BRIGG SUPPORTS CAMPAIGN TO KEEP TRANSPENNINE EXPRESS TRAIN SERVICE RUNNING IN NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE

Brigg Town Council is supporting a campaign  seeking to ensure the TransPennine Express train service is not axed between Sheffield, Scunthorpe, Barnetby, Grimsby and Cleethorpes.
There's a public consultation review of the Manchester-Sheffield-Cleethorpes service underway at the moment. It is feared the service may be reduced to Manchester-Sheffield only, removing the link to North and North East Lincolnshire.
Coun Mike Campion, of Brigg Town Council, indicated to his colleagues at their latest meeting in the Angel Suite that it was important to make a stand now.
His motion that the Town Council should treat the review "with concern" was supported.
Coun Campion said any change to the current "excellent, well-used service" linking North Lincolnshire with the west and Manchester Airport "would be inconvenient and damaging to our area where rail links are already very restricted."
Brigg Town Council agreed "to lend its support to all efforts by local MPs to oppose this change."
Coun Campion said the Sheffield-Cleethorpes service review came at a time when the Government was talking about massive investment in new railway routes elsewhere in the UK.
Deputy Town Mayor Coun James Truepenny, who used the TransPennine service often during his time as a degree student in Sheffield, said it was excellent and used by many young people.
Coun Rob Waltham said the consultation would end on August 18. "People need to respond to the consulation," he stressed.
The Scunthorpe Telegraph and the Grimsby Telegraph are publicising the campaign online and in print and are offering a form people can use to pledge their support.
FOLLOW THIS LINK TO VIEW IT IN FULL

WHO'S ENTERTAINING AT OUR BIG GIG IN BRIGG TOWN CENTRE - A FREE EVENT

FROM BRIGG TOWN BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

On Saturday 12th July, Brigg Town Business Partnership present a "free" full day National Charity event called Our Big Gig - a  non-stop Live Arts Marathon in the Bandstand in the Market Place.
Performers will include singers, musicians, story-tellers, in fact all exponents of Live Arts of  whatever age performing in time slots of approximately 20/30  minutes or less with stage equipment provided between the hours of 10.00am and 3.30 pm approximately
So if you have something to say, sing or play, or act, whether a solo performer, part of a group or choir or orchestra (space permitting) contact  Pastimes on (01652) 653500 pastimesbrigg@btinternet.com now for further details and be part of the action but be quick as space is limited 

Award Winning Trio at Our Big Gig in Brigg
Folk music fans have a treat in store on Saturday July 12th. when leading Lincolnshire folk trio CLARTY SOUGH appear at Our Big Gig in the Market Place in Brigg, performing their unique mix of traditional and self-penned material. With a wealth of fine songs ranging from the comic to the tragic they delight in singing the heritage of our islands from their own inimitable perspective. 
Whether it be gentle love songs or rollicking sea shanties you can expect some good old fashioned rousing choruses with plenty of opportunity for audience participation.
 Clarty Sough are winners of both the 2005 & 2001 Radio Lincolnshire Folk Songwriters of the year award (runners up in 2004 and 2010) and the Musicians' Union trophy for best live performance. They have numerous club, festival and concert appearances to their credit together with appearances on local and national radio CLARTY SOUGH are Geoff Convery,  Jim Hancock & Keith Brown.
All have a reputation as fine singers of traditional song. Geoff & Jim are song writers of repute, with songs such as "The Traction Engine", "All to Build a Railway" and "Nights Like This" regularly heard around the folk clubs and their compositions sung and recorded by other performers, including, Witney Gin, John Conolly, Roy Clinging, Pegleg Ferret, Jim Mageean, Pat Needham & Steve Hindley.

Class Act Finalists at Our Big Gig
The full list of performers has yet to be finalised for Our Big Gig but will include Telegraph "Class Act" winners and finalists and three local Morris Dancing teams stopping off from their Summer Tour. Full play list and details will follow on Brigg Blog.

HOPES RISE FOR BRIGG RECREATION GROUND IMPROVEMENTS - STARTING WITH CRICKET & TENNIS

A very positive statement has been issued about revamping Brigg Recreation Ground, off Wrawby Road.

It appears in the latest issue of In Touch, the Brigg & Wolds Ward Newsletter issued by North Lincolnshire Council cabinet members Couns Carl Sherwood, Nigel Sherwood and Rob Waltham, and Andrew Percy, Conservative MP for Brigg & Goole.

Copies of In Touch are now being delivered to Brigg area households. But for the benefit of those who may not get to see a copy, or might miss the relevant section, here it is:

 

RECREATION GROUND

Work continues to progress with a £3 million development at the town's recreation ground. The development could include three senior and three junior football pitches, a floodlit hockey pitch, as well as a cricket square and nets. Works to the cricket pitch and tennis courts are likely to take place first. Plans will be submitted for consideration in August.

SECOND ATTEMPT TO PLAY BRIGG REUNION CRICKET MATCH BRIGGENSIANS v SIR JOHN NELTHORPE SCHOOL

Another attempt is being made to play the annual Briggensians v Sir John Nelthorpe cricket match in Brigg. 
It has been re-arranged for Friday, 11th July on the Sir John Nelthorpe School field. Meet 6pm.
The first attempt, last month, failed. But this time we are hopeful of getting a game.
Anyone interested in playing just needs to turn up on the night. Jon Taylor is organising the fixture, and we all thank him for that, together with Nick Beacock who is co-ordinating the Old Boys' XI.
A handful of us taking part are old enough to have attended Brigg Grammar School, which closed in 1976. But the majority will be ex-pupils (and staff) of Sir John Nelthorpe School.
Afterwards it's traditional to meet up at the Yarborough Hunt, in Bridge Street,  and the Britannia, in Wrawby Street, to talk about old times over a pint or two. If you can't make the game, you'd still be very welcome at the social get-together in the pubs.
The Briggensians' Association represents former pupils and staff and has a website www.briggensians.net where you can find information about becoming a life member and also other reunions and sporting events.
PLEASE PASS ON DETAILS OF THIS GAME TO ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO MAY BE INTERESTED.

TWO SPEAKERS FOR BRIGG TOWN BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP'S NEXT MEETING

The next full meeting of the Brigg Town Business Partnership will be held on Tuesday, July 22 at The Loft, in Wrawby Street, and will feature two guest speakers.
Margaret Harrod, of the Alzheimer's Society, will talk about shops in Brigg becoming Dementia Friends, while Halyna Deboer, from North Lincolnshire Council, will speak about street cleaning.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON GRASS CUTTING AND STREET SWEEPING IN BRIGG

North Lincolnshire Council is interested in getting the views of Brigg people on grass cutting and street sweeping.The online questionnaire is very straight forward and easy to complete.

HAVE YOUR SAY HERE

The council is looking to take action against people who drop litter, such as cigarette ends, on the streets. The matter was mentioned at the latest Brigg Town Council meeting, together with reference to the grass cutting of our public spaces during the warmer months of the year. 

Coun Jane Kitching, of Brigg Town Council, told Brigg Blog: "As a result and due to the hard work of Coun Waltham,  North Lincolnshire Council are consulting on changes on their street cleaning and grass cutting services in North Lincolnshire.

FORMER BRIGG SPORTSMAN MAKES RADIO LINCOLNSHIRE APPOINTMENT

Former Brigg Hockey Club player Charlie Partridge is a top man these days at  BBC Radio Lincolnshire and has announced an appointment which will be of interest to the many followers of the local radio station in our district.

Charlie played for Brigg during his time working for Radio Humberside. So long ago that we were still playing on grass at Brigg Recreation Ground! 

BBC Radio Lincolnshire has announced Carla George (pictured) as its new Breakfast co-presenter, joining Scott Dalton from Monday, July 7.  

Carla is already a familiar voice to listeners of the radio station as a reporter, bringing stories and features from across the county.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire's managing editor Charlie said: "Scott is now an established and popular presenter with listeners after taking over the Breakfast Show more than a year ago. Adding Carla to the mix as co-presenter will further strengthen what is already a great listen.

"Like Scott, Carla is hugely passionate about Lincolnshire having made her home in Grantham for a time. Having two people heading the show will open up extra opportunities for exploring stories and issues that matter to the people of the county.

"They have great chemistry together and I'm sure pitting them together will make for a hugely enjoyable show. As well as both having a great sense of fun and a warmth which will resonate with listeners, they are both hugely experienced and respected journalists who won't be afraid to stand up for people in Lincolnshire and ask the tough questions of the decision-makers.”

Carla, who joined BBC Radio Lincolnshire two years ago as a news reporter after working in regional newspapers, added: "I'm thrilled to be helping wake the county up with Scott every morning. I've grown to love Lincolnshire since I moved here and together Scott and I are looking to provide a great start to the day for people across the county."

Scott, who was born in Boston and still lives in the town, commented: "I'm delighted Carla is joining me as co-presenter. We get on really well, but we also have a lot of banter too! I don't know who will be keeping who in order on air - it could be interesting!"

The new-look Breakfast Show comes at an exciting time for BBC Radio Lincolnshire after it scooped two prestigious awards. The station's ground-breaking community event, Lipdub Lincoln, took a Radio Academy Gold Award and has been praised across the industry while coverage of the 70th anniversary of the Dambusters' raids has received international recognition scooping a New York Radio Festival award.

Charlie commented: "The number of people listening to BBC Radio Lincolnshire is increasing and there's a real buzz about the station and the new Scott and Carla Breakfast Show will further enhance that."

We can't quite recall whether Charlie played for Brigg Hockey Club 4ths or 5ths. Perhaps it was both. Next time we see local solicitor Steve Baggott we'll ask him to confirm, as he was our skipper at the time.

BRIGG CARE HOME CELEBRATES SUCCESS

There's a sign on a wall in Brigg town centre - just off the Market Place - in which our Riverside Mews Residential Home thanks staff, residents, friends and relatives for helping it achieve a range of high scores in various inspections.
These include 7 out of 7 "Excellent" in North Lincolnshire Council's ratings, 5/5 for Environmental Health and the Investors in People Bronze Award ("only 4 per cent of care homes in the country achieved this level on first attempt."

WEED TO BE TACKLED ON RIVER ANCHOLME IN BRIGG

Pictured on Sunday morning this week... Green weed on the Old River Ancholme in Brigg - either side of the County Bridge. Fortunately, they now carry out periodic cuts to reduce the clogging of the waterway. This helps stop litter accumulating in the weed and also helps craft using the river for leisure purposes. 

OUR BIG GIG - FREE EVENT IN BRIGG MARKET PLACE

Our Big Big will be a free event in Brigg Market Place on Saturday, July 12, from 10am to 3pm. It's another initiative from the Brigg Town Business Partnership and will feature music, dancing, story-telling and live arts.  We'll bring you further details nearer the time.

STORE OF BRIGG MEMORIES

Many of us were sad to see Poundstretcher close its Brigg town shop in Wrawby Street. We took this picture the other day to the rear of the premises, close to Old Courts Road. 
The shop - seen below shortly before closure - has now been cleared and put on the market.

PILATES SESSIONS IN BRIGG

McBride's Physiotherapy has now relocated in Brigg - from Elwes Street to Chapel Court, near the main car park. Pilates sessions are being held from 2pm to 3pm every Friday. 

BETTER SIGNAGE NEEDED TO PROCLAIM FREE PARKING IN BRIGG ON SATURDAYS?

Could North Lincolnshire Council consider improving the signs telling visitors using  our main Old Courts Road car park about the free-all-day Saturday parking? We suggest a large sign at the above location. This is a great concession that helps attract people to the town centre. But the tiny notice low down  the meter (see below) is easy to miss. 

BRIGG HERITAGE CENTRE ANTIQUES FAIR

Brigg Heritage Centre has an antiques fair at the Buttercross on Saturday, June 28, from 10am to 3pm. Refreshments will be available. All proceeds go to our town centre Heritage Centre.

NEW BRIGG BOLLARDS - THAT WAS QUICK!

Only the other week we were chatting outside the Woolpack pub in Brigg town centre when a friend pointed out the absence of bollards guarding the entrance to the pedestrian area  between Bigby Street and the Market Place.  

The suggestion was the council should be putting in replacements. So we were pleasantly surprised to take this picture the other day, showing that work is well advanced.

This should help cut down the number of vehicles entering the pedestrianised area without proper cause. 

PLEASE SUPPORT FUNDRAISER TO HELP BRIGG GIRL EBONY

Brigg folk may have seen these posters on display in Brigg - promoting the fundraising Ebony Show, which is coming up on Friday (June 27). Double-click the image for a closer look.  They would greatly appreciate your support. 

A NIGHT OF NOSTALGIA IN BRIGG

The Women's Singstitute is presenting an evening of nostalgia today (Wednesday, June 25) at St John's Church Hall, Bigby Street, 7pm. Admission is £3, including refreshments. Pay at the door.

BRIGG TOWN CRICKETERS' CUP RUN ENDS

Brigg Town Cricket Club - giankillers in the first round of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League's George Marshall Trophy knockout competition - lost their round two game against Scunthorpe Town on Saturday.
This was no real surprise as Brigg are in division four and Scunthorpe in the premier division.
Brigg made 94, which included 49 from promising young batsman Charlie Trembath, while Scunthorpe lost two wickets on their way to winning the tie, which was played at Brocklesby Park.
Scunthorpe's team included all-rounder Liam Redmond, who started his career as a youngster with Brigg Town when the club was playing its home games at Sir John Nelthorpe School. 
In Saturday's tie, Liam didn't need to bat and only bowled five overs, taking one wicket for five.
Brigg Town' Cricket Club has left and rejoined the Lincs League four times since 1976.
In the George Marshall Trophy - the senior KO competition - our local club has never tasted much success.
But circa 1990 there was a famous trip to play Ross Sports - then one of the top premier division teams - in Grimsby. Their spin bowler was treated with no respect at all by Stuart Trevor, who  smashed him for several sixes onto the roof of the clubhouse.
Brigg lost the tie but memories of Stuart's six-hitting live on for those of us fortunate enough to have played in the match.
The Ross team included Geoff Robinson, long-serving captain of the Lincolnshire county team and one of the few players to score 10,000+ runs in the Minor Counties Championship.

BRIGG LINE FRANCHISE 'TO STAY WITH NORTHERN RAIL' FRIENDS OF LINE UNDERSTAND

The Northern Rail and TPE Consultation debate is in full swing on the Rail Forum site, we are informed by Paul Johnson, of The Friends of the Brigg and Lincoln Lines.

Paul says there's lots of talk about Cleethorpes and the issues involving the Doncaster to Scunthorpe route.

The Brigg Line is to stay with Northern / Rail North, Paul's group understand.

http://www.railforums.co.uk/showthread.php?t=101715

You can follow The Friends on Twitter @Saturday_Only

BRIGG BUSINESSES COUNT THE COST OF ENGLAND'S WORLD CUP FAILURE

Spotted on Sunday in the window of the Brigg town centre shop we visit for our car oil.  A picture that says it all, really. 

As England footballers head into their final game in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Brigg businesses will be counting the cost of our national team failing to progress beyond the group stage.

Many townsfolk like to go to our pubs and clubs to watch the games live on TV, while a good proportion of those who prefer to stay at home  do so with drinks bought from local stores and perhaps a takeaway meal.
If England had progressed further in the competition, there would have been more pay days for Brigg businesses. 
Although some people will still watch the remainder of the World Cup without England, the games will not attract as much interest, or generate as much spending!
Those of us old enough to remember England winning the World Cup in 1966 are very fortunate. Given our performances in the tournaments held every four years since then, Sir Alf's '66 team could prove to be our nation's only success.... ever!

Special World Cup offer available at the China Garden takeaway in Brigg

BRIGG FOLK CAN READ TOP MAGAZINES FOR FREE

North Lincolnshire Council’s Library Service has launched a new free digital magazine service with 40 different popular magazines to choose from.

The new service has been welcomed by Coun Carl Sherwood, former Town Mayor of Brigg.

You will be able to access the latest magazines 24 hours a day, seven days a week and there is no limit to how long you can view the magazines for.

Read your favourite magazines on any internet enabled device, such as PCs, smartphones and tablets. You can also download the magazine to read at another time when you don’t have access to the internet.

Magazines available include:

• Amateur Photographer
• HELLO!
• Marie Claire
• Games Master
• Cross Stitcher
• Rolling Stone
• World Soccer
• Auto Express
• Total Film
• Idea Home
• Woman’s Own
• Webuser

If none of these take your fancy, there are plenty more magazines available to suit all different interests and hobbies.

Take a look at the wide variety of magazines available at: www.rbdigital.com/northlincolnshire/service/zinio/landing.

All you need to do is create a Zinio online magazine account and a Zinio reading account. It is free to do this and is quick and simple to use – register today and start reading for free.

For more information about the free online magazine service, contact North Lincolnshire Central Library on 01724 860161.

Coun Carl Sherwood, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport and Leisure at North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This new online library resource is fantastic. It not only means you can read a range of magazines on your portable device, but you can read them for free. If you don’t have time to read it all at once, download it and you can finish reading it later. There is a whole range of topics to choose from, from entertainment and gardening to travel and music. It is quick and easy to create an account, and then you can browse through the magazines to your heart’s content.”

SHARE IN THE CELEBRATIONS AT BRIGG STORE

It’s a landmark anniversary for Graeme King at Thomas Bell Country Store, Brigg.
Graeme King, the Thomas Bell Country Store manager, will be celebrating 25 years' service with Thomas Bell & Sons Ltd. 
And they will be sharing the celebrations with loyal customers by hosting a birthday party with a wealth of offers.
To celebrate Graeme’s anniversary on Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th June the country store will be hosting a party where customers will enjoy live entertainment, free refreshment, 10% off almost everything in store...and much more.
Graeme started work in 1989 looking after the cash and carry and weighbridge; following several years gaining experience of the business, Graeme was then promoted to Store Manager, a position which he has held for 9 years.
Andrew Major, Managing Director, said: "I remember the first day when Graeme starting working for Thomas Bell and to be celebrating this milestone is a real testament to Graeme’s loyalty and dedication to our business over the years. Our business has evolved over time, but excellent customer service is, and has always been, central to everything we do at Thomas Bell. I would like to thank him for all his commitment and hard work over the years’
You can join Graeme at Thomas Bell Country Store in June to celebrate this milestone Saturday 28^th June and Sunday 29^th June. For more information please visit www.thomasbellcountrystore.co.uk
Thomas Bell is on Bigby Road - just off the A1084, next to Brigg level crossing.

GET A BODY CHECK AT TESCO STORE IN BRIGG

North Lincolnshire Council's Public Health team is encouraging residents in North Lincolnshire aged between 40 and 74 to keep their body in check by taking advantage of the NHS free health checks on offer.

Sessions are being held throughout the district, and ours is:

• Thursday 26 June at the Tesco store, Brigg, from 10am to 4pm

Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes or kidney disease. However, the good news is that these conditions can often be prevented – even if you have a history of them in your family.

Public Health has set up free NHS health checks across numerous locations throughout the year helping you be better prepared for the future and be able to take steps to maintain or improve your health.

The risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type two diabetes and kidney disease increases with age. There are also certain things that will put you at greater risk, they are:

• Being overweight
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

Both men and women can develop these conditions and having one could increase your risk of developing another in the future. Even if you are feeling well, it is worth having a NHS health check now. The team can then work with you to lower your chances of developing these problems in the future.

The health check assesses your risk of developing type two diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and stroke. It will take about 20 to 30 minutes and you will be asked some simple questions. For example about your family history and any medication you are currently taking.

They health checks team will record your height, weight, age, sex and ethnicity. As well as take your blood pressure and pulse, do a blood test and check your cholesterol level.

They will discuss how you can be supported to reduce your risk and stay healthy. You will be taken through your results and told what they mean, and given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frances Cunning, Director of Public Health at North Lincolnshire Council, said: It is important that people keep a close eye on their health as the majority of time, these conditions can be prevented. Don’t let it get too late, be proactive about your health and wellbeing. The health checks will only take about 30 minutes of your time and could ensure you have a healthy lifestyle for years to come. We have plenty of sessions planned throughout the year, so make sure you book an appointment and get your health checked.”

To book your place at any of the above health check sessions call 01724 292170. 

You can drop-into any of the sessions, but there will be a wait.

People can only have a check carried out if they don’t have any of the following conditions and haven’t had an NHS health check in the last five years:

• Diabetes
• Coronary heart disease or previous heart attacks
• Stroke or mini stroke
• Chronic kidney disease
• Peripheral arterial disease and Atrial Fibrillation (AF)
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

For more information about the NHS health checks, visit: www.northlincs.gov.uk/people-health-and-care/health-and-healthy-lifestyle/free-nhs-health-check/.

HOPE TO SEE YOU TOMORROW NIGHT AT BRIGG TOWN COUNCIL MEETING

Coun The Rev Alec Depledge addressing fellow councillors and members of the public during a meeting in the Angel Suite

Brigg Town Council holds it monthly meeting tomorrow night (Monday, June 23).

It will get under way at 7.30pm in the Angel Suite and is open to interested members of the public.
Public Question Time is midway through the agenda, offering the opportunity for townsfolk to go along and raise issues of interest to them.
The Town Council's Planning and Environment Committee will meet in the Angel from 7pm tomorrow, and this session is also open to the public.
If you are going along tonight, these meetings are help in the main room of the Angel Suite. It's up the stairs, or use the lift. Entry to the building at night is via the Rotunda (conservatory-like building) at the rear of the Angel complex, adjoining the car park.

BRIGG NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN GATHERING MOMENTUM AS MORE RESIDENTS HAVE THEIR SAY

Those working to draw up the Brigg Neighbourhood Plan - a blueprint showing how local people want to see the town develop - has got off to a flying start, with visits to various neighbourhoods being made to gain opinions.
The team says on its website: "Two weeks into the Consultation period and it’s been encouraging to see that both interest and participation is growing in the Brigg Town Neighbourhood Plan."
Click here to read the full story

FROM THE BRIGG LINE TO TRENTSIDE

Summer rambles involving taking the train in Brigg and walking through fine North Lincolnshire countryside have proved popular in recent years and helped increase the use of our railway line's Saturday-only service.

For 2014 there's something a bit different. Rather than the usual ramble to Brigg they are  trying Kirton Lindsey to Blyton and Gainsborough (Kirton and Gainsborough being served by the Brigg line.

Walkers can look forward to the Railway Ramble on Saturday 5^th July. It's an 8½ mile linear route along public footpaths, roads and lanes from Kirton Lindsey to Blyton via Northorpe (also on the Brigg line but the station closed long ago).

Walk leader Stuart Parker, of the Lincolnshire Ramblers, told Brigg Blog: “ The walk helps support the Saturdays-only train service on the Brigg Line, and finishing at Blyton the hourly Stagecoach No. 100 bus can be taken back to Gainsborough or Scunthorpe. ”

“ There’s also the opportunity to continue for another 6 miles along new permissive bridleways to Morton to connect onto the Trent bank path into Gainsborough, to finish at the Old Hall for afternoon tea!”

The train departs Gainsborough Central station at 08.58 to Kirton Lindsey. The walk starts at 9.15am from Kirton Lindsey station. 

All are welcome, the walk is free but fares apply. Get full details by calling 01522 534655.

This is a linear walk so we do not return to Kirton Lindsey station but a train departs Gainsborough Central at 17.00 to Kirton Lindsey (and then on to Brigg). The car park at Gainsborough Central is now by permit only. It is suggested that people park at the Lindsey Centre - £2.70 all day and walk up to Central station.

FREE CHILDCARE ON OFFER TO BRIGG FAMILIES

From September 2014, twice as many parents can claim 570 hours a year free child care for their two-year old – thanks to changes in the criteria that means that up to 864 two-year olds and their parents will benefit from this fantastic offer.

Brigg's Coun  Rob Waltham, Cabinet Member for People at North Lincolnshire Council, said: The cost of childcare can be expensive, so the new criteria will mean that twice as many two-year-olds can benefit from free places, helping relief the financial burden for many parents.

Currently, the government criteria mean that there are 396 two-year-olds eligible for the free places. But it has now widened the criteria.

Already this term (summer), North Lincolnshire Council has approved 401 places. A further 463 places have still to be claimed.

The free place can be used with an Ofsted registered child-minder, pre-school or nursery that has a good or better Ofsted judgement.

There are currently 77 providers in North Lincolnshire that are able to accept funded two-year-olds – that have a good or better Ofsted inspection judgement or are in an area where there is insufficient childcare at this standard so they are the only provider available.

To apply:

• Online at www.northlincs.gov.uk/eef
• Call the family information service on 01724 296629
• Visit your local children’s centre

Coun Rob added: "All our providers deliver the early year’s foundation stage and this provides a valuable experience for your child to learn through play. They will have fun in a safe and nurturing environment and it will help them socialise and make friends. In addition to giving the child a new experience, the childcare allows parents/carers to have a bit more time to spend with their other children, visit a local children’s centre or take up training and/or employment.”

To be eligible, parents/carers need to meet just one of the following criteria:

New criteria from September 2014:

• In receipt of working tax credits and have an annual gross earnings of no more than £16,190 per year.

Current and continuing criteria:

In receipt of:

• Income support
• Income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA)
• Income-related employment and support allowance (ESA)
• Support through part six of the Immigration and Asylum Act
• The guaranteed element of state pension credit
• Child tax credit (but not working tax credit) and have an annual income not over £16,190
• The working tax credit four-week run on (the payment you get when you stop qualifying for working tax credit)

In the families who do not meet the financial criteria but where the child meets any one of the following:

• Have a current statement of special educational needs (SEN) or an education, health and care plan
• Attract disability living allowance
• Are looked after by their local authority
• Have left care through special guardianship or through an adoption or residence order

BRIGG EVENT WELL SUPPORTED

There was a good turnout at Brigg Servicemen's Club on Friday night to enjoy the Peter Kay tribute comedy act and disco.

NORTH LINCS HOMES TO TOUR BRIGG ESTATES

With ongo Bear, Caroline Twilley & Leesa Castelluccio (Resident Involvement Team).    

North Lincs Homes is inviting all tenants to jump onboard the ongo bus this summer as it travels around the area, including Brigg. Staff will be visiting local neighbourhoods on a tour bus to talk with residents, show them plans for the future and give people a chance to discuss any issues which matter to them. They will also be on hand to talk about Universal Credit, jobs & training, new building developments and there will be chances to win prizes such as a Kindle Fire.

Last year 335 tenants visited the bus and the aim this year is to reach more people.

Andy Orrey, Chief Executive, said: “Our ambition as a landlord is to offer the best possible services but the only way we can do that is to listen to tenants ideas and concerns and act where we can.

“One of the many ways we have shared information and listened to residents views in the past was by hosting an Annual Tenant Conference, but following feedback we are now travelling to tenants instead of asking them to come to us. “We’re planning lots of activities for people to take part in or residents can simply come and say hello.

“It’s a chance to find out about our plans for the future, how Universal Credit could affect people as well as looking at ways to learn skills or how to get into training as well as lots more. It was great 335 tenants visited the bus last year, but we’d like to see a lot more this time.”

Thursday 3rd July	Broughton, Manby House	9.45	10.45
	Broughton, Wells Court	11.00	11.30
	Brigg, Birch Avenue	12.00	12.45
	Brigg, Highfield Grove	14.45	15.45
	Brigg, Woodbine Avenue	16.00	16.45

ANOTHER ELECTION COMING UP IN BRIGG

The vacancy on Brigg Town Council will be filled by an election.
Further details should become available next Monday night (June 23) at the authority's monthly meeting. It will get under way at 7.30pm in the Angel Suite and is open to interested members of the public.
The vacancy on the council follows the resignation of Coun Mel Oades.
Public Question Time is midway through the agenda, offering the opportunity for townsfolk to raise issues of concern to them.
The Town Council's Planning and Environment Committee will meet in the Angel from 7pm on Monday, and this session is also open to the public.

BRIGG TOWN FC PRE-SEASON FIXTURES, INCLUDING GRIMSBY TOWN

BRIGG TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB   PRE-SEASON FIXTURES 2014-2015

Sat  12^th July GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY      HOME  3.00pm

Tue 15^th July WORKSOP TOWN                       HOME  7.45pm

Sat  19^th July NORTH FERRIBY                        HOME  3.00pm

Tue 22^nd July  APPLEBY FRODINGHAM        AWAY 7.45pm

Sat 26^th July  BARTON O B                                AWAY 3.00pm

Tues 29^th July BOTTESFORD TOWN               AWAY 7.45pm

Sat 2^nd    Aug  DURHAM CITY                          AWAY 3.00pm

Tues 5^th Aug  GRIMSBY TOWN                       HOME  7.00 pm

Sat 9^th Aug  VASE XI      V     PRESENT XI     HOME  3.00pm 

Sat 16^th August    EVO-STIK    SEASON    STARTS

PLAN TO RESTORE BRIGG CHURCH ORGAN

The organ at St John's Church in Brigg looks set to be restored.

An application is being made in the Consistory Court of the Diocese of Lincoln.

This is the way such matters have to be done.

A public notice has been issued about the plan and can be viewed on the church noticeboard.

Parishioners can raise objections, if they wish. They need to go to the diocesan registrar in Lincoln by June 28.

BRIGG NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN CONSULTATIONS

Brigg  Town Council has started the first round of Public Consultation by taking the Neighbourhood Plan out onto the streets, using the North Lincolnshire Council Events Bus.
To find out more about this important blueprint for the future development of the town, you are welcome to attend any of the following sessions: 
TUESDAY 17th June – off Bigby Road – 7pm-8.30pm
WEDNESDAY 18th June – near the Donkey Park, Almond Grove/Atherton Way  – 7pm-8.30pm.

BRIGG BOWLS CLUB LADIES' DAY 2014

Linda Baxter's Blog now includes pictures of Ladies' Day at Brigg Bowls Club, held on June 14 on the green, off Dudley Road. Follows this link to take a look

FIRST DEFEAT OF SEASON FOR BRIGG TOWN CRICKET SIDE

Brigg Town Cricket Club lots its first game of the season on Saturday.
The team missed out by just two wickets to Morton.
Brigg were bowled out for 104. Then, despite Tom Brock taking five wickets after tea, the Gainsborough side inched home to victory.
Brigg have rejoined the Lincolnshire County Cricket League this season, playing in division four.

TEA DANCES AT BRIGG YOUTH CENTRE

North Lincs Council ‏@NorthLincsCNews  says on Twitter: "Join in the Tea Dance at Brigg Youth Centre every Wednesday, 1pm-3pm. It's £3.50 a session. For more info call 07921588728 or 07525009909."

BRIGG PUMP TRIBUTE TO WORLD WAR ONE SERVICEMEN

LEST WE FORGET: A floral tribute remembering the WW1 contribution made by member of the Forces from Brigg. This is the old water pump on Grammar School Road South.

SCAWBY HALL MARKS WW1 CENTENARY WITH NEW EXHIBITION

Scawby Hall is marking the 100th anniversary of the First World War with a new exhibition dedicated to images and items from the conflict. The exhibition is part of the First World War Centenary Partnership, led by IWM (Imperial War Museums).
The exhibition will look at the career of Colonel Oliver Sutton Nelthorpe, who served in the war as a staff officer, and brought back several mementoes from the conflict. The exhibition is housed in his former bedroom at Scawby Hall, where his family has lived since 1605.
Among the exhibits are original posters, sketches, maps, and the decorations that Colonel Sutton Nelthorpe won at the front, as well as records from his service as a staff officer. They include items that the colonel found in enemy trenches, and even a fragment of a plane flown by Baron Von Richtofen, also known as the Red Baron.
Says Tom Nelthorpe, who lives at the Hall with his family: "The reputations of the British General Staff did not emerge well from the First World War. We wanted to put together an exhibition that illustrated the professionalism and bravery of one of the British Expeditionary Force’s staff officers." 
Oliver Sutton Nelthorpe was born in 1888, and served in the Rifle Brigade in Northern Ireland before the outbreak of war in 1914. He fought at the Battles of the Aisne and Loos and at Ypres. He finished the war as General Staff Officer grade 1 (ops).
Scawby Hall is open the following dates: June 12, 13, & 14; July 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16; August 1, 2, 3, 4, 24, 25, 26 & 27
The hall is a member of the Historic Houses Association. Scawby Hall is a grade I-listed Jacobean manor house located in the village of Scawby, between Brigg and Scunthorpe. For four hundred years the home of the Nelthorpe family, the hall is now in its sixth year of opening to the public. For details of opening days and times, visit www.scawbyhall.com or call (01652) 654 272. The hall also features a Victorian kitchen garden, which is open to the public and sells seasonal fruits and vegetables. The house is also known for its connection with painter George Stubbs.

About the First World War Centenary Partnership
2014 - 2018 marks the Centenary of the First World War, a landmark anniversary for Britain and the world. The First World War Centenary Partnership, led by IWM is a growing network of more than 1,400 local, regional, national and international cultural and educational organisations who together will be presenting a vibrant programme of cultural events and activities, and digital platforms which will enable millions of people across the world to discover more about life in the First World War. For more information visit www.1914.org

£2,000 TO HELP STAGE BRIGG EVENTS

North Lincolnshire Councils Community Grant Fund has awarded Brigg Town Business Partnership £2,000 to help with the cost of staging a programme of events around the town that will help increase footfall to the town’s shopping area. 
Coun Carl Sherwood (Brigg & Wolds), Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport and Leisure, said: “There are some fantastic groups in North Lincolnshire that do a lot for their community and we, as a council, aim to do all we can to support them. The Community Grant Fund not only supports local groups but individuals as well to help them achieve to the best of their ability. If you think you could benefit from the Community Grant Fund then apply today. All the details can be found on the council website at www.northlincs.gov.uk/grant-funding”.

BRIGG PUB PLANS ANNUAL DAY AT THE RACES

The Black Bull pub, Brigg, will be running its annual summer Day at York Races.
The trip from the Wrawby Street hostelry will be on Saturday, July 12.
People interested in going along need to pop into the pub and reserve a place.

BRIGG NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN SESSION CHANGE DUE TO ENGLAND WORLD CUP GAME

There has been a change to Thursday evening's Brigg Neighbourhood Plan consultation session, originally scheduled for 19th June in the the town centre. 
The football fans among you will have realised this clashes with the next England game in the FIFA World Cup. So it has been decided to postponed the session.
It will now be held on Brigg Market, from 10am to 12.30pm, on Thursday 19th June.
Hopefully it will prove to be as successful as the session held on the market last Thursday.

BRIGG PEOPLE: PLEASE SUPPORT THE EBONY SHOW AT GRIMSBY CENTRAL HALL

FROM MICHELLE PALMER, VOCALIST

Ebony, from Brigg is a four-year-old girl who is having treatment for Stage 4 cancer Neuroblastoma and her family are trying to raise money to help in travelling to Sheffield hospital and further treatment she may need. 
She's very poorly and as a singer I feel I can help them. I'm a Lincolnshire-based solo vocalist who has been working within the music industry for over 15 years and concentrating now on performing at weddings/corporate events. 
When I saw poor Ebony's funding page it broke my heart. I had to help, as I have a daughter of a similar age and can only imagine what Ebony's family are going through.
I'm organising a charity concert for her and have secured an excellent venue at Grimsby Central Hall http://www.grimsbycentralhall.org/ which has a capacity of around 700. 
A local hotel has offered rooms for free should any acts need them (Wortley House Hotel). BBC Radio Humberside will be helping to promote the event and possibly BBC Look North. The Grimsby and Scunthorpe Telegraphs are also writing feature stories on her. Chat and Spin radio are airing stories about the event in the next couple of weeks.
The event is on Friday, 27th June, from 7.30pm. Tickets are only £10 and available for Grimsby Central Hall Box Office Wed-Sat 10.30am to 2.30pm. Call 01472 355025.
Ebony's Show is a full night of top class entertainment involving a variety of award-winning artists from all over the UK. You'll be captivated by amazing performers such as:

• Elton John Tribute www.elton-john-tribute.co.uk
• Swing singer Gary Grace www.garygrace.co.uk 
• Colin Star www.colinstar.co.uk as seen on Living TV Four Weddings
• Comedy rock vocalist Steve Dell
• Michelle Palmer www.michellepalmersinger.co.uk
• Unscripted - a young, fresh boy band
• Plus guest appearances from celebrities and a Miss British Empire competitor.

This spectacular show will also feature a raffle with fantastic prizes to be won. 
Stars Marc Zammit, Dean Maskell, Gary Grant and Lucinda Rhodes will be appearing on the night to present prizes and sign autographs, too. 
It's going to be a big red carpet event for Grimsby, but more importantly Ebony will be there on the night.
Cristal Pigment UK Ltd are proud sponsors.
Here's a video I've made to help the world see how brave she is http://youtu.be/EVqXxWxi8ng
Ebony's Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ebonys-battle-of-neuroblastoma-stage-4/745923332106070
Her donation page is http://www.gofundme.com/8a1174 

Singer Michelle Palmer, who lives in the Brigg area, pictured at a Wedding Fair in the Angel Suite, where she had a promotional stand.