Grimsby's Fishermen's Memorial Statue has returned to St James' Square
as transformation work reaches its final stages.
Grimsby's Fishermen's Memorial Statue has returned to St James' Square, as transformation work reaches its final stages.
Designers of the new-look public area have realigned its position slightly with the fisherman now facing towards the Minster.
The memorial had an early morning journey today, as it was brought back to the square and lifted carefully into position
It's also received a spruce-up with preservation and cleaning work undertaken by its creator Lincolnshire-based artist Trevor Harries.
Gill Ross, the Chair of the Friends of Grimsby Fishermen’s Mission, said: “To have the statue is an opportunity for us all to be reminded of those who risked their lives for our national dish and for us to say thank you for that. The square is the perfect location for it, and we all look forward to the service returning there.”
She added how the charity was currently aware of more than 800 people and families in North East Lincolnshire who had connections with the fishing industry and other nautical jobs, such as the Merchant Navy, who were assisted by the Mission.
Echoing her words Port Missioner Suesan Brown, said: “Fishing remains one of, if not, the most dangerous peace time work and this memorial reminds us all of the risks to life and limb that every fisherman faced and continues to face when they leave the safety of harbour. Fishermen have provided a lifeline of food to this country, including during the worst times when the dangers are even greater. The now mostly retired fishermen of Grimsby knew each time they went out that it could be their last.”
The closure of the square for its major make-over, along with coronavirus restrictions, meant the 2020 annual service was cancelled in its usual format. Instead, a virtual event was recorded at Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre for people to watch online.
Work on the main redevelopment of the square continues, with the majority finished later this month,