Recognition for ex-Grimsby trawlermen

FORMER Grimsby deep sea trawlermen are to be recognised at a reunion evening to be held this week at Grimsby’s Fishing Heritage Centre.
Organised by the centre and The Fishermen’s Mission, it is hoped that up to 150 ex-trawlermen will attend the event tomorrow to celebrate their part in the local fishing industry and receive life-long free entry to the Heritage Centre.
The guests will have exclusive use of the centre, and the Ross Tiger trawler, for the evening and will enjoy guided talks, music and free food and refreshments.
Councillor Mick Burnett, cabinet member for tourism and leisure, said: ‘I’m delighted we are able to honour these men in this way. Their part in the history and prosperity of this area is immense.
‘The ex-fishermen will be presented with their Skipper’s Ticket, which is the council’s gift to them, giving them unlimited free admission to the centre and Ross Tiger, and a 50 per cent discount to their families.’
Although free entry to local ex-trawlermen has existed for many years, the Fishing Heritage Centre staff have felt that not enough ex-fishermen are aware of it and haven’t used the building as much as they would like.
Dave Ornsby, education and outreach officer at the Fishing Heritage Centre, said: ‘The initial idea for the event came after staff from the Heritage Centre attended an event at the Fisherman’s Chapel.
‘We were keen to work closer with the Mission and decided to host this night out of respect of what the trawlermen have achieved.
‘The Trawlerman’s Night highlights that the centre is here for them and has people that think of them and respect their efforts.’
Tony Jewitt, superintendent at Grimsby’s Fishermen’s Mission, said: ‘This is a wonderful opportunity on several fronts; firstly to highlight the on-going work at the Fishermens Mission in Grimsby and the variety of help available to ex seafarers.
‘Secondly, to educate the local area of our fishing heritage with some wonderful exhibits including our beloved Ross Tiger and to also meet up with old crew members, whether they are skippers, mates or deckies.
‘And finally, to have a bite to eat over a drink whilst reminiscing over days gone by and, to top it all, we’re not asking for a penny.’