North East Lincolnshire Council has gifted the ceremonial opening plaque of Grimsby Top Town Market to the daughter of the late councillor who originally opened the market in 1976.
The market was opened by Councillor Walter Jewitt on 26 March 1976, with his daughter (then 16) looking on as her father unveiled a ceremonial plaque. The plate has been on display at the market ever since – until now.
The plaque has been gifted to his daughter, Susan Gifford, as a lasting memory of her father, who passed away in May 2009 at the age of 81.
“I remember being there with my dad on the day of the market hall opening, when I was just 16,” recalls Susan. “It was a really memorable day and very busy.
“I also have memories of campaigning with him and coming with him to meet the Queen at the Town Hall. It means so much to have this to remember him by. I will cherish it and display it in the house.”
North East Lincolnshire Council remains the owner of the plaque but has agreed to gift the plaque to Susan indefinitely.
Councillor Stan Shreeve, portfolio holder for finance, resources and assets at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is a great thing to do and I am so pleased it will be displayed with pride by Susan. It will clearly mean so much to her and I’m glad the council could help in making this happen.”
Cllr Debbie Woodward, who supported getting the plaque to Susan, said: “It’s wonderful that we’ve been able to do this for Susan. I fought hard to get the plaque removed as there were some difficulties with it at first, but I knew there must be a way to have it detached. This is where it belongs now – as a lasting tribute to Susan’s father for the whole family to treasure.”
Grimsby Top Town Market is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday between 9am and 4pm.
The Food Hall is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
To find out more about the market and others in the area visit nelincs.gov.uk/markets
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