SAYING FAREWELL TO KEITH CURTIS - WELL-KNOWN FOOTBALLER & CLUB OFFICIAL IN THE BRIGG AREA

On the 82nd anniversary of Barnetby United Football Club's formation, they will be  saying goodbye to Keith Curtis, who died recently.
He was a renowned goalkeeper and a committee member from the early 1960s through to becoming chairman in 2005.
To honour Keith's passing, there will be a service at St Barnabas' Church, Barnetby,  tomorrow (Thursday, February 1st) at 12.45pm . It will be followed by cremation at 2pm in Scunthorpe.
The wake will be held at the Whistle and Flute, in Barnetby, where friends will be welcomed by Keith's family.

MEET THE POLICE IN BRIGG TOMORROW

Brigg people will have another opportunity to talk to local police about issues of interest to them.
A drop-in session will be held near the rear entrance to the Angel building, in the town centre, on Thursday, February 1, from 10am to 2pm.
In attendance will be PCSO Shane Moody, PC Paul Yeomans from Humberside Police's Community Cohesion, and Safer Neighbourhoods staff.
The police say: "We will welcome everyone to speak to us about any issues you might be having, any concerns, or even just for a chat to meet us."

BRIGG BLOG POPS OUT WITH THE CAMERA AND HAPPY MEMORIES RESULT

Happy memories of growing up in Brigg during the  1960s and early 1970s came flooding back as we took this picture.
Children with a bit of spare pocket money who had worked up a thirst playing football or cricket in the street or on the grassy area near South View Avenue would visit the shop at the Recreation Ground, attached to the groundsman's detached house.
They rang the bell to summon assistance from the groundsman or a member of his family and then requested a bottle of White's pop, costing just a few (old) pence.
The small family factory where they made the pop was off Elwes Street.
After it closed and the area had been redeveloped, the housing development was called The Bottlings - a nice link with the past.
The street sign on the right of our picture could do with a visit from the repair gang. It is listing to starboard. Or is it port?
Hopefully, someone in authority will make a note and add the sign to North Lincolnshire Council's 'for attention' list of small jobs.
The little shop at the Rec - not to be confused with The Little Shop on Wrawby Street - also sold sweets, crisps and ice cream.
The groundsman's house and the shop were demolished in the 1970s.
Originally, the house was occupied by the family running the farm which was bought by Brigg Urban District Council to form the Recreation Ground. It opened to sportsmen and women (and pupils from Glebe Road School) in the early 1950s.
The land purchase raised a few eyebrows at the time among ratepayers but proved to be a very welcome  and shrewed investment by the council, which deserves credit for looking to the future.
North Lincolnshire Council, the current owner, has now refurbished the Rec with top-notch changing rooms, new tennis courts and an impressive floodlit all-weather 'Blue Astro' pitch.
The cricket ground has also been revamped and Brigg Town Cricket Club will be using it for Lincolnshire County Cricket League games from May this year, having used out-of-town facilities of late, notably at Hibaldstow, Brocklesby Park and even Keelby.
In memory of White's, why not 'pop' down for a look at the 'new Rec', if you've yet to do so.
Older Brigg Blog followers will also remember LAWS soft drinks, based near the Spring's jam factory.  The company sent a van round housing estates in Brigg - and beyond.
We really looked forward to early evening visits by 'Cyril the pop man' when we lived in the Woodbine Avenue prefabs during the 1960s and later after moving to Central Square.
Cyril, with satchel to hold the money slung over one shoulder, took away the previous week's empty bottles and left the  new supply - a couple of bottles, in our case.
"Make it last!" was the instruction we received once he had returned to his lorry. Easier said than done, even in the era before 'global warming' came to the fore.
Today there's a very welcome move to get more soft drinks sold in bottles that can be recycled. We are happy to raise a glass to that initiative.


 






 

DOING THE SPADEWORK FOR NEW BRIGG ALLOTMENTS

Some Brigg allotments are to be re-located to a new site to make way for redevelopment, and preliminary details have now been revealed.
The switch will be from Grammar School Road (not far from the motorway fly-over) to an area of Woodbine Park, between Preston Drive and South View Avenue.
Brigg Town Council, which provides allotments for green-fingered, 'grow you own' devotees, is in negotiation with North Lincolnshire Council.
In October the Town Council agreed, in principle, terms for the "transfer" of the Grammar School Road allotments in exchange for the new allotments at Woodbine Park.
Coun Rob Waltham, the leader of North Lincolnshire Council, gave a brief update during the January meeting of the Town Council, held  in the Angel Suite.
He revealed that next month the unitary authority hopes to see a planning application submitted.
The "legal processes" will follow with further information about the plan expected to be revealed during the summer.
Brigg Town Council also provides allotments off Redcombe Lane/Atherton Way for a number of other tenants, who pay a small annual rent to work their plots and grow fruit and veg for the table.

PICTURED ABOVE: Grammar School Road allotments, the land being rented from Brigg Town Council.

A view of Woodbine Park, taken  from the Preston Drive entrance. The exact location proposed for the allotments yet to be revealed.

PLANS TO CELEBRATE 350 YEARS' EDUCATION IN BRIGG

There's an important milestone coming up for education in Brigg - and there are plans to celebrate the achievement.
Sir John Nelthorpe made provision in his will, in 1669, to found a school - later to become Brigg Grammar and now - grade one listed - forming part of Sir John Nelthorpe School's 'upper'  complex.
The Briggensians' Association, representing former pupils of SJN, Brigg Grammar, Brigg Girls' High and Brigg Sixth Form College, is asking members across the world to be aware that 2019 "is a very special year" and informing them that "there will be celebrations to mark the 350th year."
The annual Newsletter stresses: "The Briggensians' Association needs to reflect this milestone in its activities."
Ex-pupils will be kept informed about planned events and are being asked to tell the association of any they may have in the pipeline.
Keep an eye on the website www.briggensians.co.uk and  Facebook page The Briggensians Association.
Those of us who were pupils at Brigg Grammar School almost half-a-century ago, in 1969, well remember the 300th (tercentenary) celebrations.
They reopened the school's original door and refurbished the swimming pool - heating being provided for the first time. We were all very grateful for that, especially in September!
There was also a grand dinner at either the Angel Hotel or the Corn Exchange. But we were then much too young for such events.
Nor would there have been time with all that evening homework to complete!
Very senior pupils also made a cine film about 300 years of the school, The House That John Built - released much later in DVD format. Some images from the cover can be seen above and give a flavour of how things were in the late 1960s. 
Top left we see senior masters Vernon Atkin (French) and Harold Stinson (Maths); top right is headmaster H. B. Williams tending the garden adjoining his house 'on the premises'; bottom right are the brick-built refectory, dating back to the 1890s, and the wooden cricket pavilion (circa 1929), both since demolished; bottom left, first year boys- caps firmly in place-  being taken down the drive onto Grammar School Road on their way to Speech Day at the Corn Exchange, we think. You can tell they were first years because only the 'rookies' had to wear short trousers. 

• Brigg Girls' High School was founded in 1919 - so ex-pupils of that establishment also have a milestone to mark next year. It moved to the familiar site off Wrawby Road some years later. Those buildings now form the lower school site of Sir John Nelthorpe School, which was created in 1976.

The original school door was reopened in 1969 as part of the 300th anniversary celebrations.

KEY MOMENTS FROM BARNETBY UNITED'S MATCH AT EPWORTH TOWN

 

REPORT & PICTURES FROM LEE FIELDEN

Epworth Town 2 Barnetby United 0 - EC Surfacing Scunthorpe & District League Division One, Saturday, January 27, 2018

A goal in each half derailed the Railwaymen on the Isle of Axholme as Gary seized the Moment for Epworth.
Gary Moment's brace of goals saw Epworth to a 2-0 success as Barnetby went down to their 8th defeat in 9 leagues games this season - at Carrside.
Moment pounced in the 6th minute to slot into the bottom corner past Lidgett and added his 2nd on 78 minutes, again finishing clinically.
In between, Barnetby played stoutly and resolutely without seriously threatening the home goal. Dove was full of running and in partnership with Dunnion senior, then junior, kept the Epworth back line on their toes.
Clarke and Dawson were solid at the heart of the defence, with Lloyd - at left back - excelling in a man of the match performance.
With no target man Barnetby played the ball to feet and Fussey and Scott in midfield moved the ball well on a bobbley pitch; Kieran Hunsley and Harry Dunnion gave options on the wings too, but sadly no clear-cut chances were made.
1-0 up at the turn, Epworth always looked the side more likely to get the second goal which they duly did on 78 minutes.

BRIGG SCHOOL PUPILS TO BE RE-UNITED OVER DINNER

An interesting talk is in prospect for former Brigg school pupils attending their annual reunion dinner.
The Briggensians' Association - representing former pupils of Sir John Nelthorpe School, Brigg Girls' High, Brigg Grammar and Brigg Sixth Form College - will be holding its 41st annual get-together at Elsham Golf Club on Saturday, March 17, 2018 (7pm for 7.30pm).
Guest speaker will be Dr Anne Rae, head of genetics research with famous Lincolnshire duck-breeding specialist Cherry Valley.
A former pupil of St Mary's in Brigg, she attended Sir John Nelthorpe School from 1986 to 1991 before moving into higher education.
Those wishing to attend the dinner should note that the closing date for applications is Friday, March 2.
Tickets cost £22.50p. Cheques made payable to the Briggensians' Association should be sent in an envelope marked The Briggensians' Dinner Secretary to Sir John Nelthorpe School, Wrawby Road, Brigg, DN20 8DS.
In case you were wondering, duck is not on the menu! The main course options are roast beef, herb-crusted cod or cannelloni with spinach and ricotta.
A survey is being held this year to see whether Briggensians are satisfied with holding the annual dinner in mid-March.
Would more people attend if the event was later in the year, such as April, May or even during the summer?
There's no reference to the long-standing venue - Elsham Golf Club - in the survey.
This has proved a popular meeting place for the reunion.

PICTURED: Some of those who attended the March 2017 dinner.

POLICE NOW USING BRIGG BUILDING WITH AN INTERESTING HISTORY

 

With Brigg soon to get more police officers allocated to the local area, we are wondering about the  role of a building in the the town Humberside Police is now using, as it has an interesting history, despite not being historic or particularly old by our standards.
The former town hall and HQ of Brigg Urban District Council up to 1974,  the building on Cary Lane was later used as offices by Glanford Borough Council and latterly North Lincolnshire Council.
The unitary authority has now confirmed that it is leasing this building to Humberside Police, whose public protection unit is based nearby in the station on Barnard Avenue.
Could it be that when the additional officers come to Brigg they will be based in the Cary Lane building?
It seems to us that the ground floor would be ideal for this purpose and easily accessible to the general public (see picture below).
Humberside Police has yet to reveal the number of additional officers for Brigg or where they will be housed.
Brigg Blog is taking a Softly, Softly approach when it comes to detective work on this story, but hopes to be able to reveal more about the policing plans in the not too distant future.

The building on Cary Lane which is being leased to Humberside Police by North Lincolnshire Council. It is next to Wilko's store and close to the town's main bus stop.

HOW MANY LISTED BUILDINGS ARE THERE IN BRIGG?

Brigg Blog thought it would be useful to answer the above question about listed buildings in the town, which has a Conservation Area covering a large area of the centre.
Listing a building or structure means it has been recognised as nationally important, the main criteria being architectural interest, historic interest and something called group value.
According to official figures, we have a solitary grade one structure and just one entry in the grade two* (star) section.
A further 71 buildings are grade two listed - mostly in the Market Place, Bridge Street, Bigby Street and Wrawby Street.
They include the Dying Gladiator, Nelthorpe Arms, Lord Nelson and White Hart pubs.
Perhaps the most unusual listing was afforded to the  mid-1930s telephone kiosk in the Market Place, close to the NatWest bank. View details here...
That's the one pictured above.
But the latest addition came in June 2016 when the Monument war memorial, beside the A18, was afforded grade two status.
It was dedicated on June 15, 1919. A couple of pictures taken on the day suggest that most townsfolk went along to watch the ceremony.
View details of the Monument here....
Brigg's only grade one "exceptional interest" building is our oldest survivor - the original 17th century section of what's now the Grammar School Road part of Sir John Nelthorpe School (nearest the road). View details here...
Brigg's grade two* structure is the Exchange Coach House Inn, on Bigby Street, constructed in the mid-17th century. View details here...
The star is only given to buildings that area "particularly important" and "of more than special interest."
What does it mean if something is listed?
In short, it offers official protection from change, alteration and (in extreme cases) demolition.
The local planning authority - in our case North Lincolnshire Council - must be fully consulted and grant listed building consent (with conditions attached) before any listed building can be touched.
More than 1,000 buildings and structures across North Lincolnshire are listed.
The Corn Exchange was never made a listed building and was demolished in the early 1990s by Glanford Borough Council, its owner.
View details of all 73 listed buildings in Brigg through this link...
If there are any  others in Brigg you think should be added to the listed buildings list, please share your thoughts by posting a comment.

LIVE MUSIC AND MORE AT BRIGG PUB

A Brigg pub has taken steps to attract more sports-loving customers and will also be offering live music  this weekend.
The evening of Saturday, February 3 will see Jimi Jimmi offering a classic mix of tunes from the 1960s through to the present day at the Woolpack, in the Market Place.
The  town centre hostelry says it now has the FULL sports package so it can show...

• Sky Sports
• BT Sports
• Racing UK
• At The Races
• Box Nation
• MUTV (Manchester United channel)
• LFCTV (Liverpool)
• And many more.

It adds: "We are also changing our pool room by putting a new seating area and large screen TV."

JUST FLAGGING UP THAT BRIGG PUB REFURBISHMENT IS NOW UNDER WAY BUT IT'S BUSINESS AS USUAL

Brigg Blog is pleased to report that internal refurbishment is now under way at one of our town centre pubs.
They have started work on the Hardy's cafe/bar side of the Lord Nelson Hotel in the Market Place.
Customers are currently being directed to use the older Lord Nelson entrance, rather than the one pictured  above.
Perhaps bosses at the Old Mill Brewery, Snaith, might think this at opportune time to upgrade some of the signs.
A good deal of lettering at the back of the premises, close to Exchange Place, has been missing for some years.
At the front, the spelling of the word 'Accommodation' has been incorrect since the sign went up not too long ago when external improvements were undertaken (see bottom left of the picture above).
This has been 'flagged up' previously - a fitting term as the historic hostelry was named after Lord Nelson - hero of the Battle of Trafalgar - whose flagship was HMS Victory.
We stress that the Lord Nelson Hotel is open for business during the current improvements.
 

The rear of the Lord Nelson Hotel, Brigg, with the beer garden on the right and Exchange Place on the left, leading to the Market Place.

This is the Lord Nelson entrance to use at present.

LINKINSHEERE DIALECT TALK COMING UP IN BRIGG

Details of the next meeting of Brigg Amateur Social Historians have been announced.
Loretta Rivett will be talking about Lincolnshire Dialect at the group's monthly get-together.
She will be at Brigg and District Servicemen's Club,  Coney Court, on Tuesday, February  6 (from 8pm).
All welcome. No membership is required and there's free admission on the night.
Light refreshments will be served and a raffle held to help with costs.
Even if feeling arrad efter the day's work, and the weather is mizzling or even siling it down,  folks are urged to git thersens ower to the club agean, whether traapesing on foot or tekking the car.
PICTURED: The Lincolnshire county flag  flying in Brigg.

A FOREST OF RED AND WHITE AS FOOTBALL FANS STOP OFF IN BRIGG

Brigg pubs and food outlets received an unexpected boost in trade on Saturday (Saturday, January 27).
Many fans of Nottingham Forest stopped off in the town on their way to watch the FA Cup tie at Hull City -  The Tigers now being managed by former Scunthorpe United boss Nigel Adkins.
Wetherspoon's White Horse, on Wrawby Street, was a popular choice with Forest fans who travelled north in a fleet of coaches.
Others went elsewhere in the town centre and most purchased food as well as having a few drinks.
This influx of people helped redress some of the trade lost to the Brigg economy as a result of bad weather coinciding with the January farmers' market. Some shoppers chose to stay at home rather than venture out to visit the stalls.
Brigg has long been a popular stopping off point for football fans on their way to away games at Hull City, Grimsby Town and occasionally Scunthorpe United.
In October 2013, we saw an influx of Aston Villa supporters on their way to Hull (see pictures below), with the Woolpack, in the Market Place, "watering" many men and women from the Midlands. 

HOST OF BRIGG SPORTS REUNIONS COMING UP IN 2018

Many sporting reunions have been arranged during 2018 for those who went to school in Brigg during decades past.
The games are for Briggensians - former pupils of Sir John Nelthorpe School, Brigg Girls' High, Brigg Grammar and Brigg Sixth Form College.
Sunday, April 15: The Briggensians' Golf Section Spring Meeting, 12.30pm. Requests to play and  further information from David Harness - call 01652 688005 or email dave.harness@ymail.com
Friday, June 8: Summer Sports Reunion - rounders and cricket, Youth v Experience, Sir John Nelthorpe School field, 6pm start. Spectators welcome - drinks afterwards at the Yarborough Hunt, Bridge Street, from about 9pm.
Monday, July 2: The Briggensians' Golf Section Past v Present match, 4pm. Requests to play and  further information from David Harness - call 01652 688005 or email dave.harness@ymail.com
Friday, September 14: Winter Sports Reunion - football and netball, Youth v Experience, Sir John Nelthorpe School field, 6pm start. Spectators welcome - drinks afterwards at the Yarborough Hunt, Bridge Street, from about 9pm.
Thursday, September 19: Hockey, school field, 6pm. Spectators welcome - drinks afterwards at the Yarborough Hunt, Bridge Street, from about 9pm.
Sunday, October 14: The Briggensians' Golf Section Autumn Meeting, 12.30pm. Requests to play and further information from David Harness - call 01652 688005 or email dave.harness@ymail.com
Wednesday, December 27: Football, school field, 10.30am. Followed by pub games.
Life membership of the Briggensians' Association only costs £5. For details, call 01652 653216 or email hcresswell@westrum.co.uk

BRIGG TOWN FC LOSE NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE DERBY

Brigg Town Football Club remain in second-from-bottom place in the Tool Station Northern Counties East First Division after losing the North Lincolnshire derby at Winterton Rangers 3-0 yesterday (Saturday, January 27).
Brigg have 18 points and are three behind FC Bolsover and Nostell Miners Welfare.
On Saturday, February 3 the Zebras will journey to Dronfield Town - another lowly side (3pm KO).
Two games involving Brigg and district teams went ahead in the EC Surfacing Ltd Scunthorpe & District Football League yesterday.
In division two, second-placed Briggensians lost 4-2 when hosting Crosby Juniors.
Stuart Briscoe and Paul Neal were on the mark for the Brigg side.
In the same division, Barnetby United Reserves' scheduled home game with Limestone Rangers Reserves at Silver Street was postponed.
Barnetby's first teamers lost 2-0 at Epworth Town in division one and remain at the foot of the table.
On Saturday, February 3 Barnetby will visit Limestone Rangers.
Briggensians are at home to A.F.C. Queensway, while Barnetby Reserves host Crosby Juniors.
All these games start at 2pm.

BRIGG BUSINESS CLOSING FOR TWO-DAY REFURB

A Brigg town centre business that was founded six years ago will be closing for two days while building renovations are undertaken.
Located on the corner of the Market Place and Spring's Parade, The Steel Rooms is advising customers that it will be shut on Monday and Tuesday, February 5 and 6.
The business houses a popular cafe, art gallery and gift shop.
It is also a well-known events hub, with music and various workshops.
Find out more about the Steel Rooms through this link...
Picture above by Ken Harrison.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS COMING UP IN BRIGG

 

The Chinese New Year is drawing near and will be celebrated in style in Brigg.
The Year of the Dog will be welcomed in over three days at the well-known China Royal Restaurant at 6 Bridge Street on Monday, February 19th, Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st.
Enjoy a champagne reception from 7.30pm, live entertainment and a six-course New Year banquet.
The cost is £36 and table bookings are now being taken
Pop in during opening hours to make a reservation or call 01652 650688.

 

BRIGG TO BE PART OF GREAT BRITISH PROJECT

Brigg Town Council is signing up for the Great British Spring Clean Project, to take place across the country from March 2nd to 4th, 2018.
Deputy Town Mayor Coun Donald Campbell, pictured, successfully proposed this course of action during the January meeting, held in the Angel Suite.
Coun Rob Waltham said cleaning up should not be see as a one-off task.
"We need this to happen all the time," he stressed.
There was a need to stop people from thinking it acceptable to throw litter on the ground.
Coun Ann Eardley said it would be good if all councillors set a good example by turning out to help with the clean-up.
Click here for full details of the Great British Spring Clean 2018...

BRIGG TO GET MORE POLICE BASED IN THE TOWN

Brigg will be getting more police officers, and they will be based in the town.
This was exclusively revealed by Coun Mike Campion during the Town Council's January meeting.
In recent years the police station on Barnard Avenue has seen a changed role, housing specialist 'public protection' staff, rather than its long-familiar role of neighbourhood policing.
However, Coun Campion, pictured below, said community officers "will be coming back" - and this would happen "in the very near future."

He stressed that Brigg would again have "an active police station" as part of a recruitment drive for 300 additional officers by Humberside Police.
"I think everyone on the council will be delighted about that," he added.
Coun Campion said he had heard the good news for Brigg at an earlier meeting he attended elsewhere and had asked Keith Hunter, Humberside's Police & Crime Commissioner, for approval to inform Brigg Town Council. Authority had been granted for him to do so.

 
Coun Rob Waltham, pictured above, said they should commend the government for making additional Home Office funding available. And the North Lincolnshire Council leader pointed out that an increase was planned  in what local people will have to pay for Humberside force policing in their council tax during the financial year beginning this April.
"So it does not come without cost," he said of the policing plan.

NF ADDS: We have since approached Humberside Police about the number of additional officers our town will be given and when this plan will come into force. We are also keen to know the breakdown in terms of constables and police community support officers (PCSOs).
Please email us through this link if you have any comments to make on this issue.

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL CEREMONY TO BE HELD IN BRIGG

Brigg - to its credit - is one of the towns in the UK that  holds an annual Holocaust Memorial Ceremony.
This year's will take place tomorrow (Sunday, January 28) and there's an open invitation for townsfolk to attend.
Those wishing to do so are asked to meet in the Cafe Courtyard, in the Angel building, before 4pm.
The ceremony will start at 4.15pm. It provides the opportunity for reflecting on the atrocities of war and genocide.
During Brigg Town Council's January meeting, held on Monday evening, Deputy Town Mayor Coun Donald Campbell said this was an important event and requested fellow councillors to attend.
Read more about Holocaust Memorial Day 2018 through this link...

MORE LITTER BINS COMING TO BRIGG

Brigg is to see further litter bins installed later this year.
Some existing ones could also be moved to locations considered more suitable to keeping rubbish off the streets.
Full details are expected to be revealed during Brigg Town Council's February meeting.
However, possible locations for bins include Springbank, Atherton Way and Station Road, near the entrance to Holland Park.
Couns Jane Kitching, Brian Parker and Rob Waltham have been studying bin provision across Brigg.
During the council's January meeting, Coun Kitching held up a map showing their locations.
Coun Ann Eardley called for bins to be provided along Atherton Way, suggesting this would give lorry drivers who park in this area of the town somewhere to put their litter.
Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall thanked the working party of councillors for their work on this topic and said it would be placed on the agenda for the next meeting.
Brigg Blog is hoping that our suggestion to restore the bin on a lamp-post near The Monument, close to the car showroom, will be included. Our picture shows the remains of the previous bin in September 2016. 
 

BRIGG CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON TIME TO BE LOOKED AT BY EVENT ORGANISERS

Brigg Town Council is to discuss whether to alter the Christmas lights switch-on time this December.
The usual 5pm launch in the Market Place was questioned by a number of people following last month's ceremony.
Town Clerk Dinah Lilley told the Town Council's January meeting, held on Monday evening in the Angel Suite, that some correspondence had resulted.
Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall then suggested the matter should be placed on the agenda for consideration at a future meeting.
In early December, Brigg Blog was contacted by Karl Stead, who said he missed the turn on  because, in his opinion, it was too early in the evening.
"Next year, can you take into account the people that work and finish at 5pm?" he asked.
He was also delayed by the heavy traffic and the time needed to get parked, these factors being allied to the popularity of the event, we suggest.
"Apart from that, a very well turned out event. Thank you," he added.
We  forwarded his comments to Brigg Town Council, which manages the event and provides the lights.
Ken Harrison told Brigg Blog on December 9: "5 o'clock is not the optimum time for attracting the biggest crowd."
Peter Altoft, another follower of our site,  agreed, adding: "The market traders' vehicle's need to be off site half-an-hour before  the start so this would be welcome as some barely get set up in time."
In terms of a later start for "bigger kids"  Peter said there was "no harm in trying" the idea.
He suggested the Brigg business group  (Partnership) should put together a map showing visitors where to park - not just the municipal facilities at the Angel and Old Courts Road but also car parks at the Tesco, B&M and Lidl stores,  for varying periods, and available on-street parking  for those "willing to walk a bit, including spaces on  Station Road.
Peter's other ideas included use of church car parking and utilising Health Place, off Wrawby Road.
Last, but by no means least, he suggested a shuttle bus  to run from the Recreation Ground/Brigg Town Football Club to take people into the town centre for the event.
We think that's an excellent idea, well worth consideration by the organisers and the Business Partnership, whose membership would benefit through the till.
It would be useful to those living on the Springbank estate, Hawthorn Avenue, Central Square, East Parade and neighbouring streets.
During the Town Council's January meeting, there were several references to the 2017 illuminations.
Problems with the lights being "off" at East Park and in Bridge Street - at varying times - were mentioned.
A new Christmas lights contract begins this year.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 2018 IN BRIGG

Brigg Town Council will be discussing whether or not to change the time of Remembrance Sunday wreath-laying at The Monument war memorial.
Most communities across the country do so at 11am but Brigg's ceremony has taken place at noon for many years every November.
The Town Council, which organises the annual event and parade, is seeking the views of local members of the Royal British Legion.
Town Clerk Dinah Lilley told this month's meeting of the Town Council, held on Monday, that a number of comments had been received.
This will now be an agenda item for discussion at a future council meeting, with a decision being reached.
Meanwhile, listed building consent is now being sought to clean the war memorial to include re-gilding of memorial plaques and re-point exposed joints with lime based mortar.
This application is now being considered by North Lincolnshire Council.
The Monument is a grade two listed structure. 

PICTURED: Wreath-laying at The Monument in November 2017, with Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall and Tom Glossop, Freeman of Brigg, approaching the war memorial  with Father Owain Mitchell.

BRIGG FARMERS' MARKET: FINGERS CROSSED FOR DECENT JANUARY WEATHER

The monthly Brigg Farmers' Market will be held in the town centre tomorrow (Saturday, January 27, 2018).
Fingers firmly crossed for some acceptable weather! For this is always a big factor in shopper attendance numbers during the most chilly months of the year.
Stallholders will start selling produce and goods to visiting shoppers from 9am and the event will continue until 3pm.
North Lincolnshire Council's award-winning market always draws large numbers of shoppers to the Market Place.
Many visitors also call at shops and eateries in the town, helping to boost trade.
The general Saturday market will be operating on stalls in the Market Place and along part of Wrawby Street this Saturday.
And remember that free car parking can be enjoyed on Saturday. 
 
PICTURED: A previous end-of-January Brigg Farmers' Market, held in cold but dry conditions.

FOUR HOUSING SCHEMES GAIN TOWN COUNCIL SUPPORT

Four housing-related Brigg planning applications have gained the support of town councillors.
During the January meeting of Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee, held in the Angel Suite, members decided they were "in support" of the following:

• Two-storey extension, including minor alterations, at 16 Springbank.
• Erect dormer bungalow and  demolish existing garage, land adjacent to The Bungalow, Preston Drive. Committee chairman Coun Mike Storey said this was a "barren" strip of land.
• Relocate vehicular entrance and driveway and the erection of a gates at 47 Bigby High Road. Coun Storey described this as "fairly straightforward."
• Erect a detached triple garage at The Waterfront, Cadney Road.

The committee is also suporting pruning works planned on an ash tree within the Brigg Conservation Area at 3 Bridge Street. Coun Storey said this involved "a crown reduction."
North Lincolnshire Council, as the local planning authority, will now make decisions in each case.

BRIGG SHOP OPENING THIS WEEKEND

A shop is set to open in Brigg Market Place this weekend.
The business has relocated from elsewhere in the town centre.
The distance between the former Rabbit Hole premises down Market Lane and the new location close to the Buttercross and the Lord Nelson Hotel is not much more than a stone's throw.
The book shop is housed in former estate agent premises vacated some months ago.
Brigg's new Rabbit Hole shop is set to open on Saturday (January 27) to coincide with the monthly farmers' market.
It's original launch in August 2017 also took place on a farmers' market Saturday when plenty of shoppers are out and about.
We wish them well in their new premises, whose location will enjoy additional "footfall" as people pass by. The shop is to the RIGHT on the picture above, as you head towards Bigby Street.
Pop in and take a look this weekend or at some future date.

The new Rabbit Hole shop in Brigg Market Place.

 

The former Rabbit Hole shop on Market Lane.

BRIGG TOWN FC IN DERBY ACTION AT WINTERTON

Brigg Town FC have a very important North Lincolnshire derby game coming up on Saturday (January 27).
The Zebras will be making the short trip to play Winterton Rangers at the West Street ground (3pm).
Rangers are currently ninth in the ToolStation Northern Counties East First Division, while Brigg are second from bottom and trying to pull clear of the relegation zone.
In the EC Surfacing Scunthorpe & District League this Saturday, Barnetby United will visit Epworth Town in Division One.
Division Three's programme sees Briggensians FC hosting Crosby Juniors, while  Barnetby Reserves entertain Limestone Rangers Reserves at Silver Street.
These games kick off at 2pm.

NATIONAL WRITER GIVES HIS THOUGHTS ON BRIGG TRANSPORT

A renowned writer and author suggests it would be "real progress" if Brigg can manage to gain a daily two-hour passenger train service linking it with Nottingham and Grimsby.
Gareth David travelled on the Brigg line's existing Saturdays-only passenger service last weekend and shares his thoughts on the website RailwayWorld.net
His post is headlined Back to Brigg and he describes our town as "rather pleasant."
Gareth makes reference to the ambitions of the Brigg Line Group -  visit www.facebook.com/BriggLine
The corporate communications consultant has  worked for The Times and The Observer.
Read his blog post - fully illustrated - through this link...

PETITION LAUNCHED AGAINST BRIGG BANK CLOSURE PLAN

A petition has been organised against plans by the NatWest Bank to close its Brigg branch for good from June this year, affecting members of the public, businesses and community groups.
Brigg's Coun Mike Campion and a councillor from Broughton will be outside the Market Place branch tomorrow (Thursday, January 24) - market day - as customers go in and out of the building.



 

Coun Mike Campion in Brigg Market Place.

The facility serves the banking needs of customers from a wide area, not just Brigg.
NatWest's closure plan was mentioned during Brigg Town Council's January meeting, held in the Angel Suite on Monday evening.
Coun Rob Waltham, who is the leader of North Lincolnshire Council as well as being a member of the town authority, said he was in touch with NatWest.
Among options for the future being considered by the bank was providing a "community banker"** to be available to customers at a location in Brigg.
Coun Waltham suggested that North Lincolnshire Council would consider making a building available for this purpose.
Brigg & Goole MP Andrew Percy has also met with bosses from the bank to discuss the issue. Follow this link to find out more...
At an earlier meeting, Brigg Town councillors  criticised  NatWest's closure plans.
It is claimed that only 80 customers a week now visit the Brigg branch, as more and more people switch to online banking.
** Community bankers visit local venues to help educate customers on being financially fit, training them on the different ways to bank in the so-called digital world and advising how they can protect themselves against fraudsters.
On its website, NatWest says: "We are committed to ensuring our customers and communities are able to continue accessing quality banking services. Our new Community Banker provides customers with personal assistance and support to access our non-cash services, as well as help with achieving their financial plans and goals in local communities – replicating many of the services available in our branches.
"Our Community Bankers will get to know the local communities, engage with local groups and provide training and education on issues such as fraud and scams protection in the local area."
Customers are advised to contact their local branch to find out more.
Follow this link to NatWest information about "ways to bank"...
Brigg's HSBC branch, also in the Market Place, closed its doors for the final time in June 2017. Read more through this link...

MEET THE POLICE IN BRIGG TOMORROW

Brigg folk have an opportunity to meet local police tomorrow (Thursday, January 25).
The second of four drop-in sessions will be held at the rear entrance to the Angel Suite (The Rotunda) adjoining the car park, between 10am and 2pm.
There's an open invitation to go along and chat to officers about policing, crime and crime prevention.
Police Community Support Officer Danny Whitehead will be there. Also expected to be in attendance will be PC Paul Yeomans, of the Community Cohesion section, and staff from the Safer Neighbourhoods organisation.

HOMES IN BRIGG AREA TO GET HEATING REVAMP

FROM KIRSTY WESTFIELD, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

One hundred and forty five homes are to get their heating facilities revamped through a new scheme being offered by the South Humber Energy Efficiency Partnership across North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire.
Qualifying residents that currently rely on storage heaters, room heaters and solid fuel fires could upgrade to A-rated gas central heating for little or no cost.
Householders living in specific postcode areas, or those that receive certain income related benefits could take part in the scheme. Residents that have a low household income or suffer from a cold-related illness could also qualify for support (subject to survey).
The South Humber Energy Efficiency Partnership includes both North Lincolnshire Council and North East Lincolnshire Council. It was established to help householders across the district save energy and money.
In November the partnership secured over £380,000 of funding through National Grid’s new £150m Warm Homes Fund, a unique programme administered by Affordable Warmth Solutions and only available to Local Authorities and Housing Associations.
The North and North East Lincolnshire bid was one of 40 to receive funding out of over 200 applications. 
The councils now have funding in place to help a multitude of residents improve the thermal comfort of their homes.
Mains gas is still one of the most cost-effective domestic fuel types. According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average household could save over £560 a year just by switching from electric heating to gas.
Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for Safer, Greener and Cleaner Places at North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We’re delighted to have secured some funding to help residents that are struggling to keep on top of their fuel bills, save energy and money. This funding, combined with additional internal and external funding streams will help up to 145 householders keep warm for less and reduce their carbon footprint.”
Councillor David Watson, portfolio holder for environment at North East Lincolnshire Council, added: “A warmer home can have a real impact on a person’s health and wellbeing. This scheme will help many of our residents to reduce fuel bills and help people feel healthier.”
The award winning community interest company YES Energy Solutions has been selected to manage the scheme on behalf of both councils.
In some instances a connection to the mains gas network will be required to help residents access gas for the first time, with additional funding available to cover connection costs.
If you feel that you could benefit from a main gas central heating system and may meet the eligibility criteria, then get in touch today.
Call North Lincolnshire Council on 01724 297000 or YES Energy Solutions on 01422 417584 (office hours, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday).
Alternatively, email projects@yesenergysolutions.co.uk
N.F. ADDS: The council has confirmed for us that some of the 145 homes are in the Brigg area but has not specified how many.