Friday, November 30, 2018

IS IT TIME TO DEAL WITH 'PERISHING PIGEONS' IN BRIGG TOWN CENTRE?


The mess left by pigeons and the poor state of some buildings in Brigg town centre were discussed at Brigg Town Council's latest meeting.
Coun Jane Kitching warned: "The Conservation Area we are very proud of is deteriorating."
She raised general concerns about building maintenance, notably the upper floors.
Converting some of them to flats would be a welcome improvement, she suggested.
Coun Rob Waltham, who is the Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said they would set up another audit of buildings. But he pointed out that these had to be "pretty bad" for legal action to be taken. What one person thought acceptable would cause someone else to take umbridge.
Coun Ann Eardley felt some of the upper storeys were being allowed to deteriorate. Owners should be maintaining the whole building "not let it go to rack and ruin."
Coun Penny Smith raised the issue of "perishing pigeons" in the town centre, with their droppings littering the paving.
She said it was time their numbers were controlled.
"There are far too many of them; they are just dreadful!" she complained.
Coun Sharon Riggall thought the council's maintenance man might be assigned to clear up some of the mess, while Deputy Town Mayor Coun Brian Parker complained that small children were having to walk through it.
Coun Chris Dyson recalled his days as a senior manager at Scunthorpe steelworks when huge flocks of roosting starlings were dealt with in various ways.
One company had removed 1,200 just at the heavy section mill!
"It's a matter that can be dealt with," he assured fellow councillors.
However, Coun Carl Sherwood pointed out that when North Lincolnshire Council looked to control pigeon numbers in Brigg a few years ago it had met with some opposition. The authority was also required to catch the pigeons. "This is what you are up against," he told his colleagues.
Coun Rob Waltham, the Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said he would speak to environmental health staff about the problem.
N.F. ADDS: This is a topic Brigg Blog expects to prove a talking point for many people in the town. A few years ago when we reported a council debate about pigeons we were spoken to by an upset female resident who felt the pigeons had a right to be left alone. However, others who walk through pigeon droppings in the town centre take a very different view. What do YOU think? Pictured above: Pigeon "poo" in one of Brigg's alleyways.

BRIGG PUB OFFERING FREE FOOD ON THE NIGHT THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ARE SWITCHED ON




Just a reminder that tonight (Friday, November 30, 2018) will see the biggest spectator event of the year in Brigg town centre.
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm from a stage erected in the Market Place by Brigg Town Council, which provides the illuminations.
At 6pm at the Black Bull, on Wrawby Street, there will be free food on offer, including mince pies, cakes and sandwiches to help people get into the Christmas spirit.
Panto stars from Scunthorpe will be attending the switch-on, which will be followed by the Lions' Christmas Fair, with a host of stalls, and late night shopping until 9pm.
Don't miss it! But remember to wrap up well against the cold, as those pictured above did for last year's event.
 

CONCERNS EXPRESSED ABOUT BANKING CHANGES IN BRIGG


PICTURED: The now-closed NatWest Bank branch in Brigg with a 'for sale' sign evident.  - picture on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

Banking changes introduced in Brigg during recent months came in for some criticism at the Town Council's November meeting.
Having closed its Brigg branch in the Market Place, NatWest is offering "mobile" advice to customers in the Tesco store car park and at the Buttercross, while Lloyds has made its Wrawby Street branch 'counter free' and withdrawn transactions involving coins.
Coun Ann Eardley raised the issue of Banking in Brigg. She was unhappy about NatWest customers having to queue outside "in all sorts of weather" while not taking coins at Lloyds was making things difficult for local shops.
Coun Eardley suggested the banks should talk to each other and share facilities.
Coun Mike Campion felt these were banks "that are not listening."
Coun Rob Waltham said some aspects were unacceptable and offered to pass Town Councillors' concerns to Brigg & Goole MP Andrew Percy who has been in discussion with banks about the changes.
Coun Jane Gibbons said the service being offered at the Buttercross and the mobile banking facility were advisory; the Post Office in Brigg offered "normal banking."
HSBC has closed its Brigg Market Place branch, but Barclays continues to offer a full service to customers in the town.

PICTURED: The now-closed NatWest Bank branch in Brigg with a 'for sale' sign evident.

BRIGG BLOG'S FOOTBALL PREVIEW OF GAMES TO BE PLAYED ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 1ST 2018


Brigg Town Football Club will be in cup action again this Saturday (December 1).
This time the Zebras will be away to Lincoln Moorland Railway in round three of the Lincolnshire Junior Cup (1.30pm K0).
In the EC Surfacing Ltd Scunthorpe & District Football League, Barnetby United will be hoping to improve on recent results when they journey to play bottom side Crosby Colts for a division one fixture.
Barnetby United Reserves will have home advantage against Crosby Colts Reserves in the Johnstone Insurance Nursing Cup quarter-finals. In the same competition, Briggensians host Sherpa. Both ties kick off at 1.30pm.
In division two, Hibaldstow Wanderers visit Scotter United Reserves (2pm KO).
Both teams have gained only six points so far this season to it could be a close encounter.

Thursday, November 29, 2018

NEW ALDI STORE PLANNED FOR BRIGG GAINS TOWN COUNCIL SUPPORT

A public notice about Aldi's amended store plan fixed to a post near the site that is earmarked for the development on Bridge Street, Brigg, beside the A18 - picture on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

Revised plans to build a new Aldi store in Brigg successfully passed through the first stage in the planning process on Monday night (November 26, 2018).
Consulted on the proposals from the international retailer, Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee decided it was "in support" of the application.
The next stage will see the scheme considered by North Lincolnshire Council, the local planning authority, which has the final say.
Two years ago, Aldi was given the go ahead for a new store on Bridge Street without building work getting under way.
Aldi has now submitted revised plans to increase the retail floor space of the store and amend the landscaping scheme.
Chairing the latest meeting of the Planning & Environment Committee in the Angel Suite, Coun Mike Storey said Aldi wanted to make the store slightly larger. He did not see any problem with the amended landscaping scheme.
Coun Ann Eardley hoped a pedestrian crossing might be considered to help shoppers to cross busy Bridge Street.
N.F. ADDS: Currently, the nearest traffic islands for people on foot are near the the entrance to the Waters Edge housing estate and close to the Yarborough Hunt pub. Bridge Street does not have a pelican crossing or a zebra crossing.
PICTURED: A public notice about Aldi's amended store plan fixed to a post near the site that is earmarked for the development on Bridge Street, Brigg, beside the A18.

BRIGG CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON TO FEATURE PANTO STAR ANNIE FANNY


A really big crowd of people of all ages will be attending the Christmas lights switch-on 2018 in Brigg Market Place on Friday, November 30.
There will be music of various kinds performed on the stage and a guest appearance by very popular and long-serving panto star Annie Fanny, from Scunthorpe.
He will be joining Brigg Town Mayor Coun Donald Campbell to welcome visitors to the event.
The ceremony to illuminate the town centre will culminate in the lights coming on at 5pm, following the traditional countdown.
Brigg District Lions have organised an extensive festive fair, with stalls selling a wide range of items.
Food and drink will be widely on sale across the town centre, and many shops will be staying open late to take advantage of the spending power of up to 2,000 people visiting Brigg's major spectator event of the year.
The Christmas tree is already in place near the former NatWest Bank building.
Brigg Town Council has provided the Christmas lights (all of the LED variety using less energy) and has arranged the temporary stage and entertainment.
Brigg Blog hopes to see you there on the big night!
PICTURED: Annie Fanny (Darren Johnson) performing at a previous Christmas lights switch-on in Brigg.

CASH EARMARKED FOR MORE CCTV CAMERAS IN BRIGG


Thousands of pounds are to be spent on improving CCTV surveillance in Brigg - in an effort to identify law-breakers and deter others from committing crimes.
Additional cameras are to be funded by Brigg Town Council, while North Lincolnshire Council is looking to replace another.
The Millennium Green off Elwes Street - the location of a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour - will be a priority.
During is November meeting, Brigg Town Council agreed to spend more than £4,100 on additional cameras, while the North Lincolnshire authority is to replace the existing one which surveys the car park area behind the Angel building. This is said "to be on its last legs."
Noting that there were "some problems" in areas of the town, Coun Jane Kitching said that Brigg people expected the council to improve the CCTV.

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

BRIGG ROADWORKS NEAR BUSY SUPERMARKET FROM TODAY


Drivers should be aware of roadworks coming up near a busy supermarket in Brigg from today.
From Wednesday, November 28 to Friday, November 30, there will be roadworks on Atherton Way, near the Lidl store.
Temporary traffic lights will be in place and delays for motorists are likely to result.
Work is being carried out by Anglian Water.
Between November 29 and December 3 the same utility company will be carrying out futher work at Poplar Drive, on the Springbank housing estate in Brigg, with possible delays for drivers.

TALKING SHOP: A FEW BRIGG TOWN CENTRE REFLECTIONS


Brigg Blog thinks they've done a very good job on the frontage of the Marmaris takeaway on Wrawby Street, Brigg (pictured above), including the colour scheme.
Previously painted red, this is a popular fast food outlet, opposite Wetherspoon's White Horse pub.
The woodwork surrounding the windows has received attention. But, so far, there's no sign, or lettering, in place to complete the refurbishment.
And on the subject of licensed premises, many customers enjoy sitting beside a real fire while sipping their ale, lager, gin or wine during the colder months of the year.
During a weekend visit to the Yarborough Hunt, on Bridge Street, we wondered whether toasting bread or crumpets (pikelets) on the log fire would prove popular.
Could folk take along their own, and also small butter or margarine sachets of the type available in cafes?
A toasting fork wouldn't be too difficult to source. But hot chestnuts would probably be ruled out on health and safety grounds, this being 2018!
Just days after we heard of plans for a Tourism Partnership, Brigg received an unexpected influx of football fans to splash their cash on refreshments.
The Nottingham Forest faithful came by bus on their way to watch Saturday afternoon's game at Hull City.

During Monday night's Brigg Town Council meeting, Coun Penny Smith congratulated the police for being present in the town centre and visiting pubs to ensure "order was maintained."
Incidents of cars being driven, and bikes being ridden, through Brigg's pedestrian-only area continue - despite this being ruled out by the regulations.
But we observed an unusual combination one recent evening on Wrawby Street.
A cyclist was going at some speed and being followed by a car whose driver had to travel in convoy until Cross Street.
They sped past one CCTV camera and into full view of another!

FOOD HYGIENE: FIVE PREMISES RATED IN BRIGG & DISTRICT


North Lincolnshire Council staff continue to carry out routine food hygiene inspections at premises across the area.
Five in Brigg and district have been visited and rated in recent weeks, and all have been awarded the maximum five stars - "very good."
Orchard Court Care Home, Wrawby Road, Brigg.
Holme Farm Residential Home, Church Street, Elsham.
Broughton Workingmen's Club, High Street, Broughton.
Co-op store, High Street, Broughton.
Today's Express, Franklin Way, Humberside International Airport, Kirmington.

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

ROADWORKS ON THE A18 NEW BRIGG FOR THREE DAYS


Roadworks lasting up to three days are scheduled to start near Brigg today (Tuesday, November 27).
Details were circulated to Brigg Town Council during last night's monthly meeting in the Angel Suite.
"Plane and inlay works are due to commence on the A18 Scawby Road to the mini-roundabout on 27th November," a report said.
These roadworks works are earmarked to continue until Friday (November 30) and will be carried out by Brigg company EC Surfacing.
Temporary traffic lights will be used to control traffic.
"Plane and inlay" is a common treatment used when a road surface has deteriorated beyond repair. The surface layer is mechanically removed to a set depth and a new surface applied.
On December 17, roadworks will be carried out in the Ancholme Gardens/Elwes Street area of Brigg. This will be done at night "to minimise disruption" says North Lincolnshire Council, the local highway authority.

BRIGG COUNCILLOR PUSHING FOR TOWN CENTRE & MARKET TOWN REGENERATION


Brigg councillor Rob Waltham - in his role as the Leader of North Lincolnshire Council - is attending a special event today at the House of Lords in London which involves pressing for town centre and market town regeneration.
This is clearly something that would benefit Brigg town centre.

North Lincolnshire’s Economic Growth launched in House of Lords

FROM CHRIS O'ROURKE, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL


A post-Brexit Economic Growth Plan for North Lincolnshire is being launched at a special event in London today (Tuesday 27 November 2018).
The event, hosted in the House of Lords by Baroness Redfern and Cllr Rob Waltham, will see fifty local businesses in attendance to support our vision for growing North Lincolnshire’s economy.
Local MPs and Government Ministers have also been invited to support and endorse an ambitious plan for business growth and jobs.
Currently over 100 local businesses have thrown their support behind the plan which sets out ten ideas for growth in the area.
Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: "We’re ambitious about the future of North Lincolnshire, and we recognise that by working with our businesses and the Government we can become a major contributor to the UK economy. We want more growth and higher paid jobs in our area and by developing our key sectors and improving the infrastructure we can continue to deliver for our residents.”
The ten ideas outlined in the Economic Growth Plan are:

  • Establish a free trade zone and new port on the South Humber bank
  • Grow the manufacturing and engineering supply chain hub
  • Support the growth and diversification of the Humber chemical and energy cluster
  • Improve east to west rail connectivity
  • Transform north to south road network connectivity
  • Overcome barriers to growth including improving superfast broadband coverage and 4G and 5G phone coverage
  • Expand and improve skills and employment using devolved skills budgets
  • Develop the University Campus North Lincolnshire to help increase higher level skills
  • Town centre and market town regeneration
  • Seeking recognition for the North Lincolnshire Wolds as an area of outstanding natural beauty
The Economic Growth Plan focusses on the next five years and lays the foundations for continued growth from 2023 and beyond. If fully realised, the ideas in the plan could see 14,000 new jobs created and £721m more pumped into North Lincolnshire’s economy.
Cllr Waltham continued: “Through this innovative thinking and diversifying our economy, we’re laying the foundations for sustainable jobs and a stable economy for generations to come.”

N.F. ADDS: Brigg gained from a regeneration project in the 1980s and 1990s, with grants made available to property owners to improve buildings within the town centre. Many were 'done up' as a result. The picture above of Coun Waltham is by Ken Harrison, Brigg Matters Magazine.

THE SHORTEST PUBLIC TRANSPORT RIDE IN BRIGG?


Brigg Blog wonders whether we've identified the shortest public transport journey available in the town.
This bus stop halfway down Bridge Street has a timetable advertising the bus service to Ancholme Leisure Centre - just a couple of hundred yards away.
We'll be interested to know whether they bother to charge passengers for such a short ride. And, if so, how much the fare is.
It might appear that few folk want to make such a journey.  However, the No 4 service linking Brigg and Scunthorpe sees a good number of passengers hailing the bus in Ashby and getting off a stop or two later.

RADIO & TV NOSTALGIA QUIZ NIGHT IN BRIGG


Brigg Amateur Social Historians' December 2018 meeting will offer something different as the festive season approached.
Instead of the usual illustrated talk by a guest speaker, BASH is hosting a Radio & TV Nostalgia Quiz Night.
Go along and test your knowledge at this light-hearted evening on Tuesday, December 4 at Brigg & District Servicemen's Club (from 8pm).
Admission is free - no need to book in advance - and light refreshments will be served.
A raffle will be held to help meet costs.
BASH is on the web at www.briggbash.org.uk

BRIGG CHRISTMAS EVENT WITH MINCE PIES, DRAW AND CRAFTS


There's a Christmas event coming up in Brigg town centre which features hot drinks, mince pies, games and local crafts.
They will accompany a Christmas prize draw to be made on Saturday, December 1 at St John's Church Hall, on Bigby Street.
The event will run from 11am to 2pm, with the draw taking place at 1.30pm.
It is being organised by the Brigg & District Branch of Macmillan Cancer Support.
First prize is a Love to Shop voucher worth £50, donated by Humberside Airport.
Second prize is £25 in cash, and there will be many other vouchers and prizes kindly donated by local businesses.
For further details, call 07538 327139.

Monday, November 26, 2018

CHRISTMAS FOOD DRIVE TO HELP NEEDY PEOPLE IN BRIGG & DISTRICT



A Christmas food drive to help the needy will take place in Brigg and district on Wednesday, November 28.
A team of collectors will be calling at local homes to collect donations.
They can also be left at the Fine and County/DDM Residential office on Wrawby Street, Brigg.
All items generously given will be made available to the local food bank on November 30.
"Anything you could spare will help feed those in need," say the organisers from the Fine & Country Foundation, a registered charity.
Items they are looking for include cereal, soap, pasta, tinned vegetables, sauce, tea and coffee, beans, biscuits, rice, tinned meat, tinned tomatoes and UHT milk.

A number of Brigg people have been inquiring whether there's still a food bank operating in Brigg and wondering how they can donate items.
The answer, in both cases, is yes.
Brigg Food Bank is based at St Mary's Church, on Barnard Avenue.
Call 0771 431401 or 07719 431402 or email briggfoodbank@gmail.com
Tesco stores across the country also support food banks, with generous customers making donations.
Five years ago, in October 2013, Brigg Blog reported the food bank's launch.
At the time the co-ordinator said the project needed donations of non-perishable goods, such as tinned and packaged food.

BRIGG HOTEL REFURBISHMENT COMPLETED

External picture one of the refurbished Lord Nelson Hotel in Brigg town centre, November 2018 - Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

External refurbishment has been completed at licensed premises in Brigg town centre.
The Lord Nelson Hotel - offering food, drink and accommodation - has received new signage at the front and back, pictured here, and a new colour scheme for the ground floor.
The venue is owned by the Old Mill Brewery, Snaith.
The last change to be made saw the hotel's name added above the entrance, using a serif typeface.
Internal refurbishment was undertaken some months ago at the grade two listed building within the Brigg Conservation Area.

Near to the Nelson, work continues to refurbish the Buttercross ahead of its 200th anniversary which will be celebrated in 2019.

External picture two of the refurbished Lord Nelson Hotel in Brigg town centre, November 2018 - on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog


External picture three of the refurbished Lord Nelson Hotel in Brigg town centre, November 2018 - Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

External picture four of the refurbished Lord Nelson Hotel in Brigg town centre, November 2018 - Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

POPULAR ROCKABILLY GIG IN BRIGG



Brigg people who supported the live rockabilly music gig at The Exchange on Saturday night (November 24) enjoyed themselves.
The Hayriders were very good and their show proved to be a lengthy one.
It reminded us of a notable rockabilly gig held at the Ancholme Inn seven years ago.
Some of the people who were at the Exchange on Saturday also attended that event at the Grammar School Road venue back in November 2011.
View some pictures here...

Sunday, November 25, 2018

BRIGG BLOG'S FOOTBALL ROUND-UP - SATURDAY NOVEMBER 24 2018


Brigg Town Football Club enjoyed a fine 4-0 home win over Lincoln Moorlands Railway at The Hawthorns yesterday (Saturday, November 24, 2018).
This was in the second round of the Lincolnshire Challenge Cup.
In the EC Surfacing Ltd Scunthorpe & District Football League, Barnetby United Reserves are through to the final of the Brotherhood Cup.
The players made it a day to remember for boss Marcus Davies as he completed 100 games in charge by triumphing 5-0 away to New Holland Villa.
The final performance, built on the solid foundations of a fifth clean sheet of the season by the back line, saw them set up a final with Sherpa who defeated Epworth Town Colts Blues 2-1 in the other semi-final tie.
Goals by Jake Powell and Dawid Kotwica backed up yet another hat-trick from Sylvester saw them through to the final on Thursday, March 21st at The Birkdale Stadium, Bottesford.
But Barnetby United's first teamers suffered their fourth straight defeat.
They paid for a poor start as goals by Batty and Plumtree put Limestone Rangers 2-0 up in the opening seven minutes of the division one game at Silver Street.
Barnetby finally woke up and could have been on level terms by half-time but the problem of converting chances is becoming an ongoing issue.
Hunt hit the bar if the second half but Limestone stood firm.
Our thanks go to Lee Fielden for the information about Barnetby's games.
Briggensians' division one game away to Crosby Colts was postponed, while Hibaldstow Wanderers suffered a 13-0 defeat in division two at Limestone Rangers Reserves.

COUNTING DOWN TO BRIGG CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON 2018


The Christmas lights switch-on ceremony  will be taking take place in Brigg on Friday, November 30.
We want to make this clear as an article in the latest issue of North Lincolnshire Council's newspaper, distributed free to local homes, includes a round-up of switch-ons across the district, mentioning Scunthorpe, Crowle, Barton, Winterton and Epworth, but does not give details for Brigg. 

Brigg Blog suggests that those wanting to watch the switch-on in the Market Place get there by 4.45pm at the latest.
After the lights have been lit at 5pm following the usual 5-4-3-2-1 countdown, people can visit the many stalls on the Distict Lions' Christmas Fair and visit local shops, many of which will be staying open late until 9pm for people to do their Christmas shopping.

We are pleased to learn that all the stalls have been booked.
The town centre lights for 2018 have been provided by Brigg Town Council.
We hope to see you there on the big night.
Weather permitting, there could be a couple of thousand people of all ages in the town centre.
The Christmas tills will be ringing merrily in local shops, eateries and pubs. For some it could prove one of the busiest Fridays of the year in terms of customers and takings.

Pictured above: A packed Wrawby Street after the 2017 Christmas lights switch-on, recorded by Ken Harrison, of Brigg Matters Magazine.

BRIGG SPONSORSHIP FROM 3,500 MILES AWAY


We were interested to receive a message about "the power of Brigg Blog" from the local Business Partnership, which is promoting the Tree of Light in the town centre.
We know from site statistics that our website is read by many people in far-away countries.
But it has now come to light that one of our followers in the Caribbean has been inspired to support the charity initiative.
He lives 3,500 miles away in Puerto Rico. Read the full story here...
Most of Brigg Blog's followers reside in the UK and the USA, but during the past month other top 'countries of origin' include The Ukraine, Germany, Cambodia, Australia, South Korea, France and Russia.
The statistics for all-time followers over the years we've been operating show that Spain, Portugal and Ireland are also well represented.
Brigg Blog sends best wishes to all those living abroad who like to read our content through the power of the worldwide web.
Hopefully, some of them will be inspired to pay the town a visit in the not too distant future.
Efforts are being made to boost local tourism and we'd like to play a small part in that.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR BRIGG PEOPLE TO HAVE THEIR SAY ABOUT OUR SPARSE PASSENGER TRAIN SERVICE

A passenger waiting at Brigg railway station to board a train bound for Grimsby and Cleethorpes - picture on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

A rail campaigner has drawn Brigg Blog's attention to a national survey being carried out to discover what people think of their local passenger services.
Brigg railway station only sees trains on Saturdays. However, if that wasn't bad enough, boarding a train to visit places like Sheffield, Gainsborough, Retford, Grimsby and Cleethorpes has been hit by industrial action for some time.
Brigg passengers should be pleased that the Northern company, in usual circumstances, runs trains through our town on Saturdays. We are grateful for that.
But for many years some of us who like to use this form of public transport have been calling for the introduction of trains on other days or the week.
Now, by taking part in the survey, we can make our views known.
Follow this link to find out more and take part...
The organisers of the survey want answers to the question: What's the rail service like in your area of the UK?
"We’d like you to help us document the state of train services across the UK," they say. "Share your experiences."
Plans were announced earlier this year to improve Gainsborough's train services.
So why shouldn't Brigg - and neighbouring Kirton Lindsey - get something better?
For more than 100 years, Brigg station was one of some importance on the mainline between Manchester, Sheffield and the east coast, with a meaningful service seven days a week, a booking office selling tickets to ride and waiting rooms, rather than the current 'bus shelters'.
But a gradual decline began in the late 1960s, culminating in demolition of all the buildings and the introduction of the sparse Saturdays-only timetable.
Brigg Blog welcomes new plans to create a local Tourism Partnership. But visitors to Brigg from afar need to get to the town, and a meaningful passenger service would be very helpful in making this possible.
A dozen or more tourists coming to Brigg on a train, rather than individually in their cars, would certainly benefit what the authorities call their carbon footprint.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP EVENT COMING TO BRIGG


A world championship sporting event is to be held in and near Brigg - and it will be sponsored by a local firm.
The hard-working Lincsquad group has announced details of the Keyo Brigg Bomber Quadrathlon - forming part of the 2019 World Quadrathlon Championship.
Lincsquad says that the male and female winners will be able to call themselves world champions!
The event will be held on Sunday, May 26, 2019 and will be centred on North Lincolnshire Council's Ancholme Leisure Centre at Scawby Brook.
Competitors will undertake a 1.5k swim, cover 7k in kayaks, ride 38k by bike on local roads and finish with a 10k run through Brigg.
Entries are now being via the Lincsquad website. Visit www.lincsquad.co.uk/events
The closing date for "early bird entry" is January 31.
Read more about the event through this link...


CHRISTMAS FAIR IN BRIGG TODAY


Looking for Christmas gifts for family members or friends in Brigg?
There's a Christmas Craft Fair today (Saturday, November 24) at the Servicemen's Club, Coney Court.
The event runs from noon to 4pm, and everyone is welcome.
Considerable interest is being shown in this event on social media. So a good turn-out looks likely.
Pop down and take a look before, or after, you've visited the farmers' market and done your shopping.

Friday, November 23, 2018

NOVEMBER 2018 BRIGG FARMERS' MARKET TOMORROW

A November Brigg farmers' market in the town centre - picture on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

Shoppers and stall-holders will be hoping for decent weather tomorrow (Saturday, November 24) when the penultimate Brigg Farmers' Market of 2018 is held, from 9am to mid-afternoon.
This monthly event offers an opportunity to purchase a wide range of tasty food and drink from the producers.
The Saturday general market will also be taking place in the town centre at the same time.
Remember, there's free parking available off Old Courts Road.
The final farmers' market of the year will be held pre-Christmas on Saturday, December 22.
Our picture shows a previous November farmers' market.

There will be a pancreatic cancer awareness day  tomorrow (Saturday) at Brigg Garden Centre, from 9am, the local group informs us.

LIVE MUSIC TO ENJOY IN BRIGG THIS WEEKEND


Live music will be performed at two Brigg town centre venues this weekend.
Jade will be singing hit songs from the 1960s through to the present day on Saturday night (November 24) at the Woolpack, in the Market Place. Admission is free to this gig.
Meanwhile, at the Exchange, renowned Rockabilly band call The Hayriders will be performing a Saturday night gig. Admission costs £10 - pay at the door.

BRIGG COUNCILLORS TO CONSIDER PLANS FOR BIGGER ALDI STORE IN THE TOWN


Brigg Town Council is about to consider proposals for a larger Aldi store to be built off Bridge Street.
Aldi, which was granted planning permission two years ago but has yet to start construction, is now seeking approval to construct a slightly larger store.
This application will be considered in due course by North Lincolnshire Council, which has the final say as the local planning authority.
But first there's a period of consultation, with Brigg Town Council getting the chance to comment, if it wishes, during a Planning & Environment Committee meeting  on Monday (November 26).
This will start at 6.45pm in the Angel Suite and is open to interested members of the public.
Also on the agenda is a proposal from Lincolnshire County Council to introduce a new 40mph speed limit along Bigby High Road beyond Brigg Garden Centre.

AGENDA/BUSINESS TO BE TRANSACTED
1.    To Receive apologies and Approve reasons for absence.
2.    (a)  To record declarations of interest by any member of the council in respect of the agenda items listed below. 
        (b)  To note dispensations given to any member of the council in respect of agenda items listed below.
3.    TO RECEIVE AND APPROVE THE MINUTES, AS CIRCULATED, OF THE COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 22 October 2018.
4.    To Receive any general correspondence.

  • Public comments regarding PA/2005/1206, 40 Bigby Street – passed to NLC (North Lincolnshire Council) Officer.
  • Premises Licence – Dying Gladiator – response from NLC
5.    a)    To Receive and Note any Applications for Market Consent
       b)    To Receive and Consider any Applications for a Grant or Variation of Premises Licence.
6.    To Receive the update on outstanding issues from the Clerk
7.    a) TO CONSIDER ANY PLANNING APPLICATIONS RECEIVED, INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONAL PLANS PUBLICISED BUT RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS CIRCULATED:   

  • Introduction of new speed limits on A1084, Brigg to Caistor
  • Planning permission to vary condition 2 and 10 of planning permission PA/2016/995 namely to increase the retail floor space of the store and to amend landscaping scheme at Aldi Stores Ltd, Bridge Street, Brigg, DN20 8NF
  • Advertisement consent to display sign at Riverside Surgery, 50 Barnard Avenue, Brigg, DN20 8AS
  • Planning permission for nine sheltered accommodation units and warden's flat, extension to front of building to provide nine additional bedrooms and provision of a turning area at Abbey Village Care Home, Wrawby Street, Brigg, DN20 8BP
b) TO NOTE THE DECISIONS RECEIVED FROM NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL REGARDING PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS

PICTURED ABOVE: An artist's impression of Brigg's proposed Aldi store.

BRIGG TOWN BIDDING TO MAKE ROUND THREE OF THE CUP


Brigg Town Football Club host Lincoln Moorlands Railway on Saturday, November 24.
Kick-off at the Hawthorns for this Lincolnshire Challenge Cup second round tie will be 2.30pm.
In the EC Surfacing Ltd Scunthorpe & District Football League first division, Barnetby United entertain Limestone Rangers at Silver Street, while Briggensians visit Crosby Colts (both games kick off at 2pm).
Barnetby United Reserves will be bidding to reach a cup final. The Railwaymen are away to New Holland Villa in a Tortank Barton Brotherhood Cup semi-final on Saturday (1.30pm KO).
In division two, Hibaldstow Wanderers journey to Limestone Rangers Reserves (2pm).
Last Saturday (November 17) Barnetby United lost 1-0 at home to The Butchers Arms.
Seen here are some pictures from that division one clash, courtesy of Lee Fielden.
Lee says an errant back pass on 10 minutes proved the decisive moment in an entertaining and hard-fought game as The Butchers Arms claimed all three points at Silver Street.
Barnetby could have been in front before then, though, as Ben Hunt's left-footed effort was tipped on to the post by the keeper.
Both sides traded blows with defences coming out on top.
Glentworth had a glorious chance to equalise in the second half, and as Barnetby pressed The Butchers had opportunities to seal the game but didn’t take them.




Thursday, November 22, 2018

LOWER SPEED LIMIT PLANNED JUST OUTSIDE BRIGG


Important proposals are in hand to change the speed limit on a busy approach road to Brigg.
The suggested changes come from Lincolnshire County Council, following what it calls a comprehensive study.
One of the aims is to reduce the speed of traffic along the A1084 Bigby High Road at the turn-off/entrance to the new housing development and outside Brigg Garden Centre.
This will be achieved by cutting the speed limit to 40mph.
The maximum speed permitted between the Kettleby railway bridge and Caistor, via Grasby Top, will also be reduced to 50mph under the proposals.
Here's what's planned, as outlined by the county council:

  • The introduction of a 40mph speed limit from the current 30mph speed limit in Brigg eastwards beyond Brigg Garden Centre.
  • A new 50mph speed limit that will extend from the existing 50mph speed limit east of the railway line to the end of the proposed 40mph speed limit north of Caistor.
  • An extension of the existing 40mph speed limit in Caistor northwards to the end of the present 50mph speed limit.
Brigg Town Council has been informed by the neighbouring highway authority, and December 14 set as the deadline for comments on these proposals.
On a number of occasions in the past, Brigg Blog has suggested road safety improvements for the stretch of road near Brigg Garden Centre and the new housing development.
A couple of weeks ago we walked to and from the popular centre to do some shopping and this reminded us of the potential difficulties faced by pedestrians crossing the road with vehicles approaching at speed.
We'd have welcomed a pelican crossing or even a traffic island, but a reduced speed limit to 40mph is definitely a step in the right direction.
The lower limit will also help drivers exiting Brigg Garden Centre.
So we see this as a positive and welcome move by Lincolnshire County Council.
Bigby High Road at this point falls within the area covered by the Lincolnshire authority, being beyond the border with North Lincolnshire.

ISSUE OF BANKING IN BRIGG TO BE RAISED BY COUNCILLOR

A 'for sale' sign on the now-closed NatWest Bank in Brigg in 2018 - picture on Nigel Fisher''s Brigg Blog

Banking in Brigg is a topic to be considered at a Town Council meeting next week.
Coun Ann Eardley, a former Town Mayor, is raising the issue.
The town has seen the closure of its NatWest, pictured above, and HSBC branches, while Lloyd's, on Wrawby Street, recently switched to being 'counter free'.
Meanwhile, Coun Jane Kitching is to draw attention to maintenance of buildings within the Conservation Area.
Brigg Town Council meets on Monday (November 26) in the Angel Suite, from 7.15pm. This session is open to interested members of the public wishing to attend.

BUSINESS TO BE TRANSACTED
1. To Receive Apologies and to Approve Reasons for Absence.
2. a) To Consider the suspension of the Meeting for the Purpose of Prayer.
    b) To Resolve that Standing Orders be reinstated
3. a)  To Record any Declarations of Interest by any member of the council in respect of the agenda items listed below. 
    b)  To note any dispensations given to any member of the council in respect of the Agenda Items listed below.
4.   Police Matters - Police and Crime Commissioner
5.    To receive any correspondence (for information only).
6.    To receive the update on any outstanding issues from the clerk.
7.    Public Question Time
8.    To Receive any Questions from Members.

  •     Cllr Eardley – Banking in Brigg
  •     Cllr Kitching – Maintenance of buildings in the Conservation Area
9.    To Receive a report from the North Lincolnshire Ward Councillors.
10.   MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS.
         i. To approve the minutes of Full Council - Monday 22 October 2018
         ii. To note the minutes of Planning Committee -    Monday 22 October 2018
11.   To receive reports from members delegated to serve on outside bodies and working groups.

  • Masterplan and Arches
  • Millennium Green and Holocaust Memorial
  • Angel Suite Review (see below – item 12)
  • Brigg in Bloom 
  • Litter Picking Group
12.    TO AGREE THE RECOMMENDATION FROM THE ANGEL SUITE REVIEW GROUP THAT
    a) the scale of charges for bookings for the Angel Suite not be amended,
    b) consideration be given to the Monday community group fees be increased by a minimal amount to reduce the level of subsidy required.

13.   GRANT APPLICATIONS
    a) To Determine the Grant Application from the Brigg Town Business Partnership for the Festival of Trees 2018.
    b) To Determine the Grant Application from the Brigg Methodist Church for a Performance of ‘The Gift’.
14.    TO AGREE THAT FURTHER TO THE VACANCY THAT HAS ARISEN ON THE COUNCIL, NO CO-OPTION BE IMPLEMENTED GIVEN THE PROXIMITY OF THE NEXT ELECTION.
15.    ALLOTMENTS UPDATE
    i)    Redcombe Lane – fully occupied, no issues to report
    ii)   Grammar School Road – Eight plots now vacant, three of which are unworkable.  Two have recently had tenancies terminated due to lack of maintenance.
    iii)  Feedback from the meeting held on 13 November 2018, and to note that a further meeting be proposed for January 2019.
16.    ACCOUNTS AND AUDIT
a)   To Receive the following Financial Reports as at 30 October 2018, and Approve the Accounts for Payment as listed in the Appendix for Full Council and the Angel Suite, and Bank Reconciliations for each.

  • Full Council Accounts and petty cash payments
  • Angel Suite Accounts and petty cash payments
17.     TO RECEIVE THE CCTV COST ESTIMATES FROM THE NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL WARD COUNCILLORS AND DECIDE WHETHER TO PROGRESS THE MATTER AND HOW TO FUND.

ROCKABILLY MUSIC GIG IN BRIGG THIS WEEKEND



There's still time to book tickets to enjoy a Rockabilly Band perform in Brigg this weekend.
The Hayriders will be at the Exchange Hotel on Saturday night, November 24.
Pedestrian access is from either Wrawby Street (through the archway) or Bigby Street.
Tickets costing £10 can be booked in advance at the venue or you can pay on the door.
The Hayriders say their offer "Rockabilly at its Best."
Read more about them here...

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

MORE REVEALED ABOUT THE BIGGER ALDI STORE PLANNED IN BRIGG


Further information has been revealed about the bigger Aldi store now planned for Bridge Street, Brigg.
The retailer is asking North Lincolnshire Council to approve a five per cent increase in floor space - two years after the original scheme was approved.
The company says: "The revisions sought effectively bring the consented store in line with the latest company business model and ensure the store is able to operate as efficiently and effectively as possible upon trading.
"Aldi remains 100% committed to the site, and the revisions sought are needed to ensure the development is able to come forward and provide long term benefit to the community."
Aldi adds: "The larger floor plate will allow for gains and improved efficiencies compared to the previously approved floor plan."
North Lincolnshire Council is now considering the application.
The local authority has set a "consultation period" which will end on December 20.
Brigg Town Council will have an opportunity to comment at the forthcoming November meeting of its Planning & Environment Committee.

BRIGG CARE FACILITY KEEN TO EXPAND AND CREATE 10 NEW JOBS

Abbey Village Care Home on Wrawby Road, Brigg, in  2018

A Brigg care home is looking to expand by adding extra accommodation. And the scheme will mean the creation of 10 new jobs.
Abbey Village, located near the Monument where Wrawby Street meets Wrawby Road, is seeking approval to add nine sheltered accommodation units and warden's flat, add an extension to the front of building to provide nine additional bedrooms and provide a turning area. That adds up to 19 new rooms.
North Lincolnshire Council is now considering the application.
If it is successful, and the extra accommodation is added, the number of full-time jobs at Abbey Village will rise from 39 to 49.

NEW BRIGG MEMORIAL CAN NOW BE ERECTED

The Millennium Green in Brigg - pictured on Nigel Fisher's Brigg Blog

A new Holocaust Memorial sculpture in Brigg has received the go ahead.
North Lincolnshire Council planners have given approval for the structure to be erected.
The location will be the Millennium Green, pictured above, between Elwes Street and the Old River Ancholme.
The sculpture will be made from Corten steel and has been designed by a student from Sir John Nelthorpe School, who won a local competition relating to the project.
A report prepared by North Lincolnshire Council planning staff said: "The sculpture is situated away from the boundaries of the site, and therefore will not have a detrimental impact on the  amenities of nearby residents. No adverse comments have been received as a result of publicity for the application."
Brigg Town Council is among local authorities which remember Holocaust victims with a poignant ceremony held at dusk every January.
The town's first Holocaust Memorial was erected many years ago within the town centre's Angel building.

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

ALDI WANTS PLANNED NEW STORE IN BRIGG TO BE BIGGER


Aldi is not only going to create a new store in Brigg in the near future, but it wants to make it BIGGER!
The international value-for-money retailer was granted planning permission for a store off Bridge Street two years ago, since when there has been no sign of building work getting under way.
However, Aldi has now submitted an application to North Lincolnshire Council to enlarge the size of the store.
It wants to increase the retail floor space and amend the approved landscaping scheme.
Aldi says the revised floor space will create a better shopping experience for its customers through the creation of wider aisles, deeper shelves and more circulation space.
North Lincolnshire Council is now considering this application.
When Aldi will be starting work on its Brigg store has been a main talking point in the town for the past two years.
Now, it seems, the shoppers' wait is almost over.

PICTURED: An artist's impression of the Brigg store issued by Aldi with its original application.

BRIGG TO BENEFIT FROM NEW TOURISM PARTNERSHIP

Brigg Marina  chalets for tourists

Brigg stands to benefit from the formation of a Tourism Partnership to attract more visitors to the town and the area.
There's a launch event coming up locally next week, and we are very keen to see how much interest this generates.
Brigg hotels, pubs, eateries and bed and breakfast outlets stand to benefit, together with town shops large and small.
Brigg Blog suggests that guided tours of Brigg would help tourists/visitors to see what's on offer.
Brigg Marina, pictured above, off Mill Lane, will be fully up and running in 2019, and most visitors will want to call at Brigg Garden Centre.
The landmark Buttercross will also be celebrating its 200th anniversary next year, and houses our award-winning Tourist Information Centre.
Perhaps the Partnership can be used as a springboard to generate new interest in Brigg's Thursday and Saturday general markets and get more stalls to restore it to former significant levels of occupancy.
Wrawby Mill is an obvious visitor attraction, along with riverside walks and cycle rides along the Ancholme Valley Way.
Sport is also included in the plan. So how about including Brigg Town Football Club Saturday home games on the list of things visitors might like to try?
They can also be encouraged to call at Ancholme Leisure Centre for a swim or a work-out.

Help us shape the future of tourism in North Lincolnshire

FROM CHRIS O'ROURKE, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

Visit North Lincolnshire are looking for tourism businesses across our area to come together and work in partnership to make North Lincolnshire the best place to visit.
We want to launch a Tourism Partnership to create a thriving visitor economy, enhance the visitor experience and maximise visitor numbers, increasing spend and the number of overnight stays in our area.
Prior to launching the partnership, the Visit North Lincolnshire team are hosting an engagement event with local tourism businesses at Forest Pines Spa and Golf Resort (Broughton) on Wednesday 28 November from 1.30pm to 5pm.
The engagement event is a chance for businesses to discover more about the proposed Tourism Partnership and have your say on how it develops.
At the event, we will look at how we can create better relationships, develop tools and intelligence for managing and growing our visitor economy, and develop the North Lincolnshire brand.
If you own or manage:
An attraction;
A hotel or guest house;
A caravan and camping site;
A restaurant, café or tearoom;
A sporting venue;
A transport company;
A wedding or conference venue;
Or you are an event organiser
We want you to come along!
Cllr Elaine Marper, cabinet member responsible for tourism on North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Tourism Partnership will support the visitor sector in North Lincolnshire and help local businesses reach their full potential. This event is a chance for businesses of all different types across our area to get involved from the start, prior to the launch of the partnership.
“We want your input and feedback to ensure we create a valuable and beneficial partnership that works for all its members. By working together we can work towards a common strategy that will boost visitor numbers across North Lincolnshire.”
Sally Walker, owner of the Pink Pig Farm in Holme, threw her support behind the partnership idea.
She said: “The obvious benefit of a tourism partnership scheme is being able to promote North Lincolnshire together – both the council and independent businesses – as a tourist destination, in addition to the creation of a network of like-minded businesses that can come together to drive more people to our attractions and overnight accommodation”.
At the event, Hayley Toyne from Visit Lincoln will also be talking about their exciting new Cycle England scheme. Visit Lincolnshire and Welcome to Yorkshire have secured £1m of funding for a project which will create new bookable cycling packages. Cycle England is offering grants of up to £15,000 to support businesses to enhance their facilities and offer more to visiting cyclists.
The engagement event is free to attend. Registration will be 1.30pm for a 2pm start. To book a place go to www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘North Lincolnshire Tourism Partnership’.
If you have any questions about this event, please contact one of our team on tourism@northlincs.gov.uk or by calling 01724 297496.

WELL-KNOWN BRIGG FIRM'S EXTENSION GETS THE GO-AHEAD



Well-known and long-established Brigg company Thomas Bell & Sons Ltd has been granted planning permission for a single storey extension to its existing offices off Bigby Road, near the level crossing on the A1084.
The firm says this will provide an additional boardroom and extended kitchen due to continued expansion of the business.
North Lincolnshire Council approved the firm's plans.

A report prepared by council staff said: "In terms of appearance the proposal would make minimal impact upon the street scene.  The extension would be proportionate in both  scale and massing to that of the existing building whilst materials proposed are to match those already on the host building."

Monday, November 19, 2018

ROADWORKS AT BUSY LOCATION IN BRIGG TODAY AND TOMORROW


A well-used road in Brigg is to see roadworks over two days, with drivers being advised that delays are possible.
Temporary traffic lights will control traffic while work it carried out for BT, the telecommunications company, on Monday and Tuesday, November 19 and 20.
A pole is to be replaced on Grammar School Road, near the entrance to the former Vale Academy buildings.
Drivers heading for, or leaving, the Springbank housing estate may be affected by these roadworks.

Sunday, November 18, 2018

CAFE JAZZ EVENING TO ENJOY IN BRIGG


There's a cafe jazz evening coming up at a Brigg venue.
Enjoy an evening of poetry and jazz, featuring the talents of Steve Meek, Josie Moon and Pat McCarthy.
It will take place at the Steel Rooms - on the corner of Spring's Parade and the Market Place - on Saturday, December 1, from 7pm to 9.30pm.
Tickets cost £12.50p, including food, and a a licensed bar will be available.
Call at the Steel Rooms for further information and tickets or call 01652 657256.
Find out more about the Steel Rooms by visiting www.gallerysteelrooms.com

BRIGG OPERATIC'S ANNUAL SHOW OPENS ON TUESDAY


Brigg Amateur Operatic Society's autumn 2018 production opens on Tuesday night.
The cast and behind-the-scenes staff will be presenting The Sound of Music at the Plowright Theatre, on Laneham Street, Scunthorpe, from November 20 to 24.
For tickets, visit the venue - named after Brigg actress Dame Joan Plowright (Lady Olivier) - or call the Box Office on 0844 8542776.  They range in price from £10 to £12.
The society was founded in 1903 - making its one of the town's oldest groups.
Shows were performed at the Corn Exchange and later at Vale of Ancholme School (The Vale Academy) but now take place at The Plowright, formerly Scunthorpe Civic Theatre.

Saturday, November 17, 2018

SPECIAL YEAR COMING UP FOR BRIGG SCHOOL AND EX-PUPILS


A detailed and colourful PDF format newsletter is compiled every year - containing news about former Brigg school pupils and staff - and is emailed around the world to people now living far away from the town, as well as those still in our district.
David Brittain, retired headteacher of Sir John Nelthorpe School, collates items for inclusion and is now welcoming pictures and reports for the 2019 edition, to be published in the New Year.
Contributions for the Briggensians' 2019 Newsletter can be emailed to dave.brittain@talktalk.net
The Briggensians' Association serves those who attended or taught at Brigg Grammar School, Brigg Girls' High School, Sir John Nelthorpe School and the Brigg Sixth Form.
David says 2019 will be a special year for all past students, as it marks the 350-year anniversary of the founding of Brigg Grammar School and 100 years since the creation of the Girls' High School.
The association will be holding its next Annual Dinner at Elsham Golf Club on Saturday, 16th March 2019. Booking details will be included in the 2019 Newsletter and publicised well in advance on Brigg Blog.
Sir John Nelthorpe School will holding special celebrations in the summer term and the project Our Place in Time will be the centrepiece.
It will involve remodelling the original schoolroom and upgrading the Music and Drama suite on the Grammar School Road site.

Read more about this ambitious project here... 
PICTURED: The outside of part of the original schoolroom, nearest the camera.  New wooden doors were installed in the entrance (centre) in 1969 to mark the 300th anniversary of the school being founded through a generous bequest in Sir John Nelthorp's will. This original part of today's Sir John Nelthorpe School is the only grade one listed building in Brigg.
 

AWARD-WINNING SINGER PERFORMING IN THE BRIGG AREA


Award-winning Canadian singer Rebecca Perry who will be performing at an event in the Brigg area on Sunday, November 18.
She will be in ‘From Judy to Bette – The Stars of Hollywood’ at Worlaby Village Hall tomorrow. The show starts at 7.30pm. For tickets, call 01652 618832.
Perry, who will be coming over from Toronto to tour as part of LiveLincs autumn season, delves into the glitzy world of Judy Garland, Bette Davis, Lucille Ball and Betty Hutton; trailblazers who refused to be ‘just another ingénue’ during the golden age of cinema.
Perry, who has won numerous awards for her work, puts their work under the microscope in an evening of scandalous headlines and melodies. 

Her skill as an actress enables her to fully inhabit each character in a spellbinding performance enabling her audience to gain a deeper understanding of both their work and achievements.
The show is one of the highlights of the LiveLincs autumn season.

With thanks to North Lincolnshire Council for permission to use the picture of Rebecca.