Fishermen’s memorial statue returns to Grimsby’s town centre

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Grimsby has welcomed back the Fishermen’s Memorial Statue as redevelopment works at St James’ Square reach final stages.

The statue was previously removed whilst works progressed on the square as part of a £1.8 million project to create a family-friendly space with new furniture, planting, lighting and CCTV.

The majority of works are set to finish later this month.

The statue, which is now realigned to face towards the Minster, will allow for plans to be made for the annual Lost Fishermen’s service to go ahead this year, which will see the laying of wreaths around the statue’s base in commemoration of those who have lost their lives at sea.

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.”

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.

“Sadly last year’s remembrance service could not go ahead as normal so I especially look forward to the service this year and I would like to add my thanks to all those involved in the Memorial, from the fundraisers to the artist.”

The centre’s Acting Operations Officer David Ornsby, himself a descendant of fishermen, said: “The Great Grimsby Lost Fishermen’s Memorial is a special part of our local fishing heritage.

“Staff here attend the annual service and work closely with the Friends of Grimsby Fishermen’s Mission to organise the annual Fishermen’s Reunion.

“Wreaths are laid against the memorial, providing another key reminder in our town centre of the dangers that local people faced in the industry.

“It is wonderful that this striking and authentically detailed memorial will form a key feature of the renovated St James’ Square, giving a place for reflection and recognition of the sometimes, tragic true price of fish.

“The statue has to be in the square and needs to be maintained and looked after for people to realise what went on in the fishing industry, and also how much our town owes the fishermen, especially those who did not come back.”