Ex-fisherman from across North East Lincolnshire will be recognised at a reunion evening to be held at Grimsby’s Fishing Heritage Centre.

Organised by the centre and The Fishermen’s Mission, it is hoped that up to 150 ex-trawlermen will attend the event on September 4, between 6pm and 10pm, to celebrate their part in the local fishing industry and receive life-long free entry to the Heritage Centre.

The guests will have exclusive use of the centre and Ross Tiger trawler for the evening and will enjoy guided talks, music and free food and refreshments.

Although free entry to local ex-trawlermen has existed for many years, the Fishing Heritage Centre staff have felt that not enough ex-fishermen are aware of it and haven’t used the building as much as they would like.

Dave Ornsby, education and outreach officer at the Fishing Heritage Centre, said: “The initial idea for the event came after staff from the Heritage Centre attended an event at the Fisherman’s Chapel. We were keen to work closer with the Mission and decided to host this night out of respect of what the trawlermen have achieved.

“The Trawlerman’s Night highlights that the centre is here for them and has people that think of them and respect their efforts.”

Tony Jewitt, superintendent at Grimsby’s Fishermen’s Mission, said:” This is a wonderful opportunity on several fronts; firstly to highlight the on-going work at the Fishermens Mission in Grimsby and the variety of help available to ex seafarers.

“Secondly to educate the local area of our fishing heritage with some wonderful exhibits including our beloved Ross Tiger and to also meet up with old crew members, whether they are skippers, mates or deckies.

“And finally to have a bite to eat over a drink whilst reminiscing over days gone by – and to top it all, we’re not asking for a penny.”

A limited number of tickets are still available for the event from Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre or the Fishermen’s Mission.

Telephone the Heritage Centre on 323345 or the Mission on 354384 for details. Proof of involvement in the fishing industry will be required when collecting tickets.