PARENTS are being invited to learn skills that could save their child’s life.

MHE services, based at Carlton industrial Estate, is offering a free two hour first aid course to teach parents how to perform CPR, use an AED and what to do if a child is chocking.

Faye Holmes, who works for MHE said: “Parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, or anyone with a baby or child close to their hearts is welcome to attend.

“We honestly believe that knowing these skills is something that anyone with a child or baby close to them should know.”

The course will take place on Monday at 10am and to register call 491432.

THERE were no back to work Monday blues for one lucky person in Barnsley this week who scooped £30,000 thanks to their postcode.

The Wakefield Road resident scooped the cash when S71 1RP was announced as a winner with People’s Postcode Lottery on Saturday.

They were the only person playing with the winning postcode, but had anyone else been then they too would have won £30,000.

Offering her congratulations, People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Judie McCourt, said: “Sometimes January can feel like a long month after the festivities begin to calm down, but that won’t be the case for our lucky Barnsley winner now they’ve got a lottery win to celebrate.”

Around 32 per cent of ticket sales goes directly to charities and players of People’s Postcode Lottery have helped raise more than £500m to date.

The Saturday draw was promoted on behalf of Maggie’s, which has received more than £14m in support from players to help run its network of cancer support centres across the UK.

THERE has been an incident on Racecommon Road, Barnsley.

Emergency sercives are currently on the scene.

Please allow extra time for your journey.

TEMPORARY traffic lights on a main road into Barnsley came into force this week and will remain until mid February as resurfacing works are carried out by Barnsley Council. 

Works will be carried out on the A633 - Barnsley Road and Wombwell Lane - between the White Rose roundabout and Screwfix/Greggs. 

The lights will be in operation between 9.30am and 3.30pm on weekdays, and 7.30am and 4pm on Sundays to minimise disruption. Temporary lights will only be in place during these times.

A spokesman for Barnsley Council said: “This is part of our ongoing maintenance programme, to improve the quality of the road surface along this route and provide a better and safer driving experience.”

A MAN who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a shooting in Wath has been released without charge. 

Emergency services were called to Burman Road at about 8.05pm on Friday following reports that shots had been fired outside a supermarket. 

A 29-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound to his back. He was taken to hospital for treatment and later discharged. 

Police arrested a 27-year-old man at the scene, who a spokesman for South Yorkshire Police confirmed has since been released without charge. 

The spokesman added: “Enquiries remain ongoing to identify the offender and officers remain in the area carrying out house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.” 

Anyone with information is advised to call 101 quoting incident number 786 of January 10, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

POLICE searching for missing woman have found a body in the Thurnscoe area.

Formal identification of the body has taken place and police have confirmed that it is 48-year-old Lorraine Fowlds, who had been reported missing.

Lorraine’s family have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers.

A police spokesman said: “The death is not being treated as suspicious however officers remain in the area carrying out enquiries.

“We would like to thank the members of the local community who have assisted in the search for Lorraine.”

THERE has been an incident on Tank Row, Lundwood.

Emergency sercives are currently on the scene.

Please allow extra time for your journey.

A TEMPORARY traffic restriction is in force on a town centre street.

Peel Street, from Wellington Street to Fenton Street, will be one-way for the next two Sundays.

The removal of a telecommunications mast, sited on the Post Office’s roof, on nearby Pitt Street, has forced the change.

SOUTH Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and South Yorkshire Police are recruiting for the Prince’s Trust Team programme.

The free 12-week personal development programme for young people aged between 16 and 25 is delivered by South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, with the support of South Yorkshire Police.

The programme is specifically aimed at those who are currently out of work and education, and looking to improve their employability while gaining real qualifications through life changing experiences.

The next programme will begin on January 27 at Cudworth Fire Station.

For further information, email princestrust@syfire.gov.uk or call 07920 801553.

THE YORKSHIRE Vet paid a visit to Wigfield Farm to share his stories about the industry and his career as a vet.

Peter Wright, from the Channel 5 series The Yorkshire Vet, visited animal care students at Barnsley College, which runs the farm, to give them an insight into what life is like as a vet.

The students took the opportunity to ask Peter questions related to the life of a veterinary surgeon and how to succeed in the industry.

The Yorkshire Vet TV series follows the lives and work of vets Peter Wright and Julian Norton at their two practices in North Yorkshire.

Luke Andrew, the tutorial learning mentor at Barnsley College, said: “Peter observed our students participating in a practical session with horses, engaging with students and asking them about the practical sessions and how they vary, as well as talking to them about their career goals and how they might achieve this.

“It was a very positive experience for both students and staff.”

A RAFT of work has been proposed in order to tighten up security at a former railway bridge after Barnsley Council lodged its concerns over youths throwing bricks into traffic below.

Incidents have happened in recent months on Barnsley Road, Cudworth, which has seen youngsters scale the banking of the former railway line where the bridge used to go across the main road.

Although it’s been made a priority for the local policing team – whose officers have been increasing their patrols as a result of complaints made by Coun Charlie Wraith – buses and cars have been damaged by yobs.

Network Rail opted to erect fencing when the bridge was removed in March 2015, but youths have been seen on the playing field side where there’s been long-running issues with antisocial behaviour since the removal.

According to a document obtained by the Chronicle, Network Rail has committed to funding a host of work including the erection of fencing and anti-climb spikes to prevent youngsters from accessing the former track.

A spokesman said: “This is something which we are looking to do as quickly as possible, bearing in mind the nature of the dangerous behaviour which has been taking place.

“Our contractor has visited the site and drawn up and provided estimates for proposals to improve the fencing. We plan to instruct these works shortly, however due to the relatively high cost and the necessity of road closures to implement, we estimate that a realistic timescale for implementation would be within six months.

“Safety is Network Rail’s top priority and we are committed to working with Barnsley Council and South Yorkshire Police to help them tackle this issue.”

Paul Brannan, head of safer communities for the council, wrote a letter to Network Rail – the landowner – asking them to consider repositioning its fencing to prevent access.

South Yorkshire Police followed suit and the issue was raised by Sergeant Richard Wilson, whose team is based in the village.

He added: “Potentially an adjustment of the fencing and removal of at least some of the ballast would make a significant improvement to the situation – basically we just need to make it as difficult as possible to repeat the behaviour.”

Coun Wraith, who represents the Cudworth ward, told the Chronicle that residents had complained in their droves about the yobs’ behaviour, and welcomed the proposals.

“This is a potentially deadly situation so it’s great that plans have been revealed to tighten up security on the former bridge,” he added.

“It’s pure luck that the objects have hit vehicles’ roofs instead of their windscreens, which would easily shatter given the weight of a brick, the 30mph speed limit and the fact it’s been thrown from a height.

“Hopefully the proposals will put a stop to the antisocial behaviour there as it should prevent access.”

ASPIRING teen footballers have been given a lifeline to play professionally following a partnership between former Barnsley FC striker Bruce Dyer and the Reds.

The Bruce Dyer Love Life Elite Academy, which has been running since September 2018, aims to give budding footballers a stepping stone to become part of the Barnsley FC Academy or the Reds in the Community shadow squad programme.

The youth programme, for children aged 12 to 16, will help assist Barnsley FC Academy with recruiting players and assist them onto the road which could lead to them playing football 

professionally.

Bruce said: “I do a lot of work in the community with kids and I have about five young people who are currently in the Barnsley FC Academy.

“Barnsley FC has been a part of my life for more than 20 years and it has always been a desire of mine to form a partnership with the club and be another pathway for young footballers.

“The academy do a fantastic job and some of their players have been picked to play for England. This partnership will give young people a real opportunity to be scouted or have the opportunity to join the shadow squad programme, which gives young people a qualification if they don’t make it into the academy.

“I have a lot of respect for Barnsley FC and this partnership is like a dream come true because if I can help the club recruit players and pass on some of my positive wisdom, I’m more than happy. I have a lot of respect for Bobby Hassell and the team.”

Barnsley FC’s academy manager Bobby Hassell said: “I am aware of Bruce’s activities within local communities and this partnership is able to provide a stepping stone for local players that have the potential to move through the player pathway.

“We’re always seeking to enhance our recruitment activities and Bruce’s scheme will help support and source local talent from local neighbourhoods and surrounding areas.”

The new programme begins on January 27 for the under 13s and 14s, January 29 for under 15s and 16s and January 31 for under 12s.

To register your child email bdllelite@gmail.com or call 07515884082 by January 24.

DECISIONS to close off a railway footbridge, roads around Oakwell and most recently a car park for Barnsley Football Club’s home matches have become a ‘danger to pedestrians’, according to fed-up fans who have called on the council to perform an urgent U-turn due to safety concerns.

When the Jumble Lane crossing was closed in March last year a temporary bridge was erected over it – by rail firm CML on behalf of Network Rail – but it is closed an hour before kick-off, during the match and an hour after each home game ‘to support the safety of fans and other users’.

Alternative walking routes via Midland Street, Eldon Street and Schwabisch Gmund Way have been advised to fans parking in the town centre, while fans exiting Barnsley Interchange have been told to use Cheapside and Lambra

Road as alternative routes to Oakwell.

But matters have recently been compounded by the council’s decision to close Market Gate Car Park, fans claim, and they have called on bosses to re-think the stance due to the ‘pandemonium’ on home matchdays.

Reds fan Kev Simons said: “I’ve been continually shocked by just how poor communications are between security staff and fans attempting to get across the Jumble Lane crossing. We have been packed in like sardines on the bridge and roads around the interchange.

“We know how potentially dangerous the crossing over the railway tracks clearly was – add people rushing and alcohol into the equation and it could have been a disaster.

“However, the council need to put provisions in place to stop a repeat of the pandemonium we’ve seen prior to every home match as it’s become a danger to pedestrians.”

Market Gate Car Park’s closure has also been criticised by market traders – who claim business has been impacted as a result, particularly on traditional matchday Saturdays – but the council insists it’s been implemented to boost safety.

Matt Gladstone, the council’s executive director for place, told the Chronicle: “Initially, when the bridge was first closed and the road closures implemented, the car park remained in use but users of the car park were advised that if they parked in the car park they would not be able to exit it while fans were using Pontefract Road as this would cause a risk to the road safety of both vehicle users and pedestrians.

“Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, users of the car park did not observe the signs advising them of this and started exiting the car park by forcing their way through the pedestrians and ignoring staff. 

“At one point an individual decided to drive against the mandatory right turn and drove straight into the area segregated for pedestrians. 

“Therefore, to eliminate the risk of the road safety hazard, the car park was closed. We have other parking facilities in the town centre, such as the Courthouse and John Street, where there are more than 1,000 car parking spaces available for use.”

The new 105-metre-long bridge – which is being jointly funded by Network Rail and Barnsley Council – will cost more than £5m.

Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: “The scheme finishes next summer so we’re expecting the new bridge to be in use towards the back end of 2021. The bridge can be constructed relatively quickly but there’s a sewer underneath Kendray Street which needs to be diverted. It’s not a case of the council being difficult or awkward, it’s just that there’s more to this than meets the eye.”

A Barnsley Football Club statement added: “Supporters are reminded to use the designated and installed crossing points on the roads for their own safety and the safety of other match-going fans.

“Wheelchair users or supporters with pushchairs are advised to use the pavement on the Courthouse side of Eldon Street during peak times to avoid congestion. Market Gate’s bridge will be fully accessible and will accommodate footfall on matchdays. Barnsley Council, Barnsley FC and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

MORE than 170 Blue Badges – almost two a day – have been issued for ‘hidden’ disabilities in Barnsley since the biggest change in the system’s 50-year history.

There are 16,000 people eligible for a Blue Badge in Barnsley, according to figures issued by the Department for Transport.

Residents can apply for Blue Badges, which allow them to park in disabled bays closer to their destination, if they have a disability or health condition that affects their mobility.

And in August, eligibility for the benefit was extended to those with ‘hidden’ disabilities – such as autism, epilepsy or anxiety disorders – that may not be obvious but may still cause that person, or their parent or carer, difficulty or distress when travelling.

Across 2019, there were 7,850 people in Barnsley who were issued a Blue Badge – just under half of the total eligible population automatically entitled to the benefit. There were also 4,279 badges issued subject to further assessment, and 17 were given to businesses.

The DfT made the major changes to its system at the end of August, and in the first three months 179 Blue Badges were issued for hidden disabilities in Barnsley.

In total, there are still around 4,000 people with disabilities or hidden disabilities, who are eligible for the benefit but yet to claim it.

Coun Alan Gardiner, who is a Blue Badger holder, said: “We are issuing more Blue Badges year-on-year. 

“Although it is an individual’s choice as to whether they decide to apply for a Blue Badge, we are working with the Department for Transport to encourage people who have a disability or hidden disability and meet the eligibility criteria to apply for a Blue Badge.”

Barnsley is also one of 100 upper tier local authorities that has a policy in place for abuse of the Blue Badge system – such as theft or inappropriate misuse.

However, in 2019 the council didn’t prosecute anyone for such offences, while the number of prosecutions made throughout the country has increased year-on-year – with the 1,432 reported last year an increase of almost a fifth on the previous year’s 1,215, and up from 1,131 in 2016/17.

In comparison, from the data taken from a total of 152 local authorities, Sheffield prosecuted nine people for Blue Badge abuses, and in Rotherham 12 people faced charges in 2019.

An overwhelming majority of cases are made against non-badge holders using someone else’s badge, and can lead to fines up to £1,000 and the seizing of the badge.

Coun Gardiner added: “We have not had cases presented to be prosecuted as the correct legal formalities to be able to prosecute such cases needed to be in place in addition to the policy itself.

“Now that these have been finalised cases are being investigated and where deemed appropriate, prosecuted at court in accordance with the policy.”

Despite 130 badges being handed out daily throughout 2019, the number of Blue Badges issued nationally has steadily fallen in the last ten years, with 2.3m valid badges issued last year compared to 2.6m – five per cent of the population – in 2009.

The number of people automatically entitled to a Blue Badge has risen by 500,000 across the same period – but the percentage of people automatically entitled to a Blue Badge who actually hold one has fallen from 60 per cent to 47 per cent.

A GIRLS’ football team based in Royston capped off its first year in the game with a donation to a local foodbank.

SAFG United, based at Rabbit Ings in Royston, made the donation of several boxes of food to Barnsley Churches Drop-In Project.

And coach Craig Marsh, who started SAFG alongside fellow former Barnsley Ladies coach Chris White, said the pair had aimed to regularly get their players – which now number 34, spread across three teams – involved in such community activities.

“We’ve collected every year, starting when we were at Barnsley,” said Craig. “It’s a good message for the girls to learn to give something back to the community.

“They’re setting standards for the younger ones coming through as well.

“We give a lot of time to these things and the kids support it all.

“It’s not just about SAFG, it’s about Barnsley.”

Craig and Chris had been fundraising with Barnsley Ladies for four years before they set up SAFG, initially based at Royston Welfare Park before they moved to Rabbit Ings in July.

The club will also be installing a defibrillator at its new ground, with players all taking first aid courses and being trained to become comfortable using it.

It’s hoped the defibrillator will be in place by the time the club hosts its own football tournament in June, as the club continue to transform Rabbit Ings into a ‘sports hub’.

A BARNSLEY MP has shared her frustrations over rogue landlords and said the government’s offer of £4m to councils to deal with them ‘is simply not enough to protect vulnerable renters’.

Councils in Yorkshire and the Humber have indicated that they will train 100 enforcement officers to regulate private letting standards.

However, since 2010, according to figures, Barnsley Council has lost more than 40 per cent of its day-to-day funding.

MP for Barnsley East Stephanie Peacock said: “The cuts to local authority budgets have drastically reduced their capacity to deal with rogue landlords.

“The promised funding barely scratches the surface of this issue. We need more funding now to make sure that renters are getting a fair deal. Councils need a guarantee of funds over the next few years, not random cash injections that simply cover the symptoms of the issue rather than tackling the underlying problem.

“I will keep pressing the government for legislation that cracks down on rogue landlords and ensures that there are minimum standards for all rental properties. ”

THE family of a nine-week-old baby who died are holding a fundraising night for the organisation that cared for him and supported his family following his death.

Jacob Oliver Clancy died in January 2018 and following his death he was taken to Rose Cottage in Sheffield – a mortuary for children.

It is run by a team that includes specialist paediatric pathologists, technicians, scientists and other health professionals, to ensure the correct care for the child and support for their family.

The cottage is used by families from across the country, and the team offers emotional support, providing keepsakes, help to arrange funerals and guiding families through the processes connected to losing a child.

Jacob’s grandmother Maria Dykes, of Monk Bretton, is organising the night to raise money for Rose Cottage, which is part of the Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

She said: “When Jacob died he needed to have a post-mortem so he was taken to Rose Cottage and they took excellent care of him and supported his mum, my daughter, Jacklyn Clancy.

“We can’t thank them enough for what the organisation do and we want to raise funds that I know will help them continue their fantastic job.”

The fundraising event will take place next Friday at the Royston Midland Working Men’s Club, Alfred Street, from 6pm.

A SUPPORT service helping new mums in Barnsley is set to have its contract extended.

The £50,000-a-year project, funded by the Central Area Council, is a perinatal service – a term which is used for a time which spans from pregnancy to a child’s first birthday – and is run by Family Lives.

The service, which launched in April, is currently running on a rolling contract and helps mums in Kingstone, Central, Stairfoot, Worsbrough and Dodworth wards who may be suffering from post-natal depression or isolation in order to boost their emotional wellbeing.

A report, which will be discussed on Monday, said: “During the first year of the contract, Family Lives have delivered a well-managed service. Two comprehensive monitoring reports have been submitted and regular contract management meetings have taken place.

“Flyers have been placed on the midwifery records of all pregnant women living in the Central area to generate referrals by prompting discussions with mums during appointments.

“Family Lives have also agreed to receive referrals over the telephone and these are regularly sought out from midwives, with three referrals received over the telephone in December 2019 alone.

“Given the information and the continued drive to generate referrals by all those involved, it is recommended that the contract with Family Lives is extended for the 12-month period from April 1 2020 to March 31 2021.”

MORE than 250 motorists have successfully claimed compensation from Barnsley Council after falling foul of the town’s pothole-ridden roads in the last two years.

A Freedom of Information request submitted to the council reveals 203 claimants were successful in 2018 – totalling £10,096 in compensation – while a further 51 received payouts between January and October in 2019 which cost the local authority £4,350.

Although a breakdown of each claimant’s payment has not been revealed, the average works out at just £56 per person to cover the most common pothole-related damage such as tyre issues and suspension damage.

More than £2m was allocated for maintaining Barnsley’s roads for the 2019/20 financial year with Lowe Lane and North Lane in Penistone, Doncaster Road’s Stairfoot stretch, Highstone Lane in Kingstone, Everill Gate Lane, Darfield, Lidget Lane, Thurnscoe, Shaw Lane, Monk Bretton and Bamburgh Lane in Goldthorpe all prioritised.

Coun Hannah Kitching, who represents the Penistone West ward, urged motorists to report their damage and called on the council to be more ‘ambitious’ with its resurfacing programme.

“In 2018 we had a particularly bad winter with snow, but I expect late 2019 to be a catalyst for a lot more claims as the rain and floods that followed effectively ate away at the roads,” she told the Chronicle.

“To be fair to the council, people report a pothole and they’re out filling it in quickly, but the repairs simply don’t last and there needs to be more ambition with its resurfacing programme.

“When the Tour de Yorkshire cycling race last went through Barnsley, the chosen routes were all re-done but we can’t just rely on that.

“If motorists’ vehicles are being damaged, they need to continue claiming for the costs as it’s totally unacceptable. After each winter we seem to be going back to square one.”

An innovative scheme which could have seen potholes filled in with recycled plastic was being explored by the council, but the Chronicle understands it’s been put on the back-burner.

A council spokesman said: “The majority of Barnsley roads are in good condition. Cold weather causes more potholes – this is because the water gets into cracks in the road, freezes and expands.

“It weakens the surface by expanding over and over again. The weight of traffic hits these weak spots in the road and creates potholes.”

SCORES of workers have been left facing redundancy after a steel firm announced it is cutting jobs due to ‘challenging market conditions’.

Liberty Steel said 250 jobs will go at its Stocksbridge plant, with a further 17 in Rotherham, 15 in Brinsworth and 72 in Newport, Wales.

Miriam Cates, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said: “This is devastating news for steelworkers, their families and our whole community - I will do everything I can to support all those who have been affected by this decision.

“I have spoken to Liberty Steel this morning and I hope to visit the Stocksbridge site as soon as possible.

“It is vital that we do everything we can to support those who are losing their jobs, including looking at what new industries and training opportunities we can bring to the area.

“I will be working closely with the government on this in the coming months.”

Wentworth and Dearne MP John Healey added: “This is devastating news for steelworkers and their families, especially coming so early in the new year.

“Our UK steel industry still needs government backing. For years I’ve been fighting with the industry for help on business rates and UK energy costs which are far higher than our European competitors. The government just isn’t listening, let alone taking action.

“The long-term support the industry needs was discussed when we held the national steel summit here in 2015. It was chaired by Sajid Javid, then business secretary, now chancellor. He pledged to help then but more than four years on we’re still waiting.”

RESIDENTS affected by severe floods which swamped Barnsley in November are eligible to apply for cash from the second phase of an emergency relief fund.

The South Yorkshire Community Foundation (SYCF) aimed to provide ‘immediate relief’ to those impacted by way of an initial £200 grant, but the second phase will allow victims to apply for up to £1,000.

Darton and Wombwell accounted for most of the flood-damaged properties following the torrential downpours on November 7.

A spokesman said: “The first phase ends at midnight tonight but we will launch phase two which will provide grants of up to £1,000 to those worst impacted by the floods.”

Visit www.sycf.org.uk to apply.

THIS years bin collection calendar has been uploaded onto the Barnsley Council’s website.

The calendar has been redesigned to be more accessible for residents in a simpler layout and format and provides the schedule running from January 2020 to January 2021, including changes to the Christmas and New Year service. 

Coun Chris Lamb said: “Our brand new bin calendar design should make it easier for our residents to find out when their bin days are. The layout has been amended to be inclusive to all of our residents’ needs, making it simpler to read and work with screen readers. 

“Our bin calendars were moved online a couple of years ago as part of our Digital First programme. If residents would like a paper copy of their annual bin collection calendar, they are available on our website to download and print at home. Alternatively, they can visit their local library, and a member of staff will assist them in printing off a paper copy.”

Visit the Barnsley Council website to access the calendar.

POLICE have released an image of a man they would like to speak to after two defibrillators were stolen.

At 4.30pm on November 27, it is alleged that a defibrillator located in an outdoor cabinet at Barnsley Town Hall was stolen. A short time later it was reported that a second defibrillator was also taken from outside Harris and Co accountants on Huddersfield Road.

Sgt Steph Coverley said: “These defibrillators were paid for as a result of fundraising by the local community and they can prove vital in saving someone’s life should they suffer a cardiac arrest.

“We have carried out extensive enquiries so far, including the review of both public space and private CCTV at numerous locations within the town centre but we still need additional information to help us track down the person responsible.

“We would really like to speak to the man in this image in connection with the incident, we think he could have vital information about what happened.

"If you recognise him or have any other information that might help, please do contact us on 101 quoting crime reference number 14/182364/19.”

TWO teenage boys have been arrested after a man was assaulted in Goldthorpe on Monday evening.

The 40-year-old man was reportedly attacked by a group of eight to ten unknown offenders on Probert Avenue, with police called at 5pm.

The suspects, aged 14 and 15, were arrested by members of the Goldthorpe neighbourhood team and taken into custody at Barnsley police station on Wednesday.

Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 525 of January 6.

A TEENAGER reported missing yesterday has been found safe and well.

An appeal was issued for the whereabouts of the 17-year-old after she failed to return home yesterday.

Police and her family issued an appeal for her whereabouts and she was returned home safely this afternoon.

A BARNSLEY village’s first defibrillator has been installed, all thanks to a donation from a 92-year-old lady. 

The lifesaving equipment is now on the side of Tankersley Welfare Hall, Pilley Lane.

The money to fund the equipment was kindly donated by Pilley resident Joan Shepherd, who has lived in the village since 1957 and who wanted to do something to help her community.

Joan’s late husband Colin Shepherd was pit manager at the local Wharncliffe Silkstone Colliery, and Joan donated the money in his memory. 

“It was such a kind a generous thing Joan did,” said Tankersley Community Society treasurer John Hopkinson, whose group uses the welfare hall and who helped organise the installation of the device.

“We don’t have a resource like this in the village, and we hope we never need it, but we are glad to have it nonetheless and it is a testament to the generosity of Joan.”

A HEALTH campaigner who became the first person to take up a pioneering role with the NHS after his wife died of a brain haemorrhage is encouraging others to become more comfortable with talking about organ donation.

Mahmud Nawaz, 49, became an organ donation ambassador earlier this year, and has since promoted education and awareness of the procedure on a voluntary basis.

This year, organ donation through the NHS will become an ‘opt-out’ system rather than the current process of registering to be a donor, following the passing of the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill - also called ‘Max and Keira’s Law’ - in March.

Part of the motivation behind the change is that, while 80 per cent of people support organ donation, only 38 per cent are currently opted-in -leaving loved ones unaware of their wishes regarding donation. 

Mahmud’s wife Sharon died in 2004, when she was just 32, suffering from a severe brain haemorrhage and collapsing in the shower.

She had been passionate about organ donation and had made it clear to Mahmud that after her death, her organs should be donated - a conversation he has encouraged others to have after a survey by Yorkshire’s dedicated organ donation charity ‘Be A Hero’ found only half of people in Yorkshire said they would discuss their wishes with family members.

Mahmud, formerly of Oakfield Walk, Pogmoor and now living in Wakefield, said: “When I lost my wife, because she had told me her wishes around organ donation, I was able to make the correct decision on her behalf and do what she would have wanted. 

“Had she not told me her wishes, I would have faced making that decision alone and whilst grieving - she saved me from that by having the conversation.

“Having a conversation about organ donation may not be top of your to-do list, but by speaking to your family now, you can protect them from having to make that decision alone, ensure your final wishes are fulfilled, and ultimately change the life of someone waiting for a life-saving transplant.”

Mahmud, who sits on the organ donation committees for Leeds -where the Be A Hero charity was formed in 2015 - and Mid Yorkshire, registered to be a donor after Sharon’s death.

In the survey of 1,000 people, only 51 per cent in Yorkshire said they would discuss organ donation with their families - compared to 65 per cent in the South East and 69 per cent in the South West.

Respondents said they were more likely to discuss relationships and health issues.

Cathy Penrose, clinical lead in organ donation at Leeds Teaching Hospitals said: “These statistics show that Yorkshire residents still don’t see the importance in having a conversation about organ donation with their families - even though they are the ones who have the final say on the subject. 

“This is really disconcerting as there are 493 people currently on the transplant waiting list in Yorkshire, all of whom are in urgent need of a vital organ transplant.”

DAN Jarvis has ruled himself out of standing as Labour Leader.

The Barnsley Central MP had said he was thinking ‘long and hard’ about the decision after receiving lots of encouragement to stand.

However in a Tweet he has confirmed he won’t enter the race.

“I’m humbled by the messages of support, but I won’t be putting myself forward to be @UKLabour leader because of my commitment to serve as * @SCR—Mayor,” he Tweeted.

“I look forward to a comradely contest & working hard to support our party back into government.”

DETAILS of the future look of a popular park which has been closed off in order to create a new one-way road system have been revealed.

A report suggests that Penny Pie Park - the green space at the centre of an ongoing row between campaigners and Barnsley Council - will become ‘a more intensely used community space’ upon the multi-lane road’s completion.

The park, on Dodworth Road, was closed to the public last month, sparking angry scenes between campaigners who have battled the council’s plan in a bid to force a U-turn. Members of Save Penny Pie Park claim the park’s usage will reduce when the work - which is due to last up to 18 months - is completed due to it being encircled by the new gyratory.

The report said: “The design provides for year-round interest, colour and drama in key locations and is intended to create a gateway to Barnsley to raise visitors’ expectations.

“The central area is also close to Horizon Community College and on the pedestrian route between the college and the bus drop-off point near the new junction with Pogmoor Road. 

“A path along this desire line, together with seating and an area for the ‘friends of’ group, will result in heavier use of the central area. The planting here of smaller ornamental trees is to provide year-round colour and interest, and flowers and fruits.”

The repositioned play area will extend further east, into the existing wildlife area, according to the report but campaigners insist its levels of use will plummet.

Coun Hannah Kitching said: “The council’s once again displayed that it doesn’t listen to its public and I’m really struggling to see the benefits of this scheme, which comes at great expense financially and means a park will be lost.

“The re-positioned kids’ play area won’t be used and it will increase people’s exposure to air pollution.”

A POWER cut affected more than 1,500 people in Barnsley on Monday evening.

The incident - which saw power drop out for 1,526 residents predominantly in the S71 and S75 areas for several minutes - was caused by a fault in underground cabling at around 6pm, according to a Northern Powergrid spokesman.

While 1,500 of those had power restored by 6.05pm, the spokesman added six residents had been put on an alternative supply fitted to their local switch point while further investigations took place.

A time scale for the investigations and repairs is yet to be confirmed.

A RETAIL giant’s new distribution hub could help create much-needed jobs in ex-mining communities hit hardest by years of austerity, plans have claimed.

The site, off Field Lane, lies between Brierley and South Elmsall and is currently open farmland which effectively acts as a buffer zone between the two villages and neighbouring South Kirkby.

According to a planning statement submitted by Next, the investment could total £125m and includes a 777,000sq ft development with a warehouse, offices, a 520-space car park, loading bays for 47 HGVs and a new roundabout to improve traffic flow on Doncaster Road and Field Lane.

A public consultation, which ran from October to November, included more than 5,000 residents in Brierley, South Kirkby, Hemsworth and South Elmsall and, if approved by planning bosses, jobs could be provided to workers from across Barnsley.

A planning statement said: “The proposed development is estimated to provide approximately 1,100 new jobs, of which over half will be net additional jobs. These will support the aim of the national planning framework for sustainable development and economic growth, equivalent to approximately £42m per annum for the local economy.

“Locally, the proposed development is likely to provide many employment opportunities close to neighbourhoods in south-east Wakefield and Barnsley’s north-east, where worklessness is a problem.”

The new warehouse and distribution space is required to cope with an expected increase in online sales for Next in the coming years, the statement added, and would ‘safeguard the retailer’s long-term strategy as being one of the area’s largest employers’ alongside ASOS, which is situated a short drive away near Grimethorpe, another ex-mining community.

A study, submitted as part of the application, reveals more than 40 per cent of residents within a ten-mile radius of the proposed site commute out of their local area, subsequently boosting economies elsewhere.

“The local labour market indicates that there is a high unemployment rate and relatively poor levels of skills,” the report added. 

“There are also high proportions of deprivation, suggesting there there is the potential for the market to respond well to the employment proposals.”

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust - cited in the planning documents - has secured support from cross-party MPs across the country for its proposal that the government creates a dedicated fund to attract investment, and subsequently boost jobs, in ex-mining communities such as the ones on the Barnsley and Wakefield corridor and praised Next’s plans.

Chief executive of Coalfields Regeneration Fund, Gary Ellis, added: “We have an ambitious five-year strategy to transform former coal-mining communities into growing social and economic areas, but we cannot do it alone.

“Meeting with the complex needs of our communities is no simple task. Every neighbourhood is different, and each has its challenges. What we want to do is to create the infrastructure that will return these small cities, towns and villages to the once thriving locations they were.

“These communities have struggled, and many would say have been forgotten. Becoming a battleground during the election, it’s time for the promises that have been made to be put into practice.”

ONE half of a fundraising duo is asking people to get in touch with him if they want to fundraise for Barnsley Hospice. 

Gavin Coles makes up 50 per cent of the ‘Little and Large’ fundraising team alongside Steve Gilbert. The pair have held a variety of fundraising events, raising £25,000 for the hospice and money for other charities. 

In their Facebook group, which sees the duo post updates on the fundraising challenges they host, Gavin wrote: “With 2020 almost upon us I know a lot of you are thinking of getting fit in the new year so why not give yourself a goal to aim for and raise some cash for an amazing place - the Barnsley Hospice.

“Inbox me with any ideas, crazy or just something you’ve always wanted to do and if I can I’ll help you achieve it.”

Anyone who wants to get in touch is asked to search for the Little and Large Charity Challenges on Facebook.

A PROMINENT town centre building a stone’s throw away from the public transport hub will be demolished as part of what will be a ‘transformational makeover’ in 2020.

Eldon Street is set to receive a share of £2m in funding which will be used to regenerate and improve its appearance given its close proximity to Barnsley Interchange, the £180m Glass Works scheme and Library @ the Lightbox.

The council purchased 35 Eldon Street - which was last used a fish and chip shop and was also a former pub under the names of The Gatehouse, Devonshire Hotel and Beer Engine - in the autumn and has boarded up its windows.

Although timescales have yet to be published, the building will be demolished in order to boost Eldon Street’s appearance.

Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: “The building has been purchased and it’ll be knocked down in due course. It’s something which visitors, who have arrived in Barnsley by bus or train, see first on their arrival and it doesn’t look great.

“We were keen to acquire it because it’ll improve the gateway, which will also be landscaped.”

Funding for the scheme is coming from a £2m pot allocated as part of Historic England’s Historic High Streets Heritage Action Zone programme, which Eldon Street was included in.

Barnsley was awarded the funding after submitting a proposal that focuses on its ‘heritage-led transformation’, which resulted in the building being identified due to its prominent location and its long-standing history in the town centre.

Eldon Street is seen as the epicentre for wider projects including the new Market Gate footbridge across the railway line, the nearby ‘Eastern Gateway’ site which the council plans to purchase from NPower and the Courthouse Digital Campus on County Way.

“We’re thrilled Eldon Street has been designated as a new Historic High Streets Heritage Action Zone,” added Sir Steve.

“This not only complements the investment that the council is making in improving Barnsley town centre, but enables local people to engage with their heritage and celebrate the new developments.

“We’ve already worked with Historic England in Elsecar so know how positive and productive this partnership will be.

“I have no doubt that this project will make an enormous difference to local people and visitors.

“We also know how important it is to drive Barnsley forward and make it a better place to live for our future generations.

“Our economic regeneration agenda is second to none, with huge developments in the town centre and a focus on creating jobs for the future.”

Once the building is demolished, the revealed face of the adjoining building will be used as part of the project to display a public artwork. 

“A big part of this project will be a piece of mural artwork which we’ll be looking to install on the gable end of the building, which will provide an attractive welcome to Barnsley for visitors,” he said. 

A council report added: “Providing an improved link between the sites and the interchange will encourage movement on this route and enhance connectivity to the town centre.

“The interchange’s west exit, which leads to Eldon Street, is the first view of Barnsley town centre for many of the visitors arriving by public transport.

“The regeneration delivered will bring more visitors and movement, making the gateway increasingly important.

“It is vital to create a positive first impression of a high quality, welcoming and animated town centre and to clearly guide visitors to their further destinations.

“At the exit, there are a number of streets leading to different parts of the town centre. The proposals look to create a clearer hierarchy of routes and improved signage.

“The unique character of the area with its network of pedestrianised streets, ginnels and arcades and hub for independent businesses should be celebrated.”

A MAN has died after he was involved in a motorcycle incident yesterday afternoon. 

At 3.25pm, a Suzuki motorcycle, ridden by a 22-year-old man, was travelling downhill on Kingwell Road, Worsbrough, on the section between Pinfold Hill and Ward Green, when the rider appears to have lost control, falling from the motorcycle.

Emergency services were called to the scene however the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family have been informed and are being supported by officers. 

A police spokesman said: "Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw the bike in the area, who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage. 

"If you can help, please call 101 quoting incident number 501 of January 4."

CONMUTERS may face delays following an incident close to the motorway junction.

Emergency services are currently on Haigh Lane, Woolley. 

Woolley Edge Lane and Intake Lane are currently congested.

Please allow extra time for your journey.