KEEPING BRIGG TIDY - IS IT NECESSARILY A GOOD THING?

Several national newspapers have run stories quoting someone in authority who is how questioning whether competitions to judge the best-looking flowerbeds and tidy green areas in towns and villages across the UK are a good thing.
The argument put forward is that removing weeds and keeping things in top order to please the eye of the judges and green-fingered townsfolk is bad news for butterflies, insects, birds and various small critters.
Brigg takes a pride in the appearance of its communal flowerbeds, borders and green spaces - through the efforts of Brigg Town Council and North Lincolnshire Council.
If things were allowed to run wild, we reckon there would be a flood of complaints from townsfolk who like to see things kept in good nick.
But Brigg Blog appreciates the point being made by the expert. Our back garden has never looked as tidy as it does now but since the severe trimming back of the unkempt corner with its brambles, privet and other bushes we've noticed much less wildlife is paying us a visit. Particularly birds like finches. The removal of the bushes producing rosehips will also reduce the usual autumn larder for various species. And we feel a shade guilty about that.
As far as Brigg is concerned, is it worth considering whether some community land, perhaps away from the town centre, could be set aside and allowed to revert to nature.