CUTBACKS IN BUS AND TRAIN SERVICES AS PASSENGERS HEED ADVICE TO STAY AT HOME

IN RESPONSE to the coronavirus situation and a shortage of passengers, bus company Stagecoach has now reduced its services within Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

Mostly these are now running hourly.  

Stagecoach has a page on its website with updates, including timetables.

This is at: www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/east-midlands/grimsby-services 

In line with Government guidance, the area's Phone ‘n’ Ride Service has been temporarily withdrawn in the interests of public safety.

Service updates are available at: www.phonenride.com

Train company TransPennine Express - which runs a service from Cleethorpes and Grimsby to Manchester Airport via Doncaster and Sheffield has a dedicated page on its website.

This provides the latest information for customers not just on service times but also on additional cleaning measures and ticket refund/exchange policies.

This information can be found at: www.tpexpress.co.uk/travel-updates/corona-virus-travel-info

Meanwhile, Northern Rail's Cleethorpes to Barton-upon-Humber service has been suspended.

Information updates can be viewed online  at: www.northernrailway.co.uk/key-worker-timetables

The East Midlands Trains service between Grimsby and Lincoln has been amended in response to the current situation.

Updates and timetables are available at: www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/reduced-timetable 

BYGONE CLEETHORPES: HOW RESORT WAS HAMMERED BY NORTH SEA SURGE OF 1953

Below is an extract from the e-book Seaquake which describes the impact on Lincolnshire seaside towns and villages of the floods brought about by the great North Sea Surge of January 31, 1953

In Cleethorpes, residents, who had mostly settled in for the evening, first realised things were amiss when water began seeping under doors and into their homes at about 5pm.

Another two hours elapsed before the fire station siren sounded and rescue initiatives were launched.

By then, waves had smashed through the sea wall between Fuller Street and Suggitts Lane, gushing into Grimsby Road and Brereton Avenue. Likewise, nearby Hart Street, Elliston Street and Oliver Street were soon under a foot of water.

In the mayhem, tons of coal that had been stored by householders in their cellars were swept away.

One eyewitness recalled dogs swimming frantically in the water.

Elsewhere on the seafront, the foaming sea surged between Orkeys café (now The Punch Bowl) and an adjacent amusement arcade, knocking asunder the slot machines.

In the days that followed, children scavenged in the beach debris for the spilled coins.

Mercifully, there was no loss of life in Cleethorpes, but the extent of damage to buildings and property was massive.

Among the complications was, at that time, most houses had outdoor loos, and the sewage outlets had been overwhelmed

One music-loving resident was devastated to discover her beloved piano had been ruined by sea water. 

She was close to tears as she picked out the seaweed from its intricate inner mechanisms.

Seaquake is available, price £1, as an e-book on Amazon Kindle:
https://amzn.to/2tOptVO

HAT'S OFF TO GRIMSBY'S DIANA, PRINCESS OF WALES HOSPITAL AND ALL WHO SAIL IN HER!

In these worrying times, it is  impossible not to be cheered by all who work at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital - not only the doctors and nurses, but also the porters, the clinic co-ordinators, the cleaners, the cooks and, yes, the administrators, too. It is reassuring that so many good people are pulling out all the stops to ensure that everything that can  be done to combat coronavirus is being done. In short, medals all round! (This inspirational picture, which has appeared on social media, was taken at the nurses' station.)

CHIEF NURSE: CURTAILING HOSPITAL VISITS DURING CORONAVIRUS EMERGENCY IS RIGHT COURSE OF ACTION FOR PROTECTION OF ALL

THE chief nurse at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital has expressed regret that visiting opportunities have had to be curtailed but insists this is the right course of action given the seriousness of  the coronavirus situation.

Since Wednesday of last week, visiting the  hospital - plus those in Scunthorpe and Goole - is only being  allowed in exceptional circumstances.

Says Ellie Monkhouse:  “This is not a decision we took lightly, but we need to do the utmost to protect our patients and staff throughout this pandemic. 

"The Government guidance is clear - people need to stay at home and only go out for food, health reasons or essential travel to work. 

"We appreciate this will be difficult for people who are worried about their loved ones, but it is an essential step we feel we had to take.”

The exceptional circumstances are as follows:

· Patients at the end of their life
· Birthing partner
· One parent to see a child

Currenly no longer allowed  are partners/family members in antenatal clinics, scans or any other appointments at the antenatal day unit.

The Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust’s hospitals continue to review all non-urgent operations, diagnostic tests and appointments in line with Government guidance,

Any urgent, emergency and cancer care procedures are continuing  to go ahead.

Says a Trust spokesperson: "If your appointment/procedure with us is affected then we will contact you directly. 

"If you do not hear from us then please attend as usual. 

"If you cannot attend your appointment as you have symptoms of coronavirus then please call us on 03033 306642 to rearrange your appointment (open 8am-8pm Mon-Fri). 

"Where we can, and where appropriate, we are trying to minimise face-to-face appointments, and we will be carrying out appointments via telephone or video.

"Staff in the Trust’s community services are still offering appointments to patients, particularly those with urgent/high risk needs. 

As above, however, appointments may be changed or carried out over the phone."

IT'S NOT MICHELANGELO, BUT . . .

Getting the message across - spotted on gates at Weekes Road in Cleethorpes.

BYGONE GRIMSBY: MOTHER'S VISION OF TRAWLER TRAGEDY THAT CLAIMED HER SON'S LIFE

MOTHER'S DEATH VISION. SAW SON DROWN. 

The Grimsby trawler, The Diver, which has been missing since February 28, was today officially given up for lost with her crew of ten hands. 

It is believed that she was blown up by a mine off the Yorkshire coast. 

In connection with the tragedy, an extraordinary incident has been reported by Mrs Lax, wife of Tom Lax, of Grimsby, and mother of the 19-year-old third hand of  The Diver. 

Two days after the ship sailed, she awoke in the night after  hearing a voice cry: "Oh Mumsie, the water is cold!" 

She sat up in bed and clearly saw a vision of her son in the water clinging to some wreckage. 

She aroused her husband and told him her disturbing experience. 

He calmed her fears, and himself went to sea that  weekend. 

When The Diver became overdue Thomas Lax related the story.

She is convinced that the vision actually depicted the fate of her son. 


(From the Hull Daily Mail - Saturday 03 April, 1920)

***

TROUBLE IN CAMP OF GRIMSBY FC 

Trainer Leaves Club After Dispute 

Differences of opinion between Frank Womack, manager of Grimsby Town Football Club, and Mr Herbert Woods, the trainer, have resulted the latter leaving the service of the club. 

A difference of opinion arose as to  the entertainment of the players on Friday night before a cup-tie. 

Interviewed, Mr Womack said: " I felt it necessary to assert my authority." 

He added that he had never interfered with the trainer's functions. 

Mr Woods, interviewed, said: " There was too much interference, so I asked the manager to sack me. 

"l am resuming my private practice as a masseur." 

The secretary of the club, Mr William Hooton, declined to say anything except that a meeting of the board had been called. 

Mr R. Clark, a director, met the players who agreed to carry on,  under the direction of the assistant trainer, the programme of cup-tie training already laid down.


(From the Dundee Evening Telegraph, Wednesday 11 January, 1933)

***

HARRY STORER MARRIED 

Harry Storer, the well-known professional cricketer and footballer, was married to-day (Thursday) at North Somercotes (Lincolnshire).

His bride was Miss Kathleen Sutton, whom he met during his association with the Grimsby Town Football Club. 

The best man the wedding was Hutchinson, a fellow member of Derbyshire CCC. 

Mr. and Mrs. Storer will take up their residence in Sale Street, Derby.


(From the  Derby Daily Telegraph, Thursday 28 June, 1923)

CHARGES SUSPENDED AT COUNCIL'S CAR PARKS FOR 'KEY' FRONTLINE WORKERS

NORTH East Lincolnshire Council has suspended charges and time restrictions for key workers on all council car parks and on-street council parking bays.

The aim is  to help frontline workers and volunteers during the coronavirus emergency.

Says a spokesperson: "The fees have been waived to show support for key workers - including staff from the NHS, social care and other essential services - to help them carry on their important duties."

Following Government advice, all other residents are urged to continue staying at home if they are not carrying out essential work or travel.

NELC leader Cllr Philip Jackson said : “NHS staff and other frontline workers are doing a fantastic job, supporting the most vulnerable in our society under extremely challenging circumstances.

“As part of our support for them, we’ve introduced free parking in our council car parks and on-street bays to allow those essential workers and volunteers to carry out their vital duties without having to worry about paying to park.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and review the measures and national picture in three weeks' time.’’

VITAL TO PARK CONSIDERATELY TO ENSURE SMOOTH ACCESS FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES

Cllr Swinburn - parking plea to residents

PLEASE park considerately on the streets of North East Lincolnshire!

That's the plea of  the council's   portfolio holder for environment and transport, Cllr  Stewart Swinburn.

It follows instances where roads, in which cars or vans have been parked on both sides, have become impassable to emergency vehicles and dustcarts.

In line with authorities across the UK, North East Lincolnshire Council and its regeneration partner, Engie, need to continue to carry out crucial parking enforcement to keep the roads clear for emergency and essential services and for the overall safety of all road users and pedestrians.

Says Cllr Swinburn: "It is essential that we maintain civil enforcement and keep roads clear. 

"At a time when emergency services, waste operatives, volunteers and more are out serving our community, we must ensure that the roads are clear and safe for them to carry out their duties.

“By us all working together and supporting our local heroes as they continue to tackle the coronavirus situation, we will all get through this together."

For more information about parking and civil enforcement visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/parking.

COUNCIL LEADER'S DISMAY AT ABUSE OF STAFF AT FRONTLINE OF BATTLE AGAINST CORONAVIRUS

THE leader of  North East Lincolnshire Council has today issued a plea that should never need to have been made.

It has emerged that some workers at the forefront of the local battle against coronavirus have been abused.

"This is totally unacceptable," declared Cllr Philip Jackson. "That staff who are caring for people and maintaining vital services  should be subject to abuse is unforgivable.

“In one instance, a NHS care worker was abused by the person being cared for. 

"From what I have been told, this was because the care worker was not wearing personal protective equipment."

It is understood that some council workers have also faced similar examples nastiness.

Continued Cllr Jackson: "A minority of individuals seem to think this sort of behaviour is okay - it is not!

Locally, the NHS has a supply of personal protective equipment,  but it is being directed to the staff in situations where the risk is greatest.

If a care worker is not wearing such gear,  it is because it is not deemed necessary  for the role being carried out.

Cllr Jackson added: “As for other service staff, these wonderful people are going into work, day-in and day-out, during difficult circumstances.

"They deserve our admiration and respect. 

"They are the people that are keeping our vital services going and I  pay tribute to them.

“To everyone else in our borough, I urge you to keep following the Government advice, and stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

* As of 5pm today, there were believed to be 43 confirmed cases of Covid-19 across Greater Lincolnshire - five in North East Lincolnshire, six in North Lincolnshire and 32 in Lincolnshire.

GRIMSBY FISH INDUSTRY CHIEF'S PLEA: STOP USING THE 'RACIST' TERM 'KASBAH'

Mr Boyers - unhappy both with offensive terminology and smokehouse proposal

CONTINUAL use of the term 'kasbah' to describe part of Grimsby Docks has been slammed by a leading fish industry executive.

The precise location is a small triangular area at the back of Fish Dock Road, Cross Street and Henderson Street. 

Although the buildings are largely empty and dilapidated, the site is rich in fishing industry heritage and currently subject to a regeneration initiative.

But Martyn Boyers, supremo at  Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises Ltd, has urged use of 'kasbah' to be scrapped - at least in official documents such as planning applications and regeneration reports.

Says he: " The term  may  conjure up some sort of mystical Arabian delight that needs salvaging, but in reality planning applicants and others should not use it.

"It was created back in the late 'seventies and caught on to be the colloquial name for the area.

"In fact, it was originally a derogatory term which today would be considered homophobic, stereotypical and racist."

Mr Boyer's blast has come as part of an unsuccessful objection to a planning proposal  which will lead to public monies being spent on restoration of two premises - the old Peterson  smokehouse and an adjacent property known only as Building 89.

In his submission to North East Lincolnshire Council's planning department, he demanded: "I can see the attraction of a smokehouse, but why renovate a dilapidated, leaking and rat-infested building when there are working examples around? 

"The idea of reinstating Petersons smokehouse can only be made from someone who doesn't know what is involved. 

"What fish will be bought? Who will buy it? Who will process it? 

"Who will set the fire, clean the spekes and put the spekes in the chimneys? 

"Who will pack the fish and who will be  the customers? 

"And who will pays for it all?"

Continued Mr Boyers: "It is ill conceived and ludicrous even to consider this project as there is no value in it. 

"The idea of attracting members of the public will conflict with the efforts being made by ABP to keep safe an area which is currently fenced off as dangerous. 

"There is no vehicle access and no parking in the area, and it is difficult, therefore, to see any community value in the project. 

"This project flies in the face of the existing smokehouses and curing operations that will be competing commercially. 

"The addition of a community backed project will not be a level playing field in terms of selling smoked product. 

"This project undermines and dilutes the value of the existing curers  who have worked hard to obtain PGI (Protected Geographical Indication).

"There is a thriving community of smokehouses despite a few in recent years having fallen by the wayside. 

"Why isn't money being allocated to support existing curers and promote the brand 'Grimsby Traditional Smoked Fish'? 

"Many existing traders would welcome the opportunity of funding to upgrade their  premises.

"To resurrect Petersons is a waste of public money and we object strongly to the project."

FLAMES FROM TORCHED CAR SPREAD TO GARDEN FENCE IN SUSPECTED ARSON INCIDENT

Flames  from the blazing car spread soon spread to the fence

THIS is seriously bad!

While the world continues to reel from the impact of coronavirus, there are still a few individuals in our community whose malice apparently knows no bounds.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, some residents of  Sherburn Street and Lindsey Road, both in Cleethorpes, woke to find their parked  cars had been broken into or vandalised.

In the early hours of this morning, there was another incident on Sherburn Street - one that could have had fatal consequences.

A parked car, a VW Golf hatchback,  was torched so severely that the flames spread to an adjacent fence.

Fortunately, a nearby householder was awoken and raised the alarm.

Humberside Fire and Rescue were  quickly on the scene to extinguish the blaze before anyone was injured.

Today, Caroline Cheshire posted on Facebook: 

"Just want to say a big thank you to the people near us who woke us up to say our car was on fire which had spread to our garden fence off Lindsey Road. 

"You probably saved our home, if not our lives. We were asleep with no clue!

"Also, the fire brigade were here in 5 mins and did a fab job putting it out. 

"They think it was arson, so if anyone saw anything please let me know."

BYGONE GRIMSBY: LABOURER BROKE BOTH LEGS WHILE 'LARKING ABOUT'

From the Hull Daily Mail (May 23, 1898)


ON Saturday afternoon George Carter, a labourer, employed by Messrs Hewitt Bros, the Brewery, Pasture Street, living at Abbey Walk, sustained two broken legs. 

After work was finished, Carter, with one or  two others, were 
"larking about" when he was accidentally pushed through a doorway on first floor and dropped about 20 feet. 

The force with which his feet struck the floor broke both his legs, and the poor fellow was at once conveyed to the hospital. 


GRIMSBY SHIPPING 

FISHING FLEET 

ARRIVALS 

Steamers: Ursula, Northwold, Somerville, Clyde, John Bull, Malta, Perseus, Pinowold, Germania, Alaska. Aries, Ostrich, Conisboro' Castle, Berkshire, Trafalgar, Rolando, Corinthia, Svino, Tyne Monarch, Douro, Zarina. Swallow, Rhine, Chameleon, Uganda, Ceylon and Calcutta.

Smacks: Una, Killarney, Sapphire, Zenobia, Richard Smith, Violet, Eye of Providence, Flying Fish, Phoebe, Fertile and Florence Heneage.


SAILINGS 

Steamers: Oxford, Whitby, Briton, Canadian, Doric, Nelson, Thrush, Rex, Cancer, Grecian. Rondo, Spurcan, Undaunted, Dalmatia, Home, Tarpedon. Umguza, Kitty, Haxon, Derwent, Etruria, Norman, Cockatrice and Hawk.

Smacks: Alpha, Temperance Pledge, Rachel and Ann, Brothers, Vigilant, and Selina, Chance, G. F. Speight, Perfect, Maritana, Temperance, Oxford, Bedford, Moss Rose, Iris, Thistle, Olive Branch, Englishman, Fern, Welcome Home, Corisande, W. G. Marshall and Silver Fir.

'PEOPLE FLYING FROM THE SEA' IN NEW CLEETHORPES PROM ARTWORK

This impressive piece of shutters art is the work of Grimsby's  Annabel McCourt

THIS is the latest example of shop roller shutters art on Cleethorpes' North Promenade.

It is the work of Annabel McCourt,who was born and brought up in Grimsby, and can be seen when the shutters are down at Scoops ice cream parlour.

Says Annabel: “Cleethorpes is an incredibly important place to me, and is has been wonderful to have the opportunity to do something that is local and very different.” 

With a diverse career in the cultural and arts sector, Annabel has worked with various organisations, including the BBC, and she is also a broadcaster and photographer. 

She has her own company, Cut Ltd, which is based in Barton-on-Humber.

The images on the shutters  show groups of people flying from the sea.

Scoops’ business owner Doraan Manders and her sister Keely Sheeran, who operates The Chippy, next door, are delighted.

“The North Prom needs this,"says Keely. "It's wonderful to get this fantastic artwork."

Also, now installed for people to view, is the complete artwork that stretches across Walkers Total Fitness and Reemas beauty salon

Masterminded by North East Lincolnshire-based Creative Start, with the help of artist Kevin Atkins, the piece follows the theme of the outstretched arms that are seen on the Sistine Chapel Ceiling.

More artwork will be in place on shutters in the coming weeks.

Inspired by the ceiling in Rome's Sistine Chapel - but what does it mean?

REJUVENATION PLAN FOR DERELICT SMOKEHOUSE IN GRIMSBY'S KASBAH QUARTER

It's gonna coast a whole lot of money - the derelict smokehouse is to be renovated

A NEW chapter is set to open in the life of a derelict building located in the part of Grimsby Docks known as  The Kasbah.

Listed building consent has been granted for refurbishment of the Petersons fish processing and smoking factory on Henderson Street so that it can be reused in its original way.

Although in a rundown state, the building is Grade II listed because of its historic significance to Grimsby's fishing heritage.

As part of the same project, another premises - known as Building 89 (formerly Fred’s Fish) - which fronts on to Wharncliffe Road North will also be given a makeover, with creation of a ground-floor cafe which will be open to the public.

Its rear entrance opens on to Henderson Street directly opposite Peterson’s Smokehouse.

The application was unsuccessfully opposed by Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises Ltd which argued that the renovation funds - which will be coming out of the public purse - would be better allocated by  supporting existing fish curers and promoting the brand, Grimsby Traditional Smoked Fish.

The property known as Building 89 - likely to accommodate a cafe and shop

                                   

Part of the old Peterson signage has survived 

                      Above and below - is how the revamped premises might look?

SOLAR PANELS PROPOSAL FOR ROOF OF IMMINGHAM'S OASIS ACADEMY

SOLAR panels are to be installed on the roof of the Oasis Academy in Immingham.

Once operational, this should save money and be to the benefit of the environment.

To passers-by, the academy roof looks as if it is flat, but part of it, in fact, consists of a series of shallow pitched roofs behind  parapet walling.

According to senior North East Lincolnshire Council planning officer Jonathan Cadd, it is unlikely that the project will have a detrimental visual impact on the appearance and character of the building.


It is understood that the initiative has been entrusted to a Devon firm, Eden Sustainable Ltd of Woolacombe.

COUNCIL PLEA: STAY AWAY, PLEASE, FROM NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE'S TWO RECYCLING TIPS

RESTRICTIONS have today been imposed at North East Lincolnshire's  two Community Recycling Centres ( tips) in response to the coronavirus emergency.

The council today appealed: "Avoid visiting if you can - only visit if your trip is essential."

The following restrictions are now in place to keep the workforce safe and to comply with social distancing guidelines:

* Up to four cars on site at a time
* One visit per day
* Only household waste and recycling that is usually collected at the kerbside will be accepted – that’s general household rubbish, plastic bottles, tins, cans and metal household packaging, paper and card, glass bottles and jars.
* Other rubbish and recycling (mattresses, furniture, garden waste, white goods, building material etc) is no longer accepted until further notice.

There were almost twice as many visits to the CRCs in Grimsby and Immingham over the past weekend as there are on a typical busy weekend in the summer.

The CRCs were exceptionally busy at the weekend with 1,050 visitors to Grimsby on Saturday and 987 on Sunday.

 Immingham had 250 visits on Saturday and 317 visits on Sunday.

A typical busy weekend in the summer would see 1,100 visits to Grimsby and 250 visits to Immingham.

Cllr Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport and North East Lincolnshire Council, said: " We’re being asked to do is to stay at home and limit our contact with other people.

“That means stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

“The visitor numbers to the CRCs this weekend show people are not taking that advice on board.

“Queueshave already already running around the block at the Grimsby site today.

“This isn’t a Bank Holiday. People who ignore the advice are risking the safety of others and putting an extra burden on health workers.

“We’re working with our waste management contractor, Newlincs, to scale back operations at the tips to protect staff, visitors and the wider community.”

Meanwhile, NELC states that door-to-door household bin and recycling box collections are running as normal.

NEW CEMETERY PLAN FOR EDGE OF WALTHAM

                                         

The field beyond the allotments could become home to a cemetery

A NEW cemetery could be created on farmland bordering Waltham and New Waltham.

No formal  application has yet been submitted, but it  is understood that Waltham parish council has had preliminary talks with North East Lincolnshire planners about the proposal.

The earmarked site is a grass field adjacent to recently-created allotments off  Station Road - not far from the Toll Bar Academy.

The parish council's intent is clear.

Over the past few days, hawthorn whips - to provide screening - have been planted around most of the perimeter of the field.

The initiative coincides with concerns about the potential impact of coronavirus, but there is no connection.

The intention to create  a new cemetery predates the current health emergency.

A formal planning application is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks.

There might be some misgivings among allotment tenants about human remains being laid so close to land where vegetables are grown, but there is not thought to be any risk.

In fact, the project is already being welcomed by some lottie-holders who believe that, once the hedging has become established, it will provide a welcome windbreak.

There is also another environmental plus. 

Cemeteries are often favoured by a range of  songbirds, and the hedgerow should provide excellent nesting and feeding habitat for robins, linnets, goldfinches, yellowhammers and whitethroats.

The first of scores of hawthorn saplings have been planted

Hedging will  provide a windbreak that allotment holders will welcome

SAD FAREWELL TO A CLEETHORPES SONG THRUSH

The Cleethorpes thrush whose cheerful notes are being heard no more

WHAT is believed to have been the last singing song thrush in the Croft Baker ward of Cleethorpes is presumed dead.

For most of February and the first half of March, the bird  had been a singing star in its chosen territory - the gardens of  Sherburn Street, Highgate, Lindsey Road and Parker Street.

Perched high on its favourite trees, its clear, cheerful  notes had dominated the dawn chorus, and it sang for most of the day, pausing only to feed on worms and insects on the lawns below.

But since Monday, there has been no sight nor sound of it.

It is thought the bird may have fallen victim to a cat or some other predator - perhaps a  passing sparrowhawk.

As elsewhere in the UK, loss of hedges and other habitat - resulting from ill-considered planning consents - has resulted in a steep decline in North East Lincolnshire's thrush population.

A few pairs perhaps  still  nest  in  the grounds of Grimsby Crematorium, Cleethorpes Country Park, plus villages and leafier parts of the borough, but it has now almost certainly been lost to most of the wards in Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

DREADED VIRUS HAS ARRIVED - UP TO THREE CASES TODAY REPORTED IN GRIMSBY

THE first cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in North East Lincolnshire.

It is understood that up to three patients are undergoing treatment.

In a statement issued this afternoon, North East Lincolnshire's director for public health, Stephen Pintus, said: “We have now had confirmation of our first diagnosed cases of COVID-19 in the area.

“Since the virus first came to the UK, the council, the NHS and other agencies having been working together to ensure we are prepared for this emerging scenario.

"Robust plans are in place, reflecting national guidance to limit the impact on local people.

He continued: "It is understandable that people will be worried.

" I would urge people to follow the guidance as best they can not only to protect themselves and their families but also to contribute to the wider effort to limit the impact of the virus, particularly on the most vulnerable members of our community.

“Regularly washing your hands and maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness is a simple but effective way to reduce the risk.”

Details of the cases and how the patients are responding have not been released.

Whoever they are, best wishes to them, and here's hoping for a speedy recovery!

ON A BRIGHTER NOTE: GRIMSBY INSTITUTE'S SUPERB DISPLAY OF SPRING COLOUR

Well done to the groundstaff at Grimsby Institute for brightening spirits with the splendid displays of  spring floral colour outside the buildings. They have deservedly won plaudits not just from staff and students but from passers-by  and those twitchers from afar who have recently been on site to view the rare black-throated thrush.

DISTRICT COUNCIL LEADER: WE MUST BE MINDFUL, KIND AND CONSIDERATE

Cllr Leyland - 'now is a time for calm and for all to pull together'

CRAIG Leyland, the leader of East Lindsey District Council - which covers Tetney and Holton-le-Clay - has issued the following statement.

We face tough times.  

These last few weeks we have  seen around the clock news explaining the impact the coronavirus will have on ourselves, our family, our friends and our neighbours.  

The daily routines for many, particularly those who are older and with underlying health issues, are now changing in a way they probably never really expected would happen.  

That said, now is a time for calm and for us all to pull together and support one another in the face of one of the greatest challenges of modern times.  

We must be mindful, kind and considerate, and check that those who we know might be lonely are coping.

As well as the impact on individuals we are very aware of how this will affect our businesses.  

East Lindsey has many small, independent businesses who will feel the financial impact of this outbreak more than most.   

The Government has announced a range of measures that aim to help businesses recover, including grants for smaller and rural businesses.  

We will include links to these on our website and our economic development  team is currently working through the information from Government. 

Along with our partners, we continue to monitor the national situation closely and adapt our local plans accordingly.   

The response to the situation is being led in Lincolnshire by our colleagues in the health sector with support from a whole range of partners, including ourselves at the district council.  

The district council’s role at this time is to share information with the community and partners and ensure our own plans to continue providing our critical services are as robust as possible.  

This is a challenge as our own teams will no doubt at some point be impacted by the virus.    

We have taken steps to encourage homeworking wherever possible to reduce the potential for the spread of infection and identifying those within the organisation who are able to support our critical services, should they be required.  

Whilst at this time all our services continue to operate as normal, we know there will be an impact at some point.  

Whilst we are preparing for this situation as best we can, it is inevitable that you will see a change in the way we deliver our services; please bear with us as we work through this and we will communicate any changes with you.  

Please keep an eye on our website - www.e-lindsey.gov.uk - and our Facebook and Twitter  profiles where we will continue to share the latest information.

Finally, we never fail to be humbled by the way in which our partners and communities come together to provide support. 

This will be so important over coming months and we stand ready to support you wherever we can. 

Take care, look after those around you and ensure you stay up to date with the latest Government information and advice.

IT'S BEEN BUSINESS AS USUAL (PLUS RUBBER GLOVES) AT THE BOROUGH'S LIBRARIES

Grimsby Central Library still open - but for how long?

LIBRARIES in North East Lincolnshire have been staying open -  at least for the time being .

Following a crunch staff meeting this morning, it was decided not to close them in response to the concerns over corona virus.

As a precautionary measure, frontline librarians have been wearing rubber hygiene gloves.

When not on shelving or other duties, some were spraying returned books and desks with germ-busting chemicals.

The local libraries are likely to remain open until managers receive advice to the contrary from the Government.

CALM, DETERMINED AND PROPORTIONATE: COUNCIL LEADER'S VIRUS PLEDGE TO COMMUNITY

Cllr Philip Jackson - importance of resilience and kindness

THE leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Philip Jackson, last night issued the following statement: 

As its leader, I thought it important to use this message to assure you that North East Lincolnshire Council, its staff, members and partners will be doing all it can to help each and every one of you through these difficult times.

As the Covid-19 pandemic spreads and the Government continues to oversee the national response, locally we’ll be ensuring the council does all it can to support local communities.

Our collective response must be driven by equal degrees of resilience and kindness to see us through this major public health challenge.

Key to that is being mindful and considerate of others and checking that elderly and vulnerable friends, family and neighbours are coping.

We at the council intend to handle this in a calm, determined and proportionate way, but in a way that will be regularly reviewed and updated in light of Government guidelines and directives.

Councils touch people’s lives in many ways – collecting bins, working with NHS colleagues to oversee public health, supporting business- services that affect us all.

Like other organisations, there is a likelihood our staff will be affected by Covid-19, and we’re planning our response on a daily basis to cope with the challenges we face.

That may mean deploying resources, including staff, away from their day-to-day activity into the highest priority services to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

But we are proud of our staff and confident they’ll step up to the mark to do their best for everyone in the borough. 

We have great people across the Council, doing excellent work.

Our already very stretched capacity is about to be stretched even further as the response inevitably escalates and impacts on all that we do- and how we do it.

In doing this, I would also ask that you bear with us during these testing times.

Our current focus is directed to dealing with the response to the outbreak and the contingency planning that is evolving literally by the day, managing any significant workforce issues that may arise during the course of the outbreak and ensuring that, as far as practicable, business as usual service delivery happens.

We are  working very closely with our NHS colleagues (Clinical Commissioning Group) and other key partners.

While our services are currently running as normal, that may change over the coming weeks, but we will endeavour to let you know as soon as we’re able when any services are affected.

But be assured, we will do our utmost to keep providing the best possible support for you.

We will do everything we can to delay and then mitigate any impact on our communities and businesses. We recognise the scale of this challenge and that we may not always get everything right, but our response to Covid-19 and its impact on our communities is the Council’s number one priority today and for the foreseeable future.

As a council, we’re monitoring the national, regional and local situation and will continue to follow Government and Public Health England advice.

Our response will remain proportionate, flexible and evidence-based, led by our Public Health experts and supported by the wide range of professions in our workforce and that of our partners.

In following that advice, I would also urge everyone in North East Lincolnshire to do the same, particular on handwashing and other health and hygiene guidance, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus and to keep as many of us as possible healthy.

Please take heed of the official announcements from central government and the NHS and check trusted sources of news for the latest updates:

• NHS Website
• Public Health England

We will also be using all of the channels open to us to regularly update you of what we’re doing and to inform you of unavoidable disruption to any services and other actions we’re taking; please accept that all our decisions will be taken with the health and wellbeing of our residents and our employees as the absolute priority.

Thank you for your continued support.

Stay safe and well.

Philip Jackson

GOVERNMENT ADVICE PROMPTS TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CLEETHORPES' PARKWAY CINEMA

Closed for now but the popular Cleethorpes cinema hopes to be open again before too long

THERE will be no film-going in Cleethorpes while coronavirus concerns prevail. The nine-screen Parkway cinema last night issued the following statement:

Dear friends, family and loyal customers - we’re sorry to say that we’ll be closed for a while.

The wellbeing of our staff, visitors and families is our top priority and in light of Government advice, it is not possible for us to remain open to the public.

If you have a ticket booked for any future films or shows we will be offering full refunds.

Contact us using one of the buttons on our website  and we will help you as soon as we can.

We are proud to support our local community.

As soon as the time is right, we look forward to opening our doors to you all again.

Thank you for your understanding, your support and your patience during this unprecedented time.

Our very best wishes to everyone.

We’ll be back...

Parkway cinema is at:
https://www.closed.parkwaycinemas.co.uk/

 Above and below - the films cinema-goers are missing

REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL COULD PROVIDE REFRESHMENT FACILITY FOR GRIMSBY CREMATORIUM VISITORS AND MOURNERS

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Once redeveloped, the lodge and its extension could accommodate up to 40  customers

THE redundant crematorium lodge in Grimsby could be converted later this year to a café-tearoom.

The proposal was earlier this month submitted to North East Lincolnshire Council planners for their consideration.

In the absence of any other such facilities, the main purpose would be to serve visitors and mourners either before or after funeral services.

Also part of the scheme is redevelopment of the first floor of the building on Weelsby Road to provide multi-functional space for community meetings and other events.

Two extensions would also be built - one of two storeys to the side and the other of a single storey to the rear.

In total, up to 40 customers could be served.

A statement supporting the application reads: "The existing lodge is comprised of a two storey brick built building fronting on to the entrance to the crematorium. 

"Historically the building would have been used as a gatehouse and accommodation for the groundskeeper who tended the extensive landscaping surrounding the crematorium. 

"The role of the groundskeeper in a modern context is undertaken by a team of grounds maintenance staff who are employed by the local authority on a regular 9-5 working week. "

The statement continues: "The most recent use of the lodge  was as office accommodation for a local mental health charity who vacated the building in 2016. The building has been empty since."

"Built in 1954, the lodge in isolation is square and devoid of character and has limited architectural merit. 

"This appearance is not aided by the parapet wall detail to all four facades which conceals the hipped roof arrangement and the previous insertion of unsightly white plastic windows. 

"The building does not have the requisite significance to be considered for national or local listing.

"The lodge has a few attractive architectural features such as the recessed brick surround detail to the windows, tiled external sills, header brick details to the top and bottom of the front facade and stacked tile details to the lower and upper corners of the front façade. 

"Some of these details will be adopted in a contemporary manner within areas of the new construction to provide a linking element between old and new.

"The location is not particularly desirable or marketable to external tenants which is why the building has been empty for a number of years.

"The initial preference for the site was to demolish the building in its entirety to provide a modern building which would facilitate the proposed new use as a commercial venue. 

"This was considered in early design reviews but it was decided that, as well as being less costly, it was a more responsible and sustainable move to retain it, thereby creating less construction waste and using less energy in demolition and construction." 

It is hoped the provision of this new facility will potentially prevent funeral attendees from congregating in front of the crematorium buildings after a funeral when another funeral procession is imminent. 

The statement goes on : "This is an ongoing problem for the team who run the facility and currently requires handling with tact and sensitivity. 

"The tearooms will provide a welcoming space where individuals can move away from the main building and spend unmeasured and unpressured time connecting with fellow mourners or quietly reflecting upon the lives of lost loved ones. 

"This provides a ‘step-down’ facility following a funeral event rather than requiring attendees to briskly move to their vehicles in order to go home or attend a wake in another location (the building can provide wake hospitality on request). 

"In addition to those associated with funerals, local dog owners, who regularly and in some numbers walk in the peaceful crematorium grounds, are also welcome to call in for drinks, snacks or light meals.


"The site is surrounded by mature poplar trees and established privet hedges. 

"These will be retained where possible and the gardens generally improved in order to make it an attractive space for outdoor eating and drinking in the summer and for viewing from the internal café space in poorer weather. 

"The desire is to create a green, desirable and peaceful environment enhanced by the surrounding trees, hedges and planting."

It is thought the application will be determined by a senior case officer under delegated powers without the need for consideration by NELC's planning committee.

The Grimsby News says: Is there no holding NELC back in its attempts to commercialise Grimsby Crematorium? Earlier this winter, it revealed plans to introduce funeral services for hamsters, budgies, dogs, cats and other pets. Now it wants to install a cafeteria and events room within the disused building which stands at the exit of the cemetery as mourners return to their cars. The project may make financial sense, but it surely carries with it more than a hint of tackiness. A crematorium is a place for serenity and quiet reflection, not for eating and drinking. Here's hoping that whoever runs the new facility does not apply for a licence to serve alcohol.