Spotlight on Local History

Have you heard that Grimsby has its own medieval imp? The story runs parallel with the more famous imp in Lincoln Cathedral. The story claims that both were sent by the devil to wreak havoc on the congregation.

They were so good at their job that God sent an angel to sort them out. The angel warned the imps, commanding them to repent or else.

One of the imps listened and hid under a table, while the other bravely started throwing rocks at the angel, who immediately turned the imp into stone, so creating the Lincoln imp. He then warned the other imp to stay out of trouble.

He agreed but he had no intention of keeping his promise. The imp then travelled to Grimsby where he again started to terrorise the town. The angel returned and smacked the imp on the backside and turned him into stone.

Next time you're visiting the Minster, look up to the top of the columns and see if you can find him.