Demonstrating against cuts in Grimsby

On 29 January, students and workers united in a bid to make their voices heard about the recent cuts brought about by the coalition government.

Across the country demonstrations were held in some of the country’s biggest and most vibrant cities including London, Manchester and…Grimsby. Known for its fishing heritage and very little else, Grimsby is perhaps the last place you would expect to find any kind of political activism.

But although the demonstration lacked the numbers in Manchester and London, the group more than made up for this in terms of their spirit and determination.

The 150-strong march, organised by Grimsby Socialist Party members and Youth Fight for Jobs, took place in the town’s main shopping area and ended with a rally outside the town hall.

Marchers were invited to take the stand and expressed passionate views about what they are fighting for.

By the time the group reached its destination many more had joined in. The atmosphere surrounding the crowd was electrifying and infectious.

Shoppers stopped to watch and give support, showing that it’s not just the student population who are in uproar about the recent cuts.

At the rally, we heard a series of heart-felt and emotional speeches stressing the importance of education and investing in the future. One woman discussed her family’s financial difficulties and someone else talked about the problems his younger sister will face with the increase in tuition fees.

The general vibe from the crowd was extremely positive suggesting that future marches in the area will have even more attendees, receive even more press coverage and help to spread the message across North East Lincolnshire.

Emily Clegg