Flags set to fly in Spilsby to celebrate town's famous explorer

Spilsby Mayor Coun Terry Taylor happy to see the market reopening in town.

Two weeks of events began with the re-opening of Spilsby market on Monday. The landmark day also saw three new shops opening in the town.

Mayor of Spilsby Coun Terry Taylor was in town on Monday to open them and support the reopening of other businesses.

He said: "It all went really well and I was delighted to welcome the market traders back.

Mayor of Spilsby Coun Terry Taylor chats to a trader on Spilsby market.

"I am sure there is a sense of joy and relief that we have reached a day where the first phase of a measured return to the town centres and high streets has arrived.

"Spilsby residents have supported essential businesses throughout the implementation of measures and I am sure they will extend that support to non-essential businesses and the Monday Market.

"My message to everyone, on behalf of the council is, welcome back, enjoy this extra freedom, but please continue to stick to the recommended measures to stay safe"

All traders were invited by East Lindsey District Councillor to return to their weekly pitches, including the town's fish stall and several others who had joined before last year's lockdowns.

April 12 was also a big day for businesses opening in Spilsby.

“Our markets have a number of stalls offering a diverse and attractive range of goods, services and fresh local produce," said a spokesman.

“There is something for everyone – including fruit and vegetables, fresh fish, flowers and plants, clothing, fabrics, crafts and gifts – there’s so much to see.

“You will also have the opportunity to take a seat and let local cafes serve you delicious refreshments at their seating areas on the markets.”

The reopening of the market and shops is the start of celebrations in the town, including the birthday of the town's famous explorer Sir John Franklin on April 16 and St George's Day on April 23.

Back in business - Mayor of Spilsby Coun Terry Taylor gets ready to do a spot of gardening.

Franklin Week will run from Franklin’s Birthday on Friday, April 16, to St George’s Day on Friday, April 23..

The town centre has been decorated with banners and some new flags of Sir John Franklin, which will fly alongside the statue which stands proudly in the town centre.

For the duration of the event, there will be music playing on the high street, including sea shanties. In the evenings, visitors will see an artwork projection of Franklin’s story entitled “Benedicite”.

Franklin was a decorated British Navy Officer and Arctic explorer, who also served as Lieutenant-Governor of Van Diemen’s Land (now Tasmania).

Mayor of Spilsby Coun Terry Taylor popped to wish the staff at Greenhouse good luck.

With the recent showing of ‘The Terror’ on the BBC, the story of Franklin has become increasingly popular and the town believes it is time to make sure he is celebrated each year.

* Spilsby Market is held in Market Place Car Park and Buttercross Car Park every Monday from 9am to 4pm, excluding Bank Holidays.The auction will be returning later in the year.