by Martin Thomas | Oct 19, 2024 | Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Blogger, Lincs Connect, LincsBlogger, LincsConnect, Mandarin Therapies, WhatsOnLincs
Social Media Trends
Social Media Trends – Does the ever changing face of our society leads us to reassess our social media habits?
It’s been a while since I put pen to paper (or rather, fingers to keyboard) so I thought I ought to post another blog. Despite what many might think, I’m really not a social media guru. In fact, my background is in health and fitness.
Like many others I’ve found social media to be an incredibly useful tool for connecting, advertising and marketing. As a result I’ve become reliant on the platforms to aid my business.
Social Media Trends – Our Favourite Platforms
Until recently my preferred platform was Twitter. However, since it has been under the control of its new owner there has been a marked change in the platform. Gone is the ‘fun’. It seems to have been replaced by toxicity and selfishness. It wasn’t too long ago that people (small and large businesses, charities and organisations as well as the general public) used to share experiences and support each other. That has changed now! Many larger companies employ other companies to look after their social media. As a result, the ‘personality’ has been removed from those companies and friendships have been cast aside in favour of ‘posting content’ to get views.
Smaller businesses and charities have followed suite and much of the camaraderie has been lost. Where ‘share and share alike’ used to be the norm, it’s now ‘post, post, post and me, me, me’. It’s sad to see. The question in my mind is ‘why’? Why have so many forgotten the benefits of working closer together and looking after each other that we learned during Covid?
Social Media Trends – Which Platform?
X (Formerly Twitter)
My experience has largely been shaped by Twitter. Facebook works for many people but I personally find the platform very confusing. I have a personal page (mandatory) and three business pages. Linked to those pages is Messenger, Instagram and Threads. When I get a notification telling me that there is a post for me I spend far too long trying to find it! Some of you may have noticed that companies are now using the tag ‘@followers’ on Facebook posts which sends a notification to all followers that there is a message for them. In reality, it’s just a way of pushing an advert to you. Again, the personal touch has been removed.
X – AI capturing
For those of you who didn’t know, X is now using AI to capture and analyse your posts. The information gained is being used to sell on to third party organisations for advertising and goodness knows what else! Huge thanks to Steve (one of my X followers and friends) who highlighted this for me. If you are an X user, here is how you can help to protect yourself against this intrusion:
- Go to your ‘Settings & Privacy’
- Select ‘Privacy & Safety
- Scroll down to and select ‘Grok’
- Turn off the switch and delete previous conversations
- Go to ‘Data Sharing With Business Partners and turn the switch ‘Off’
Threads by Meta
Threads
In my quest to find a replacement for the toxicity of X I’ve been looking at Threads. Yes, it is a social media platform that is based on ‘chat’ much the same as X. However, it lacks the facilities which are provided on X. There is no facility (at the time of typing this blog) to have group chats based around hashtags. That means there can be no special ‘Hour’ for hobby or group chats. That rules out its usefulness for the #LincsConnect Hour that I run on Monday evenings.
Unfortunately there are no facilities for creating lists either. As a result, it’s not possible to organise followers into trade or location lists. That’s the backbone of #LincsConnect so Threads is a non starter for me.
The Threads App is linked to Instagram. On a positive note, anything posted on Threads can be shared on Instagram. That’s handy but…
Threads, Instagram and Facebook are all owned by Meta. I feel very uncomfortable with the idea of one company controlling all of my social media and having access to all of my information. As we know, ‘information’ is money. I have absolutely no doubt that Meta will be harvesting my information to sell on the open market!
Bluesky
Bluesky
For those of us who have been using social media for some time, we’ll recognise the platform instantly. The reason for its familiarity is because it is run by Jack, the former owner of Twitter.
I signed up to Bluesky as soon as I heard about it. Unfortunately, in its infancy, it didn’t provide the facilities that I need. However, following some undesirable changes to the X platform I decided to give it another try. I was really pleasantly surprised. The platform is now instantly recognisable as the Twitter of old. All of the facilities that I need for #LincsConnect are in place so I’m now in the process of moving all of my accounts across from X.
Bluesky Security And Privacy
Unlike X, Bluesky prefers to keep its users secure and free from misleading accounts. This used to be the best feature in the old style Twitter. All X users will know that the current ‘freedom of speech’ has been taken to the extreme so pretty much ‘anything’ is allowed on the platform.
It’s refreshing to see that Bluesky has a more robust reporting system.
Bluesky Feeds
I think I may have become a Bluesky fan!
On the left side of your bio page you’ll see some tabs to help you navigate the site. Click/tap on the ‘# Feeds‘ tab then select the subjects that interest you the most. These feeds will be shown at the top of your page so that you can quickly skip around your chosen subjects at will. It’s a brilliant idea and is certainly worth exploring. Here is an example of the feeds that I’ve selected at the moment. I’ll be adding more as I use the platform more regularly. You’ll notice that there is a search bar towards the bottom of the picture so that you can search for additional subjects that interest you.
My favourite # Feed so far is ‘Only Posts’
Conclusion
Based entirely on my own experiences and requirements my preferred platform is now Bluesky. From what I’ve experienced so far it is very much a ‘personal’ platform. So far I haven’t experienced any professional social media companies trying to turn it into a corporate platform of ‘me, me, me’ posts. I really hope that it stays that way.
If you would like to join me, just follow these links: @MandarinLeisure and @LincsConnect
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Mandarin Therapies provides a bespoke mobile complementary therapies service in Lincolnshire and surrounding area. Call 07966 174 878 to book
Until Next Time…
Further Reading
by Martin Thomas | Apr 17, 2023 | Lincoln, Lincolnshire, Lincs Connect, LincsConnect, Mandarin Therapies
LincsConnect Stars
Read on to discover how you can join the Lincolnshire LincsConnect Stars and be in with the chance of a featured spot in this blog.
LincsConnect Hour
Join the LincsConnect Hour stars on Monday evenings on Twitter at 8.00pm. You’ll find new friends every week so search #LincsConnect and stay there to follow the chat. Likewise, you’ll find your friends on the #LincsConnect hashtag every day so pop in for a chat.
LincsConnect Hour Hosts
The Hour is often hosted by me but guest hosts are welcome to take over for an allowed hour. The Hour generally runs along the lines of ‘Simon Says’. Starting off with introductions including individual personal adverts then we proceed with questions or prompts to read and repost (not ‘Like’). That’s a general rule but it is flexible and open to interpretation.
Lincolnshire LincsConnect Stars
Use the #LincsConnect hashtag daily for your advertising and networking. It’s free and simple to use
I’ve seen people post their messages but get no response. You can use the #LincsConnect hashtag on your posts to reach out to a wider local audience but for best results you need to visit the hashtag regularly to chat and repost for others. “What goes around, comes around”
LincsConnect Stars
Taking the Hour a stage further it was suggested that I should produce a Gif for #LincsConnect so that’s exactly what I’ve done.
People who join in with the #LincsConnect Hour on Twitter are given the opportunity to post multiple adverts but also invited to win the virtual star. Enter this daily fun competition which simply requires you to visit the Lincolnshire #LincsConnect hashtag to support others there with a retweet and comment.
The competition runs every day with a new member being selected according to how many people they support on the hashtag. In addition, one of the lucky winners will be selected to have a feature in this blog.
The blog will be updated each month with the new winner so play the game to be in with a chance of being featured here.
Join The Lincolnshire #LincsConnect Stars Club
The #LincsConnect Stars are the ones who take the time to chat to others and share posts. You too can become a #LincsConnect Star by utilising the hashtag regularly to support others there.
The Stars – In No Particular Order
As a result of following the instructions to support your fellow #LincsConnect members to reach out to a wider audience you will be in with a chance to win a virtual star and a feature in this blog.
Advertising isn’t free of course so it’s going to cost you in time. Spending a minimum of 5 minutes of your time each day is perfect. The more visits you make to the #LincsConnect hashtag to support others, the greater your chance of winning the Star and blog feature.
Don’t forget to post your own free adverts on the #LincsConnect hashtag too if course.
Sponsored By:
Mandarin Therapies and @MandarinMothers provides bespoke mobile complementary therapies across the whole County and beyond. Go to the bio to discover more and click on the picture to go to the website
How It Works
One visit to the #LincsConnect Hour won’t instantly make you famous or popular with other #LincsConnect members. One Hour may not even get you any sales but taking the concept and applying it daily will help you to gain more recognition and may well lead to increased sales. Spend a few minutes each day chatting with and sharing posts to maximise your impact on social media.
LincsConnect Stars
Join the fun to make good connections and help each other. As a result, your adverts will reach a wider audience so join us for the #LincsConnect Hour on Mondays at 8.00pm and on the #LincsConnect hashtag every day.
Your Editorial Here
As a special ‘thank you’ to those who interact with the #LincsConnect hashtag there will be an opportunity for an editorial here. One winner each month will be chosen so make sure you’re taking part. You have to be in it to win it!
The editorial will include a picture of choice and links to websites etc. The editorial will update each month. To increase advertising opportunities winners are encouraged to use the blog to post on their social media pages. As a result more people will see the blog which will increase awareness of the competition.
Congratulations J&S Plumbing & Heating
J&S Plumbing & Heating “Quality as standard”
Jason dedicated just a few minutes each day to searching the #LincsConnect hashtag on Twitter. As a result he has won this free editorial – congratulations Jason. In addition to the free editorial J&S plumbing & Heating have increased their profile on Twitter and are steadily increasing their following.
Jason has also launched his own Twitter hashtag #JASSafetyTips so if you have any questions about your plumbing and heating or would like to see answers to questions you hadn’t thought to ask, just search the hashtag. You’ll find J&S Plumbing & Heating on twitter under the name @JASPlumbLincs and on Facebook under jasplumbandheat so be sure to give them a follow.
Click on the picture to go straight to the J&S Plumbing & Heating website
As a satisfied customer I have no hesitation in recommending Jason for your boiler purchase, servicing, and maintenance. We had two large old boilers which Jason removed and replaced with a single new efficient Worcester boiler. Quick, clean, efficient and at a fair price so naturally I’m very pleased with the job.
One year later a service is due so I received a text reminder with a link to the website. As a result, one click took me to the right page and after filling in my name and address the service it was booked. By following the simple instructions I even had a choice of preferred days and times for the visit. A follow up text to confirm the appointment followed just minutes later. That’s what I call good service.
Spread The Cost With J&S Plumbing & Heating
There are 5 fully qualified heating engineers on hand to look after you. As a result it’s unlikely that you’ll have a long wait for your work to be booked in and carried out. Jason even has monthly payment service plans available to help you spread the cost. Qualified in gas, oil and LPG heating systems J&S Plumbing & Heating have you covered. Their strap line says it all: “Quality as standard”
Congratulations to Serena Twibell Arts
Always here to support other #LincsConnect users, Serena has surely deserved her prize of a free editorial here. When Serena isn’t painting or or creating hand sewn lovelies & home decor pieces from felt and vintage fabrics (never far from a cup of tea of course) she and her husband are collecting vintage items to go on sale in their shop at Hemswell Antiques.
The stock is always changing of course so I strongly recommend that you pay a visit to Canberra Antiques Centre (Unit 52) to have a look for yourself. When you get there you’ll find that the very helpful reception staff will be pleased to guide you to Twibell Arts.
Unit 52 at Canberra Antiques Center, Hemswell. Click on the picture to find Canberra Antiques Centre
Painting And Creating
Serena is truly gifted as you’ll discover when you follow her on Twitter and look at her Etsy Shop. Again, the stock is constantly being updated as the artwork and creations are all original. However, you’ll be able to keep up to date with what’s new by following @TwibellArts on Twitter or Serena.Twibell on Facebook
Incredibly detailed miniature paintings as well as exquisite creations, Serena has every gift occasion covered so a visit to her Etsy shop is a must. Click on the picture for a shortcut to the shop.
Call 01522 708 208 to book an appointment today or click on the links above to go to the website and social media sites.
Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:
How to use LincsConnect in Lincolnshire
Free Advertising With LincsConnect
That’s It For Now
by Martin Thomas | Sep 23, 2022 | Advertise, Lincolnshire, Lincs Connect, LincsConnect, Mandarin Therapies, Social, WhatsOnLincs
Free Advertising In Lincolnshire With LincsConnect
Free Advertising in Lincolnshire – #LincsConnect – Make it your ‘go to’ hashtag
This is probably the shortest and most important blog you have ever read!
We all like something that’s ‘free’ but we probably also know that nothing is truly free! Twitter – that’s free! Facebook and Instagram are also free too so where’s the catch? Simple! If you want ‘free’ advertising/exposure on social media you’re going to have to invest your time. By investing your time your posts are more likely to be seen and acted upon. Would you like to know how to do it?
Ditch The ‘Like’ Button
Free Advertising in Lincolnshire – Ditch the Like button
Free Advertising In Lincolnshire with LincsConnect – Ditch The Like Button
If you’re using X (Twitter) I highly recommend that you ditch the ‘Like’ button. Rules vary from Twitter to Facebook/Instagram but it is now official that the ‘Like’ button on X is pretty much redundant.
Twitter is an interactive platform so your best results will come from interacting with your followers. That’s one of the main differences between Twitter and other platforms. What does the ‘Like’ button say about you on Twitter?
- I don’t have time for you so I’ll just press the like button instead of saying ‘thank you’ or interacting.
- I’m not that interested in you so I’ll just press the Like button and hope that you read my posts.
- I don’t understand algorithms and how they work so I’ll press the Like button and hope for the best.
- I can’t be bothered to talk to my followers.
- I don’t want to share your post with others.
When scrolling down your twitter timeline you will see tweets from people you follow, sponsored (paid advertising) tweets and tweets that have been retweet by your followers. You’ll never see a ‘Liked’ tweet!
The ‘Like’ button does have its uses though. It’s a good way of saving tweets for future reference. Beyond that, I’m struggling to think of a good reason to use it on Twitter!
Free Advertising And Social Media Interaction With LincsConnect
I’ve said it many times before; the clue is in the name. ‘Social’ media should be exactly what it says in the title. Actually ‘talk’ to your followers.
There’s a TV advert for a room freshener implying that the character has gone ‘nose blind’. In social media terms, if you post, post, post with no interaction your followers will see your posts but they won’t register in their mind. However, if you ‘talk’ to your followers they’ll remember you as that nice person/business who takes an interest. Obviously talking to your followers doesn’t mean telling them how good you are and what you have to sell them. Instead, you need to show an interest in other people to let them know you care about them. Given time they will ask you what you do and what you have to offer. As a result, you don’t need to do the ‘hard sell’.
#WhatsOnLincs – New To The LincsConnect Website
“…WhatsOnLincs is the new community web page on the LincsConnect website. You can use it to post free adverts from markets and car boot sales to charity events and entertainment, jobs, volunteering plus much more. You can even include pictures as well as links to websites. It’s all FREE so be sure to use it to find out What’s on in Lincolnshire…”
Take a look at the blog link below to read the full #WhatsOnLincs blog. Don’t forget to recommend it to your friends and out of town visitors too so that they can discover what’s on in Lincolnshire.
Helpful?
It’s probably my shortest blog ever read but I hope you find it useful.
Advert
Massage Bliss with Mandarin Therapies. Mobile complementary therapies.
Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:
Don’t Rely On Algorithms
See the #WhatsOnLincs blog in full
More Blogs By LincsConnect
That’s It For Now
I hope you found this Free Advertising blog useful.
by Martin Thomas | Jun 18, 2021 | Advertise, Antenatal, Aromatherapy, Around Me, Art, Charity, Covid-19, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, Lincs Connect, LincsConnect, LincsConnectJobs, Mandarin Therapies, Massage, Stress, Suicide, Support, Twitter
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough, Through The Eyes Of LincsConnect
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough near Lincoln UK. Gainsborough was once (in 1013) the capital of England. England was ruled from the Gainsborough Castle which is now the site of the Gainsborough Old Hall. The status was short lived but if ever there was a claim to fame, ‘this’ has to be a pretty good contender.
Managed by English Heritage, the Gainsborough Old Hall is closed at present but will reopen in summer 2021 (3 July). Follow @GainsOldHall on twitter for updates. Click on the picture to go straight to the English Heritage website page to book your advance tickets.
Getting To Gainsborough, Lincolnshire
Located on the banks of the River Trent, Gainsborough (capitol of England in 1013) has historically had easy access routes. Moving on, you’ll see on this map that Gainsborough is still easily accessible from the M180 to the North, the A1 to the West, the A15 to the East and the A57 from the South. These routes make Gainsborough ideally situated for your next outing to explore our rich heritage in Lincolnshire.
The Trent Bridge was completed in 1791 (there was formerly a ferry crossing) which put an end to commercial shipping as larger boats are unable to navigate under the bridge. However, rail links are very much alive and available. With two train stations (Lea Road and Gainsborough Central) rail travel is easy. Trains run direct from/to Retford, Sheffield, Doncaster and Lincoln from Lea Road. The Gainsborough Central station has direct routes to Cleethorpes and Brigg. It’s even possible for travellers to get to Gainsborough from the new capital (London) with just one change.
Gainsborough, Lincolnshire – easy access from every direction.
The Gainsborough Heritage Trail
Gainsborough Heritage have produced a free booklet which includes a 90 minutes walking route. To download the .PDF click on this map
The brochure which has been produced by Gainsborough Heritage is an easy to follow and very informative glossy paper pamphlet. As a result it will easily fold into your pocket or bag. If you’d like a copy click on the picture above to download a .PDF to print at home. If you prefer a printed paper version email your name and address tourism.info@west-lindsey.gov.uk The .PDF is ideal for carrying on your mobile phone. For more information follow Gainsborough Heritage Association on Facebook.
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough With Call Connect
Call Connect provide an affordable and convenient bus service throughout the County. Click on the picture to go to their website. You can also follow them on Twitter for regular updates @CallConnectBus
Call Connect provide a valuable bus service throughout the County. Gainsborough is well serviced by the buses so if you would like to book a journey simply register on their Call Connect website then book your journey. Obviously they are adhering to all of the Covid-19 safety measures so you’ll be required to sanitise hands and wear a face covering before your journey.
News News News
EU Settlement Scheme
Time is running out so if you or someone you know are from the EU and you wish to settle and work in the UK you need to act NOW!
For help with completing your application to settle in the UK contact South Lincs Citizens Advice NOW. Click on the picture or the blue link to email your interest.
A Note from Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire
“With just weeks to go before the EU Settlement Scheme deadline, our support helpline has seen a large increase in calls and referrals and we are working hard to help each and every client that contacts us for support with their application. Many of the enquiries were from people unsure whether they need to apply to the scheme or not, many are from people who did not yet make applications for their children and we are also seeing queries from people trying to track their applications that have not yet been concluded or are facing issues accessing their application or need to provide further evidence.
Our support team are working hard across Lincolnshire to meet the demand and we aim to help as many clients as we can in the run up to the deadline.
As well as providing telephone advice and online support, we also have drop in sessions and can offer face to face advice in different locations across Lincolnshire.”
“..EU citizens, EEA and Swiss nationals and those who hold an EEA family permit not to wait until the last minute to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).”
Where To Go For Help
Click on the picture to find the freephone number and link to download the application NOW.
Opening the blue picture above will show you the FREE 0800 448 0734 number to call for assistance and the website will also give a link to download the application. Multi lingual posters and more information are posted by @eusssupportlinc on Twitter.
If you know someone who may be wanting to stay in the UK please pass this information on
Local Charity
Click on the logo to go to the latest blog
Two thousand one hundred and sixty four and counting…. That’s how many Greyhounds this fantastic local charity have managed to re-home. That’s a fantastic achievement. To top it off they have a policy of guaranteeing to accept any dogs that are returned. It’s not ideal to have dogs returned but some new owners find they can’t cope with the reality of owning a dog. That said, looking at the percentages across other charities you’ll find this Gainsborough trust are performing well.
As a charity they are always looking at ways of raising funds. One of the successful fund raisers is their lottery. For just £1.00 a week you’ll be in with a chance of winning a cash prize and, with a limit of 216 members it’s pretty exclusive. Follow @LincsGreyhounds on Twitter for regular updates but if you would like to join their lottery visit the website Lincolnshire Greyhound Trust or call today:
07941 313 025
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough – Trinity Arts Centre
Actually, ‘I’ won’t be entertaining you but the fabulous people at the Trinity Arts Centre will. Pantomime tickets are already on sale so if you want to book your moment of ‘normality’ you’ll need to get a move on. Aladdin opens on 10 December 2021 with the last show on 2 January 2022. Click on the picture below to go straight to the booking page and follow them on Twitter @TrinityArtsGain for regular updates:
Panto season will soon be here so NOW is the time to book your tickets for the fun packed show. Family fun for everyone even if you aren’t taking children
Beginning life as the Church Of The Holy Trinity in 1843 this listed building has been completely renovated inside to become what we now know as the Trinity Arts Centre. Just in case you were wondering, yes it is located on Trinity Street – obviously! As expected, the Centre offers a large and diverse range of entertainment to cover most tastes. As a result this little snapshot of what you can expect is by no means exhaustive. Click on the picture to see more:
Just a taster… There’s lots more to see at the Trinity Arts Centre so click on the picture to go straight to the calendar and bookings pages.
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough – Bearded Fishermen
The Bearded Fishermen are a Gainsborough based charity supporting Mental health and Suicide Prevention. If you need help give them a call NOW:
0300 365 0019
The team are always available to help and have a proven track record. If you’re suffering, don’t suffer in silence! The Bearded Fishermen are here for you and offer support by phone, in person (face to face) and via video. So if you need them, call them NOW. The picture will take you straight to their website where you can access more information so don’t delay. You can call them on 0300 365 0019 or find them on Twitter @Brdfishermen_uk and Facebook Bearded Fishermen Charity
Not all super heroes wear capes – some wear beards. Don’t suffer with poor mental health and suicidal thoughts. click on the logo to go straight to the website for help
Advert
#MandarinTherapies and @MandarinMothers provide mobile complementary therapies from the comfort of your own home across the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond. Call 07966 174 878 to book today. Providing bespoke treatments so every massage is as individual as you. Treatments include Aromatherapy, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), Antenatal and Postnatal massage.
Gainsborough
Gainsborough has far more to offer than I can include in this blog but I hope you have enjoyed this little taster.
Something missing? Get in touch if you would like something adding to the blog. Local advertising is always welcome too of course so call me on 07966 174878 to have yours included here. The phone may go to answerphone if I’m with clients so you can also email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk
Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:
Click on the pictures to go straight to the most recent blogs:
LincsConnectJobs Hour
Sorry, Not sorry, Thank You
WhatsOnLincs – Gainsborough
That’s it for now. I’ll be doing more ‘Around Me’ blogs so get in touch if you would like me to feature your town.
You may also like to read about the ‘Aviation Trail’ by Visit Lincoln:
Aviation Trail by Visit Lincoln
by Martin Thomas | Jan 22, 2021 | Advertise, Aromatherapy, Bands, Brewing, Coffee, Covid 19, Covid-19, COVID19, Docks Beers, Facebook, Fishing, Food, Great Grimsby Day, Great Grimsby Day 2021, Grimsby, Grimsby Minster, Humberside, Lincolnshire, lincolnshire Business, Lincs Connect, LincsConnect, Mandarin Therapies, Massage, Minster, Twitter, Vouchers, YouTube
Great Grimsby Day
Grimsby Minster
Great Grimsby Day
Great Grimsby Day 2021 was held on Friday 22 January (traditionally held on 22 January each year) but celebrations were low key due to the pandemic restrictions. Trying to research the origins of the day has proven difficult. The earliest mention of Great Grimsby Day that I can find is via the BBC Radio Humberside website in 2008. Despite searching and searching I haven’t been able to find anything earlier or even the origins of the day. However, the further I delved into the research, the more I found. If you would like to find more search for Great Grimsby Day or #GreatGrimsbyDay
From 2025 Great Grimsby Day will be celebrated on 11 March to coincide with the signing of the Royal Charter in 1201.
Grimsby has a long history with the first charter being granted in 1201. Grimsby is famous for being Britains seafood town of course but the deeper I delve, the more history and diversity I uncover. The Grimsby Minster (pictured above) gained its Minster status on 16 May 2010 but its history goes way back to before 1114. Click on the picture above to go to the Minster website.
I thought it was fitting to add this YouTube video from the Minster featuring The Choirs of Grimsby Minster
Finding the opening subject of a blog featuring a town with so much rich history as Great Grimsby is bound to be difficult but I hope you’ll agree that The Grimsby Minster fits the bill pretty well. If you would like any more information about the Minster, its services and what it has to offer the community you can follow them on Twitter @GrimsbyMinster or Facebook Grimsby Minster
Fishing From Grimsby
A huge part of the history of Grimsby revolves around the fishing industry. Searching online I came across this wonderful Youtube video by Paul Cleary which was posted in 2014. Paul is the son of a fisherman and is donating all proceeds from the video to the R.N.L.I and R.N.M.D.S.F.
Click here to go to the YouTube video
Life And Fishing Move On
Technology and science has led to changes in fishing methods of course and JCS Fish have taken a different approach to the deep sea trawling methods:
Supplying Salmon to shops and restaurants across the country JCS Fish are at the forefront of salmon fishing and production. You can find them on LinkedIn as JCS Fish
Picture taken following a visit to JCS Fish Ltd in 2016 when they had a charity cake sale. The words ‘charity’ and ‘cake’ were enough of an invitation for me to make the trip from Lincoln! Apologies for the quality of the picture though – I’m pretty sure it would have been taken using an iPhone 5. It is a lovely view though isn’t it
Smoked
Grimsby, fish and smoked all seem to go together well so if you like smoked fish you need to visit award winning Alfred Enderby for smoked haddock and smoked salmon. Visit the website to place your order and have your selection delivered.
Click on the picture to go to the website. We all deserve something special and I think this will hit the spot. Follow Alfred on twitter for regular updates @AlfredEnderbyGY
Great Grimsby Day – A Trip Worth Making
I had never visited on Great Grimsby Day so 22 January 2022 was added in my diary to make sure I didn’t miss the sights and smells of land and sea. It would be silly to make the trip and not take in some light refreshments of course so I can recommend a visit to Riverhead Coffee for a brew and a bite to eat. This cheeky picture was take during the same 2016 trip when I stopped off at the nearby Cleethorpes cafe. There is a second shop in Grimsby too of course so even during the lockdown you’ll be able to buy your supplies for Great Grimsby Day of goodies including Stokes Coffee
A coffee at Riverhead Coffee is bound to raise a smile – Click on the picture to go to the Facebook page
Great Grimsby Day – Food, Drink And More…
The whole of Lincolnshire is always buzzing with activity. Famed for its food production, fantastic cafes and restaurants, warm hospitality and beer. We have a huge brewery industry on the rise across the whole County so it would be amiss of me to not include Docks Beers in this blog. Brewing craft beers in an old church on King Edward Street since 2018 the team deliver beer both locally and nationwide. There is no keeping a good idea down so as a result the team have expanded to include spiced rum and gin too.
…And More
It would be unusual to complete the Lincs Connect blog without including some music and entertainment so here goes; Docks Beers also includes the outstanding Docks Academy where you’re sure to find the best live music, comedy and events. Sadly the latest Red Herring Comedy Club events scheduled for February and March have had to be postponed. Another casualty of the Covid-19 lockdown precautions but the good news is that the tickets will remain valid and the event will be re-scheduled. Supporting local and big name bands and artists this surely has to be one of the ‘must visit’ venues in the UK.
Local Bands
Celebrating Great Grimsby Day without including a local band would be like….. well, ‘fish without chips’!
I’ve heard all of the Trak3 singles and in my mind, this is their best recording yet. These guys are just getting better and better. You can follow them on Twitter @Trak3_Official but don’t forget to hop over to their YouTube channel to see what else they have to offer. This one is called ‘Get It Poppin’ and I think it really deserves a listen.
Indigo Bay are producing some great music too and deserve a listen. They’ve featured on BBC Introducing @BBCLincsIntro and I’ll be really surprised if they aren’t one of the big bands of the future. Have a listen to ‘Reservoir Relaxing’ then give them a follow on twitter @theindigobay and Facebook Indigo Bay plus their YouTube channel too of course.
Great Grimsby Day – Advert
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Advertising
To book your advert on the local blogs email martin@lincsconnect.co.uk
Community
Your local police force @HumberBeats is here to help and inform when you need it. As a result, they have set up a ‘My Community Alert’ scheme for you to get information when you need it:
For more information and to sign up to the alert system go the the Humberside Police website by clicking on this link: www.mycommunityalert.co.uk
Visit Grimsby
Grimsby has so much more to offer than I can ever list here. You’ll find shopping at Freshney Place, Abbeygate and markets at Freeman Street, Victoria Street and of course Grimsby Top Town Market. Between them they’ll have all of your shopping needs catered for from clothing to stamps and from farm produce to flowers. For more information visit www.nelincs.gov.uk
Far too many fantastic businesses to mention in a single blog! You can have a blog of your own created by contacting martin@lincsconnect.co.uk
You’ll be able to use your dedicated blog for your own personal advertising. Get in touch for more information.
Find Locals On Twitter
Simply click on the logo to go to the twitter page:
Add Yourself To The List
If you would like to be added to this list please get in touch. It’s not too late to add a feature too as this blog will be live and available for Grimsby ‘forever’. contact martin@lincsconnect.co.uk for info.
That’s It For Now
There will be more local blogs out soon but if you would like to see what else has been posted take a look at www.lincsconnect.co.uk/blogs
In Case You Missed It
Click on the links to go to previous blogs:
Stay Safe
Have a lovely Great Grimsby Day everyone and stay safe.
“Putting the social back into social media” #LincsConnect is always here for you.
by Martin Thomas | Jan 7, 2021 | Aromatherapy, Barton, Choral, Covid-19, Grimsby, Heritage, Lincs Connect, LincsConnect, Mandarin Therapies, Massage, Minster, Philharmonic, Vouchers
The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom
Click on the picture to go to the website – The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom
There’s lots to see and do in Grimsby, even during a Covid-19 pandemic. For those of you who know me, you’ll know I’m a music fan. I remember going to see the Grimsby Philharmonic performing ‘The Armed Man – A Mass For Peace’ by Karl Jenkins at the Grimsby Central Hall. The tickets were a gift for my birthday in October 2016 and the performance was a real treat. Alas, the Central Hall isn’t open at the moment (more about the hall later) but the practice and performance continues for The Grimsby Philharmonic on Zoom.
The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom
Zoom Practice
The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom is something quite new and exciting because it means that members can still be together even though they’re on lockdown. I’ve been told how easy it is to join in a Zoom session but it wasn’t until this week that I discovered just how easy it actually is! I’ll explain more later in the blog.
The new Grimsby Philharmonic Zoom practice sessions start on Monday 11 January 2021 (sessions from 7.15pm – 8.45pm). As a result you’ll be able to log in and join the fun. It’s best to allow for a 7.00pm start though to give everyone time to register and get organised before rehearsals start. With a virtual festival planned practice will begin with John Rutter’s The Spring Of Thyme. It’s hoped to have a performance (live or on Zoom) during the summer with proceedings conducted by Karen Beer.
The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom – You Are Invited
The choral society membership is open to everyone and all ages so if you would like to get involved you can make contact through the website www.grimsbyphilharmonicsociety.co.uk Twitter @gyphilharmonic Facebook Grimsby Philharmonic Society and Instagram grimsbyphilharmonicsociety
Diary Date
Add Monday evenings from 7.00pm into your weekly calendar, download the Zoom App (if you haven’t already) and book yourself in by making contact through one of the links above for an evening of song and socialising.
#WhatsOnLincs The Grimsby Philharmonic On Zoom starting 11 Jan 21 at 7.15pm.
Grimsby – Music And Words
Over the last week I’ve been featuring a piece by Grimsby Minster each morning as my #LincsConnect song of the week. It’s not actually a song but I saw it and just felt it fitted nicely into the Lincs Connect sense of heritage and way of thinking. The video link to that is below but you’ll also notice a Facebook video above too which is an organ recital to raise much needed funds. Please do have a listen and make a donation if you can.
You can follow Grimsby Minster on facebook by clicking on this link: Grimsby Minster
“In To My Loving Arms”
A piece written by Ben Keaton and read by Gemma Baker. A wonderful piece describing the soul of Grimsby
Grimsby Central Hall
A ‘must visit’ theatre close to the centre of Grimsby which, if you have never been before, will surely surprise you! All quiet and in darkness now due to the National Covid-19 lockdown but definitely, definitely, DEFINITELY a lace to visit in the future. It’s a charity run organisation so your support is vital for its survival but ‘survive’ it must!
Did you know that it has its own Fishermans chapel and war memorial? The building ‘shouts’ grandure with its marvellous staircase and fantastic auditorium. Have a look at their Twitter page @BoxOfficeGCH to look back at some of the performances that have been put on for our delight. There are other rooms that can be hired out there too of course. As a result you’ll be able to plan your meetings, parties, gatherings or even exercise sessions while at the same time supporting the survival of some local history.
Click on the picture to go to the website contact page
Click on the picture for more information
If you’re in the Grimsby area and didn’t know this marvellous piece of heritage was on your doorstep I strongly urge you to pay a visit when it’s safe to do so. Here are some pictures from inside the chapel:
Zoom In…
Confession time! This week was the first time I’ve used Zoom. It wasn’t really a case of ‘resisting’ it or being ‘fearful’ of the technology but I just hadn’t had cause to use it before. Most of my work is done on an individual basis so FaceTime of WhatsApp video calls have been my obvious choices. However, I had an interview with Richard Watts from Barton FM radio station and he needed it to be on Zoom to record and upload it onto YouTube. I was surprised how easy it was too organise. I simply downloaded the Zoom App from my Apple store, copied and pasted the link he sent me and that was it! Even I can do it!!
The interview centred around an explanation of what #LincsConnect is and my plans for the new #ShopLincs hashtag and App too. As a result of the interview you are able to see the YouTube results here:
The @LincsConnect #ShopLincs hashtag is now live and the App should be available soon. For a little more information take a look at this blog:
Happy Impulsive New Year
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Advertising
If you would like to advertise on these blogs please do get in touch. You can email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk
That’s It For Now
I hope you enjoy reading my blogs. If you would like a blog about your area or something you are passionate about please do get in touch.
Stay Safe
Please follow the rules even if you don’t agree with them. We can achieve great things when we work together so please stay in if you can, wash your hands regularly, keep your distance and wear a face covering over your mouth ‘and nose’ whenever instructed.
