Today marks Great Grimsby Day. Throughout the years, my relationship with Grimsby has been complex. As a youngster, I was eager to leave, feeling constrained by what I perceived as the town's limited ambition. However, despite these feelings, my loyalty to Grimsby has remained unwavering, and I've always been the first to defend its character against any criticism, I suspect many of us feel the same way about the places we grew up in?
Through my work at Fortis Therapy & Training Ltd, I've gained a deeper appreciation for Grimsby's dynamic business community. Being a part of this group has allowed me to witness firsthand their dedication to the town's progress. They are a forward-thinking lot, honoring our rich heritage while actively shaping a future centered around renewable energy, food production, and manufacturing. This balance of preserving our past while innovating for the future is particularly evident in the revitalisation of Grimsby's heritage buildings.
As I approach my 50th birthday, I reflect on how Grimsby is often still associated with the fishing industry, a sector that had dwindled even before I was born (see the picture Dall-e created for me to illustrate this immediate link in the collective subconscious, although in fairness, food production remains hugely important to the town's economy). This image is enduring, however, the current business landscape shows a clear shift toward future-oriented industries.
The name 'Grimsby' might lend itself to humor, given the 'Grim' prefix, but the reality is far from it. The town embodies resilience, growth, and community spirit. I am proud to be a Grimbarian and to celebrate the evolving story of my home town. Great Grimsby Day isn't just a reminder of where we've been; it's a celebration of where we're going and the potential we have.
#grimsby #renewables #hometown #grimbarian
