SIZEABLE REDUCTION IN BRIGG CRIME - MONTH ON MONTH

Inside Brigg Police Station on Barnard Avenue

We've just been alerted to crime figures for Brigg which have been posted on www.police.uk

	July 2013	August 2013
All crime	52	37
Anti-social behaviour	12	10
Bicycle theft	1	1
Burglary	8	4
Criminal damage and arson	4	7
Drugs	1	0
Other theft	4	3
Possession of weapons	0	0
Public order	3	0
Robbery	0	0
Shoplifting	13	1
Theft from the person	0	0
Vehicle crime	3	4
Violence and sexual offences	3	7
Other crime	0	0

Find out which streets in Brigg were crime locations through this link

BRIGG CONVENIENCE STOP WAS APPRECIATED

As we were using the foot pump to put some air in the trusty old vehicle's tyres today we suddenly recalled the old "air" machine that used to be at the front of Sass's Monument Garage in Brigg - and recalled how conveniently situated it was. Anyone else remember it? It gave out a welcoming "ping" when you'd added sufficient air. 
This was when Sass's petrol pumps were still in action, on the site of what's now the well-used car wash, close to the Monument. We must be going back 30+ years, but some Brigg Blog followers will remember. 

BEST-KEPT GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS IN BRIGG TO BE REVEALED

It's become the norm for the winners of the best-kept garden and allotment in Brigg to be revealed at a Saturday morning event. However, there's a change this year - so please note the presentations will be made on Sunday, October 6, in the Angel Suite. 
The ceremony will take place  at 11am during the Town Mayor's Appeal Fund Coffee Morning, which runs from 10am to 2pm.
Brigg Town Council,  which organises the popular garden and allotment competitions, asks everyone to note the change of date. YOUR SUPPORT WILL BE MUCH APPRECIATED ON THE DAY.

ATTENDANCE DOWN AT BRIGG FARMERS' MARKET?

We paid a visit to the monthly Brigg Farmers' Market late yesterday morning but didn't encounter as many fellow shoppers as expected, in view of the delightful weather. It was busy but not as busy as we thought it would be. Or were our eyes deceiving us after a few days by the seaside? 

UP TO £17K DEBT JOB GOING IN BRIGG

North Lincolnshire Council is advertising for a debt management officer  based at Hewson House in Brigg on a salary of almost £15k to more than £17k. Follow this link for details

BRIGG CONKER SURPRISE

Having read national press reports about a bumper crop of British conkers this year we nipped down to the big trees near Brigg Cemetery this morning, expecting that the strong breeze would have resulted in a major fall to earth. But we found very few near the path outside the old lodge on Wrawby Road. Better luck next time?

HALLOWEEN FAMILY DAY WORKSHOP IN BRIGG

A Halloween Family Day Workshop will be held in Brigg on Sunday, October 13  Various time slots are available between 10am and 4pm, at Live, Love and Create, 23 Wrawby Street. The cost is £12, including materials. Please book - call 01652 600992 or pop in to the premises.

MAYOR TO ENJOY EVENING OF CELEBRATION IN BRIGG

The Mayor of North Lincolnshire, Coun Peter Clark, of Barrow, is to attend the North Lincolnshire Music and Drama Festival Society's Evening of Celebration at St John’s Church in Brigg on Friday, October 11 (7.30pm). 

HALESOWEN TOWN 3 BRIGG TOWN 0

Being away all week on holiday we've only just picked up Bob Taylor's emailed report of last Saturday's away fixture for the Zebras. Apologies to Bob and to Brigg Blog followers for the delay.

Brigg had two free kicks from the centre circle in the first couple of minutes of the game but these were played too deeply into the home goal area and cleared. Halesowen scored the opening goal with their first attack of the game in the fourth minute. The ball was cleared up the pitch by goalkeeper Sam Pearson and won a throw- in on the right wing. This caught the Brigg defence out completely with a long throw worked across to the far left wing where ELLIOT TURNER struck o low shot into the bottom corner of the net,  This was exactly what the Brigg team didn’t want and gave the home team every confidence to push forward.  In the next minute another dangerous cross from the left wing was cl eared off the goal line. Nevertheless, Brigg settled well and began to play the ball about well without really putting the home defenders under too much pressure. Paul Grimes broke free inside the penalty area and sent a fierce shot over the cross bar and then forced Sam Pearson into making a good diving save to divert a shot round the post. Unfortunately, Paul Grimes had to be substituted on the half hour with a groin injury adding to an already sickening injury list. The home team went close to increasing the lead with Iyesden Christie working his way to the goal line and crossing the ball into the six yard area but it was cleared off the line and then Elliot Turner was caught off side in front of goal.
 Halesowen started the second half strongly with Rob Zand having to punch clear from a long throw into his area and Ollie Fisher headed over his own cross bar to stop a shot bound for the top corner of the net. Another left wing corner kick was cleared off the goal line but Brigg should have equalised when Paul Ashton was presented with a poor clearance from Sam Pearson but he struck his shot over the bar. Still well in the game into its last quarter, Brigg conceded again after seventy-two minutes when a clearance from Ollie Fisher rebounded kindly to leading scorer BEN HASELEY at the edge of the penalty area and he struck a sweet shot into the top corner of the net The final goal came five minutes from the end of the game when BEN HASELEY was gifted the ball by a weak pass back attempt and fired it into the back of the net.
Brigg Town:  Zand, Fisher, Barrett, Bowsley, Hellewell, Jacklin, Ashton, Dickens, Grimes, Thewliss, Peers. Subs:  Matthews for Grimes (32), Broughton for Bowsley (85), Cross for Peers (62).
Attendance:  281.

BRIGG BEDS SELLING SHOW TICKETS

Tickets for the the autumn production by Brigg Amateur Operatic Society are being sold at Brigg Beds - on the corner of Princes Street and Bigby Street (near the car wash).
There will be performances of South Pacific from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October inclusive at  the Vale Academy's Westmoor Hall,  off Grammar School Road. To find out more, call. 01652 651828.

REMINDER ABOUT FREE BRIGG BASH ON TUESDAY

Brigg Social Historians' latest meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 1 at 8pm at the Servicemen's Club, adjoining the town's main car park off Old Courts Road.
Pop along and enjoy Queen Elizabeth I - an illustrated talk by Marilyn Roberts. Admission free - no need to book in advance.. 

KEYO SPRINT TRIATHLON IN BRIGG TODAY

Brigg Blog has been out today taking pictures of Lincsquad's big event in the town (Sunday 29 September).
The Keyo Sprint Triathlon involved competitors in a  400m pool swim, 20k road cycle and 5k road run from Ancholme Leisure Centre.
We will post pictures later of many runners and cyclists.

WORK ON COUNTY BRIDGE IN BRIGG SET TO START

Click on the picture to read more.

Work is about to start in Brigg on installing the new water main on the side of the County Bridge.
While lifting being done there will be an understandable restriction on boats passing along this section of the Old River Ancholme.
Balfour Beatty will be carrying out the installation on behalf of Anglian Water.
There's an official order in place restricting boat traffic from October 7 to November 8, with the exception of Sunday, October 13 when what's described as a regatta will be taking place.
Anglian Water is apologising in advance for any inconvenience.

BRIGGENSIANS BEATEN BY ONLY GOAL OF THE GAME

Briggensians FC lost 1-0 away to Six Bells yesterday in division three of the TSW Printers Scunthorpe Football League.
On Saturday (October 5) Briggensians will be at home to Epworth Town Reserves at Sir John Nelthorpe School.  

BRIGG BLOG BACK AFTER BRIEF BREAK

Brigg Blog is pleased to be back with you after taking a week's holiday down in Torquay. You had a lot better weather up here than we did down in the West Country!

BRIGG SPORTSMAN GOING UNDERGROUND

Dave "The Boy" Jollands nearest Ken's camera

Many of us know Dave Jollands as a successful Brigg cricketer and hockey player, but we had no idea that he's also tried his hand at caving. That was until fellow snapper Ken Harrison, of Wrawby, dipped into his archive with these pictures after reading yesterday's post about Dave having the best bowling average in the entire East Yorkshire Cricket Alliance during the 2013 season.
Ken explains: "Here's DJ in a past life - when we, as a group, went pot-holing in Yorkshire....circa 1985/86. The lads would have been about 12/13 years old. Below, DJ is in the green top.....my son, Chris - known at school as Toffee -  is in the blue top."

COUNTY HUMBERSIDE LIVES ON IN BRIGG

There's a campaign under way that calls for the postal authorities to remove all reference to Humberside.

This local government administrative county was created in 1974 and linked the two banks of the Humber for the first time.

It was obliterated in 1996 when North Lincolnshire Council was formed, together with other new unitary authorities.

Yet, as this Brigg picture shows, Humberside County Council's presence is still with us.

The sign points the way along Clothes Hedge Footpath, between Yarborough Road and Churchill Avenue - a public right of way.

North Lincolnshire Council is now the footpath and rights of way authority and has invested staff time and money in keeping this route clear for walkers. 

So it's rather strange that, in 17 years, no-one has got round to updating the sign.

UNUSUAL VIEW OF UNUSUAL BRIGG PROPERTY

One of the most unusual and distinctive properties in Brigg is the former Cemetery Lodge on Wrawby Road - close to the conker trees that once attracted so many youngsters during early autumn.

The building is Victorian Gothic style but few townsfolk will have seen it from this angle.

We took the picture from a small grassy area between York Road and Holme Close, looking across the cemetery extension to the back of the Lodge.

GREEK NIGHT IN BRIGG

The Black Bull in Brigg will be continuing its series of monthly theme nights on Thursday, September 26 with a Greek Night. 

Drop in at the Wrawby Street hostelry for further details or call 01652 652153.

Next in the programme will be an Eastern European Night on October 24.

CHOCS AWAY FOR A BRIGG GIFT IDEA TO TEMPT TOURISTS AND LOCALS

Spotted in a window at Tourist Information Centre in the Buttercross, this sign for Local Brigg Chocolates from Fiona Sciolti.

COME FOR COFFEE IN BRIGG ON FRIDAY

A coffee morning with home-made cakes will be held at the NFU Mutual Office in Brigg on Friday, September 27, as part of the nationwide MacMillan Cancer Support appeal.

The venue is on School Court, just off Wrawby Street, and the fundraiser will run from 10am to noon. The organisers say that everyone is welcome.

It's one of the many events being held as part of The World's Biggest Coffee Morning.

BRIGG HISTORY ON VINYL

Taking pride of place in the window of the Brigg Oxfam Book Shop in Wrawby Street is a vinyl LP, Unto Brigg Fair. It features the fine singing voice of local man Joseph Taylor and other Lincolnshire singers, recorded in 1908 by famous composer Percy Grainger. 

This piece of Brigg history looks a snip at £14.99p for those traditionalists who still have the equipment to play it.

POSSIBLE SITE FOR MORE SHOPS OR OFFICES IN BRIGG ?

As we explained previously on Brigg Blog, there's talk of the area of grassed-over land at the corner of Cary Lane and Barnard Avenue - adjoining the police station - being developed for an as yet unspecified purpose, though shops and/or offices seem most likely, if things get that far. We have suggested that if Humberside Police and North Lincolnshire Council do decide to redevelop the area they could include the former Brigg Urban District Council office block that adjoins it - to make a larger and more saleable plot.

CALL FOR IMPROVED SIGNAGE IN BRIGG

A call has been made for more signs to be put up in Brigg to alert people to the fact that our railway station is still functioning, with trains available on Saturdays to places like Gainsborough, Sheffield, Cleethorpes and Grimsby.
Rail campaigner Paul Johnson says: "Our new little group (soon to be called Friends of the Brigg & Lincoln Line) has managed to arrange with Northern Rail a ticket offfer for the iconic Saturday-only Brigg Line services,
"At present this offer which is called the Duo Ticket offer is only valid from Kirton Lindsey to Cleethorpes on the iconic Saturday-only service provided by Northern Rail. We have been told this will be rolled out in the near future to include the section from Kirton Lindsey to Gainsborough Central/Retford. This will mean the whole of the Cleethorpes-Sheffield Midland via Brigg line will be covered
as the Sheffield Midland-Lincoln via Gainsborough Lea Road line is already on the Duo Ticket Offer.
"Despite the Northern Rail services only running on a Saturday thought Brigg (timetable dictated by the Department for Transport since 1993) Northern Rail are now quite aware that Brigg station must play a more important part in rail travel in the future.
"However, they are still shocked that there is very little signage for the station around the Brigg area and our group have requested North Lincolnshire Council that this is rectified a.s.a.p."
Link to the Northern Rail ticket offer

BRIGG POINTS THE WAY FORWARD FOR 21st CENTURY LIBRARIES

Brigg is surely showing the way forward for libraries. There's much debate going on just across the county border in Lincolnshire County Council's area about possible library cutbacks, with an extensive public consultation under way. Libraries cannot stay rooted in the past and the re-location of Brigg's from a single-purpose building in Old Courts Road to the Angel complex is surely the way forward. In Brigg, library-users can, if they wish, take advantage of the neighbouring Courtyard Cafe during a trip to change their books, visit the Local Link office to sort out a bit of household finance or nip up to the Heritage Centre for a look round. Sad as it may seem to many people, libraries must change with the times. 

We'd value your views - please post a comment or email scoopfisher@aol.com

DISAPPOINTMENT FOR BRIGG TOWN FC

Lowly Brigg Town FC lost 3-0 at fourth-placed Halesowen yesterday in the Evo-Stik League Division One South.

CHRISTMAS SEASON OPENS IN BRIGG NEXT WEEKEND

FROM SOPHIE BRUMBY AT BRIAN'S DIY

Santa's Attic opens on Saturday 28th September, which coincides with our first Sunday opening the following day. We will also be exhibiting our Christmas range at The Angel Suite during the Brigg Style Home Furnishings Show on Sunday 6th October, as well as our fireside products upstairs at the Buttercross for the whole of that weekend.

BRIGG TEAM THROUGH TO SECOND ROUND OF THE CUP

There was a fine home win for Briggensians FC yesterday.
They triumphed 5-2 against Limestone Rangers Reserves in the first round of the Johnson Insurance Nursing Cup, organised by the TSW Printers Scunthorpe and District League.
Bishop scored four of the Brigg side's goals, and Taylor notched the other.
On Saturday (Sept 28) Briggensians will be in division three action at Six Bells.

BRIGG TOWN CRICKETERS TOP OF THE LEAGUE

It was far from an "average" season for Brigg Town Cricket Club which had the best batsman and the best bowler during the 2013 season in the East Yorkshire Alliance.
The campaign has now ended with the league's Play Cricket website that handles all the statistics from all games in three divisions showing Brigg strokemaker Matthew Bell with the top batting average across the entire league - a staggering 170.75, having scored 683 runs.
Team-mate Dave Jollands boasted the best bowling average in the Alliance, a miserly 3.5 runs conceded per wicket taken.
View the final division two table through this link

TAKE A DRIVE FROM BRIGG FOR A DAY OUT TO REMEMBER

We picked up an interesting and colourful leaflet in MacKenzie's card shop in Wrawby Street, Brigg, yesterday - advertising open days at the Gainsborough Model Railway. The club pledges that if you make tracks to their extensive layout you will enjoy a day out to remember.
The next public event is on Sunday, October 6, 1.30pm to 6pm, and the club can be found near Tesco in Gainsborough, close to the A159. Postcode DN21 1BE if you are using satnav. Visit www.gainsboroughmodelrailway.co.uk for further details. Admission £4 for adults, £3 children and OAPs.

BRIGG TOWN FC FACE DIFFICULT AWAY GAME

Brigg Town FC are away to Halesowen today in the Evo-Stik League Division One South.

HEARTLESS THEFT FROM BRIGG CHARITY SHOP

A guitar has been stolen in Brigg - from the Sue Ryder charity shop in Spring's Parade.
It happened on September 5 or 6 and has been reported to the police.
Sgt Howard Garlick told Brigg Blog that someone entered the shop, removed the guitar from a shelf and left. He described thefts from charity shops as being particularly heartless.
His views are shared by the shop management, which has placed a sign in a window at the front of the premises to highlight the incident
Brigg police are appealing for information from the public. Contact them at the station in Barnard Avenue, please, if you can help, rather than posting a comment here. The crime ref number is BN/1996975/2013.

FULL PREVIEW: BRIGG STYLE HOME FURNISHINGS SHOW 2013

The upstairs room at Brigg Buttercross - pictured by Ken Harrison

Full details have now been received for the Brigg Style Home Furnishings Show 2013, to be held as follows:
Saturday 5th October - Buttercross and Market Stalls 9.00 am - 4.00 pm
Sunday   6th October - Buttercross and Angel Suite 10.00 am - 3.00 pm


FROM IAN CUTTELL AND KATE FRENCH - EVENT ORGANISERS, BRIGG TOWN BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP 

Brigg Town Business Partnership is organising the first Brigg Style Home and Furnishings Show over the weekend Saturday 5th October and Sunday 6th October in the delightful settings of the Buttercross, Angel Suite and Market Place. 
Local retailers and artisans will be displaying their quality products: carpets, curtains, furniture, crockery, linens, lighting, kitchen equipment and electrical goods. In fact everything that makes up YOUR HOME and enhances your lifestyle with something for all the family.
Entry is Free to the public and there will be lots of show promotions. 
Look out for the posters showing the offers or go to www.briggisbest.co.uk or find us on Facebook to see a more comprehensive list.
It will be a full Market with many new exhibitors coming to the town.
On Saturday the Fire Brigade and the Police will both be in the Market Place promoting Home Safety.
The Fire Brigade with an appliance from 9.00 am until around mid-day to promote fire prevention, home fire safety and an opportunity for a Photo Shoot. The Police will be bringing a display unit from 9.30 am until around 3.30 pm to promote a new on-line home security system to protect personal/home possessions.
LIVES (Lincolnshire First Responders) will promote and demonstrate the use of the defibrillator that has recently been installed in front of the Angel. They are working very hard to install a defibrillator in  many surrounding villages but it must be remembered that they can only do this from the money they receive from donations.
For further details, contact the Pastimes shop at 13 Market Place. Email pastimesbrigg@btinternet.com

THEATRE COMING TO BRIGG ACADEMY

Thingumajig Theatre will be performing at the Vale Academy in Brigg on Wednesday, October 16 at 6.30pm. The group will be presenting a unique production of Hullaba Lulu. This captivating piece of children’s theatre features Lulu the puppet, with live music and songs for families and children aged five and over.
Hull-based acoustic roots duo Mambo Jambo will be performing distinctive music from New Orleans, Cuba, Brazil and Eastern Europe, as well as bluegrass and boogie, at Scawby Village Hall on Saturday, November 30, from 7.30pm. 
These performances are part of the Livelincs Rural Touring scheme.
Councillor John Briggs, of Crowle, Cabinet Member for Asset Management, Culture and Housing at North Lincolnshire Council, said: “I strongly recommend people in North Lincolnshire attend these wonderful shows. Livelincs provide a wide range of excellent shows for rural communities across the year. It’s something the whole family can enjoy.”
For further information and bookings, contact Gill Vickers on 01724 297077
Livelincs Rural Touring is funded by Arts Council England and North Lincolnshire Council.

MATCH REPORT: BRIGG TOWN 1 CARLTON TOWN 2 - FA CUP

BY BOB TAYLOR

Brigg Town were knocked out of this year’s F.A. Challenge Cup competition after another poor home showing in their replay match at The Hawthorns against a stronger Carlton Town team. 
Jamie Coulson was unavailable due to injury and his strong presence up front was sorely missed.
The visitors were given every encouragement to dominate the game after taking the lead in only the second minute of the game. Attacking down their right wing, Michael Jacklin had to concede a corner kick and this was delivered precisely into the goal area for Sammy McVicar to head it on for JOSH THORNTON to run in unmarked to head past Danny Waring.  
From then on, Carlton created further good chances and it was no surprise when they added a second goal in the twentieth minute. Following a Brigg attack, they countered quickly and when the ball was played up the middle of the pitch, SAMMY McVICAR won possession and beat two defenders before hitting a low shot from twelve yards out into the bottom corner of the net. 
Brigg had little to show and never looked capable of getting back into the game before half-time. Set-piece movements and throw ins were completely wasted in comparison with the danger Carlton produced from these.
The second half again saw the visitors in control of the game and happy to sit on their two goal advantage with some comfort. 
Brigg reduced the arrears in the last minute of normal time when PAUL GRIMES blasted a penalty kick into the roof of the net but even with six added minutes played in which to try to take the game into extra time, Brigg continued to give the ball away cheaply and time ran out on them.
Brigg Town:  Waring, Fisher, Matthews, Bowsley, Hellewell, Jacklin, Ashton, Dickens, Grimes, Thewliss, Peers. Subs: Cross, Broughton and Fabio Snow for Thewliss, Fisher and Bowsley.
Attendance:  76

INTRODUCING TOP SHADOW COUNCILLORS TO BRIGG DISTRICT AUDIENCE

For the benefit of Brigg Blog's many followers who live just over the county border in Lincolnshire - rather than North Lincs - here's a line-up of important county councillors, just notified to us. The Labour group on Lincolnshire County Council has  confirmed the members of the shadow executive with the areas they are covering.  CLICK ON THE IMAGE FOR A CLOSER LOOK.

FORMER BRIGG TOWN BATSMAN ON THE BALL WITH £26m PROJECT

Former Brigg Town Cricket Club opening batsman John Fitzgerald, in his role as Port Director,  celebrates a 'truly momentous' day as the £26m Grimsby River Terminal is launched. Read the full story through this link

LET'S CHEER UP GRIMSBY TOWN FANS WITH MCMENEMY ERA PIX BY BRIGG PHOTOGRAPHER

Matt Tees in action for Grimsby Town at Blundell Park during the 1971/2 championship-winning season,  PICTURE: KEN FISHER ARCHIVE

Grimsby Town fans are feeling down after that disappointing defeat at Halifax, but Brigg Blog today makes an attempt to lift the spirits of Mariners' fans by remembering the great 1971/2 season when Lawrie McMenemy's men clinched the Division Four title with a very exciting brand of attacking football.
'Master Mariner' Matt Tees, flying winger Stuart Brace and attacking midfielder Mike Hickman banged in 60 goals between them, but long-serving keeper Harry Wainman was player of the year. As so many Town team members pressed forward, he was often left unprotected from counter-attacks, and worked wonders.
There was a Brigg Branch of the Grimsby Town Supporters' Club back then that ran a coach to all home matches. It did so from the 1950s until about 1983, picking up passengers in Bridge Street, Cary Lane and on Wrawby Road, opposite the cemetery.
We waited on the steps of the cinema just outside the ground to get picked up for the return journey that went via Keelby, Grasby, Owmby, Searby, Barnetby and Wrawby. Daisy, of Broughton, provided the coaches.
After the McMenemy era, on one memorable occasion, the manager, John Newman, came out to the Cross Keys at Grasby to attend the Brigg Branch AGM and present a well-deserved award to long-serving bus steward Sam Briggs, of Almond Grove. 
On a couple of occasions, Brigg fans went to major away matches by special train. Sadly, all requests for a stop in Brigg or Barnetby failed and we had to trek to Cleethorpes to get on a train that then tooted its way through Brigg! One of these matches, I think, was an FA Cup-tie at mighty Liverpool (January 1980?).

Stuart Brace (second left), Mike Hickman (nearest camera) and Dave Boylen (No 10) playing for Grimsby Town during the 1971/2 season when they finished top of Division Four and banged in 88 goals.  PICTURE: KEN FISHER ARCHIVE

Matt Tees towards the end of his career  - playing at Brigg Town. PICTURE: KEN FISHER ARCHIVE

TICKET OFFERS AVAILABLE ON THE BRIGG RAILWAY LINE

FROM THE RAIL GROUP CAMPAIGNING FOR INCREASED USE OF OUR STATION

It is now official - part of the iconic Brigg line is now part of Northern Rail's Duo Ticket Offer. The section from Kirton Lindsey to Cleethorpes is up and running with phase 2 of  Kirton to Gainsborough Central / Sheffield Midland in the pipeline. 

http://www.northernrail.org/tickets/Duo+Tickets#brigg
Brigg line is shut again to passenger trains this Saturday , however the Northern Rail duo ticket offer is valid on the replacement buses.

Twitter: @Saturday_Only

BRIGG THEATRE MEMORIES - ALL THE WAY FROM NEW ZEALAND

FROM CLIFF TURNER - FORMER BRIGG RESIDENT NOW IN NEW ZEALAND

I suspect that few Brigg people will remember that in the mid-1930s a repertory company put on weekly shows at the Parish Hall  and, I think, did a matinee show for children on Saturdays. I can remember my parents going to see East Lynne, a tear-jerker based on a book written by Ellen Wood in 1861. In one of the children's shows Ken Bell and his cousin Marjorie Bell made a brief appearance and I can still recall Ken's line "I've been playing hopscotch with Lisa". 

I cannot recall how long the company stayed but think it must have been at least 6 weeks.

BRIGG COMPANY RUNNERS RAISE BIG MONEY FOR OUR HOSPICE

BY ALISON HINDLE - MARKETING MANAGER, THOMAS BELL & SONS, BRIGG

A short note to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported myself and Charlie Major along the way to running the Great North Run in aid of Lindsey Lodge Hospice. So far, the running total we have raised is £1507.01 with more still to come in!
We are both very proud on what we achieved on Sunday.  Charlie completed the run in 1:51:23 and myself 1:41:09. The weather wasn’t as bad as we thought it was going to be and the event was an amazing experience – we even managed to walk OK (ish!) on Monday. 
On behalf of Thomas Bell, thank you.
Read Brigg Blog's preview story, Brigg firm Thomas Bell takes part in Great North Run, through this link

GREAT NEWS FOR BRIGG TAKEAWAY LOVERS

HOW IT LOOKS TODAY: The flue now granted permission on the Diya Spice premises in Brigg

North Lincolnshire Council has finally granted planning permission for the retention of an extraction flue in its current position behind the Diya Spice Indian takeaway on Bigby Street in Brigg - subject to what we see as a sensible condition.
In granting consent, the council has stipulated that noise attenuation measures shall be fitted and maintained throughout the lifetime of the extraction system unless otherwise agreed in writing with the local planning authority because of "the amenity of surrounding residential properties."
This issue has dragged on for a long time - the silver flue being regarded as unsightly in the conservation area. But the current brown colour seems to blend in well enough. 
It's great news because it's hard to imagine how a business like this could operate without such an important piece of equipment.
Can we call it another great British compromise? Yes, we should also declare an interest,  being something of a regular customer. 

AS IT WAS: The silver flue behind the popular Brigg takeaway

MOON RIVER IN BRIGG LAST NIGHT?

What that a harvest moon reflecting off the River Ancholme in Brigg last night? Ken Harrison will soon let us know! 

CHECK TO SEE IF YOUR BRIGG TRAIN HAS TURNED INTO A BUS

We gather that Network Rail engineering work has been extended and we THINK this might affect Saturday trains running through Brigg where a substitute bus expected. If you are thinking of taking a train from our station this weekend, we advise you to check. Find out more through this link

JOB ON OFFER IN BRIGG FOR £22K TO £26K

North Lincolnshire Council has a job on offer at Hewson House in Brigg for up to £26k - follow this link for details

HOW BRIGG HOUSEHOLDS CAN SAVE MONEY ON ENERGY

FROM NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

This is your last chance to register for the North Lincolnshire Council energy switching scheme, giving residents the chance to access cheaper gas and electricity tariffs is to end on 15 October. The scheme which assists people across North Lincolnshire has 86 registered participants so far. You could save up to £100 on your energy bills by registering.

Collective switching offers households the opportunity to sign up to a scheme that allows an intermediary to enter an auction with energy companies on their behalf, to secure a discounted energy price. If more people sign up, bigger savings can be made.

Collective switching is non-committal. Meaning if you don’t like the deal negotiated for you, you don’t have to accept it.

The council will be working with iChoosr, the UK’s leading provider of collective switching. You can register on iChoosr on: http://bigcommunityswitch.ichoosr.com/Product/index.rails?actionId=313

The scheme is open to those living in or just outside North Lincolnshire.  Anyone interested in switching gas and electricity suppliers can register free online until midnight on 15 October.

The council is currently organising the registration sessions across North Lincolnshire for those unable to register online. The two remaining sessions are:

Monday 23rd September at Broughton Library from 10am-12pm. (THE LIBRARY IS NOW PART OF THE VILLAGE HALL - N.F.)

Tuesday 1st October at Ashby Local Link from 10am-12pm.

Cabinet member for Asset Management, Culture and Housing at North Lincolnshire Council, Coun John Briggs (Crowle) said: “I encourage as many people as possible to sign up to the scheme.86 people have done so far, but we’d like to see many more join. Bigger savings can be made if more people sign up.  It’s not too late, registration ends on 15 October. People can be reluctant to switch suppliers and compare tariffs. Collective switching takes the hassle out of changing supplier; this scheme can reduce energy bills across North Lincolnshire”

For further details about the collective switching scheme or registration session, please contact Adam Conley, Warm Homes Officer at North Lincolnshire Council on 01724 297676. Or http://www.northlincs.gov.uk/collective-switching/

BRIGG SUGAR FACTORY REUNION COMING UP

Some of the remaining buildings from Brigg Sugar Factory- once a major employer in our area, providing full-time and seasonal jobs.

There's another reunion coming up for former workers of Brigg Sugar Factory - again at Arties Mill, Castlethorpe. Last year's proved very enjoyable and was well attended. Read the full story through this link.

PLAIN SAILING FOR BRIGG FOLK FANCYING A HOLIDAY CRUISE

Perhaps a travel industry example of a mixed metaphor... Brigg Blog has just received details of a special offer on cruises - from our local airport! Humberside Airport at Kirmington is offering £100 off a stateroom when you book before September 30 for cruises in 2014, though, to be fair, they do include flights from Humberside to to the starting points. There are cruises round The Med, Norway, Iceland, and many more. Prices from £999.  If this whets (wets?) your appetite, call 01652 682000 or email sales@humbersideairporttravel.co.uk

BRIGG WILL BE PRAYING FOR THE SUCCESS OF OUR NEW FOOD BANK

FROM FATHER OWAIN MITCHELL, VICAR OF BRIGG 

The Parish Church of St John the Evangelist - BRIGG HARVEST FESTIVAL, Sunday 13th October 9.30am 

This year we wish to warmly invite each member of our community to join us for our annual Harvest Thanksgiving. 
Whether you have not been to Church for a while, or you have never been to Church and are wondering what it’s all about, you will be made welcome. Perhaps you’ve wanted to return or join us for the first time, but do not want to stand out as a new face. Why not come along when other new faces may be present? 
The service will last approximately one hour, and be followed by a break for coffee before lunch, which will be provided. The theme of the service will be I am the bread of life (John: 25-32) and we shall be praying for the newly-opened food bank in Brigg, and all who lack the basic provisions of life, both here and around the world. 
Activities for children will be in the hall (from 9.30-10.00) and then they will join us in the service and share what they have done with the congregation. 
For further information and details please contact the Parish Office on 01652 653989. Do join us and bring a friend along!

BRIGG BLOG A HIT FROM THE STATES TO UKRAINE

Since May 2007 when Brigg Blog gained its wonderful statistical tracking service courtesy of Google, the following countries are at the top of our list for providing most site visitors:

1) United Kingdom

2) United States

3) Russia

4) Germany

5) France

6) Netherlands

7) Ukraine

8) Spain

9) Poland

10) Canada


OVER THE PAST MONTH, MID-AUG TO MID-SEPT, 2013
1) United Kingdom

2) United States

3) Germany

4) Russia

5) Poland

6) France

7) China

8) Ukraine

9) Australia

10) New Zealand

---

OVER THE PAST WEEK
1) United Kingdom

2) United States

3) Russia

4) Germany

5) Ukraine

6) France

7) Poland

8) China

9) Canada

10) Serbia


YESTERDAY
1) United States

2) United Kingdom

3) Russia

4) Ukraine

5) Sweden

6) France

7) Poland

8) China

9) Germany

10) Canada

BRIGG LINK TO JAMES BOND STUNT DOUBLE 'WINGCO'?

Fascinating obituaries have been penned to Wing Commander Ken Wallis, who has died aged 97. He was an autogyro pioneer, inventor, James Bond stunt double and WW2 flyer from RAF Elsham Wold, leading us to conclude that he must have visited Brigg many times, as aircrew did during the early 1940s for a spot of R & R.
Read one of the tributes to  Wingco Wallis

FURTHER INSTANCES OF BRIGG PEDESTRIAN ZONE ABUSE

We were beginning to think there had been a slight improvement in Brigg town centre's problems with vehicles that shouldn't be in the pedestrian zone.
Then we spotted a delivery vehicle come through and park up outside premises with a perfectly good rear entrance that could have been used instead.
As we've come to expect, there was no sign of "parking police" or representatives of the Humberside force.
A couple of days earlier we spied a cyclist weaving his way down Wrawby Street at some speed - riding bikes also being on the prohibited list in what's supposed to be  a safe haven for pedestrians.
The authorities don't seem to see abuses of our pedestrian zone as any sort of priority in terms of taking sufficient steps to ensure that offenders receive  property penalties. There's a lot of talk, from time to time, but the problem just drags on, as it has for years.
As we've said before, the quick way to sort it is to have a blitz on offenders and then to publicise how much it has cost them.

BRIGG STYLE HOME FURNISHINGS SHOW

Brigg Blog is expecting to receive much more information shortly about the forthcoming Brigg Style Home Furnishings Show - something new for the town, and arranged by the Business Partnership. The free event will be held on Saturday, October 5, from 9am to 4pm, and on Sunday, October 6, from 10am to 3pm. Venues are the Angel Suite, upstairs at the Buttercross and the Market Place. As we said, further information to follow as it comes our way.

POSSIBLE PETITION TO ASK IF PEOPLE LIVING NEAR BRIGG WANT TO BE PART OF THE TOWN

Close to the bridge over the New River Ancholme, the housing estate on the left is only a stone's throw from Brigg but is part of the parish of Broughton. Properties on the right-hand side of the A18 are in Scawby parish.

Brigg Town Council is to consider whether it should instigate a public petition for a Community
Governance Review of the boundaries between Brigg and Broughton,  Brigg and Scawby, and Brigg and Wrawby. And also whether a further request should be lodged for a review of the County Boundary between North Lincolnshire and West Lindsey, with specific regard to Westrum Lane.
The issue is whether people living close to Brigg, such as on the Water's Edge estate and in Scawby Road, would prefer to stay as they are or would wish to have their homes made part of Brigg. The same goes for the far end of Westrum Lane, which is over the county border in West Lindsey, Lincolnshire, and for people on the Wrawby side of town who also find themselves on the other side of the dividing line, although neighbouring properties are in Brigg.
It is likely to be a long and drawn out process to get anything changed, even if a majority of folk on our borders decide they'd rather like to live in Brigg.
But if the Town Council decides to instigate a petition, and one gets off the ground, it will give an indication of how the public feels.
The petition plan, if we can call it that, will be considered next Monday night, September 23, during the Town Council's monthly meeting, which starts at 7.30pm.
This meeting is open to interested local people, and Item 10 on the agenda is Public Question Time which is available to residents.
Following the Brigg Town Council meeting (circa 8.30pm) there will be a meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee, to consider the latest applications submitted. This session is also open to interested members of the public.

TWO APPRENTICESHIPS ON OFFER IN BRIGG

Two apprenticeships are available in Brigg - follow this link for more

RAISE YOUR GLASSES TO BRIGG CIDER CLUB

FROM CRAIG AUSTIN

We have two apple trees and every year after making a few pies and crumbles, etc we end up throwing 90% of our apples away. I expect most people do the same, which is a shame and a waste. 
However if there was a local Cider Club, anyone interested could donate their excess apple crop in exchange for a few bottles of cider. Not sure about the legality or health & safety issues involved but in principle the idea might work. 
I have previously tried making my own cider in a plastic dustbin but to be honest it's more trouble than it's worth on such a small scale. However, if the operation was scaled up, using the right equipment, it would be far more efficient - assuming there were enough keen members prepared to put in time and effort to produce it. What do you reckon?
Please post a comment so we can gauge reaction to this idea. Or email scoopfisher@aol.com - if you prefer.

BRIGG TOWN FC FEATURE IN TODAY'S FA CUP DRAW

The winners of tomorrow night's FA Cup replay between Brigg Town and Carlton Town will be at home to Matlock Town in the second qualifying round
A Tweet from the Brigg camp today states: "Football fans of Lincolnshire - the Zebras would really value your support in Tuesday's FA Cup replay against Carlton Town."
There's a 7.45pm KO at the Hawthorns.
Having heard the draw, Matlock said: "Good luck to you both on your game tomorrow and we 
look forward to facing the victor."

The second QF tie will be on September 28.

MORE PLANS FOR BRIGG SUGAR FACTORY SITE

Two planning applications have been submitted for a power station planned on the former Brigg Sugar Factory site, near the New River Ancholme.
Permission is being sought for the installation of a water pipe required in connection with the approved proposal for the Brigg Renewable Energy Plant. The second application is to install an effluent water discharge pipe.
Eco2 North Lincs Ltd is seeking permission from North Lincolnshire Council in both cases.
Although this is the former Brigg Sugar Factory site it is just outside the town, in Scawby Brook.

DECISION ON BRIGG TAKEAWAY DUE SOON

An application for planning permission to retain the relocation of an extraction flue behind the Diya Spice takeaway in Bigby Street, Brigg, is now "under consideration" by North Lincolnshire Council, suggesting it won't be long before a firm decision is taken at long last.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON GRAMMAR SCHOOL ROAD CONGESTION IN BRIGG

Everyone in Brigg knows about the traffic congestion experienced on Grammar School Road - particularly when pupils are going to, and leaving, the schools down there. From time to time there's total gridlock.
Brigg Town Council is now conducting a survey of all residents who live in the Grammar School Road/Springbank area. Leaflets will be delivered to every household this week. 
If you don't live in this area of the town but are still affected by the congestion because you need to travel along this route, e.mail the Town Council and the Town Clerk will send you a survey form to complete and return - enquiries@briggmarkettown.co.uk
The Town Council is pulling together "hard evidence" of the problems being experienced.
This information can then be passed on to North Lincolnshire Council, and also, we'd suggest, to Andrew Percy, the Brigg and Goole MP.
Brigg Town Council has asked Brigg Blog to help publicise this worthy consultation exercise and  has also posted details on its own Facebook page, where some Brigg folk have already voiced their feelings about the congestion.
Neil Barker suggests: "Grammar School Road needs linking to the main road so that all the traffic can get out of it without going back through Brigg. It will never be sorted until Grammar School Road is linked to Wrawby Road."
Pete Boston adds:  "I travel along this road four times a day, five days a week and it's a nightmare. Every day there's a vehicle pulls out in front of me or someone walks out in front." 
Brigg Town Council says it is aware of the problems faced every day by drivers who need to travel along Grammar School Road. So its members are undertaking the traffic survey Monday-Friday this week (16-20th Sept).
They would welcome the public's help in counting the number of vehicles using this route. Volunteers are asked to email enquiries@briggmarkettown.co.uk
Brigg Blog will just end by making it clear for the benefit of those who are unsure about which authority does what in local government. North Lincolnshire Council is responsible for roads, road safety and planning issues; Brigg Town Council can make its views known to the unitary authority on matters of local concern but does not have statutory powers to take action to resolve difficulties of this nature.

WINNING END FOR BRIGG TOWN CRICKETERS

Brigg Town Cricket Club's final game of the season ended in a 14-run win at Hutton Cranswick.

PIGEON PARANOIA IN BRIGG

Remember the scary Birds film from Alfred Hitchcock? Well, since posting earlier today about efforts to tackle the plague of pigeons in Brigg our garden has been visited by some of the plumpest specimens in town. They've been perched on a fence, giving me the eye. Or are we just suffering from a touch of Paranoia?

MAJOR COO FOR COUNCIL IN BRIGG

A big pat on the back for North Lincolnshire Council over its current Brigg anti-pigeon campaign. There are posters in shops and warnings on "street furniture" in the town centre.

In terms of spreading disease, pigeons are likened to rats on the posters.

There are just too many of these birds in Brigg town centre and they make a real mess on pavements and shops. We've had the problem for some years. And as the council rightly says, making food available to them does not help in keeping the numbers down. How many young they raise is proportional to what's available to eat. 

As we were photographing the above poster in a Wrawby Street shop window yesterday morning, we turned to find a group of pigeons pecking away merrily just a few yards away. Others we coo-coo-ing on a nearby roof. Can’t they read?

TAKE A LOOK AT BRIGG ACADEMY

The Vale  Academy in Brigg will be holding a year six open day on Tuesday, October 1.

There will be tours from 9.30am and an open evening from 7pm. The Vale has sites off Grammar School Road and Redcombe Lane.

JOBS ON OFFER IN BRIGG WITH WELL-KNOWN FIRM

We spied these job vacancies with Radley's - the well-known local travel firm in Brigg - and thought they might be of interest to those seeking driving positions. The shop is in Chapel Court, close to the town's main car park.