BRIGG EXPERIENCES SOME OF ITS HEAVIEST DOWNPOURS FOR YEARS - UPDATED POST

Brigg suffered the heaviest bursts of rain experienced for some years yesterday (Friday, July 30) as the weather took a turn for the worse following the recent prolonged hot spell.
The good news is the Met Office is forecasting relatively few summer showers of note today (Saturday) although we can expect rain around mid-day, with a chance of other showers at times for much of the day. View the full, detailed forecast here...
An update from the Environment Agency timed at 6.31am this morning showed no flood alert or warnings in place for the River Ancholme resulting from water accumulating upstream towards Brandy Wharf.
Yesterday afternoon's downpours and the early evening cloudburst made driving conditions difficult, with standing water gathering on some roads and the build-up and pressure lifting a number of manhole covers (St Helen's Road being one example).

Humberside Fire & Rescue service answered call-outs to deal with flooding of buildings in Broughton and Messingham yesterday - in late afternoon and the early evening.
Gardens needed water but many across Brigg were flooded as a result of yesterday's downpours.
Some sports fixtures today may be affected by Friday's heavy rain, particularly cricket in the Lincolnshire County League.
Rules state that games cannot be cancelled until late on Saturday mornings. But we expect there will be many called off across the county without a ball being bowled.

It is also possible that some of the games which do get under way may have later-than-planned starting times. 

About 10 years ago we umpiring a cricket match at Brigg Recreation Ground when the fielders fled the field as the sky turned black and torrential rain accompanied a severe thunderstorm. But this proved to be relatively short-lived.

10.05am update today: We gather today's game at Hibaldstow between Scunthorpe Town 3rds and Alford 2nds has been cancelled.

11am: The Met Office has now issued a thunderstorm warning for a wide area of eastern England, including North Lincolnshire, operative from noon today through to 9pm. Use this link for full details...

PICTURED: Flooding at 8.45pm on Grammar School Road last night (Friday) viewed from the junction with Wesley Road. Courtesy of Brigg residents Simon Fisher.

MORE ALLOTMENTS AVAILABLE IN BRIGG - GROW YOUR OWN FRUIT & VEG

 

Brigg is gaining NINE more allotments to be rented out to residents who are keen to grow their own fruit and veg.
There will be 29 plots on the new Woodbine Park site to replace the 20 being phased out on Grammar School Road where the land is earmarked for future redevelopment.
Brigg Town Council, which manages allotments on Grammar School Road and Atherton Way/Redcombe Lane, received an update on the Woodbine Park project during its latest meeting (held on Tuesday night in the Buttercross).
Annual rents for plots on the new site which is now taking shape are described as being comparable with current charges.
Coun Penny Smith made reference to the cheap rental cost and highlighted allotments' usefulness to people needing to grow their own food.
Coun Carl Sherwood added that money was not the main issue here.
It is hoped the new Woodbine Park allotments will be ready by the end of October with existing tenants on the Grammar School Road site being given 'first refusal' on these plots by the Town Council.
It's hoped the tenants will move onto the Woodbine Park site straight away, but they have until January 14, 2022 to vacate Grammar School Road plots.
Anyone interested in a plot, is asked to please get in touch with Brigg Town Council via email - enquiries@briggmarkettown.co.uk OR call 07584 315971 OR drop into the authority's office on the second floor of the Angel building in the Market Place on a Thursday between 10am and 4pm.
Two of our pictures here, taken earlier this week from Preston Drive, show the progress made so far on the Woodbine Park allotments. A contractor has been engaged to remove the grass and prepare the growing plots for occupation. Above them is an earlier view of well-established plots off Grammar School Road (not far from the M180 flyover).
Post-war prefabs once occupied the Woodbine Park land which is currently being transformed. These bungalows were demolished more than 50 years ago.
The children's play area occupying the remainder of the extensive site beyond the plots is being retained and is managed by North Lincolnshire Council.

BRIGG GRANT AGREED TO HELP ATTENDANCES

Brigg Town Council agreed to make a grant to a local group during its latest meeting.
Brigg Trefoil Guild, a branch of the Girl Guiding movement, requested £100 towards the hire of the Scout Hall so it can meet there.
The Brigg members are all over 70 and some have mobility issues, so using the hall means they can continue to attend meetings.
The Trefoil Guild has 1,100 members nationwide, all over the age of 18, and works voluntarily to support the guiding movement. They help with badges for Brownies and Guides and support older Guides to attend events overseas.
Carl Carl Sherwood told the late July meeting in the Buttercross that the council should support the Guild with a grant in line with the request submitted.
Brigg Town Council has received many application for grants over the decades from a host of local groups. 

PICTURED: The Scout Centre's access with ramp and railings, and the Buttercross where the Town Council's July meeting was held in the function room.

SIZEABLE GRANT FOR BRIGG FOOD BANK TO HELP CONVERT FORMER GREGGS SHOP

Plans to re-purpose the former Greggs bakery and sandwich shop in Brigg town centre for use by the local Food Bank are to receive a major cash contribution from the Town Council.
Oikos - Brigg requested a half-funding contribution to help with refurbishment of these Wrawby Street premises into a food bank larder where items can be sorted prior to being distributed to help local families in need.
It is also planned to have a drop-in centre operating from the former shop at some point in the future.
Costings provided with the grant request included the suggested use of firms like Amazon and Wickes to supply some of the requirements.
The council agreed a £1,000 grant... and requested they source materials from local firms.
The restoration/refurb costs include hiring cleaning equipment and building materials, racking and fire extinguishers.
Proposing the £1k grant, Coun Rob Waltham said these premises had spent "a long time not let." He was keen to see traders in the town providing requirements rather than buying online.
Brigg Blog can add that Greggs served its last sandwich in Brigg on Saturday, November 25, 2017. We were among the final customers, buying a ham and salad takeaway sandwich and a chocolate slice from the national retailer's outlet.
Oikos - Brigg is a registered charity "set up to enable Christians who live in and around Brigg to work together for the benefit of the community."
Oikos says that in July 2019 "it was established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered with the Charity Commission and assumed the running of the Brigg Foodbank."
It now works closely with the local mutual aid group "to deliver the Brigg Foodbank after the huge expansion of need this year."

PICTURED: The long-empty former Greggs premises as they current look, and the sort of items generous local people may donate to Brigg Food Bank to benefit those in need.

BRIGG TOWN FC TO OPEN NEW LEAGUE PROGRAMME WITH HOME MATCH

Brigg Town Football Club will be kicking off the new 2021/2022 season tomorrow (Saturday, July 31).
The Zebras open with a home fixture against Glasshoughton Welfare in ToolStation Northern Counties East Division One.
Kick-off at the EC Surfacing Stadium (Hawthorns) will be 3pm, with admission costing £5 (adults) and £3 (concessions) with no charge for accompanied under-18s.
Pips Kitchen and the licensed bar will be open for refreshments; the children's play area will also be available - free to use with a range of equipment.

Glasshoughton is near Castleford in West Yorkshire.
Brigg Town had mixed fortunes in pre-season friendlies earlier this month, culminating in a 2-2 home draw against Lincoln United last Saturday (July 24).

IMPORTANT WEEKEND GAMES AHEAD FOR BRIGG TOWN, BROUGHTON & HIBALDSTOW CRICKETERS

Brigg Town cricketers return to action in Lincolnshire League Division Three tomorrow (Saturday, July 31) with a visit to Haxey 2nds who, like Brigg, are currently mid-table.
This is a very well-appointed ground in a well-known Isle of Axholme village which is close to the county borders with Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire and home to the unique centuries-only Haxey Hood annual contest.
Since the late 1970s, Brigg and Haxey have met many times in various weekend competitions.
In Division One, fifth-placed Broughton will be keen to get back to winning ways when they journey to Lincoln to take on Hartsholme (a place above them in the current standings), while Hibaldstow face a lengthy trek south to Alford. These teams prop up the table at present.
Broughton 2nds, in some danger of relegation at the moment, will be at home to leaders Barton Town 2nds in Division Two tomorrow.
All these Lincs League games start at 1.30pm.

Brigg Blog has been asked to help publicise charity cricket matches coming up in support of St Andrew's Hospice, Grimsby, which has cared for many people from this area.

FROM DAVID EVANS

The cricketers of Grimsby Town and Cleethorpes are coming together on Monday to stage a cricket match in aid of St Andrew’s Hospice.
This season’s Grimsby Town Cricket Club Knockout Competition had to be cancelled as several teams were unable to fulfil their fixtures because of issues with COVID. Monday was scheduled as the night for the Final to be played so the two clubs have agreed to stage an exhibition game with a purpose.
Both Grimsby and Cleethorpes are having good seasons and challenging for the titles of their respective leagues. Town recently won the George Marshall Cup.
The Cleethorpes line up will include Sri Lankan all-rounder Sameera Sadamal and Grimsby have invited Lincolnshire CCC bowler Dan Cliffe to play in their side.
Play will start 6pm at Augusta Street.
Rob Brice, the Grimsby Town all-rounder and a former Cleethorpes player, is raising money this season for St Andrew’s Hospice and has planned a Family Fun Day at Cleethorpes Cricket Club on Sunday 15 August. 

The Laura Brice Memorial Day, in memory of his Mum, will also include a 40 overs each, cricket match between a St Andrew’s Hospice XI and Cleethorpes CC. 

 

POPULAR BRIGG PLAY EQUIPMENT SET TO MOVE

The popularity of a new outdoor table tennis facility in Brigg looks like leading to its relocation elsewhere on the Davy Memorial Park - further away from nearby housing. It's set to move.
The free-to-use table was provided some weeks ago by Brigg Town Council on the edge of the play area near Kings Avenue.
Coun Rob Waltham told the council's latest meeting (held on Tuesday night) that the table was being really used, but being close to residential property he suggested to colleagues that it would be better to move it to where the boundary hedging was thicker. This task could be undertaken by the council's handyman service.
He suggested the council should agree in principle to relocate the table and hold a site visit to agree the best spot.
Coun Waltham described it as a really wonderful facility.
Coun Penny Smith pointed out that water can collect on some areas of the park.
Youngsters requested the table's installation on the park, but some adults are also using it.
The table will need to remain clear of the football pitch, with goalposts, where kick-about games are enjoyed.
The school summer holidays are always a busy period for this park and for others across the town which have a range of play equipment.

BRIGG COUNCIL TO SET OUT ITS STALL ON THE MARKET

Shoppers visiting Brigg Market will be able to raise issues of importance to them directly with the Town Council, which will booking a stall four times a year so it can liaise personally with residents.
This new initiative was agreed during the authority's July meeting, held in the Buttercross on Tuesday evening (July 27).
Coun Rob Waltham said the stall would allow the council to showcase what it was doing, and planning to do, including projects and consultations.
He initially suggested doing so twice a year, but readily accepted Town Mayor Coun Brian Parker's subsequent idea to man the stall quarterly. This was agreed.
Coun Jane Kitching thought it would be useful to ask the Freemen of Brigg if they wished to assist.
Coun Penny Smith had opened the discussion by suggesting the Bandstand in the Market Place was a better option than hiring a market stall.

FINAL DECISIONS PENDING ON BRIGG NEW BUILD HOUSING PLANS

Proposals to build new homes in Brigg have cleared the first stage of the planning process without any adverse comments.
Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee raised no objections to a detached house being built adjoining Lyng Place on Cadney Road or to a new flat being constructed on land at the end of West Terrace.
There were also no adverse comments about a new garage (with storage space above) being built at 12 Wrawby Road (almost opposite the entrance to Health Place).
Town councillors, meeting on Tuesday evening in the Buttercross, also went along with the felling of a diseased ash tree in the rear garden of Merrivale on Bigby Road (at the edge of the Conservation Area) although Coun Sharon Riggall, chairing the session, suggested it would have been nice if the applicant had offered to plant a suitable replacement.
Coun Riggall said the West Terrace flat would tidy up this area. She noted on-site parking was included in the plans with turning space provision.
Potential flood risk was raised by Coun Ann Eardley, but Coun Jane Kitching pointed out that the garage would be at ground floor level with living accommodation on the storeys above.
Coun Riggall noted that the new domestic garage planned for 12 Wrawby Road was in line with what some other households had done nearby.
The Lyng Place application prompted Town Mayor Coun Brian Parker to express some surprise that a new property had not already been built on this land.
These property-related planning applications and the notice of intention to fell the ash tree will now go before North Lincolnshire Council for final decisions to be made. The Town authority's views will be forwarded to planning staff.
Coun Riggall has now succeeded Coun Parker as chairman of the Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee. They are pictured above.

NEW BRIGG ZEBRA CROSSING PROPOSED TO AID ROAD SAFETY

Brigg is in line for an additional pedestrian crossing facility on the very busy A18.
The new aid to road safety will be a black and white striped zebra crossing, and the intended location is close to where Bridge Street joins Ancholme Way.
Coun Rob Waltham, who is the Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, informed Brigg Town Council's July meeting held last night (Tuesday, July 27) that the highway authority is looking to install such a crossing.
We gather that it will have modern LED lighting rather than the once familiar yellow Belisha beacons.
Dozens of new domestic properties are currently being built off Bridge Street, which is already very well-used by pedestrians heading for, and returning from, the town centre. The new crossing will also assist people from this part of the town in accessing the Riverside Surgery and the Tesco store.
Currently there are traffic islands available on this section of the A18.
Brigg Blog hopes to obtain a technical drawing/graphic in the near future which will help people to visualise the exact location proposed for the new zebra.
Bridge Street featured an old-style zebra crossing for decades before the A18 was re-routed along newly-built Ancholme Way in the early 1990s. Our archive picture below shows the old zebra crossing circa 1971 with its tall beacons either side.

 

 

BRIGG WILL BE FLYING THE FLAG FOR HER MAJESTY & ON LINCOLNSHIRE DAY

Brigg will be able to fly the flag in support of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next June, Lincolnshire Day on October 1 every year and other major occasions.
Members of Brigg Town Council who attended meetings held last night (Tuesday, July 27) were informed by Town Clerk Kerry McGrath that planning permission has now been granted for two new 4-metre, 45 degree-angled flag poles with flags on the historic 200-year-old grade two listed Buttercross in the Market Place.
Councillors were meeting in the first floor function room of this building when they received the positive news.
North Lincolnshire Council has granted formal planning approval, following an application by the town authority.
A heritage statement submitted with this application said: "As part of the Support Local initiative and taking pride in our area, Brigg Town Council are investing in two flags and flag poles to be placed in the centre of the town.
"The flagpoles and flags will be seen as an enhancement to the town and its local pride and heritage, especially at times of celebration as well as remembrance and memorials, and will not adversely impact the Conservation area it is situated in. It will be seen as a positive improvement to the area’s character, appearance and setting."
Announcing its decision yesterday, North Lincolnshire Council said: "The flagpoles would support the civic use of the building and would not detract from its historic contribution to the character of Brigg town centre. The design of the flagpoles would be appropriate and sympathetic to the historic nature of the building."
The Queen's Platinum anniversary, celebrating her 70 years as reigning monarch, is to be marked by an extended public bank holiday.

Our picture (top left) shows a previous flag being attended to on one side of the Buttercross, which is owned by North Lincolnshire Council, some years ago; and the Lincolnshire Flag (top right) being flown in the garden of a domestic property in the town. October 1 is Lincolnshire Day - a chance to celebrate all that's good about the historic second largest county in England.

BRIGG AREA PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT PLANS KEEP LOCAL COUNCILS BUSY

Various proposed property extensions within the Brigg area have been submitted to North Lincolnshire Council and are now awaiting decisions from the local planning authority.
Erect extensions to the rear of the dwelling, make alterations to the roof, erect a detached garage and associated works, Thistledo, Melton Road, Wrawby.
Erect single-storey extensions to the front and rear of the dwelling at 8 Labrador Drive, Broughton.
Make extensions to the south, east and north elevations and to the existing garage at Lyndhurst, 42 Messingham Lane, Scawby.
Erect a 1.5-storey extension with pitched roof to the rear of the dwelling at 24 West Street, Scawby.
Meanwhile, listed building consent has been granted to remove a stud wall to create a larger bedroom at The Hall, Vicarage Lane, Scawby.
Neighbouring West Lindsey District Council has now approved three developments within the Brigg area.
Removal of existing stables, garage conversion with rear extension to form games room, garages and room in-roof annexe, two-storey front extension to form new entrance and eaves raised to form new loft accommodation at Sherwood House, Owmby Lane, North Kelsey Moor.
Erection of one dwelling at Church Farm, Waddingham Road, South Kelsey.
Construction of new vehicular access and driveway, with removal of existing driveway and alterations to boundary fencing, at 6 Barrick Close, North Kelsey.

'MUCH-NEEDED AFFORDABLE HOUSING' PLANNED ON SITE IN BRIGG

Plans have been put forward to provide "much-needed affordable housing" on land in Brigg.
There is considerable demand for quality flats in the town and, if approved, this attractive new one will have living accommodation on two levels and be within easy reach of the town centre.
If North Lincolnshire Council decides to grant the necessary planning permission, the flat will be sited at the southern end of West Terrace, off Bridge Street.
There will be parking at ground floor level (open and minus garage door) with living accommodation above.
North Lincolnshire planners are now considering the outline application to erect one three-storey flat and ground floor parking facility with appearance, landscaping, layout and scale reserved for subsequent consideration at a later date if the outline plans gain approval.
The land in question is currently rented out for parking vehicles, planners have been told.
A statement submitted in support of the application says the development would greatly improve the visual amenity of the area and also "provide much-needed affordable housing within the sustainable central Brigg area."
A plan of the site indicates provision of a garden allied to the flat, and a 1.8m timber boundary fence.
Brigg Town Council will be consulted as part of the planning process.

PICTURED: Looking towards the end of West Terrace where new housing is being proposed, and a property which indicates how the proposed one may look, although it will not have a garage door at ground level.

BRIGG INCLUDED IN BAD WEATHER WARNING AREA

There's a Met Office yellow-rated thunderstorm warning in place for Brigg & District and many other parts of the north and midlands today (Tuesday, July 27).
Forecasters suggest storms with heavy rain will affect parts of the region, including North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire. The warning period runs from 9am today until 6am tomorrow (Wednesday).
View full details here...
These thunderstorms may result in some localised flooding at certain locations in the region today.

LIVE MUSIC GIG TO ENJOY IN BRIGG & ON-SONG CRICKETERS HIT FORM

Brigg Blog has received notification of a soon-to-be-enjoyed live music gig in the town, and also some fine cricket performances over the weekend.
The Woolpack, in the Market Place, informs us that singer Jacqui Copling will be performing on Saturday (July 31) from 8.30pm. Admission on the night is free. Her wide range includes pop, rock, Motown, soul and rock & roll classics.
'The Woolie' regularly hosted live music gigs until pub-related Coronavirus emergency restrictions were introduced last year. These have now been lifted.
The Broughton 2nds cricket team, which usually plays Lincolnshire League games on Saturdays, had a Sunday fixture over the weekend. The change suited long-serving batsman Nick Crawford who scored 73 in Broughton’s total of 149 all-out. However, Normanby Park won comfortably by eight wickets in this Division Two encounter.
Saturday's round of Lincs League games saw some former Brigg Town players performing well for their current clubs.
In the Premier Division, wicketkeeper/batsman Dale Coy hit 66 for Haxey as they beat Market Rasen.
Seam bowler Tom Brock took three wickets for Barton Town 2nds, who defeated Cleethorpes 3rds in Division Two.

PICTURED: Singer Jacqui and cricketers Nick Crawford (in the helmet) and Tom Brock.

GLAD TIDINGS AS BRIGG LANDLORD CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY WITH CUSTOMERS

Having now completed eight years in charge of the Dying Gladiator in Brigg, Eugene Irwin is the town's longest-serving current landlord.
A celebratory event was held last night (Sunday, July 25) featuring rockabilly music from The Moonshiners in the beer garden and later a disco.
There was a large cake to mark the occasion, and Eugene was presented with an inscribed tankard by bar manager Michelle Dunnion on behalf of the staff.
Many customers of this historic Bigby Street hostelry, known to many as The Glad, popped in to support the anniversary 'do' and pass on their thanks to mine host for his efforts.
People enjoyed the craic - Eugene hailing from The Emerald Isle - and warm and sunny weather proved ideal.
The past 16 months have presented many challenges for all Brigg's pubs and licensed clubs, but last week saw the Government lift its table service-only restriction, mandatory mask wearing and social distancing rule.
The Dying Gladiator is the only pub in the country with this name and has a statue of a stricken warrior above its main entrance - the sculpture being inspired by a 19th century landlord and builder's Grand Tour of Italy and The Vatican.
The pub premises are grade two listed and in the heart of the Brigg Conservation Area.

PICTURED: Above - Eugene with staff behind the bar at the Dying Gladiator last night; below - with manager Michelle and the tankard (also seen displayed on the bar).

 

 

INJECTIONS AGAINST CORONAVIRUS AVAILABLE AT WALK-IN BRIGG AREA SESSION TODAY

People living in Brigg & district who are still requiring 'jabs' against the Coronavirus have an open invitation to attend a 'walk-in' session today (Monday, July 26).
There will be a Covid-19 vaccine clinic at the Ancholme Leisure Centre, Scawby Brook, from noon to 7pm.
North Lincolnshire Council, which owns and operates the centre off Scawby Road, says anyone aged 18 or over is welcome to attend.
Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines will be available - first and second doses.

Just turn up - there's no need to make an appointment.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION WELCOME AT BRIGG MEETING

Brigg Town Council will be discussing a range of topics of local interest during its monthly meeting this week.
They include progress on the new Woodbine Park allotments and how much tenants will be required to pay in rent for their plots; grass verge cutting in the town; deciding the winner of the Best Business in Bloom Trophy; and considering applications for cash grants from local groups.
There will also be a report on North Lincolnshire Council matters affecting the town, and an update about Brigg in Bloom.
The meeting takes place on Tuesday (July 27) from 7.15pm on the upper floor of the Market Place's Buttercross (access available by stairs or lift).
Members of the public can participate early in the session but the council says although it will respond to issues raised, it may be unable to provide immediate answers in every case.
Also open to the public on Tuesday is a meeting of the Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee, starting at 6.45pm in the Buttercross. Councillors will be considering the latest planning applications submitted in Brigg.

PICTURED: Brigg in Bloom is currently bringing flower power and a touch of colour to the County Bridge.

COULD BRIGG SHOPS CONSIDER OPENING EVERY SUNDAY DURING THE SUMMER?

Will Brigg shops be taking note of what's going on in a similar Lincolnshire market town?
Horncastle launched its Sunday Shopping This Summer initiative today (July 25) with shops and eateries opening for business every Sunday through to September 5. Townsfolk and visitors are being urged to pop along and support "this great initiative."
Brigg Blog will be using social media to keep a close eye on how the scheme is progressing.
Many of our retail outlets close every Sunday, and staff are perfectly entitled to their deserved days off. 

But if Sunday shopping generates considerable trade in Horncastle, perhaps our town might consider trying something along similar lines.
Much trade was lost by so-called non-essential shops during the Coronavirus lockdown periods when the Government imposed mandatory closure.
Would Sunday opening during the warmest months of the year offer an opportunity to generate extra income for those in Brigg? Or would the cost of opening exceed what's taken through the tills?

FOUR GOALS AT BRIGG TOWN FC & CRICKET 'RUN FEST' AT HIBALDSTOW

Brigg Town Football Club drew 2-2 with Lincoln United in a pre-season friendly at the EC Surfacing Stadium (Hawthorns) yesterday (Saturday, July 24).
Brigg Blog has been asked to help promote the Zebras' website to people who take an interest in local sport.
"With the new season fast approaching, we're making efforts to get it more noticed," is the message Brigg Blog is happy to pass on. View the website here...
Meanwhile, in local cricket, there was a real run fest at Hibaldstow - a renowned batting 'track' - with visiting Lincoln side Hartsholme piling up a massive 309; all scored by their opening pair!
Mike Hale finished unbeaten with 170 and Ed Bodsworth was 117 not out as eight Hibaldstow bowlers failed to take a wicket between them in the permitted 45 overs.
The villagers responded with 170 for nine - opener Josh Cowling and Joe Taylor scoring 59 and 46 respectively. They put on 106 for the first wicket.
Few, if any, Lincolnshire League games since the competition's formation in 1963 have seen triple-century and a century opening partnerships on the same afternoon!
In contrast, Broughton were somewhat short of runs when hosting Messingham - being bowled out for 133 which the visitors bettered with three wickets in hand. Nick Dobbs scored 40 for Broughton, while Shaun Clark later took two for 17 in 10 economical overs.
Brigg Town's home game with Scunthorpe Town 3rds at the Recreation Ground in Division Three was called off late last week, and Broughton 2nds were without a scheduled fixture in Division Two yesterday. They will be hosting Normanby Park at the Scawby Road ground this afternoon, Sunday (1.30pm start).

PICTURED: Brigg Town FC's EC Surfacing Stadium and the Hibaldstow cricket ground.

FRIENDS REUNITED AT BRIGG LICENSED PREMISES ON THE FIRST SATURDAY AFTER FREEDOM DAY

The first Saturday since Coronavirus emergency Freedom Day saw many friends reunited on licensed premises in Brigg last night (July 23). And a few who had not been seen in local pubs for many months were back in their familiar haunts.
It felt strange but also reassuring to be able to stand at bars to order drinks instead of receiving mandatory table service from staff while sitting at a reserved seat well away from the counter.
Signing-in and social distancing were removed by the Government last Monday (Freedom Day - July 19).
Bar visitors can still wear masks if they wish, but doing so was not being enforced at the licensed premises we visited last night.
We were out and about in Brigg on the evening of Friday, March 20, 2020 as locals downed their last pints prior to the Government ordering enforced closure of bars for the first time due to the Covid emergency.
When this initial 'lockdown' ban was finally lifted last summer, it was accompanied by various restrictions and requirements relating to the bars and customers. Other periods of enforced inactivity for licensed premises were to follow.
Last night was the first Saturday in Brigg for 16 months when what we class as normal service resumed.

NEW STUDIO TO OPEN IN HISTORIC BRIGG BUILDING

An historic Brigg building which has seen many changes over the past couple of hundred years is soon to have a new use. It is welcome news that premises within the town centre, which have been empty for many months, are to reopen.
The ground floor of 57 Wrawby Street - adjoining the brick archway leading through to the Exchange - is being converted to host Brigg Hearing Studio, which will be "coming soon."
Internal work to convert the former shop premises is now proceeding.
Twentieth century tenants included a signmaker/writer, a painting & decorating firm and the Lincolnshire Times weekly newspaper from 1952 until 1985 when it closed.
The three-storey property was then acquired by a local businessman who converted it into flats.
Following another change of ownership, the ground floor was used by a variety of small businesses ranging from haberdashery to computer repairs and shoes. Residential accommodation continued above.
The Lincs Times based its reception and photography staff on the ground floor, with editorial and advertising on the second.
The top floor was storage only by 1980 when we went to work there and was very rarely accessed by staff.
However, during one visit to the upper reaches of the building we noted very small-sized bricks in the walls, of a type popular in Brigg during the late 18th century and early 19th centuries.
So we reckon this property has been a feature of Wrawby Street for well over 200 years.
Brigg businessman Joe Mullen redeveloped the former Lincs Times car park and storage buildings at the back (accessed through the archway) in the 1990s to provide additional bedrooms around a courtyard for his mid-18th century grade two* (star) Exchange Inn, fronting Bigby Street.

PICTURED: The ground floor shop yesterday (Friday, July 23) and in the late 1960s/early 1970s while it housed the Lincolnshire Times newspaper's reception area. Note the display of news pictures in the front window (updated weekly). Many passers-by stopped to look at them, with particular interest being shown in wedding, school and sports-related prints. People used to buy black and white copies - a lucrative sideline for this traditional paper which was edited and printed in Hull on the city centre presses of the Daily Mail - then part of Hull & Grimsby Newspapers Ltd which also published the Grimsby Telegraph and the Scunthorpe Telegraph.

BRIGG PUB HOSTING SPECIAL FREE EVENT WITH MUSIC TO MARK ANNIVERSARY

An anniversary will be marked at one of the pubs in Brigg town centre tomorrow (Sunday, July 25).
Staff at the Dying Gladiator, on Bigby Street, are arranging a special free-to-attend event, with live rockabilly music, to mark landlord Eugene Irwin's eighth anniversary in charge of this historic hostelry.
It starts at 4pm, with music for the 'outdoor gig' in the adjoining beer garden being provided by The Moonshiners Duo until 6pm, followed by a disco in the evening.
Staff say people are welcome to join them "for this special occasion."
Concessionary £2-a-pint prices will be on offer on selected drinks.
The Glad, which will be open from noon tomorrow, has taken this opportunity to thank all its loyal customers for their support, particularly during the past 16 months of restrictions applying to all UK licensed premises.

PICTURED: Mine host Eugene Irwin at the Dying Gladiator.

RAIL BUS SWITCH FOR BRIGG TRAVELLERS TODAY

All six passenger trains that are due to call at Brigg railway station have been cancelled today (Saturday, July 24).
However, a substitute bus service has been arranged which means that local people intending to use the trains will still be able to get to and from Grimsby, Cleethorpes, Barnetby and other destinations.
Kirton Lindsey railway station will be similarly affected, with road transport replacing rail.
The Independent Brigg Line Rail Group has kindly supplied us with the times of the replacement bus service, saying this is necessary because of "a crew shortage" affecting Northern's Sheffield-Cleethorpes Saturday-only route.
A bus will leave Brigg railway station for Barnetby, Habrough, Grimsby and Cleethorpes at 10.29am, 2.13pm and 6.13pm.
It will leave our station for Kirton Lindsey, Gainsborough Retford and Sheffield at 12.29pm, 3.26pm and 8.32pm.
The picking up and dropping off point in Brigg will be close to platform one and the metal auction shed.
This will be the second successive Saturday that timetabled Brigg line trains have been replaced by a substitute bus service. The reason last week was infrastructure work towards the eastern end of the route.

PICTURED: The replacement bus at Brigg station on July 19, a train in platform one, and journey's end at Cleethorpes which is one of the most popular destinations for Brigg train travellers.

FIRST WEEKEND AFTER FREEDOM DAY FOR BRIGG BARS

 

The first weekend for Brigg pubs and licensed clubs since the lifting of some of the emergency period restrictions on Freedom Day is now approaching.
Social distancing measures have been removed, as has the need to sign in on arrival. Customers are also permitted to visit bars once again to buy drinks, rather than having to place orders with staff while seated at tables and have their full glasses brought to them and the empties collected later.
However, the Government has given the owners and operators of business premises an option to continue requesting mask-wearing in what are considered crowded places. Customers are being asked by the powers-that-be to show common-sense.
Depending on the weather, the beer gardens available at all Brigg's licensed premises are expected to prove popular this weekend, permitting al fresco drinking.
It's likely that some bar customers will still opt to wear masks indoors, particularly while purchasing their pints, even if licensees don't request it.
Local bars have lost a lot of trade during lockdown periods when they had to close, and while restrictions were in place when they were permitted to open - prompting some people to stay at home.
In late July things have still to return to how they were before the Coronavirus emergency was declared back in March 2020, as some people are still reluctant to visit licensed premises as often as they once did. But hopefully, in the coming weeks, normal service can be resumed in terms to attendance.
On Monday - the date when various restrictions were lifted - we noted that many people were continuing to wear masks while shopping at a number of Brigg premises, even though it is no longer a legal requirement. This continues to be the case as the initial week following Freedom Day nears its end.
We also made reference to some businesses continuing to restrict the number of customers admitted at a time, although the social distancing requirement has been removed by the Government. Since Monday we've observed a few more examples of this.
Many people (and we are among them) still don a mask when reaching shop doorways. Having done so repeatedly for 15 months, it has become second nature.
However, on licensed premises which are more spacious than small shops, and particularly in beer gardens, we won't be face-covering unless bar bosses choose to request it, in which case we will comply. Others, we are sure, will be taking the same stance.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE JULY BRIGG FARMERS' MARKET IF YOU CAN

The monthly Brigg Farmers' Market will be held in the town centre on Saturday (July 24) from 8.30am and would welcome your support.
Farmers' Market Saturday (weather permitting) usually attracts plenty of shoppers, as this North Lincolnshire Council event, now in its 21st year, offers a wide range of products, including cheese, bread, cakes, jam and locally-made beer.
The adjoining general Saturday market will offer fruit, veg, flowers and fish.
Free car parking is on offer tomorrow as a long-established council concession, and some people from South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire may decide to visit Brigg on a bus service which will be replacing the timetabled trains.
Most people who visit the farmers' market also take a look at local shops, with a good many opting to use local eateries, takeaways and pubs.
Current social media hashtags suggest... #shoplocal and #shopsafe which is good advice, in addition to the usual #lovebrigg

BRIGG MATCH OFF BUT HOME GAMES FOR BROUGHTON & HIBALDSTOW CRICKETERS THIS WEEKEND

 

Brigg Town Cricket Club's scheduled Lincolnshire League Division Three game against Scunthorpe Town 3rds at the Recreation Ground tomorrow afternoon (Saturday, July 24) has been cancelled.

However, there will be two local matches in Division One - Broughton entertaining Messingham in a derby, while Hibaldstow host Hartsholme (from Lincoln).
These matches all begin at 1.30pm and are scheduled for 45 overs per team.
Third-placed Broughton could do with a win as they battle to finish in the top two and regain a place in the Premier section. Hibaldstow need points for a different reason as they currently prop up the table.
Broughton 2nds will be unable to climb off the bottom of Division Two tomorrow; they are without a fixture.

Hibaldstow will host Division Two leaders Alkborough on Sunday afternoon (July 25) in the Mick Walker North Lindsey League.

PICTURED: Cricket action at Brigg Recreation Ground.

PLAY IT AGAIN, SAM: BRIGG DISCO, POP QUIZ & CENTENARY CONCERT TO ENJOY

Nights out featuring music are resuming at pubs and licensed clubs in Brigg with THREE on the horizon.
The Lord Nelson, in the Market Place, is offering Stef's Pop Quiz tonight (Thursday, July 22) relating to music from the 1960s through to the present day. Prizes are on offer and it costs only £1 per person to take part. The fun starts at 8.30pm - "teams and individuals very welcome."
The Britannia Inn, on Wrawby Street, will be hosting a disco tomorrow (Friday, July 23) featuring DJ Sam. Popular hits from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s will be playing from 8pm through to closing time. Admission is free and some drinks concessions are on offer. See landlord Mark Burns or staff for details.
Brigg & District Servicemen's Club, on Coney Court, has now contacted us with additional information about its 100th anniversary celebrations (held over from last year because of the emergency lockdown period).
The Blighty Belles will be performing on Saturday night, August 28. And tickets costing £5 (including buffet) are now available. Call 07745 722113 or inquire at the bar during opening hours.
The club can trace its roots back to December 1920.

PICTURED: The Blighty Belles (image courtesy of Brigg Servicemen's Club), the Britannia Inn and the Lord Nelson Hotel.

HIGH QUALITY NEW BUILDING PLANNED IN BRIGG CONSERVATION AREA

Plans to erect what is described as a high quality building within the Brigg Conservation Area are now seeking planning approval from North Lincolnshire Council.
The proposal is to provide an attached garage for two vehicles with storage space in the roof to provide secure parking at 12 Wrawby Road, which is a detached property, but not a listed building, on the other side of the A18 to Health Place.
A statement submitted to North Lincolnshire Council in support of the application says: "The proposal has been designed and sited so that it is in keeping with the character and appearance of the surrounding area, and with its high quality design will improve the character and appearance of the area in general."
The brickwork will match what is nearby.
Brigg Town Council will be consulted about the application, with North Lincolnshire Council then making the final decision.

KICK-OFF TIME CONFIRMED FOR BRIGG TOWN'S SATURDAY GAME

Brigg Town Football Club followers are asked to note the kick-off time for the home game coming up on Saturday (July 24).
The Zebras will be hosting Lincoln United at the EC Surfacing Stadium in a pre-season friendly.
Printed posters listing all the club's build-up games this month indicate a 1pm kick-off. However, our check with Brigg Town FC has confirmed that the match will start at 3pm.
Admission for spectators costs £5 (adults), £3 (concessions) and is free for under-16s if accompanied by an adult.
Pips Kitchen and the Hawthorns bar will be open for refreshments.
The well-equipped children's play area near Hawthorn Avenue (free to use) and the club's beer garden are proving popular.
Brigg Town won 4-0 at Keelby in their latest pre-season fixture.

HOUSING SCHEMES PROPOSED IN BRIGG & WOLDS AND BROUGHTON TO BE CONSIDERED BY COUNCIL

Proposed schemes to build new homes in Brigg & Wolds and Broughton & Appleby Wards will be considered at a forthcoming meeting of North Lincolnshire Council's Planning Committee.
Councillors will be making a number of 'site visits' prior to convening on Wednesday, July 28 at Church Square House in Scunthorpe town centre, from 2pm.
Decisions following site visits are anticipated on the following local proposals:
Outline application to erect three detached dwellings with appearance, landscaping, layout and scale reserved for subsequent consideration - land to the rear of 81–85 St Barnabas Road, Barnetby.
Create private drive access - land east off St Barnabas Road, Barnetby.
Outline application for residential development of up to 79 dwellings with all matters reserved except for access - Vicarage Fields, Scawby Road, Broughton.
The committee will go on to determine many other applications, some involving sites close to Brigg...
Replace all windows and external doors at Beech House, 43 Main Street, Saxby-All-Saints.
Erect a detached dwelling and detached double garage with office space above at The Old Cottage, 32 Church Street, Elsham.
Erect single-storey and two-storey extensions with associated works, including a dormer to the rear of the property, 62 Hall Cottage, Main Street, Saxby-All-Saints.
Outline application to erect four dwellings, with all matters reserved for subsequent consideration, land at Brigg Road, Hibaldstow.
Erect a masonry outbuilding with a pitched roof in the garden of the property for use as an elderly personal annexe at Hamsden Garth, Cadney Road, Howsham.

SPARE A THOUGHT FOR BRIGG'S OUTDOOR WORKERS IN THE HEATWAVE

As the heatwave continues, Brigg householders should spare a thought for the worthy efforts of the bin-emptying crews working for North Lincolnshire Council who made scheduled visits to properties across the town yesterday (Tuesday, July 20) and also appreciate the efforts of our 'posties' delivering letters and parcels.
It's going to be very warm work for stall-holders on the town's general market tomorrow (Thursday).
Seeing the bin-emptiers in action in Brigg yesterday got us thinking back to spells of very hot weather since the 1960s.
Hands up if you remember sitting in class at Glebe Road School as the time drew near to down your mandatory milk, sucked through a straw from a third-of-a-pint bottle which had been standing in a crate on an open verandah as the temperature climbed.
Many Brigg homes had yet to acquire even basic fridges in the 1960s so food had to be bought fresh and consumed even more quickly than normal during heatwaves before it went off in the pantry (the coolest place available).
Personal cooling-off arrangements in the 1960s and early 1970s were not helped by the fact that few households then had showers. And as many properties were still reliant on back boilers allied to coal fires to heat their water, baths had to be taken cold unless permission was forthcoming to boil a kettle or two to take the edge off. Having a fire burning in the grate to heat water just for a bath would have made life in the kitchen somewhat uncomfortable. 

Immersion heaters became more prevalent, with central heating systems eventually being installed by the council across its Brigg 'stock' by the mid-1970s.
Heatwaves were warmly welcomed by pupils at Brigg Grammar School, whose swimming pool remained without any form of heating other than the sun's rays until 1969!
Summer 1976 was a real hot one with little or no rain falling for weeks, resulting in so-called thunderflies and other insects finding their way into Brigg homes and covering window-sills and skirting-boards before dying in their thousands. There was also a drought which ruled out watering gardens and sportsgrounds.
Lucky Brigg kids in the 1960s escaped to the cooler east coast on day trips to Cleethorpes, Skegness and Mablethorpe by train when our local station still enjoyed a seven-day-a-week service. Sadly, it's been Saturdays-only since 1993.

WELL-KNOWN BRIGG TEACHER'S PICTURE DISCOVERED AFTER SPENDING DECADES IN A LOFT

Brigg Blog's attention has been drawn to an interesting old picture found recently - by chance - in someone's loft in the town.
Taken in the late 1950s, it shows Harry Pimlott - a very well-known master at Brigg Grammar School.
Rob Conroy, who chanced upon the picture, kindly shared it online. Although Rob, having only recently moved to Brigg, knows nothing about Harry Pimlott, he hoped the image would bring back nice memories for people who did. And that has proved to be the case.
Harry was head of physics at Brigg Grammar School (BGS) in the late 1950s and became scientific adviser to the county education service.
A fellow 'old boy' of the school who still lives in the town, reminded us over the weekend, that Harry's Brigg-born son, Dr John Pimlott, became a famous historian and author.
John was head of the war studies department at Sandhurst's Royal Military Academy, where officers are educated and trained. He often appeared as an expert in TV programmes.
The picture of Harry was taken in 1959 - a significant year for Brigg Grammar School.
H.B. (Brian) Williams took over as headmaster, continuing until the historic school (founded 1669) was phased out in 1976.
He then became the first headteacher at Sir John Nelthorpe School (a comprehensive), retiring two years later.
H.B. succeeded Nigel Cale Matthews as head of the grammar school 62 years ago. Mr Matthews decided to switch careers, aged 52, and went into horticulture in Huntingdon.
Picture credit: Rob Conroy.

THUNDERSTORM WARNING ISSUED SOUTH OF BRIGG - WILL THE DOWNPOURS REACH US?

The Met Office has just issued a yellow-graded thunderstorm warning for parts of Lincolnshire later today (Tuesday, July 20) covering a wide area to the south of Brigg.
The most northerly part of the old county forecast to be affected is Caenby Corner - 14 miles from Brigg - but swathes of eastern England will be hit by downpours, including southern and central Lincolnshire and the county capital.
This warning is in force from 1pm today until midnight.
Read full details from the Met Office here and view the map of the area forcast to be affected...

MASKS STILL PREVAIL ON FREEDOM DAY IN BRIGG

During a shopping trip in Brigg on what was called Freedom Day we didn't see a single person inside retail premises without a mask. 

Many people on Monday (July 19) were also still opting to wear face coverings while in the open air on town centre streets, as a precautionary measure against the Coronavirus.
Government restrictions which had made mask wearing a lawful requirement within public indoor spaces were lifted yesterday, together with the social distancing rule.
However, the Government recommended and encouraged the public to show commonsense and still wear masks in what are described as crowded and enclosed spaces, although face covering is no longer mandatory.
Tesco is among the national retailers suggesting that customers should continue to wear in-store masks if they can, and there are signs relating to this near customer entrances.
Inside the Barnard Avenue store, which was not particularly busy by Tesco standards yesterday afternoon (Monday), staff wore face-coverings and we didn't see a single shopper failing to do likewise.
Many smaller Brigg outlets were still displaying signs limiting the number of customers permitted inside at any one time. Also evident were notices near some entrances telling people about face mask wearing and observing social distancing.
Clearly, many Brigg people intend to keep wearing masks in places where the law no longer requires them to do so.
Mask wearing has been with us so long during the Coronavirus emergency that it has now become second nature to reach into a pocket or bag for a face covering before stepping through the entrance.
The demand for masks - on sale at various Brigg retail outlets, example pictured above - looks set to continue for some time to come...

VILLAGE SHOP WHICH LOST CUSTOM TO STORES IN BRIGG MAY BECOME DOMESTIC PROPERTY

Former village shop premises which lost custom to supermarkets in Brigg could be turned into a domestic residence, if council planners give the go ahead.
West Lindsey District Council is now considering a 'change of use' planning application from retail to residential accommodation at 1 Halls Lane, North Kelsey (the former Central Stores).
A planning statement supplied to the Gainsborough-based authority in support of this application suggests the shop "began to go downhill once the Tesco store in Brigg opened."
The statement, compiling by an agent for the applicant, also says that some newcomers to the village did not support their local shop, instead "using Superstores in towns nearby."
A public consultation period is now under way for this application, following which the West Lindsey authority will make its decision.
The existing use of the building is described as empty former village store. It also previously provided North Kelsey's Post Office.

NOTICE OF INTENTION GIVEN TO FELL TREE WITHIN THE BRIGG CONSERVATION AREA

Another Brigg tree within the conservation area is earmarked for felling.
North Lincolnshire Council has now received notice of intention to fell an ash tree in the rear garden of Merivale, on Bigby Road - not far from the junction with Kings Avenue.
A document supplied to the local authority with the notice says this large tree is diseased and "rotting from its base." It stands on the edge of the conservation area.
Brigg Town Council will be consulted as part of the planning process, with the North Lincolnshire authority making the final decision on this notice to fell.
Many other applications relating to the proposed felling or trimming trees within the conservation area have been notified to the local authority in recent years.
A decision has yet to be notified following a notice of intention to fell a sycamore and a silver birch at Beldon House Bed & Breakfast, on Wrawby Road.

ROAD WITH THE MOST POTHOLES IN BRIGG RECEIVES WELCOME REPAIRS

The stretch of road with the most potholes in Brigg has received welcome repairs.
Having been informed on Saturday (July 17) that Station Road had received attention, we went down last night to take a look.
As these pictures show, many holes in the surface have been filled in, while cones put in place near the metal barrier leading to the former railway yard suggest more are to be dealt with.
Passengers visiting the station on foot, or by car, will also welcome additional attention being paid to the surface between the gate and platform one.
Filling these in potentially benefits the metal shed-based produce auction for which North Lincolnshire Council has been attempting to find a new tenant over many months since the previous operator discontinued these once popular Thursday morning sales.
We believe Station Road is classed as 'unadopted' - meaning it has lesser status than dozens of other streets across Brigg requiring upkeep.
The six timetabled passenger trains which normally fulfil the Saturdays-only Sheffield-Cleethorpes service did not run through Brigg on July 17 due to infrastructure work being carried out between Grimsby and the resort's terminus at the eastern end of the Brigg line.
 

 

A replacement bus service was provided by the train operating company - an impressive and comfortable double-decker which is seen here on Saturday while visiting our station. It was parked near the auction shed.
This set us thinking about the pick-up point for local passengers whenever (for various reasons) buses substitute for trains.
It seems to us that picking up would be better done at the top of Station Road, outside the entrance to the council's Hewson House office block.
This switch would save passengers the walk (or drive) up Station Road and perhaps shave a bit off the journey time.
Whenever buses replace trains, and there have been many occasions over the years, passengers are unclear about the pick-up point.
Meanwhile, it would be helpful if the train operator (or someone else) added a simple sign near the station nameboard (with the British Rail logo) adjoining the top of Albert Street, to inform passengers where they need to wait to board the substitute coach.
Perhaps this suggestion might be considered in due course.