In the 14th century it passed to the Courtenays, and in 1698 Sir William Courtenay was confirmed in the right of holding court leet, view of frankpledge and the nomination of a portreeve, these privileges having been surrendered to James II.

A court leet and view of frankpledge have been held here from time immemorial.

yearly for every toft, granting them the same privileges as the burgesses of Grimsby, and that their reeve should be chosen annually by the lord of the manor at his court leet, preference being given to the burgesses if they would pay as much as others for the office.

It was governed by a portreeve and bailiff, elected annually at the court leet held by the lord of the manor.

date the chief officer in the town had been the chief constable, who was appointed annually at the court leet of the manor.