Heroes - Support For Our Wounded website http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk
The Kilimanjaro trek is a very ambitious and inspiring H4H challenge. Travelling through all four seasons in one week, from humid rainforest to freezing summit, you will push your senses to the limit with outstanding rewards.
This is a challenging trek at altitude, climbing one of the most impressive and well-known mountains in the world. Extreme hard work, training and dedication is rewarded by awe-inspiring scenery, unique wildlife and a life changing experience you will never forget.
The highest freestanding mountain in the world, Kilimanjaro is also the highest mountain on the African continent at 5896m. It’s also one of the biggest volcanoes on Earth, covering an area of approximately 388,500 hectares. Huge permanent glaciers flow down from the snow-capped summit, rising high above the dusty plains below. Our trek takes the less-trodden Machame route, allowing us to camp and fully appreciate the splendour of our surroundings and the clear night skies. We pass through thick forest, moorland and scree enroute to the highest point in Africa; Uhuru Peak.

Kilimanjaro Trek Guide Itinerary
DAY 1: Fly London to Kilimanjaro International airport
DAY 2: Arrive Kilimanjaro; transfer to Moshi town
DAY 3: Trek through dense jungle to Machame camp, 3100m
DAY 4: Through forest to Shira Plateau; on to camp at Shira caves, 3840m
DAY 5: Trek high moorland (4800m) via Lava Tower to Barranco Hut (3900m)
DAY 6: Into Great Barranco ravine; trek via Karanga valley over scree to camp (4600m)
DAY 7: Steep trek to summit glaciers, including Uhuru Peak (5896m); begin descent
DAY 8: Descend through rainforest and finish in Moshi for a large celebration
DAY 9: Free time in Moshi; chance to visit local community project; flight departs
DAY 10: Arrive UK

Registration Fee: £400.00
Fundraising Target (minimum): £3,400.00 - (Excluding Registration Fee).

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Brigg should have its own Community Plan for the first time, the town council believes.
Community Plans are wish lists of projects and initiatives residents want to see developed, or progressed, in the future - set out in nicely-presented form and made available to the public.
It shouldn't prove a burden on council tax payers in Brigg, as a grant can be sought from the North Lincolnshire Strategic Partnership.
Coun Tom Glossop told fellow town councillors he took a positive view of working towards a Brigg Community Plan, which might take 18 months, or two years, to complete. But he urged speedy action while the money was available.
Coun Ann Eardley thought it would be a good idea to put a Commmunity Plan questionnaire in the Brigg Matters newsletter.
Mike Campion was not against the idea, but pointed out it would take up a lot of time within the council.
Deputy Town Mayor Coun Ben Nobbs revealed he had been involved in producing a Community Plan for Winterton, which took about a year. As it reflected public opinion, the plan was useful when it came to bidding for grants.
But Coun Jenny Bell said although some things looked good on paper there was not always a positive end result.
The town council agreed to support the idea of a Brigg Community Plan. Watch Brigg Blog for developments. Perhaps a public meeting will follow sometime next year.
No thoughts have yet been given to what the Brigg Community Plan's contents might be. But how about kicking off with development of the Recreation Ground, off Wrawby Road (seen below)?

COLLECTING EVIDENCE

Brigg Town Council is now looking to find evidence to support its contention that Market Lane has long been a public right of way, North Lincolnshire Council having granted planning permission for gates recently erected at one of its entrances (off the Market Place).
Carl Sherwood, one of the Brigg area's representatives on the unitary authority, told Brigg Town Council's monthly meeting that he had spoken to North Lincolnshire staff but it had been explained to him that there was "no right of appeal" against the planning decision.
Instead, he suggested getting "as much information together as possible" to present "a very good case" to the highways department on the right of way issue.
The Town Council has already studied Nick Lyons' local history group book on the Courtyards of Brigg (circa 1982), which includes a picture looking along Market Lane in the 1950s, plus other information about the lane, gleaned from long-standing Brigg folk.
Next step for town councillors could be to visit Lincolnshire Archives, in Lincoln, to look for further information in the files. A small budget of up to £100 has been set aside for research purposes, although it may not be needed.
A report prepared by planning staff for North Lincolnshire councillors said: "Market Lane is not shown as a public right of way on the Definitive Map and it has been confirmed that the land is not a highway. Therefore the principle of erecting a form of boundary treatment such as a gate on private land is considered to be acceptable. The gates do not open onto the highway so no issue has been raised by the council’s
highway department.
"At the previous committee meeting on 14 October a query was raised about whether Market Lane is an adopted highway. Subsequently the council’s highway department have confirmed that their records show that Market Lane is not an adopted highway on the Definitive Map.
"The applicant has stated that the gates are left open during weekdays to allow continued access between Market Place and Springs Way. However there is no planning requirement for these gates to remain open to the public at any time during the week and, as stated previously, Market Lane is not shown as a public right of way on the Definitive Map. Furthermore the public can still gain access to the Market Place from Springs Way via Cary Lane and Springs Parade. Therefore access to the Market Place is not restricted by the retention of these gates."

GREEN FOR GO

Brigg Millennium Green, on Elwes Street, is cared for by a small, well-meaning group - a trust having been formed some time ago.
Their work includes overseeing this green area near the Old River Ancholme, established as a Year 2000 project.
Town councillor Jackie Brock has taken over as secretary, the AGM having been held at the Nelthorpe Arms (Scanlon's), in Bridge Street.

MILESTONE REACHED

Congratulations and thanks to whoever, in the past day or two, ticked out site counter round to 20,000. If you like Brigg Blog, please tell your friends and relatives. Deputy Town Mayor, Coun Ben Nobbs, is very kindly giving us a "plug" in the next Brigg Matters newsletter. We aren't in competition with the Scunthorpe Telegraph's website www.thisisbrigg.co.uk - our content, as you know, is more views, gossip and snippets, not "hard news" reporting, as they call it in the trade. We leave that to the Telegraph and its website.

FESTIVE OFFERING

The Wold Singers will be at Brigg's Angel Suite on Wednesday, December 9 (7.30pm), presenting Songs 4U This Christmas Time. Guest artistes are Yvonne Ellis (violinist) and Ken Carruthers (baritone); musical director, Carole Mundy; accompanist, Ann Powell.
Tickets are £6, including refreshments, available from Carole Mundy on (01652) 654428 or Pat Dudman on (01724) 280722. There will also be a raffle.

BELLY INTERESTING

We don't usually "plug" events outside Brigg's borders on this Blog but the following is included because:
1) Many Brigg folk know the group involved and will be interested in attending
2) Belly dancers have appeared at Brigg's Summer Fair and supported what used to be one of our major events
3) The organisers are describing it as being at Broughton Village Hall "near Brigg". (Not sure what Broughton councillors will make of that!)

A Christmas Party with a difference....Belly Dancing! Shiméa Belly Dance invites you to a Christmas Party at Broughton Village Hall on Saturday 12th December, 7pm –11.30pm. Disco + Hot Food, Belly Dancing. No Bar - So bring drinks of your choice. Tickets £10. Call 01652-680908 or 07907581725 - or email
shimea@hotmail.co.uk

WATCHING BRIEF

Brigg councillors have been in touch with the relevant pub chain about the future of the distinctive Dying Gladiator sign in Bigby Street.
The reply suggests we'll have to wait till a new tenant (hopefully) comes in and reopens the bars, then take it from there.
Mention is being made of possibly involving a "conservator" at some future point.
The sign is not the greatest piece of art but surely a distinctive feature of the Conservation Area, and the town centre, which is worthy of preservation, whatever might happen to the Gladiator building in years to come.
The Layne's Garage motif, next to The Glad, has been tastefully worked into the new brickwork of the small housing development, while the same was done with the Spring's jam factory sign when Jackson's supermarket was built alongside the River Ancholme.
The Glad sculpture, by the way, was influenced many decades ago by a visit to Italy undertaken by a previous owner/landlord of the Brigg pub.
Ours is supposed to be the only Dying Gladiator pub in the UK. And many of us have fond memories of good times spent on the premises, notably during Baz Fewster's lengthy tenure.
Even if premises are eventually turned over to another use, preserving the sign in some way would help to keep such memories alive for many Brigg folk.

WAY TO EASE BRIGG CONGESTION

If you, like many Brigg motorists, get frustrated about the delays encountered at the traffic lights when leaving Cary Lane to join Barnard Avenue, here's a possible solution for the powers-that-be to consider.
As that annoying Meerkat says on the TV car insurance ad: "Eez Simple!"
All that needs to happen is the removal of part of the small wall to join up the Lidl and Tesco car parks. Cars coming out of Lidl (and the little car park near Spring's Parade) could then exit through Tesco's car park, straight onto Barnard Avenue.
Buses and lorries would still use the Cary Lane traffic lights (they could make the gap in the wall wide enough only for cars to stop any bigger vehicles trying to use the alternative route suggested).
I'd be interested to know whether other Brigg motorists think it's worth a try.
North Lincolnshire Council has gone to a lot of trouble to try and adjust both sets of traffic lights on Barnard Avenue, but clearly the sheer volume of traffic, and the number of side roads, make it impossible not to hold up many motorists, however the settings are tinkered with.
This idea came to me the other night while on Barnard Avenue, heading towards The Monument. The Cary Lane lights were at red to traffic on the A18, even though no cars at all were waiting to come out of Ash Grove or Cary Lane.
Nationally, the Tory Party has now floated the idea of switching off many traffic lights at night. On safety grounds I can't see that being the solution here at the top of Cary Lane.

SURPRISE RESIGNATION

Long-serving and hard-working Maureen Glossop, of St Helen's Road, has resigned from Brigg Town Council, due to "personal commitments."
The news was received with much regret by fellow town councillors.
Town Mayor Coun James Truepenny made reference to her "exceptional work in the town and for the town council especially."
A letter of thanks and appreciation is to be sent to Mrs Glossop, a former Town Mayor and ex-chairman of Brigg's planning and environment committee.
Most town council vacancies end up being filled by co-option - saving the cost of an election. But the proper democratic process, as always, will be followed.
We'll keep you posted. However, if you are interested in joining the town council just email town clerk Jeanette Woollard for further details via this helpful link TOWN CLERK

LUCKY BURGER

The burger van man now parked in Lidl's car park certainly seems to be on a winner.
The other day I counted a group of 10 young men all queueing for snacks, and he seems to be doing a good trade at other times I pass.

BLOCKED OFF TO PUBLIC

Public rights of way are very much in the news in Brigg at present, in view of the ruling on Market Lane (previously reported).
Now we've just spotted the public footpath linking Yarborough Road and Churchill Avenue has "Closed" signs, and barriers, at either end.
Maybe the cold light of day - tomorrow morning - will suggest why this has been done, and by whom. On safety grounds, perhaps, following the high winds, as there are wooden fences on either side?
A lengthy campaign was fought to keep this path open, and it is periodically "walked" by ramblers keen to see it continue as a public right of way.
The path is very narrow, often muddy and squeezed between the back gardens of houses in O'Hanlon Avenue and St James' Road.
Some would say it would be better all round if pedestrians just took the very slight detour along either of the adjoining streets. But there's Brigg history involved here.
Clothes Hedge Footpath gained its name because, decades ago, housewives used to hang their washing there to dry in the sun and wind. Or so the story goes.

JIM'S NOT RUNNING OUT OF STEAM

Pensioners' campaigner Jim Allcroft turned out for last night's monthly meeting of Brigg Town Council in the Angel Suite, frustrated at the lack of progress being made on what he sees as several important issues.
Not the town council's fault he knew - and beyond their remit - but Jim was keen for Brigg councillors to be reminded of the stalemate so they could apply some pressure in the right quarters.
He's pressing to get a start date on the provision of a new footpath from the end of Station Road to the railway station. Lighting is also required in this area.
Nothing concrete agreed here - pardon the pun! - after two years of talks and letters!
The state of footpaths in the Spring's Way/Spring's Parade area also need improving, as do the paths linking Brigg with Scawby Brook.
Deputy Town Mayor Coun Ben Nobbs suggested paths in Albert Street should be added to the list.
Having heard Jim's extensive update, Coun Ann Eardley complemented him on his diligence to the cause.
Coun Mike Campion agreed, saying railway representatives had even denied a meeting had taken place over the station approach issue, despite the fact he'd attended it, with others!
Jim Allcroft claimed some of the correspondence between North Lincolnshire Council and Network Rail had been directed to a member of staff who does not appear to exist (or at least work there any more).
The town council will again press North Lincolnshire Council and Network Rail for action. Ian Cawsey, the Brigg and Goole MP, is being kept in the loop over the station approach (again, pardon the pun!)
Jim's terrier-like qualities are well-known in Brigg and beyond, and here's a hint from Brigg Blog for council/railway managers: There's no chance of him letting things drop - however long it takes.

CRICKET MEETING

Brigg Town Cricket Club has announced its annual general meeting will be held on Thursday, December 3 at the Nelthorpe Arms (Scanlon's), on Bridge Street, Brigg (7.30pm).

GAME STILL ON

Saturday's Brigg Amateurs Veterans v Brigg Town X1 football match at the Hawthorns is still very much on and will kick off, as planned, at 6.30pm.
Co-organiser Chris Faill reports it being "all systems go" with players attending from as far afield as Edinburgh and Gloucester.
"It seems people are talking about the game so hopefully we will have a great night," Chris says.
Some of us haven't pulled on an Amateurs shirt since about 1986/7...or played in a meaningful match for well over 20 years.
There will be an after-match disco/get-together in the Hawthorns clubhouse and plenty of opportunity to recall memories of classic (?) Amateurs games long ago, when the Brigg club - based at the Rec - fielded three teams every Saturday.
Unfortunately, towards the end of the 80s, three became two, then one - and sadly things folded the next season.
However, the memories remain strong down the years, and it's to be hoped those taking part bring along their old team photos for others to enjoy.
I'm going to have to root round the garage later this week in an effort to locate the old football boots, which survived through use with Brigg Hockey Club for ever less frequent matches on grass before things moved 100 per cent over to "Astro" surfaces in the Yorkshire League.
The footwear was OK about three years ago when Brigg Rec was the venue for a friendly football match between the Scunthorpe and Grimsby Telegraphs.
Spectators are very welcome at Saturday's reunion, and (even at this late stage) if you know any ex-Amateurs FC players who might not have heard about the get-together please ask them to pop down. Oh, and bring their boots if they think they can still make a contribution, however brief.
Chris Faill has this minute emailed with a telling update: "Just heard this morning that the charity shops in Brigg can't keep up with the demand for football boots."

SPREADING THE WORD

Saturday night saw a rather concerned visitor to Brigg in Cary Lane, worrying whether he'd just missed the last bus back to Scunthorpe. It was dark, windy and raining and he said he couldn't locate any timetable information (although there is some on a post, if visibility is good enough to be able to read it). The Tourist Information Centre, which would have helped, had closed for the week. He'd travelled over to enjoy a few drinks in Brigg but was concerned he might not get home, having asked the driver for a printed timetable (on his way over) but been told he didn't have any to hand.
Brigg Blog has previously called for better information to be made available to bus-users - in everyone's interest, not least the bus companies.
So how about someone within those companies, or even at local council level, ensuring Brigg pubs, and perhaps shops, get a stock of printed timetables? Then making the odd check, now and again, to ensure their supplies are topped up when necessary.
Sadly the so-called Traveline Tardis, which supplied online bus information from within one of the Cary Lane shelters, is now long gone, after suffering a string of problems and will probably never return. So more old-fashioned methods need to be employed.
There's a happy ending to Saturday's story; within 15 minutes a bus for Scunthorpe duly pulled in. But it could have been very different. Perhaps it wasn't a good idea for me to recount the tale of a Yorkshireman spotted at Brigg railway station on a Monday night, a couple of years ago. He had delivered a new car to the area and was looking to use public transport to get back to Barnsley. Fortunately, he asked me for details and I ran him over to Barnetby, as a favour, so he could catch the train. Otherwise he'd have been stranded on the platform for four days, Brigg station having no midweek trains at all!

UNUSUAL VISITOR

A sparrowhawk paid a visit to the Springfield Road/O'Hanlon Avenue area of Brigg yesterday afternoon - only the second I've ever seen in this part of town, which isn't very far from open countryside.

GATES OF WRATH?

Brigg Town Council seems set to take issue with the ruling that Market Lane is not a public right of way.
In an earlier Brigg Blog post we explained how North Lincolnshire Council had granted planning permission for new gates to be retained at the side of Grimley Smith Associates' HQ in the Market Place, the unitary authority being unable to find evidence in its records about Market Lane being a right of way.
However, the agenda for tomorrow night's meeting of Brigg Town Council's planning and environment committee in the Angel Suite lounge (6.45pm) contains a strongly worded item:
MARKET LANE, BRIGG:
a) To consider the denial by North Lincolnshire Council that the full length of Market Lane (from the Market Place to Springs Way) is a public street that should be accessible as a public thoroughfare, for use by any member of the public, at all times.
b) To delegate a working party to seek out the historical information required to support the Town Council opinion in this regard, including Archive and Land Registry records, and any relevant maps.
c) To authorise the expenditure that may need to be incurred in order to access such information.
Tomorrow night's planning and environment committee meeting is followed (at 7.30pm) by the monthly meeting of Brigg Town Council, beginning with the usual 15-minute period set aside for public question time, should any townsfolk wish to go along and exercise the right to address their elected representatives.
Among the items of interest is pedestrian safety, town councillors still being concerned about the hazards posed by advertising A-boards "and other physical obstructions" on footpaths.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING

Barrie Gray's workmen were in the town centre yesterday attending to the Christmas lights, ahead of the big switch-on.
In view of the much-expanded list of requirements, rules and regulations over such illuminations, many towns round the country, over the past year or two, have decided they can't continue. Brigg, we are pleased to say, has not.
The switching on of the lights, and what follows (see picture), provide the community highlight of the year. Certainly in terms of numbers.
More details about this year's switch-on will appear in Brigg Blog nearer the time.

FLOATING AN IDEA

There seems to be a groundswell of opinion that the River Ancholme in Brigg is a very much under-used asset and improvements are needed, such as regular removal of trolleys, litter and other material, plus more weed cutting.
Brigg town councillors are onboard, and so (we believe) are the Ancholme Users' Group, North Lincolnshire Council and the Environment Agency, which manages our river.
It would be great if more boaters from afar (or not so far) came to see Brigg as a place to visit and chugged down the river, stopping off to go into Brigg and boost trade for local businesses.
More pleasure trips along the river for the general public, during the spring, summer and even early autumn, would also prove enjoyable, if entrepreneurs can see there's a market and feel they can make such tours pay.
We fully intend to report any information that becomes available on this worthwhile initiative.
There was a brief discussion at Brigg Town Council's latest planning and environment committee meeting, with Sue Nicholson among the councillors speaking up for River Ancholme improvements. And we know Deputy Town Mayor Coun Ben Nobbs is a keen believer in tapping into the river's undoubted potential.
Whether or not the required County Bridge improvements can be implemented remains to be seen. You may recall there's been a long-running campaign by a group called the Friends of the County Bridge (with Coun Tom Glossop at the helm) trying to persuade the powers-that-be to return the bridge to how it used to look, now it no longer carries the heavy traffic it did when forming a key part of the A18.
Stone balustrades, rather than ugly metal railings, and the removal of the pedestrian walkway at the side of the bridge are just a couple of the suggested improvements.
This will need funding by someone, of course - and it won't come cheap, as they say.

SONGS THAT HELPED WIN THE WAR

Brigg Amateur Social Historians' first speaker of the new year will be Elly Dolan, whose presentation "Sing to Win" will include original radio broadcasts from the war years. It's described as a patriotic WW2 show featuring all the old songs that helped to win the war.
Put a date in your diary/mobile phone/Outlook events list now for Tuesday, January 5 to enjoy Elly's presentation at Brigg Servicemen's Club, Coney Court (8pm).
The next BASH meeting - on Tuesday, December 1 - will be a talk on the Lincolnshire Times weekly newspaper which ran from 1867-1985, editorial offices being at 57 Wrawby Street (next to the archway now leading into the Exchange Coach House Inn). That also starts at 8pm and the speaker is "Yours Truly" - as I was on the paper's staff and (after departing for the Scunthorpe Telegraph) continued to contribute content on a freelance basis until the paper sadly closed.
Admission to BASH meetings - held on the first Tuesday of each month - is free. So pop along to enjoy a nostalgic night out.
And finally...a reminder about the next BASH ghost walk around Brigg, which will be on Sunday, November 29, starting from the Nelthorpe Arms, Bridge Street (7.30pm). Tickets are £3 each - available from Brigg Tourist Information Centre, in the Buttercross. Telephone (01652) 657053.

NIGHT OUT CANCELLED

Newsflash: We've just been informed Saturday's Mean Eyed Cat night at Brigg's Angel Suite has been cancelled due to an "unforseen problem."

JUST GIVE US MORE TRAINS!

It's a shame, in some ways, that Brigg railway station did not finish in this week's list of the 10 worst stations in Britain.
For Lord Adonis, the Transport Secretary, embarked on a whistle-stop tour of the 10 worst, which will now benefit from a new £50-million fund to do them up.
Had Brigg been on the list of shame, His Lordship - and others in Government - would have been red-faced. Because, of course, they wouldn't have been able to get a train to Brigg midweek!
For Brigg's biggest wasted asset - the town's railway station - only "enjoys" a passenger train service on a Saturday, and then only three one-unit visits in each direction, giving a choice of a few hours in Grimsby/Cleethorpes or an even briefer visit to Sheffield.
It's good that cash is going into improving some of the big stations like Crewe, Manchester Victoria and Liverpool Central, and that there are plans to invest lots more in smaller stations.
But what use is a station (like ours) if no trains stop there six days of the week?
Brigg station, which could once boost a roof, booking office, station master and staff, was on the original mainline from Manchester to Grimsby. Over the years the buildings and platform 'furniture' have been demolished (only the footbridge remains).
But when millions were spent recently upgrading the line (for freight purposes) many rail campaigners, and Brigg councillors, thought that offered a great opportunity to re-introduce a meaningful passenger service.
Whether or not you support nationalisation of the railways in 1948, it has to be admitted that, under British Rail(ways) there was at least a cohesive approach. One organisation looked after the track and station buildings, and operated the trains.
Deregulation has brought some benefits to passengers, in terms of comfort and pricing, but has produced problems like Brigg suffers today. For how could you justify investing money in improving a station visited by only six trains a week?
Perhaps there's a glimmer of hope for Brigg. If just a glimmer. It appears that if enough people pressurise Network Rail, they might look at investment.
Robin Gisby, operations and customer service director, said: "Stations are the railways' shop-front and they have been ignored for too long. With the punctuality of the railways now running at record levels and our major programme to boost capacity and provide more seats on trains underway, we can now look at other priorities and stations and are at the top of the list. Much is planned in this area over the coming years and we must invest wisely. We shouldn't try and second guess passengers but ask them what they want from stations and what's important to them. We need to listen to passengers and use their views on stations to guide our decisions."
In what it describes as a 'pioneering move', Network Rail is launching the first ever nationwide stations research project, asking passengers what is important to them at their local station, where they would like to see investment and what are their priorities.
The research project will kick off later this month, last for up to three months and involve on-line surveys, telephone surveys and focus groups to really get into the detail of what passengers rate as the most important things to have at stations. The results from the survey, along with the station champions report expected from the Department for Transport shortly, will feed into a much wider review on stations, led by Network Rail.
This will take place over the next 12 months involving every train operator, rail funding partner and interest group in the country.
Network Rail is also publishing an information booklet about stations and the research entitled Action Stations. Tens of thousands of leaflets have been handed out to passengers inviting them to take part in an on-line survey.
Did they send a representative to Brigg? If so, it's to be hoped they remembered to come on a Saturday?

BRIGG WORKHOUSE LIFE

Life was hard for Brigg's poor in March, 1891 when, if all else failed, they had to avail themselves of support from the Brigg Union's Board of Guardians, who oversaw the Workhouse, which stood where Rosecroft is today (adjoining the Monument and at the corner of Wrawby Street and Wrawby Road).
This newspaper extract from the time, kindly supplied by historian Maurice Barrick, gives a glimpse of how it was to be poor in our time in late Victorian times.
County your blessings, as the saying goes.

The usual fortnightly meetings of the Guardians was held at the Workhouse on Thursday.
Present Messrs Thomas Tombleson (Chairman), C. Stow, J. Laverack, J, Nelson, S. Heath, S. Fountain, T. Smith, R. Edlington., E. Jackson, W.J. Swales, J.J.C. Atkin, J. Brumby D. Walker C.S. Holgate, W. Skinner, T.W. Lee. J. Beaulah, T. Robinson, G.Spilman, J. Hill, G. Houlton, W,H, Sissons and R. Johnson.
After the Relief Lists had gone through a letter was read from the Master of Goole Workhouse stating that a lad named Thomas Thompson, aged 13 years who had been admitted into Goole Union, stating that he had absconded from Brigg Workhouse where he had been badly treated by Miss Stevens.
Mr Gibson, Master of Brigg Union, was called into the Board Room, said there was no truth in the boy’s complaint about being unkindly treated. The lad ran away a short time since with another youth. Instructions were given for the lad to be fetched back.
A long discussion took place on the question of allowances to Mr Mason, Relieving Officer for the Brigg District, who owing to advanced age and infirmity is incapable of doing the work. At the last meeting the Clerk was requested to confer with Mr Mason as to the advisability of his giving up such portion of his salary as would enable the Guardians to appoint an efficient Assistant Reliving Officer
The Clerk now reported that he had talked the matter over with Mr Mason who did not altogether fall in with the suggestion.
In the course of debate various proposals were made, but ultimately the matter was deferred without anything being decided upon. With reference to the propose re-arrangement of the Medical Officer’s districts, a letter was read from Dr. Gilmore on the subject, and Messrs Swales and Heath were deputed to confer with him respecting the alterations of his district. Communications had been received from Dr. Behrent (Messingham) and Dr Couldry (Scunthorpe) both of whom declined to agree to the Board’s proposals. It was decide to send copies of the correspondence to the Local Government Board and ask that Board to authorise the Guardians to give six months' notice to Dr’s Behrent and Couldry to give up their appointments.
The following tenders for supplies for the Workhouse were accepted: Bread, 4½ d per 4lb loaf, Mr. Sabey Brigg; Flour, 1/6d per stone Mr Stamp; Brigg, Beef, 5¾ d per lb; Suet, 4d, Mutton (forequarter) 5d, Leg of Mutton, 7d per lb, Mr Denton, Brigg; English Butter, 10d per lb, Eggs 9d per dozen, Mr Stamp, Brigg; Coffins, Mr Milson, Brigg; Groceries, Messrs Varlow, Broughton and Sabey Drapery Messrs Patchett,Finney Cooper and Barlow; Boots and Shoes, Mr E. Allman, Hull; Tea, Messrs Randall & Woodatt, London.

'NOT SHOWN AS PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY'

Planning permission for these gates on Market Lane, at the side of Grimley Smith Associates' Market Place headquarters in Brigg, has been granted by North Lincolnshire Council.
The information was revealed to Brigg Town Council's planning and environment committee by Town Clerk Jeanette Woollard.
The town council objected, believing the gates would restrict and prevent access to a public right of way between Springs Way and the Market Place at the former Smith Parkinson garage site.
Three letters of objection were received raising the same issue. However, a report prepared by planning staff for North Lincolnshire councillors said: "Market Lane is not shown as a public right of way on the Definitive Map and it has been confirmed that the land is not a highway. Therefore the principle of erecting a form of boundary treatment such as a gate on private land is considered to be acceptable. The gates do not open onto the highway so no issue has been raised by the council’s
highway department.
"At the previous committee meeting on 14 October a query was raised about whether Market Lane is an adopted highway. Subsequently the council’s highway department have confirmed that their records show that Market Lane is not an adopted highway on the Definitive Map.
"The applicant has stated that the gates are left open during weekdays to allow continued access between Market Place and Springs Way. However there is no planning requirement for these gates to remain open to the public at any time during the week and, as stated previously, Market Lane is not shown as a public right of way on the Definitive Map. Furthermore the public can still gain access to the Market Place from Springs Way via Cary Lane and Springs Parade. Therefore access to the Market Place is not restricted by the retention of these gates."
Brigg Blog popped up on Saturday to take this picture and the gates were open to the public, as the planners' report suggested they would be.

DOING GOOD WORK

Brigg's Fair Game Community Football is a project aimed at combating exclusion and preventing anti-social behaviour, while developing youngsters within the game.
Some of the parents have kindly pointed Brigg Blog to Fair Game's entry on the Facebook network. Reading the comments made it's obvious the children, and their parents, get a lot out of this initiative.
The youngsters' efforts have been rewarded with tickets for the Scunthorpe v Ipswich match next month.
The group's aim is to provide free football in the community to encourage youths to participate in football in order to prevent anti-social behaviour, to develop fitness and have fun in a safe environment.
It encourages respect and fair play, builds confidence, enhances social skills, develops communication, aids teamwork and builds community spirit.
As well as trying to access community grants, Brigg’s Fair Game will also be organising sponsored fun events to enable the youths to participate in raising money for equipment etc, and at the same time encouraging community spirit and that feel good factor.

INTERESTING PLANS

Much interest was generated in the biomass site proposal for the former Brigg Sugar Factory land at Scawby Brook, submitted to North Lincolnshire Council.
So another application now going through the planning process in neighbouring West Lindsey should prove worthy of note to people in the Brigg area who are either for, against or neutral over straw-burning power plants.
This is a 'reserved matters' application for a biomass processing facility, following the granting of outline planning permission two years ago.
The location is the Somerby Park Development on Thorndyke Way/Heapham Road, Gainsborough, the applicant being Drax Power Limited, Drax Power Station, Selby, North Yorks.
The public consultation period is underway, as it still is in West Lindsey with the planning application by Sam Smith "and others" for change of use of land to a residential caravan site, including construction of road and hardstandings and retention of buildings and cess tank, on land off Westrum Lane, Brigg.
Brigg Blog gets emailed updates from the helpful people at West Lindsey so we can keep up to date with new planning 'postings' on the website www.west-lindsey.gov.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

The awful rainy conditions early this morning weren't doing anything for the trade of the burger van man who's now set up shop at the far end of Lidl's car park, next to the former tyre-fitting shed.
A shame, as he seemed to be doing OK when I went past the other day.
Presumably he's getting some of his trade from shoppers at nearby Tesco, where the cafeteria was removed.

CUTTING DOWN THE CARBON

Brigg Town Council has now given its support to North Lincolnshire Council's Code for Sustainable Homes and the Use of On-site Renewable Energy for Industrial and Commercial Developments.
North Lincolnshire has been ranked in the bottom two per cent of all regions in the UK for CO2 emissions - 11.9 tons per person. Three-quarters of that is down to industry, but the remaining 25 per cent 'comes from our housing stock'.
Having signed up to reduce its own carbon footprint by 33 per cent over the next five years, North Lincolnshire Council now wants to ensure future housing is constructed to a very high standard to keep emissions to a minimum.
Surely no-one will argue with North Lincolnshire Council's aims.
But there's no longer any such thing as council housing - the remaining stock (not sold off under Right to Buy) is overseen by North Lincolnshire Homes, a different organisation.
Brigg Town Council only operates one building in the town, the Angel Suite, and won't be involved in putting up any new ones in the next few years.
The same goes for all the other town and parish councils in North Lincolnshire who, presumably, are being asked to support the campaign to cut the area's CO2 emissions.
Clearly, North Lincolnshire Council faces a very difficult task. Presumably it's another of these Government and/or European Union directives with which they are having to comply.
Some may forecast this countrywide initiative will just result in a lot of hot air involving endless meetings and discussions. They may be proved right, but it's a serious subject. And every little helps.

RELOCATING TO BRIGG

Cutler Financial Ltd is relocating from Scunthorpe to Brigg following customer feedback and to attract more business in its area of expertise - specialised investment and pension advice. It hopes to increase staffing in the future.
That information has been revealed as part of the planning process, as the firm is now seeking listed building and advertisement consent to display two fascia boards and an A-board at 11a Market Place and in adjoining Coney Court (near the archway).
The firm says: "A clearly visible sign is essential to our business, for the convenience of our existing customers and for our ongoing business. Without a sign it would not be viable for us to conduct our business."
Members of Brigg Town Council's planning and environment committee heard of the company's re-location and commented on the application.
Town councillors had no worries about Coney Court but did express some concern about whether some of what was planned for Market Place would meet the current 'highway policy'.
Those comments will now be forwarded to North Lincolnshire Council planners who will make a decision on the applications within the next few weeks.

DELAYS POSSIBLE

Watch out for today's roadworks on Wrawby Road, next to the Monument and near the top of Glanford Road. One lane only is affected and the work has been planned for the day of the week when there's the least traffic using the A18.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Brigg's Island Carr Industrial Estate, off Bridge Street, never seems to enjoy the spotlight, which is a great pity as so many goods and services are available down.
I've just been to Brigg Tyres for a quick change, but there's much more there than just a range of car-related services and Piggie's cafe (previously mentioned on Brigg Blog).
Yet, apart from a sign or two at the top of the entry road, there's nothing to inform passing motorists, or Brigg residents, what's available.
North Lincolnshire Council often promotes The Foundry shopping centre in Scunthorpe and Brigg Farmers' Market - and we thank them for that - but would there be any chance of a mention of some of the lesser-known areas, such as Island Carr?

TRIBUTE TO EILEEN

Many Brigg housewives will have been served in Varlow's (Market Place) and Instone's (Wrawby Street) by shop assistant Eileen Fisher, whose funeral service was held on Thursday in her home village, Barnetby.
Mrs Fisher, who died aged 83, was originally from Ulceby. In 1947 she married Colin, the long-serving postman for Barnetby. He died 30 years ago.
Village correspondent for the Scunthorpe and Grimsby Telegraphs for many years, she leaves a daughter, Julie, and son, Wayne.

TOPPING BILL AT HAWTHORNS

Friday night entertainment continues at Brigg Town Football Club's Hawthorns venue on November 27 when Sonia Dawn appears as Karen Carpenter.
Sonia, who has a fine reputation, has been on Stars On Their Eyes.
There will also be a 1970s disco on the night, and tickets are £5 (including buffet).
For further details, pop into the club or call (01652) 652767.

GOOD SOLES!

TurnerWarran - the accountants based at Glanford House, in Bridge Street, Brigg - are doing very well with their Christmas appeal to send presents to needy children abroad and want to extend a big thank-you to everyone who has given them something to go into a shoebox, or even a whole shoebox.
Spokesman William Hall told Brigg Blog: "We have managed to extend the deadline for receiving shoeboxes so if you haven't already taken part, please get in touch or donate some items by Friday, November 20.
"Operation Christmas Child, an initiative of Samaritan's Purse, is the world's largest children’s Christmas project. It has been running for over 19 years and sees shoeboxes packed full of gifts delivered to children in disadvantaged situations in 13 countries across Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
"Last year, more than 1.2 million shoeboxes were sent from the UK alone and every shoebox means a happy child."
Call them on 01652 650112 or email via this link TURNERWARRAN for more details about how you can help make this Christmas really special for children not as fortunate as we are.

MAKE IT A "FIRM" BOOKING

Small businesses in Brigg and district are being offered the chance to take all the usual hassle out of organising Christmas events for their workers.
For Brigg's Angel Suite venue - managed on behalf of the community by Brigg Town Council - is staging two special nights next month, when firms are being encouraged to take their staff along to celebrate the festive season in style.
On Friday/Saturday, December 18/19 those attending will enjoy a three-course Christmas meal, waitress service, seasonal table decorations, music to dance to, and a bar.
The Christmas Staff Festivities will start at 7pm and continue until midnight.
The cost is £27.50p per head, and Angel Suite manager Karen Deeley is telling local businesses: "As we are in a central location in the middle of town, there is the added benefit of low cost transport for your staff.
"We are able to offer a service tailored to the needs of your company - or if you are a smaller staff group you can join our party night at which you would be very welcome to celebrate with other smaller companies from the area."
Bookings are now being taken. For details call Karen on 07903531201, contact the town council on 01652 659402, or use this link to email FESTIVITIES

DICK LOCKS HORNS WITH DODDY

I've just unearthed an interesting 1993 press release from Coun Dick Long (Wrawby), leader of Brigg-based Glanford Borough Council, in which he hit back at 'a small band' of people in our town for attacking what his authority's pedestrianisation scheme and total refurbishment of the Buttercross.
This information follows on nicely from the other day's posting about Brigg licensees objecting to the removal of through traffic and the way the pedestrianisation was being planned.
Dick, writing 16 years ago, said: "Millions of pounds are currently being invested to bring Brigg back to life as an attractive, high quality country town which people will want to visit and where they will choose to shop.
"Taking heavy traffic out of the narrow roads of the town centre is such an obvious first step as to be scarcely worthy of comment. It will create the conditions in which it is safe and pleasant to stroll in the Market Place and surrounding streets, to visit the shops, restaurants and pubs. The idea is scarcely revolutionary - pedestrianisation is happening in towns and cities up and down the country, with excellent results."
Coun Long said an impartial report by leading consultants suggested 60 per cent of trade which ought to be coming to Brigg was 'haemorrhaging away to other major towns such as Grimsby and Scunthorpe - not least because of the better supermarket facilities there'.
Turning to the Corn Exchange he pointed out taxpayers from all over the borough were subsidising it to the tune of £25,000 a year, with much more needing to be spent 'to get the building up to even basic public safety standards'.
Coun Long claimed Brigg had been 'in fairly steady decline' since the end of the Second World War in 1945 'and it has taken Glanford Borough Council to do something about it'.
Of the Buttecross, he said Glanford had, with the aid of grants from the European Commission and the Tourist Board, turned it from a 'vandalised, rubbish-strewn, unofficial public urinal into one of the most successful tourist information offices in the region.'
"The fact is that farming has changed dramatically and it is no longer necessary for farmers to come to market regularly," he continued. "Modern out-of-town shopping developments have made life difficult for town centre traders almost everywhere."
He ended by calling on everyone to 'get behind the efforts to bring Brigg back to life as an attractive and prosperous country town with a high quality centre'.
Coun Long was prompted to write in defence of Glanford Borough Council - a very unusual step - after publication in the local press of a letter from Edward Dodd, of St Helen's Road, former member of Brigg Urban District Council and veteran journalist with both The Star and the Lincolnshire and South Humberside Times.
"In his article Mr Dodd attacks planners, professionals, consultants, Glanford Borough Council and every councillor who does not live in Brigg," said Coun Long. "I think it is rather sad - everyone is out of step expect Mr Dodd and the small band of his fellow critics."
Yet, in defence of my former journalistic collegue, I'd add that the town was most certainly divided over pedestrianisation - with a large body of opposition - and very concerned about the Corn Exchange. Ted Dodd, and older Brigg residents, could remember when the town centre was much, much busier and feared radical change would make things worse - not that there was any chance of turning the clock back several decades.
I'd also point out that Ted had a point about the lavish refurbishment of the Buttercross, regardless of whose 'pot' the public money came from. Dick Long said of the building: "There is also a first floor function room available for letting to anyone."
That would be the small, lavishly decorated but tiny upstairs room with its magnificent chandeliers. There was also talk at the time of high quality crockery being purchased. I've been to just two small exhibitions on the top floor since the Buttercross re-opened. Which perhaps helps to demonstrate Doddy's point.
It was never going to be a facility enjoying regular patronage by the general public of Brigg...the ordinary man in the street.

SCHEMES SUPPORTED

Brigg Town Council's planning and environment committee last night raised no objections to Conservation Area consent being granted to demolish the former dental clinic, next to the Cedars, on Bigby Road, to allow resurfacing and a better access to the main building, which is currently being revamped.
Similarly, town councillors have no issues over retention of a domestic garden at 56 Bigby High Road (once agricultural land), or with permission being granted for an extension at 54 Hawthorn Avenue.
North Lincolnshire planners will now decide whether to give approval in each case.
There will be more news from the town council planning meeting on Brigg Blog later in the week.

TRIBUTE TO MAJOR STARS

Mean Eyed Cat - offering southern fried music in meaty, bite-sized chunks - top the bill at Brigg's Angel Suite on Saturday, November 21 (8pm).
They play the music of the Rolling Stones, Elvis, the Beatles, Chuck Berry, Steve Earle, Hank Williams, Creedance, Stray Cats, Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles and the Flying Burrito Brothers...to name but a few!
Tickets are £6.50 with food included in advanced ticket purchases - available from The Deli, Brigg Tourist Information Centre and Brigg Town Council offices. Tel 01652 659402 or 07903531201 for further details.

TUDOR TIMES REVISITED

From Phil Allen, BASH
The November meeting of Brigg Amateur Social Historians at the Servicemen's Club, Coney Court, saw the welcome return of local historian and writer Sue Allan.
Her talk on the life and family of Lady Rose Hickman, of Gainsborough Old
Hall, was fascinating. Sue was dressed in clothes of the Tudor period, as worn by Lady Rose. Her wonderful story told of an extraordinary woman of courage who lived through one of the most turbulent periods of history and survived the reigns of two Tudor kings and nine Tudor queens.
The subject of the next BASH meeting, on December 1, is The Lincolnshire Times Newspaper 1867-1985 by Brigg journalist Nigel Fisher.
Pictured above at this month's event are Roger Vorhauer (Sue Allan's husband and co-researcher), Josie Webb (BASH chairman) and Sue Allan (speaker).

CHANGING FACE OF BRIGG

Work has now started on creating five three-bedroomed terraced town houses on land to the rear of 22a Market Place - behind the Lord Nelson car park and at the side of Kettle's Funeral Parlour.
John Draper's joinery workshop has now been demolished - the first phase of the development which fronts onto the car park near the Angel Suite.
Brigg Town Council expressed some reservations about the scheme but North Lincolnshire planners gave the go-ahead.

UNDER-COVER SMOKING

There's been a puff of white smoke over the planning offices, indicating permission has now been granted to erect a timber smoking shelter and smoking canopy at Brigg and District Servicemen's Club, Coney Court.

PUBLIC MEETING

Brigg Town Council's planning and environment committee meets tomorrow (Wed Nov 11) in the Angel Suite Lounge, off Market Place (7pm). The public is welcome to attend and listen to the debates, but not to speak at the meeting.
Among planning applications to be considered is one to demolish the clinic alongside the Cedars, on Bigby Road, mentioned in a recent Brigg Blog posting.
Other applications on the list relate to Bigby High Road, Hawthorn Avenue and Market Place. It is possible other plans may be added/considered.
Information about a change affecting craft using the River Ancholme will also be received.
Brigg Town Council does not decide planning applications but must, by law, receive notification of ones within the town.
Town councillors' comments and views may then be taken into account by North Lincolnshire planners when a final decision is reached.

COVERED FOOD MARKET FOR BRIGG?

Scrap the pedestrianisation of Brigg town centre and allow cars through Bigby Street into Bridge Street while building a new covered market off Cary Lane to put life back into "our dead town" in which most businesses are "on their knees."
Some new ideas being mooted today within North Lincolnshire Council? Actually, no - these are suggestions made about 20 years ago by Brigg and District Licensees' Association.
For some reason preserved among my cricket archives, I've just discovered a copy of a hard-hitting letter sent by the association to Glanford Borough Council chief executive David Cameron (copies also going to the then Brigg MP Michael Brown, to Brigg Chamber of Trade and to Brigg Town Council). Unfortunately, there's no date on the correspondence.
The licensees said: "After careful analysis of the way Glanford planners have been performing during the last two years, the members unanimously voted a no confidence motion and cited an overwhelming groundswell of public opinion that they (Glanford Borough Council) have got it wrong."
Four main points were made, accusing the council of:

• "Interfering" with the private sector by buying the Angel Hotel.

• Closing the Corn Exchange prematurely.

• "Bulldozing" through the relief road (Barnard Avenue) and pedestrianisation scheme.

• Demolishing the cattle market without due consideration to alternative uses for the site.

The licensees suggested a covered food market for the old cattle market site (where Tesco now is) and wanted a community hall there "instead of pursuing the idea of a third supermarket which in a recent public hearing was massively rejected."
The licensees said: "We would like to see an immediate halt to the scheme and consideration given to the opening of Bigby Street through to Bridge Street to allow two-way transit through for light vehicles to regain a little bustle back into our dead town."
They urged the council: "Please consider these points carefully because the future of Brigg is already in question with most businesses on their knees."
The licensees were reacting to a Sunday in early December "when yet again unannounced roadworks took place with the direct result that Brigg was thrown into turmoil with many areas of the town centre cut off. Sunday lunch trade suffered drastically."
Returning to the present day, what should we make of all this? And what's happened in subsequent years?

• Glanford refused to stop work on the pedestrianisation scheme.

• The suggestion to allow cars through the Market Place and over the County Bridge was made many times, but always declined.

• The Victorian Corn Exchange was not only closed but demolished.

• The Angel Hotel was transformed into offices for North Lincolnshire Council staff, with Brigg Town Council taking part of it and introducing the Angel Suite community venue.

• The covered market never appeared...unless we count Tesco, which provides much of what the market might have sold, and a great deal more.

My personal view - shared, I think by many Brigg folk - is pedestrianisation has indeed made our town a much more pleasant place to shop and visit banks and pubs, without those cars and lorries speeding by just a few feet from the pavement.
This was always Glanford Borough Council's forecast, and in that it was proved perfectly correct. Council leader Terry Atherton had been to Beverley and seen a similar scheme work well in the North Bank town. He felt Brigg's future was offering a range of speciality shops people would come specially to visit.
However, there's no doubt Brigg has lost much passing trade. Whereas once people would draw up outside a shop and nip in to make a quick purchase (remember Bowen's in Wrawby Street?), they now have to find somewhere to park - not always easy - and then walk to the shops. Pay-and-display in Old Courts Road is hugely unpopular, while Tesco parking, although free and greatly appreciated, is away from the main shopping area.
Many people who've never been to Brigg, or haven't popped in since the pedestrianisation scheme, now drive along the A18, down Barnard Avenue, without ever seeing the fine range of shops we have, plus pubs and fine old listed buildings in the Conservation Area. That's the downside to pedestrianisation.
How many more tourists, and day visitors, might Brigg attract "on spec" if motorists were routed down Bridge Street, through the Market Place (pictured), Wrawby Street and Bigby Street? You can picture them motoring into the town centre and thinking: "This looks a nice place to stop for a break."
Yet there's no doubt that through traffic would make the town centre much less attractive. You couldn't have York stone paving, for example. And the age-old problem of having to dodge the cars would return, making the place less welcoming to visitors.
Like many, I was against pedestrianisation when it was mooted - but now I have to admit Terry Atherton and his Glanford colleagues were right, although not 100 per cent right. However, I can fully understand why small businesses in the town centre might disagree with that view.
Has pedestrianisation proved worthwhile? What do you think? Give us your views now through this link PEDESTRIANISATION

EYES DOWN, LOOK IT

A Chilli, Salsa and Cash Bingo Night is being staged at Brigg's Angel Suite on Saturday (Nov 14). Doors open 6.45pm - all proceeds to the Town Mayor's Appeal to help Let's Rock Cancer and Brigg Old People's Welfare.
Spice up your weekend by joining in a friendly game of cash bingo. During supper there will be an appearance by a local Cuban Mambo Band, who are giving their time and talent to support the appeal.
"It promises to be a great night of entertainment," says Angel Suite manager Karen Deeley (pictured).Tickets are £6.50 (entry to the event and supper).
For further details, and to reserve tickets, call Karen on 07903531201 or the town council office on (01652) 659402.

NO LONGER POLES APART

We've had previous moans on Brigg Blog about seemingly uncaring anglers on the Old River Ancholme blocking the towpath - a public right of way - with their extended fishing poles. No fun at all if you are trying to get past with a puschair, pram, or (more so) in a wheelchair. So it's pleasing to be able to report that a Saturday morning stroll alongside this stretch of the river showed a very different picture while members of the Conoco fishing section were enjoying a match. The only pole I did encounter blocking my path was immediately moved by the angler in question, who was apologetic.
These Conono chaps set a fine example.

LET'S OFFER SOME INCENTIVE

Brigg's Coun Carl Sherwood (pictured below) suggests there's a waiting list of 15 businesses queueing to get spots on the monthly Brigg Farmers' Market.
Writing in Brigg and Wolds Conservatives' latest newsletter, he reckons North Lincolnshire Council should look at extending from the Market Place into the short, pedestrianised stretch of Bigby Street, alongside the Buttercross - if local people support his thinking.
I reckon Carl's onto a winner with his idea. But, as an alternative, why not look at Bridge Street? If not the road itself, why not approach the Nelthorpe Arms (Scanlon's) about using part of the hostelry's sizeable car park? For a suitably negotiated fee, of course. You couldn't expect the pub to do it for nothing.
Brigg's award-winning farmers' market is a great success story, and certainly gets the town buzzing once a month. Credit is due to North Lincolnshire Council, which organises the event, and the traders. If their wares were not of such high quality, people wouldn't keep flocking back, month after month.
However, it must be said the Saturday market on the other three weeks of the month is a shadow of its former self, and could really do with some council input.
There's no easy fix in prospect - but with a history stretching way back to the early 13th century, the market is a Brigg tradition everyone wants to see continue.
How about offering an incentive to those 15 businesses awaiting stalls on the farmers' market? Those which take a stall on the ordinary Saturday market could be pushed up to the top of the queue to take spaces on the farmers' event when they become available.

BIGBY HIGH ROAD APPROVALS

Three applications for planning permission in Bigby High Road, Brigg, have all been granted by North Lincolnshire Council.
Mr M. B. Fennimore can retain the change of use of land as an extension to the rear residential garden at Linford Chase, 48 Bigby High Road. Approval has also been given to Mr M Sparling to retain the change of use of land to a garden and retain a fence at 54 Bigby High Road, while consent to carry out work to a black poplar tree (protected by a tree preservation order) at 63 Bigby High Road has been given to Mabel Raby.
In addition, planning permission to erect a single storey extension at 21 Bramble Way has been granted to Mr and Mrs M. Angell.

WHEN THE BOATS COME IN...

Lifting Day arrived again at Glanford Boat Club yesterday, with pleasure craft being removed from the River Ancholme to spend the winter months receiving a bit of TLC from their owners on dry land. Large cranes were again employed to do the job, which always makes a good subject for Brigg Blog pictures. Come next spring, the reverse operation will be undertaken.

BRIGG TOWN CRICKET FIXTURES

Brigg Town Cricket Club's first team will open the 2010 season with successive Lincolnshire League division four games against old rivals South Kelsey 2nds.
It wasn't a great first season back in the Lincs League for Brigg this summer, but a super run towards the end saw Lee Fielden's team pull clear of the re-election places at the foot of the table.
If you are interested in joining the club - based at the Recreation Ground, off Wrawby Road - use this link now BTCC
The club caters for juniors and men - midweek, Saturdays and Sundays.

SATURDAY APRIL 17TH
South Kelsey 2nds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Brigg Town v South Kelsey 2nds

SUNDAY MAY 2ND
Caistor Town 3rds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY MAY 8TH
Brigg Town v Scunthorpe 3rds

SATURDAY MAY 15TH
Brigg Town v Keelby 2nds

SUNDAY MAY 16TH
Caistor Town 3rds v South Kelsey 2nds

SATURDAY MAY 22ND
GEORGE MARSHALL TROPHY 1ST ROUND
Haxey v Brigg Town

SATURDAY MAY 29TH
Hykeham 2nds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY JUNE 5TH
Alford 2nds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY JUNE 12TH
Old Lincolnians v Brigg Town

SATURDAY JUNE 19TH
KO CUP 2ND ROUND

SATURDAY JUNE 26TH
Brigg Town v Caistor Town 3rds

SATURDAY JULY 10TH
Morton (Gainsborough) v Brigg Town

SATURDAY JULY 17TH
Brigg Town v Market Rasen 2nds

SATURDAY JULY 24TH
Brigg Town v Old Lincolnians

SATURDAY JULY 31ST
Keelby 2nds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY AUGUST 7TH
Market Rasen 2nds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY AUGUST 14TH
Scunthorpe 3rds v Brigg Town

SATURDAY AUGUST 21ST
Brigg Town v Morton

SATURDAY AUGUST 28TH
Brigg Town v Hykeham 2nds

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 4TH
Brigg Town v Alford 2nds

CLASSIC COMES TO TOWN

This Classic Mark 1 Ford Cortina, dating from 1966 - the proud year England footballers won the World Cup - paid a visit to Brigg today, being parked up near Lidl's store. Avril Clarke drove it over from Bottesford and it turned a few heads among nostalgia-lovers. The old car's been round the clock, in terms of mileage, but is still going strong.

OLD IDEAS ARE THE BEST

Brigg firm Thomas Bell advertising its wares today to Wrawby Street Saturday shoppers...on sandwich boards. It's an age old method of getting your company's message across but clearly a successful one - even in this era of online shopping.

'WE NEED THE PIED PIPER'

A rat is being blamed by an 87-year-old Brigg woman for the death of her beloved pet cat Spike Milligan.
Kath Smith (nee Sambrook) has been complaining to the authorities about the number of rats in the Glebe Road area of town and urging them to take action.
Some efforts are being made to tackle the problem, but it's all come too late for Spike, who was in Kath's front garden one evening when he was bitten by a rat.
"I called a vet in. She gave him an injection and I thought he was a bit better, but he cried out in pain and then he died," she recalled.
Kath says Coun John Berry - he's one of the Brigg area's three representatives on North Lincolnshire Council - has offered help over the 'number of tatty rats invading our gardens'.
A 'rat-catcher man' has been sent to her home and has given her a phone number to ring if she spots any more foraging for food in the area. Kath, in turn, has given the helpline number to some of her neighbours.
"We need the Pied Piper of Hamelin," Kath suggests.

BIG MATCH FOR WORTHY CAUSE

By Mark Cawkwell, Head of Brigg Town Juniors (on the big match at The Hawthorns, Saturday, November 28, 6.30pm KO)

The match with Brigg Amateurs is against a Brigg Town Junior Managers/Brigg Town Juniors Old Boys' XI. We have played a couple of games as Brigg Town Junior Managers for charity in the last year. The last was against an App-Frod Junior Managers' XI at Brumby Hall, Scunthorpe; all proceeds went to Cpl Lombardi's trust fund (the Scunthorpe soldier who was tragically killed in Afghanistan).
The match at Brigg Town on November 28 will be in aid of the Help the Heroes charity. All the players are paying at least a fiver to play, and we are hoping to do a small programme with all the players' names on, and also a half-time raffle etc.
Players for Brigg Town include me, Jimmy Huxford, Carl Atkinson, Neil Scott, John Glentworth, Joe Newell, Martin Wilson, Paul Dunderdale, Paddy Ellis, John Taylor, Daz Jordan, Kevin Martin, Paul East and Dave Servat. There are more to be confirmed. All of these players either manage or used to play for the juniors at Brigg Town. We also have Steve Housham playing.
It should be a great night.

SOMBRE CEREMONY

Good to see three North Lincolnshire Council workmen deployed early this morning to tidy the grass and flowerbeds at the Monument, ahead of this afternoon's Planting of the Crosses ceremony by primary school children from Brigg.
This is always a moving ceremony at our war memorial and today's weather is suitably sombre for the occasion which pays tribute to town citizens who paid the ultimate price in the service of their country during war-time.

CHANCE TO MEET ROWERS

Ancholme Rowing Club - based in Manley Gardens, Brigg - will be holding its annual general meeting on Wednesday, November 25 at the Black Bull, in Wrawby Street. It starts at 8pm - all welcome.
The club says: "We welcome all rowers and scullers of any ability, and have a happy mix of social and competitive rowing. Rowing is an excellent sport for general fitness, and if you have never rowed before we will be glad to show you. We have boats for complete beginners through to the most experienced oarsman. Additionally we have equipment and facilities for those with disabilities."
Membership is open to all above the age of 10 years old.
You must be able to swim 100m in lightweigh clothing and have no medical condition that would put you, or another member of the club, or public, at risk.
You can find out more by emailing the secretary ARC CONTACT
Or follow this link to apply through the club website
ANCHOLME ROWING
Ancholme Rowing Club dates back to Victorian times - making it (with Brigg Town FC) - one of our oldest and most long-established sporting organisations.

ON THE BALL....AGAIN

A reunion and nostalgic football match involving former players of the sadly missed Brigg Amateurs FC is to be held at the end of the month.
It will be at the Hawthorns - home of Brigg Town FC - on Saturday, November 28 (6.30pm KO, under lights).
Organiser Chris Faill has so far confirmed 18 ex-players of the once-mighty Amateurs, including someone he refers to as "Silky Skills Fisher".
He must have a lot better memory than me!
Chris adds: "I am looking to hopefully field two teams - one each half. This will give some of the older (experienced) players at least 45 minutes of action, plus time to regain their strength for a few beers and some food after the game (in the BTFC club]. Sam Harris has kindly agreed to provide a disco, so it could (should) be a great night."
Chris has supplied a list of players - a few only identified by nicknames from their playing days long ago, so I'll do my best to interpret. Apologies if I've missed the mark with any.
Brigg Amateurs Vets: Chris and Nigel Beacock, Paul Brooks, Neil Johnson, Mark Hotham, Kev Turner, Siz Brennan, Mick Richardson, Stu Tindall, Steven (Herbie) Pottage, Si Bingley, Geoff Bray, Tommy Smith, Keith Marshall, Kev Gammidge, Dennis Collins, Steve Marshall, Dave Jordan, Paul Harvey.
Other Brigg Ams vets reading this who had not heard about the match until now and who think they could still manage to turn out are very welcome to contact Chris Faill for further details. Follow the link here BRIGG AMS REUNION
I'm now 53 and hoping very much I don't turn out to be the oldest player taking part in this match. But it could well happen.
Brigg Amateurs ran three teams in the Scunthorpe and District Saturday League during the 1980s but the club folded within a relatively short space of time. The club was packed with characters and some good times were enjoyed - on and off the field. Those of us who supped too much on a Saturday night were caught out badly by some of those Sunday half-marathon run fundraisers from the far side of Caistor, back to Brigg. Somewhere I have a picture or two...and I've the medals to prove the course was duly completed - if rather slowly!
I seem to recall being passed by speedy striker Graham Day, somewhere near Clixby, and then being passed again by the same man a bit further along the route back to Brigg. Although quick on his feet, Graham's sense of direction was lacking a little and he'd taken a wrong turning.
Spectators are very welcome at the big match, which is against what's described as a Brigg Town X1. I know no more than that about our opponents.
Those Brigg Blog followers who network on Facebook can learn more about some of the Brigg Amateurs characters by visiting the Event page set up by Chris Faill called brigg town 11 verses brigg amateurs 11

CHANGING FACE OF RETAILING

Brigg's Tesco store now has a number of self-service checkouts, where town shoppers can scan the barcodes on the items they've bought and pay for them without having to deal with an assistant manning one of the tills.
We aren't going to criticise such a huge retailer, which will have done a huge amount of national research before taking the plunge with what will seem to many of us the other side of 40 as a strange step. Clearly it's progress and designed to cut down the queueing and speed up the time people take to get through the store, plus requiring much less staff input.
Yet watching folk using the new checkouts - and they all seemed to manage the procedure without difficulty, even some pensioners - set me thinking about how Brigg shopping used to operate.
Remember the days when mum filled in her order in a little notebook? She dropped that into shops like Melia's, Instone's and George Mason's while she was doing her Thursday round of the town centre, and a van, or boy on a bike, would drop by the house with the boxed-up groceries that afternoon?
Tesco, of course, and other major retailers, now offer online shopping along the same lines - you use the 'shopping cart' procedure on the internet and they send a van round with your purchases.
I've no wish to use the new self-service checkouts at Tesco - I'd sooner go next door to Lidl. Much less busy, it's ideal for a typical old-fashioned bloke like me who only wants to buy a case or two of bottled lager or (in dire emergencies) a jar of marmalade or (a couple of times a year) a pack of sweetener tablets.
Grocery shopping is Mrs Fisher's domain, and long may that continue!

IN-FILLING?

Efforts are being made to inject new life into the area occupied by the former Brigg school dental clinic on Bigby Road - a prominent location near the Monument.
A planning application is under consideration to demolish the old dental clinic building which has long been 'enjoying' the attention of vandals.
It's part of a scheme now well under way to refurbish the adjoining Cedars building and its surroundings.
The old dental clinic is described as "inappropriate" in the planning application, the new owners of the site wishing to provide "enhanced safe access" to the Cedars.
The target date for a decision by North Lincolnshire planners is November 27.
Many Brigg people, as youngsters, will have been "in the chair" at the dental clinic.
Those of us with longer memories will recall visiting the Cedars when it housed the doctors' practice which included Drs Foxton, Bowler and Proctor.
Later, it housed the town's family planning clinic, and for a time provided office space for health workers.
The building was on the market through Bell Watson for some months until earlier this year the For Sale sign came down and extensive building work got under way.