Having recently moved to Witton I camr across an old booklet written by Edward H Raine, head Teacher of Witton Gilbert Council School from 1948-1967. It's called The History Of Witton Gilbert.
Quoting a little from the book it says" A large source of income came from the village markets. Witton was a meeting place of routes and of some importanceas a convenient meeting place for the industrial traders from the east and farmers from the west.
Travelling traders required places where they could obtain refreshment from themselves and stabling for their horse. The village had several inns and public houses. At the east end of the village was the Black Lion, now a dwelling house ( I actually live in this house), opposite the bus stop was the Witton Gilbert Hotel known latterly as Brigg's Pub. A little further along on the opposite side is the Glendenning Arms. The Three Tons, near to the garage was converted into a dwelling house several years ago. The last inn westward is still the Travellers Rest".
Hope this is of interest.