Once the largest fishing port in the world, the town’s football team have recently experienced an upsurge in fortunes which has seen them climb to the top of the League Two table, having previously experienced relegation heartbreak twice in the past three seasons.

With Notts County suffering a 2-0 defeat at Shrewsbury on Saturday, the Mariners became outright leaders by two points after a Michael Reddy-inspired 3-0 victory over Torquay United at Blundell Park - their sixth win in seven games.

Gary Jones was denied by the crossbar for Grimsby after 33 minutes, but they finally seized the initiative three minutes before half-time when Rob Jones volleyed home following a poor clearance from a Gary Croft free-kick.

Croft proved instrumental in his side’s second goal as well in the 66th minute. His lofty through ball sent Reddy clear on goal, and the forward raced past goalkeeper Andy Marriott before slotting the ball away to double the advantage.

The 23-year-old was on target once more 11 minutes later when he ran 70 yards from his own half, leaving four Torquay players in his wake, before firing past Marriott for his third goal in as many games.

Grimsby manager Russell Slade was evidently pleased about his side moving clear at the summit.

“I'm delighted to win at home in the right manner. I'd have settled for a scruffy 1-0 win, but to win 3-0 win in some style is very pleasing.

"This success isn't based on any clever system. It's based on a terrific work ethic, on attitude and on discipline. It's all coming through on the pitch at the right time."

Other teams considered for Team of the Weekend were Sheffield United, who came from two goals down to defeat Watford and maintain top spot in the Championship, and Shrewsbury who inflicted Notts County’s first league defeat of the season.