Summer

Inspired by a desire to give back to the neighbourhood that raised them, Steve and Caroline launched the innovative ‘coffee behind the counter’ scheme.

At the heart of our fishing communities, Fishermen’s Mission Port Staff work tirelessly in building local relationships to improve lives. In Grimsby where the echoes of the fishing industry still resonate through the streets, Fishermen’s Mission Area Officer Susesan Brown tells us of a new local initiative.

“We have a new office! The once dormant buildings on the Fish Dock have been rejuvenated and our new office space sits above the new Coffee on the Docks coffee shop. This is such a great location and is a real beacon of support for Grimsby’s active and retired fishermen.”

One of the driving forces behind the regeneration of the Grimsby Fish Dock is local businessman and developer, Steve Ridlington, and his wife, Caroline. Both grew up in Grimsby and have their roots deeply entrenched in the fishing community. Inspired by a desire to give back to the neighbourhood that raised them, Steve and Caroline launched the innovative ‘coffee behind the counter’ scheme. Coffee on the Docks customers are encouraged to leave a drink instead of a tip, ensuring that any fisherman or their family in need can enjoy a warm beverage on the house. Plans are also coming together for a small food bank, strategically located near the new Fishermen’s Mission welfare centre on the docks.

Suesan Brown comments:“Steve and Caroline are firm advocates for the vital work the Fishermen’s Mission undertakes in Grimsby 

and are working closely with us on many more fundraising initiatives. Local partnerships like this one can make such a difference as they bring together both passion and compassion. With the fishing not what it once was, it sometimes feels likethe heart has been ripped out of the Grimsby fishing community. But there are many folks here who still have that intrinsic link to the fishing industry and are proud to call themselves ‘Codheads’.

 

Like them, we are proud to have the Fishermen’s Mission flag flying on the Grimsby Fish Dock once again.