| Description | Memorial to the Justices from the merchants, tradesmen and inhabitants of Whitby relating to the inconvenience caused by the opening of the bridge. The bridgemen are paid partly by the county, but mainly by fees collected from craft using the Bridgeway, which leads them to regard the entrance of any craft paying a toll as of the first importance, and causes delays to people and traffic using the bridge. Every branch of trade should be encouraged, especially the herring fishing, which is so important and beneficial to Whitby. The petitioners wish the bridge to be placed under efficient control that would make the bridgemen less dependent on entrance fees without inconveniencing the herring fishing
Signed by 253 inhabitants, giving name, occupation and residence |