VERY SAD THEFT IN BRIGG

Brigg Blog has to report a very sad theft in the town. Someone has stolen the inscribed metal plaque on Holland Park, near the railway station, North Lincolnshire Council has now confirmed.
We were informed earlier this week that the plaque had disappeared and inquired about the reason.
Holland Park is named in memory of Geoff Holland - a well-known Brigg resident and campaigner for the town to get its own 'green' of the type found in many small towns and villages.
A dedication ceremony was held on October 14, 2016 - attended by Geoff's wife, Brigg & Goole MP Andrew Percy and Couns Carl & Nigel Sherwood (North Lincolnshire ward representatives for Brigg & Wolds).
As chairman of the Friends of Brigg Village Green, Geoff was instrumental in getting this area designated for this purpose and securing a grant to plant more trees on the site.
The green continues to be well used by local people, including dog walkers, at all times of the year.
Following Geoff’s sad passing in May 2016, North Lincolnshire Council decided to name the park in his memory.
Geoff’s wife, Gill, and the MP unveiled a memorial stone with inscribed plaque.
Coun Carl Sherwood told us in October 2016: “It is only fitting that the park is named after a man who was such a dedicated campaigner for the village green. It is thanks to Geoff and the Friends of Brigg Village Green that we have been able to provide this fantastic community asset.”
This theft will sadden many people, including those of us who knew Geoff and folk who enjoy visiting this area of public open space with its mature trees and range of wildlife.
Brigg Blog has contacted Humberside Police about the theft. If you have information which might assist inquiries, please call them on 101. Meanwhile, keep your eyes open in the hope that the plaque might have been discarded somewhere in the town.

PICTURED: Above - the stone near the entrance to the park earlier this week, following the theft of the nameplate seen (right) on a summer's day when the plaque was still in situ. Below - the dedication ceremony in October 2016, attended by Mrs Holland, Andrew Percy and Couns Carl & Nigel Sherwood.