EARLY ARRIVALS FOR BRIGG HORSE FAIR 2019

Some members of the gypsy/traveller community arrived in the town last week to ensure a good parking spot and vantage point for Brigg Horse Fair 2019.
The annual event is coming up on Monday, August 5 on an area of land near the railway station on Station Road, starting around 9.30am and continuing into the afternoon.
There's no admission charge and hundreds of people of all ages will be attending.
Some 900 people have read Brigg Blog's horse fair preview feature over the past seven days, with more to follow between now and Monday, no doubt.
View our Brigg Horse Fair 2019 preview here...
We have this preview 'pinned' in a prominent spot on our home page for the benefit of those who still read Brigg Blog in the traditional 'website' way, rather than through the 'mobile' version available automatically to those with smart phones.
Today we feature a few pictures taken at last year's horse fair.

THE BIRCHES IN BRIGG HOSTS SPORTS DAY WITH TRADITIONAL GAMES

The Birches care home, on Grammar School Road, Brigg, held a sports day to coincide with Learning Disabilities Awareness Week.
Anna Page, the Birches' activities co-ordinator, tell us that "old school" traditional sports/games were held, including egg and spoon, bean bag throwing and a sack race.
Residents, team members and guests all took part in the races.
The Mayor of North Lincolnshire, Coun Jonathan Evison, from Barton, attended and participated in some of the races.
The weather was extremely kind to The Birches all day, with the sun shining brightly.
A BBQ lunch was served, featuring hot dog and burgers.
Brigg Blog's thanks go to Anna for the report and pictures.

North Lincolnshire Mayor Coun Jonathan Evison at The Birches.

TIME TO NOMINATE VOLUNTEERS FROM BRIGG AREA FOR COMMUNITY AWARDS 2019

Now is the time to nominate volunteers you know from Brigg and the surround area for North Lincolnshire's Community Awards 2019.
There are various categories and the closing date is September 30.

FROM KIRSTY WESTFIELD, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

North Lincolnshire Council is looking for worthy volunteers to be recognised at this year’s Community Champion Awards.
Now in its eighth year, the awards ceremony is taking place on Thursday 28 November 2019 to recognise unsung heroes in North Lincolnshire communities.
Do you know someone who deserves an award for the time they have dedicated for volunteering?
There are three awards up for grabs in the volunteer category (sponsored by Britcon UK):
Young Volunteer of the Year (sponsored by Britcon UK)
Nominate a young person who either on their own or with adult support volunteers their times to help improve people’s lives and local communities. 
Adult Male Volunteer of the Year (sponsored by Ongo)
Nominate an individual who is committed to volunteering their time to improve the lives of individuals and/or communities.
Adult Female Volunteer of the Year (sponsored by Ongo)
Nominate an individual who is committed to volunteering their time to improve the lives of individuals and/or communities.
Nominate your Community Champions online at www.northlincs.gov.uk/champion, where you can also find out more details.
If you are not able to nominate online, call 01724 297270 during office hours or email community.recreation@northlincs.gov.uk for a form.
The closing date for nominations is 30 September 2019.

Coun John Briggs, from the Isle of Axholme, during a visit to Brigg's Angel Suite for a charity event.

Cllr John Briggs, Chair of the Community Champions Award Committee, said: “With around two months to go until the nominations deadline on 30 September, I’m encouraging residents in North Lincolnshire to nominate unsung heroes in our communities.
“There are many individuals and groups making differences in our communities and they should be recognised for this.
“Do you know a young person or adult who is committed to volunteering, whether that is improving the lives of individuals or communities? Please nominate them for a 2019 Community Champion Award.”
Derek Cartwright, winner of Adult Male Volunteer of the Year Award 2018, has raised thousands of pounds doing sponsored swims.
He said: “It’s in aid of Brake [the road safety charity], which is in memory of Paige Collier who died in a tragic car crash. She was a very good friend to me so that’s why I wanted to do something in her memory.”
Jaden Miall, winner of the Young Volunteer of the Year Award 2018, said: “We picked up litter around our local community. It’s been amazing and I’m really happy that I got the award.”
NF adds: Derek Cartwright, from Scunthorpe, sometimes pops into Brigg's Yarborough Hunt on Saturdays. He was a colleague of ours at the Telegraph newspaper for many years.

BRIGG SIGN SENDS OUT TWO MESSAGES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

Attending to the state of this cobbled area in Brigg town centre was revealed during Brigg Town Council's July meeting, the issue having been raised at a previous session in June.
The cobbles were described as uneven and in need a tidy up.
It's interesting to see in our picture above that the Brigg in Bloom flower tub benefits from some free advertising courtesy of Brigg Beds - the local business whose premises are just a few yards away.
For Brigg Beds' temporary prop-up sign also points to the flower beds beyond, if viewed end on from outside the Kebabish takeway.
While the council is attending to the cobbles, could something also be done about the wonky school sign?
We flagged this up as being in need of attention back in August 2016.
Someone in authority has since arranged for removal of the cracked, yellow fire hydrant stone that used to stand here (see picture below) without yet installing a replacement.
However, the road sign informing drivers that they are approaching Demeter House School still needs a new pole to replace the one that has been tilting for many months.
We wonder if a vehicle might have clipped the pole and the hydrant stone, resulting in this damage.
Brigg in Bloom flower displays across the town are being admired by many visitors. And not just for their appearance. We've seen some people stopping by the tubs to sniff the fragrance given off by the flowers!

The same view in August 2016 with the damaged fire hydrant stone still evident (since removed).

BRIGG COUNCILLOR WELCOMES CABINET MINISTER TO SCUNTHORPE FOR BRITISH STEEL TALKS

The continuing efforts being made to secure the future of Scunthorpe steelworks were stressed during Brigg Town Council's latest meeting held last week in the Angel Suite.
Coun Rob Waltham gave an update to fellow town councillors in his role as the leader of North Lincolnshire Council.
Yesterday (Monday, July 29) he welcomed a visit to Scunthorpe steelworks made by a cabinet minister - for British Steel talks.
Coun Waltham met with the Government’s new Business Secretary, Andrea Leadsom, at the steelworks, as part of the British Steel Support Group, and discussed the future of the UK’s steel industry.
Coun Waltham said: “It is a clear sign of commitment from the Government to steelmaking in North Lincolnshire that the new minister has visited Scunthorpe’s plant just three days into her new job.
“In this worrying time for many local families, Andrea Leadsom has reaffirmed that the Government is working to securing a future for the steel industry in Scunthorpe.
“We have a proud history of making some of the highest quality steel in the world, right here in Scunthorpe, and we’re doing all we can to ensure that this continues – for the families that rely on their jobs at the works, for the town, and for the area.”
Andrea Leadsom was appointed the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy by the new Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, on July 24.
A spokesman for North Lincolnshire Council added: "The Official Receiver took over the day-to-day running of the British Steel site in Scunthorpe in May this year, continuing the usual operations of the plant – including paying employees – whilst a buyer for the business is sought."
Hundreds of current steelworkers live in Brigg and the surrounding area, which also has a huge number of steelworks pensioners.
 
PICTURED: Coun Rob Waltham, from Brigg, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, meeting with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Andrea Leadsom, in Scunthorpe. Picture credit: North Lincolnshire Council.

ROYAL EXPERT COMING TO BRIGG

A royal expert is coming to Brigg as celebrations continue for the 200th anniversary of the landmark Buttercross in the town centre.
Tracy Borman, who makes TV and media appearances, is to give a talk on Tuesday, September 3 (7pm for 7.30pm).
It will be about her major new biography, Henry VIII and the Men Who Made Him.
Tracy is the joint chief curator for Historic Royal Palaces - the charity that manages Hampton Court, the Tower of London, Kensington Palace and Whitehall.
Brigg Heritage Centre is organising the Lincoln-born historian's event at the Buttercross.
Tickets costing £10 are available from the Heritage Centre (in the Angel building) and from the Tourist Information Centre at the Buttercross.
Alternatively, call 01724 296771. Read more about Tracy Borman here....
We gather that copies of Tracy's books will be available on the night, with the chance to get them signed by the author.

NEW BRIGG LITTER BINS MIGHT BENEFIT FROM 1950s INITIATIVE

Things often turn full circle and Brigg Blog wonders whether this could now apply to litter collection.
We have just chanced upon an old picture taken on Wrawby Street, near the White Horse pub, one sunny August day in the 1950s.
A section of it is reproduced above, suggesting that a local company was then sponsoring litter bins within the town centre.
George Layne & Company operated a large garage on Bigby Street - selling, servicing and repairing cars, vans and lorries. It was a major Brigg employer for much of the 20th century until 1971.
If litter bins could be sponsored in the 1950s when Brigg Urban District Council was running the town, is it possible to set up something similar today?
Brigg Town Council, founded in 1974, is currently in the process of providing additional bins of various sizes to be erected at key locations.
We've seen welcome sponsorship of some flower beds on roundabouts across North Lincolnshire in recent years. So how about trying to find one, or more, sponsors for the new Brigg bins?
This would help to reduce the overall cost to the public purse, which is always welcome.
Perhaps someone will think a trip down memory LAYNE is worth considering.

IT'S A WASHOUT FOR BRIGG CRICKETERS

Heavy rain resulted in the cancellation of Brigg Town Cricket Club's scheduled home game at the Recreation Ground.
Town were due to host bottom-of-the-table Cleethorpes 4ths in Lincolnshire County Cricket League Division Three.
Both teams have been awarded five points, in accordance with league rules, re-arrangements not being permitted.
Brigg remain fourth in the standings with five matches remaining before the season concludes in mid-September.
Due to the wet weather, not a single ball was bowled on Saturday in 18 scheduled games across the competition's five divisions.
This coming Saturday (August 3) Brigg find themselves without a fixture.
Town's next outing comes on Saturday, August 10 when they host mid-table Outcasts 2nds at the Recreation Ground. Hopefully sunny weather will have returned by then.

LINCOLNSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET LEAGUE
(Sponsored by Readers)
RESULTS - SATURDAY, JULY 27
Division Two
Old Lincolnians conceded the game to Grimsby Town 2nds

Division Four
Louth 3rds conceded to East Halton
Due to heavy rain, no play was possible in the 16 other scheduled fixtures across five divisions.

FIXTURES - SATURDAY, AUGUST 3
Premier Division
Cherry Willingham v Scothern
Cleethorpes 2nds v Lindum 2nds
Grimsby Town v Hartsholme
Haxey v Bracebridge Heath 2nds
Nettleham v Caistor

Division One
Alkborough v Appleby-Frodingham 2nds
Broughton v Barton Town
Messingham v Holton-le-Clay
Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Outcasts

Division Two
Hartsholme 2nds v Grimsby Town 2nds
Hibaldstow v Cleethorpes 3rds
Market Rasen 2nds v Holton-le-Clay 2nds
Old Lincolnians v Clee Town Laportes

Division Three
Lindum 3rds v Broughton 2nds
Outcasts 2nds v Nettleham 2nds
Barton Town 2nds v Haxey 2nds

Division Four
Alford 2nds v Scunthorpe Town 3rds
Premier Division games begin at 1pm; matches in all other sections start at 1.30pm.

BRIGG CRIME FIGURES FOR JUNE 2019

Latest monthly crime figures have been released for Brigg - covering the area within a one-mile radius of the town centre which takes in some parts of neighbouring parishes.
The crime 'stats' have been made available through www.police.uk
They show a sizeable reduction during June - 48 offences compared to 59 in May.

JUNE 2019 BRIGG CRIME CATEGORIES
Anti-social behaviour 6
Bicycle theft 0
Burglary 0
Criminal damage and arson 1
Drugs 0
Other crime  2
Other theft 4
Possession of weapons 0
Public order 5
Robbery 0
Shoplifting 6
Theft from the person 0
Vehicle crime 2
Violence and sexual offences 22

Ten of the 48 reported crimes took place within the town centre, eight on/near Bridge Street, with seven others on the Springbank housing estate.

NEW BRIGG EXHIBITION CELEBRATING 350TH ANNIVERSARY

A new exhibition now open at Brigg Heritage Centre traces the proud history of Sir John Nelthorpe School back to the 17th century.
This is bound to generate major interest as thousands of people were educated at SJN and its forerunners, Brigg Grammar School and Brigg Girls' High School.
Our Place in Time 1669-2019 sees the Heritage Centre, the school, volunteers and ex-pupils combining to celebrate 350 years' education through the exhibition.
Opening hours at the centre are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10am to 2pm, plus 10am to 3pm on Saturdays.
Pop in over the coming weeks and take a look; admission is free - donations accepted if you want to show your appreciation.
Sir John Nelthorpe left a legacy on his death in 1669 to provide a free school in Brigg, later known as the boys' grammar school.
Brigg Girls' High School opened in 1919, making this its centenary year. Originally it used town centre buildings, moving to Wrawby Road in the 1930s.
Sir John Nelthorpe School was formed in 1976 - a comprehensive using the former grammar and high school sites.
The original Brigg schoolroom, off Grammar School Road, is still in use today and is the town's only grade one listed building.
PICTURED: A portrait of Sir John Nelthorpe - familiar to generations of pupils from their school days in Brigg. He looked down on many an assembly from his lofty perch on the wall near the entrance to the original schoolroom. As the old Brigg Grammar School song says: "Our founder gave broad acres to open wide the door of learning's mystic temple to every devotee." He left lands to provide rental income and decreed that learning should be gratis (free) to make it available to a wide range of youngsters. Does this suggest he would have supported comprehensive education in our era?

PUBLIC AND COUNCILLORS WORKING TOGETHER FOR BRIGG

Brigg has seen an interesting development in local democracy over recent months.
We have groups attended by elected councillors AND members of the public to discuss a range of topics.
Brigg in Bloom - providing colourful flowers - led the way and is now overseen by a committee of volunteers, some of whom are councillors.
Brigg Town Council's Environmental Development Working Group - made up of councillors and members of the public - deals with some topics once considered by a couple of council committees until these were disbanded.
Having received the agenda, Brigg Blog decided to sit in on the working group's latest meeting, in the Angel Suite, which followed the Town Council's July meeting.
It was the first time we'd attended one of these, and it provided plenty of interest.
Seven town councillors were listed as serving on this group and were joined by "invitees" - people with detailed knowledge of particular topics under consideration.
Those invited along to the latest session included two members/officials of the Brigg Town Business Partnership, the proprietors of a local shop, an officer from North Lincolnshire Council Tourism and the manager of Brigg Heritage Centre.
Items discussed included new Information Boards aimed at visitors to Brigg, provision of a new mechanical street sweeper, and involving local schools in a project for Holocaust Memorial Day in January.
The street sweeper is still under consideration with further information expected at the group's next meeting, while the Holocaust project will get under way after classes resume in September following the summer holiday.
Other than the solitary agenda item called Public Question Time, members of the public are not permitted to speak during council or committee meetings - unless the authority votes to temporarily suspend its rules (known as standing orders) so this can happen.
However, from what we observed at the latest working group meeting, verbal input from non-councillors is very welcome.
Chris Darlington, Debs Dunderdale and Robert Jackson had as much to say as elected representatives on some of the agenda items.
Working groups differ from council committees in not having decision-making powers.
Instead, they discuss issues, sort out the fine detail and make recommendations to Brigg Town Council, to be considered (and voted on) at one of its monthly meetings.
Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee continues to discuss planning applications as it has for many years, and there is also a Personnel Committee which resolves to exclude the press and public due to the confidential nature of (staffing) items to be discussed.
Those apart, all the remaining business is dealt with by Brigg Town Council during its monthly meetings.
Back in the 1980s, Glanford Borough Council had a sub-committee that addressed highways and road safety, meeting every sixth week in the ornate council chamber at Hewson House.
Borough councillors were joined by road safety staff from Humberside County Council, a police chief inspector or inspector, Humberside highways staff and representatives from the local haulage association.
This sub-committee operated along similar lines to Brigg's current Environmental Development Working Group, merely making recommendations for Glanford Borough Council to consider.
Why doesn't Brigg Town Council just deal with all matters requiring attention at its main monthly meetings?
That was how things were done in the council's early years from 1974 into the 1990s.
However, there was so much to discuss that some of these meetings dragged on from 7pm until well after 10pm.
Because of time pressures, items that deserved lengthy consideration didn't always receive it before the vote was taken.
Committees were eventually created to consider matters relating to policy, property, planning and the environment.
These days, due to the existence of various working groups, Brigg Town Council meetings usually last about an hour.
It helps to have three senior councillors from North Lincolnshire Council in attendance wearing their hats as elected members of Brigg Town Council.
During Town Council meetings Coun Rob Waltham, Coun Carl Sherwood and Coun Nigel Sherwood can often answer questions about various topics involving the unitary authority that relate to Brigg.

BRIGG WILL MAKE THE CUT ON RIVER WEED AND LITTER

Periodic weed cutting is carried out on the Old River Ancholme in Brigg.
Can we expect another to be made in the not too distant future?
Hot weather at this time of year always results in greenery spreading across the river - the growth spurt being assisted by nutrients that find their way into the water from fields.
The weed then 'captures' litter tossed into the watercourse by uncaring people, or blown there by the wind.
Litter accumulating on the surface of the river and near its banks is unsightly. This is especially so around the County Bridge, from which we took the above picture earlier this week.
The new Ancholme Valley Way footpath and cycle track alongside the river is increasingly popular with the public, which is another good reason to keep things looking their best.

BRIGG DRIVER DELAYS POSSIBLE DUE TO THREE SETS OF ROADWORKS

Delays are likely for drivers heading into, and leaving, Brigg over two days.
Two-way temporary traffic controls will be in place on a busy section of the A18 on Thursday, August 1 and Friday, August 2.
The affected stretch will be between the DFS furniture store entrance and Silversides junction, Scawby Brook.
North Lincolnshire Council is responsible for these roadworks.
Meanwhile, Anglian Water will be carrying out works affecting the A18 in Bridge Street , Brigg, between Sunday, July 28 and Wednesday, July 31. Delays may result for motorists.
The same applies during another set of roadworks - this time on the A1084 Bigby High Road. North Lincolnshire Council will be installing a new lighting column sometime between Thursday, August 1 and Monday, August 5.

NEW BRIGG INFORMATION BOARDS WILL HELP VISITORS AND TOURISTS

 

New information boards are planned for Brigg town centre.
They will help tourists and visitors, including those coming here for the first time, to find places of interest and get their bearings.
This initiative was discussed during a meeting of Brigg Town Council's Environmental Development Working Group, held in the Angel Suite Lounge on Monday, July 22.
Coun Jane Kitching explained the boards would give people "an overview" and show the location of places like the Millennium Green and the riverside walk.
Content needed to be generic - "something that won't date."
Suggested locations include the Old Courts Road car park, the Angel and Cary Lane, near the bus stop.
Coun Ann Eardley was keen to ensure the displays appealed to young people.
Chris Darlington said new processes meant information board displays would not fade with time.
Robert Jackson, manager of Brigg Heritage Centre, look along a colourful and informative example produced in Louth, showing places of interest. Louth's efforts impressed members of the group.
Coun Rob Waltham, who was chairing the meeting, concluded: "We have the outline of a project."
The working group reports to Brigg Town Council, which makes decisions on matters of policy and finance.
Progress made on the information boards will be reported at the group's next meeting.

BRIGG TOWN COUNCIL SERVING THE PUBLIC IN MANY WAYS

Brigg Town Council members and staff photographed here in the Angel Suite on Monday, July 22, 2019 - prior to the authority's monthly meeting.
Back row, left to right: Coun Carl Sherwood,  Assistant Town Clerk Kerry McGrath, Coun Jane Gibbons, Coun Jane Kitching, Coun Rob Waltham.
Front row, left to right: Town Clerk Dinah Lilley, Coun Penny Smith, Coun Brian Parker, Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall, Town Mayor's Chaplain Father Owain Mitchell, Coun Ann Eardley.
Councillor Nigel Sherwood was unable to be present for our formal photograph; taken at the Town Council's request. He's pictured below.

Brigg Town Council, formed in 1974 by local government reorganisation, provides a range of services, which include:

• Funding and arranging the town centre's Christmas lights.
• Running the Angel Suite community venue, which can be hired for events and meetings by members of the public, groups and businesses.
• Helping to clean the streets, arranging litter-picking sessions and purchasing litter bins.
• Addressing issues raised by members of the public.
• Managing the allotments on Atherton Way/Redcombe Lane and Grammar School Road.
• Commenting on local planning applications in/near the town and making recommendations to North Lincolnshire Council which makes the final decisions.
• Co-ordinating Remembrance Sunday's parade/wreath-laying and keeping the Monument war memorial in top condition
• Giving grants to support major events and Brigg groups in need of assistance.
• Managing the Millennium Green on Elwes Street.
• Supporting the Brigg in Bloom floral initiative (managed by a committee of volunteers).
• Organising the popular annual best-kept garden competition, including allotments.

There were 19 councillors until the elections held in May this year when, following a community governance review, the total was reduced to nine.
Administration is carried out by the Town Clerk and Assistant Town Clerk.
The authority has an office within the Angel building.
Agendas for forthcoming council meetings appear on Brigg Blog and these sessions are open to interested local people, who can raise issues during Public Question Time.
Coun Rob Waltham, Coun Carl Sherwood and Coun Nigel Sherwood also serve on North Lincolnshire Council, being re-elected for a further term at the May election.
Coun Rob is Leader of the unity authority, Coun Carl is a member of the decision-making Cabinet, while Coun Nigel chairs North Lincolnshire's Planning Committee.
Brigg Town Council can be contacted by email at enquiries@briggmarkettown.co.uk
Town Councillors are unpaid.

HEATWAVE WEATHER IN BRIGG BUT WHAT'S FORECAST FOR THE DAYS AHEAD?

It's rare for temperatures in Brigg to top 90F but it has happened this week, including yesterday afternoon - Thursday, July 25, 2019 - during the intense heatwave.
The online weather service we use via a mobile phone clocked 33F (91.4C) yesterday afternoon when we couldn't resist popping into the Britannia Inn beer garden for a refreshing pint to break our walk home from the town centre after a spot of shopping. High humidity made conditions even more sticky.
The Met Office says 38.1C (100.6F) was attained in southern England "setting a new record for the highest July temperature recorded in the UK."
It forecasts "closer to normal" temperatures through the weekend but with an increased chance of rain in the east and north-east.
View full details and forecast here...
We have to admire the efforts of people working in hot jobs at Brigg businesses, including those frying our fish and chips.
However, we've been a shade (perhaps not the best term) surprised to see a number of people walking dogs in late mornings and afternoons with the sun beating down.
Older Brigg residents will remember the very hot summer and drought spell of 1976, plus sweltering conditions endured in 1990.
But yesterday was probably the hottest most of us can remember.
The heat in Brigg reminded us of holidays in Turkey and Spain. You have to feel sympathy for those who went to the expense of jetting away from it all when our town can match Marmaris and Majorca? If only briefly...
Knowing the vagaries of British weather, normal service will soon be resumed. And as we type this at 8am today (Friday) it's clouding over and it looks like rain might result.
The question now is: Will we get an Indian Summer?
Our picture shows the sun reflecting off the waters of the River Ancholme in Brigg some years ago when temperatures rose to summer-like levels in early October!

UPDATE FRIDAY MORNING 10.30AM: The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall in the East of England, including North Lincolnshire, between 9am tomorrow (Saturday, July 27) and mid-afternoon on Sunday.

SHOPS, PUBS, EATERIES AND BRIGG FARMERS' MARKET CAN ALL BENEFIT FROM PUBLICISING OUR LOCAL TRAIN SERVICE

Brigg Town Council is helping to publicise the Saturdays-only passenger train service to Sheffield and Cleethorpes, and the fact that the town still has a working railway station.
Trains can be used by Brigg people for day trips and by residents of Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and other areas of Lincolnshire to come to town for the farmers' market, special events, shopping, a bite to eat and pub visits.
Town Clerk Dinah Lilley told the authority's July meeting, held on Monday evening (July 22), that correspondence had been received by the council from a member of the public, suggesting a need for improved marketing.
She thought information about public transport on the council's website might help.
Coun Rob Waltham pointed out that train guides were available in the town's library and at the Tourist Information Centre, while the British Rail logo was displayed on some roads leading to the station.
Coun Jane Kitching suggested that a noticeboard outside Hewson House could be used to display the Brigg Line timetable.
Coun Waltham, who is the Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, was delegated to sort this if a request was received from the person who contacted the Brigg authority requesting assistance.
Brigg Blog often makes reference to the railway station and its passenger service, in the hope that more people will take to the train.
Although day trips to Cleethorpes, Sheffield and other destinations don't benefit the Brigg economy, there's a huge catchment area of potential shoppers living along the line who can come by train to pay us a visit.
The route from Sheffield via Retford and Gainsborough (opened in the 1840s) is a scenic one in places and also includes the lengthy Kirton Tunnel at Gainsthorpe.
People from Cleethorpes and Grimsby can also opt to come to Brigg.
The monthly Brigg Farmers' Market is an obvious draw; there's one coming up this Saturday (July 27) from 9am until mid-afternoon.
The award-winning market is organised by North Lincolnshire Council and has been operating since 2001.
Summer generally sees the highest attendances, depending on the weather!
There's also a smaller general Saturday market which operates at the same time, in the Market Place. 
Those who opt to come by road can enjoy FREE car parking, courtesy of North Lincolnshire Council's concession.
PICTURED ABOVE: A previous summer farmers' market.

CHOICE OF LIVE MUSIC GIGS IN BRIGG THIS WEEKEND

There's a choice of live music coming up in Brigg this weekend.
Entry is free and people are welcome to pop in at three gigs on Saturday (July 27).
Singer Jimi will be at Brigg & District Servicemen's Club, Coney Court, from 8.30pm, performing songs from the 1960s through to the present day.
Singer/guitarist Steve Smith, from the Common Faults, will playing at the Britannia, Wrawby Street, from 9pm.
Acoustic duo The Reason will be performing some great songs at the Woolpack, Market Place, from 9pm.

BRIGG TOWN CRICKETERS TO HOST CLEETHORPES

Brigg Town Cricket Club will be looking to build on last weekend's welcome win when they host Cleethorpes 4ths at the Recreation Ground, off Wrawby Road, tomorrow (Saturday, July 27), 1.30pm start. 
As ever, spectators are very welcome to watch the game in Lincolnshire County Cricket League Division Three.
Bottom-placed Cleethorpes 4ths have encountered some team-raising issues in recent weeks.
Broughton 2nds have an important home match tomorrow; the Division Three leaders host second-placed Nettleham 2nds. 

PICTURED ABOVE: Retired umpire Peter Douce spectating during Brigg Town Cricket Club's 22-run home win over Messingham 2nds at the Recreation Ground last Saturday (July 20).

LINCOLNSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET LEAGUE
(Sponsored by Readers)
FIXTURES - SATURDAY, JULY 27
Premier Division
Bracebridge Heath 2nds v Market Rasen
Cleethorpes 2nds v Nettleham
Hartsholme v Cherry Willingham
Lindum 2nds v Grimsby Town
Scothern v Haxey

Division One
Barton Town v Holton-le-Clay
Normanby Park v Louth 2nds
Outcasts v Messingham
Scunthorpe Town 2nds v Broughton

Division Two
Caistor 2nds v Clee Town Laportes
Cherry Willingham 2nds v Holton-le-Clay 2nds
Grimsby Town 2nds v Old Lincolnians
Market Rasen 2nds v Hartsholme 2nds

Division Three
Brigg Town v Cleethorpes 4ths
Broughton 2nds v Nettleham 2nds
Haxey 2nds v Outcasts 2nds
Messingham 2nds v Barton Town 2nds

Division Four
East Halton v Louth 3rds
Horncastle v Scunthorpe Town 3rds

SUNDAY, JULY 28
George Marshall Trophy semi-finals
Cherry Willingham v Hartsholme (1.30pm)
Messingham v Holton-le-Clay (1.30pm)


NORTH LINDSEY LEAGUE - SUNDAY
DIVISION ONE
Grimsby Development XI v Messingham
Morton v Caistor Cougars

DIVISION TWO
Alkborough v Appleby-Frodingham
Hibaldstow v Haxey

Premier Division games begin at 1pm; league matches in all other divisions start at 1.30pm.
 

A scorer's view of Brigg Town batting against Messingham 2nds. Phil Dewfall is the man in charge.

Messingham 2nds in the field against Brigg Town last Saturday.

NEW BRIGG ALLOTMENTS APPROVED FOR SITE WHERE PREFAB TENANTS ONCE GREW MAGNIFICENT VEG

Brigg prefab tenants used their gardens to grow 'magnificent veg' on the site which has now been approved for new allotments.
These plots will replace ones on Grammar School Road, not far the flyover bridge that crosses the M180.
They will occupy part of the current Woodbine Park play area near South View Avenue, entry being gained from Preston Drive.
Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee - meeting in the Angel Suite Lounge on Monday, July 22 - was informed that North Lincolnshire Council had now granted planning permission for the new allotments.
The planning authority has approved change of use of the land and the erection of fencing and timber sheds.
A meeting with allotments tenants is now to be held by Brigg Town Council on a date to be arranged.
Coun Ann Eardley said that, in social media comments on Facebook, some people were "up in arms" about putting allotments on this site.
However, committee chairman Coun Brian Parker, the Deputy Town Mayor, said: "I don't think we can bring Facebook into it."
He pointed out that residents could attend council meetings to express their views.
Brigg Blog later took a look at the comments made on Facebook.
Some people questioned putting allotments next to a children's play area, others suggested the ground was wet, and it was suggested that vandalism might prove an issue.
However, there was also some support for the new site.
One resident recalled that, when post-war prefabs occupied this land, some tenants grew magnificent vegetables.
We'd better declare a personal interest here; our Dad was among them in the late 1950s and early 1960s when we lived in prefab No. 16, Woodbine Grove.
Pictured above is the back garden of one of the prefabs circa 1958 when most tenants grew produce for the table.
The reason for the relocation of the allotments is to make way for a new road from Atherton Way, with plans to eventually open up further land for new housing near the Springbank estate.
Brigg Town Council manages and runs the Grammar School Road allotments and the plots off Atherton Way/Redcombe Lane.
A report prepared by North Lincolnshire Council planners as the unitary authority considered the allotments application said: "It is not considered that the use of this part of the park for allotments will cause any greater impact on residential amenity than the existing use of the site. 
"It is considered that work on the allotments would be a relatively low key activity that would not generate significant levels of noise or disturbance to surrounding residents.
"It is not considered that the use will generate significant increased levels of vehicular traffic to the point that residential amenity will be adversely affected.
"On-site parking is to be provided so that allotment holders will not have to park in the highway. The layout is acceptable to the highways department. 
"Although the proposed use will result in the loss of an area of the park, there is still sufficient provision to serve the local community on the section to be retained."
The report added: "The plans do provide the ability to walk through the allotment site to the park, but this will be a management issue for the Town Council to decide, once they have taken over the use of the site."

COUNCILLORS DISCUSS PLANS FOR NEW BRIGG SPORTS VENUE

Plans to create a new sports venue in Brigg were discussed by town councillors during a meeting held in the Angel Suite Lounge on Monday night (July 22).
Permission is being sought for a change to assembly/leisure use at Unit 2 Nelthorpe Business Court, Bridge Street - the Barn building behind the former Nelthorpe Arms pub.
Brigg Kickboxing - a family-run martial arts business - is interested in using the Barn as a venue for its classes.
No concerns were voiced about the proposed change of use when Brigg Town Council's Planning & Environment Committee considered the application on Monday.
Coun Jane Gibbons pointed out it was a case of reverting back to a class of use that applied in the past.
However, it was suggested that the centre's classes would result in many people arriving by car and being picked up later.
Coun Jane Kitching said she was not aware of any objections to the application from local residents; her only concern was about car parking.
Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall said the number of vehicles would increase due to people being dropped off for classes.
However, she noted that the planned change of use would provide "something for the children."
Deputy Town Mayor Coun Brian Parker, chairing the meeting, said the Barn building had formerly being used as a venue for Brigg Beer Festival.
Brigg Kickboxing currently operates at Ancholme Leisure Centre (Scawby Brook), the Phil Grundy Sports Centre in Broughton and at Barton's Baysgarth Leisure Centre.
The business has taken the opportunity to lease Unit 2  "currently being used as an office" and "previously used as a function room."
The applicant stresses no alterations are to be made to the structure or inside of the property.
Brigg Kickboxing has 100 students of all ages who take part in classes.
North Lincolnshire Council is now considering the 'change of use' application and will make its decision in due course.

PICTURED: The Barn building (centre, in the distance) behind the former Nelthorpe Arms. The pub was converted to purely residential after its closure last year.

POP UP PIZZA NIGHT AT BRIGG PUB

A Brigg pub will be hosting a pizza night tomorrow (Friday, July 26).
Traditional pizza, prepared in a wood-fired oven, will be on offer at the Yarborough Hunt, on Bridge Street, between 4.30pm and 8.30pm.
The food - "a litle taste of Napoli" - will be provided by Pizza da Angelo.
The pizza company says will be making a welcome return to this "beautiful little pub" and will be offering made-to-order Neapolitan pizzas. Pre-orders welcome.
If you can't make tomorrow's pizza night, there will be another at the Yarborough on Friday, August 30.
A similar pop up pizza night was enjoyed at this pub in May, also provided by Pizza da Angelo.
The Yarborough does not generally offer food to its customers. Nor is there a pool table or a big screen TV.
This is a long-standing policy; the hostelry's strengths are providing real ale and other drinks for customers to enjoy while chatting to friends in its various rooms or the beer garden at the back.

POLICE MAKE ARREST IN BRIGG AFTER PURSUIT & ARMED OPERATION

Humberside Police say a man was arrested in Brigg following a pursuit and armed operation yesterday (Tuesday, July 23).
A car crashed into a garden wall on a housing estate in the town and the driver "fled from the vehicle."
Officers pursued the man on foot, detaining him just before 8pm.
Earlier, traffic officers had located the car close to the Elsham Industrial Estate.
Chief Inspector Matty Wright said: “I want to thank the public and local communities for their understanding and patience while we dealt with this incident."
Read a full a detailed statement from Humberside Police through this link...

OVERFLOWING BRIGG BINS BELONG TO CHRISTMAS PAST

Christmas 2019 might seem a long way off, but plans are already being made for the festive lights switch-on evening in Brigg on Friday, November 30.
In some years past there have been issues with overflowing litter bins due to more than 1,000 people visiting the town centre and many of them opting to buy fast food takeaways or drinks in cups and cartons.
However, for the 2019 event Brigg Town Council has already arranged for its handymen to check that the bins are empty before the switch-on celebrations begin and then monitor the situation during the evening.
A litter pick is also planned for the following day (Saturday) to ensure the town centre is tidy after the big event.
These details were revealed during Brigg Town Council's monthly meeting, held in the Angel Suite Lounge on Monday (July 22).
Litter-picking in the Springs Parade area of Brigg is to be arranged over the coming months by Bargain Madness (B&M) which has a store nearby.
The Town Council has made contact with B&M which uses a cleaning company. It will be looking to tidy up every four weeks.

PICTURED ABOVE: An already full litter bin in Brigg town centre during the Christmas lights switch-on evening in 2016.

JUDGES SHOWN BRIGG FLORAL DISPLAYS - VIEW 16 COLOURFUL PICTURES

 

Will Brigg prove a winner in a competition involving other small towns?
Attractive and colourful floral displays currently brighten the town, and the judges have been to take a look.
Ken Harrison, of Brigg Matters Magazine, took these 16 pictures as they toured the town, accompanied by Town Mayor Coun Sharon Riggall, Coun Rob Waltham and Coun Ann Eardley.
The judges saw a wide range of displays, including hanging baskets outside Wetherspoon's White Horse pub, the D-Day 75th anniversary display with its replica landing craft, tubs on the County Bridge, flowers near Brigg police station (pictured above) and the 'bee theme' bed beside Bigby Road.
Volunteers from the Brigg in Bloom group, and others, put in a great deal of hard work.
The results of the competition will be made known in September.