A STUDENT police officer who placed himself in danger to drag a suspect from the River Dearne has been commended for his actions.

PC Tom Wake, who is based at Barnsley station, chased and apprehended a suspect after his colleagues attended a burglary at a property on Dodworth Road, near the town centre, on February 16.

Prior to officers’ arrival, three men fled the scene in a car. The car failed to stop for police and after a short pursuit, the men ran away on foot.

Two men were detained but a third suspect managed to flee the scene before a security guard reported a sighting of the suspected offender and PC Wake arrived.

The suspect, a man in his 20s, ran through bushes and brambles before trying to escape officers by entering the river.

After the man refused to get out of the river, PC Wake jumped in and pulled the man to safety.

The selfless officer was awarded the Don Betton Award, given to a student officer who has shown the greatest development and contribution to their district.

Chief Superintendent Scott Green said: “I had no hesitation in awarding PC Wake the award as he is a conscientious officer and dedicated to providing a quality service to victims and the public.

“PC Wake conducts himself professionally at all times and his drive to learn and progress does not go unnoticed. He is an integral part of his team and highly valued and regarded by his colleagues and supervisors.”

A FAMILY torn apart by four career criminals who killed a much-loved mother while joyriding in a stolen HGV have backed an MP’s ongoing battle to increase the maximum sentence for death caused by dangerous driving.

In a pre-Christmas debate, Barnsley East MP Stephanie Peacock asked the government if they would implement its commitment to increasing prison sentences for those responsible.

In 2018 her constituent, 58-year-old Jacqueline Wileman, was hit and killed by a HGV stolen by four men, one of whom had an existing conviction for causing death by dangerous driving.

The Queen’s Speech called for tougher prison sentences for serious offenders and Stephanie said this should include those convicted of dangerous driving offences.

She added: “In October 2017, the government promised to introduce life sentences for those who cause death by dangerous driving. It has now been over two years without the change being made.

“Time and time again I have called on the government to honour its election promises and commitments to fixing the justice system.

“No family should have to go through what Jacqui’s has. The sentence for causing death by dangerous driving should be life. We need tougher sentences, more funding to police forces and a tightening of probation rules.

“I will continue to fight for a better justice system that stands up for victims and their families.”

The HGV’s driver, unlicensed 23-year-old Karn Hill – who was also over the legal drink-drive limit – was given a ten-and-a-half year jail term in February.

Passengers Wayne Carroll, 29, and Alan Mawhinney, 53, each received a 12-and-a-half year sentence while another passenger, 48-year-old David Mellor, was given a 13-year term as he admitted originally taking the vehicle from his then-employer in a dispute over unpaid wages and an unrelated burglary charge.

All four were guilty of causing death by dangerous driving, although Hill’s pre-trial guilty plea meant he automatically received a 25 per cent sentence reduction and the men will be eligible for parole upon completing half of their sentences.

Jacqueline’s brother, Johnny Wood, backed the MP’s continued fight but said his family will continue to serve their own life sentence.

“Judges should not be bound by that current 14-year restriction,” he added. “We believe causing death by dangerous driving should be treated in the same way as murder and there should not be a limit.

“The men who killed Jacqueline should not have been allowed to be on the streets but they were and it’s our family who have paid the price.”

OFFICIAL burglary figures released for Barnsley have been criticised by residents for ‘not being a true reflection’ of what has happened.

According to the statistics which were released on Tuesday, police recorded a 16 per cent reduction in 2018/19, a period which runs from April 2018 to March 2019.

However, residents in worst-hit areas such as Shafton have blamed 101 – the police’s under-fire telephone reporting system – as being responsible for the ‘inaccurate’ figures due to long waiting times encountered by callers reporting burglaries.

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, attended a public meeting in Shafton at the end of November to allay concerns about a claimed lack of police presence being responsible for the claimed burglary spree.

Dave North, chairman of Shafton Parish Council, said: “If there’s police presence it automatically deters burglars from even trying, but we haven’t had that and there’s a sense that it is the main reason.

“The summer was particularly bad and there’s genuine concern as Shafton has a lot of elderly residents. The 101 issues is something that’s always brought up at crime meetings.”

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 1,411 residential burglaries took place in 2018 in Barnsley, while a further 646 incidents of business-related offences took the total figure to 2,057, but their figures for 2019 are due to be revealed in the spring.

Parish councillor Les Holt said it was a ‘total disgrace’ and blamed delayed pick-up times associated with 101 – a system which South Yorkshire Police say receives more than 2,000 calls per day.

“People give up waiting to speak to a 101 operator because they are left on hold for 30 minutes, sometimes even longer,” Les added.

“There are a lot of frightened, elderly and vulnerable people in our village who can’t report crime. They trust PCSOs and waiting 30 minutes to speak to an operator after they have been a victim of crime is unacceptable.”

The force said it is treating burglary as one of its top priorities this year, which has seen officers increase their patrols in worst-hit areas such as Shafton, Mapplewell and Royston.

“Key crime types such as house burglary reduced by 16 per cent in 2018/19 and this position has been maintained through 2019,” Chief Superintendent Sarah Poolman said.

“Throughout 2019, across all realms of policing, our objective has been to continually improve the service we provide to our communities and to keep Barnsley safe.

“Our response times to incidents have improved dramatically, meaning we are getting to those who need us more quickly.

“Through further investment in our neighbourhood teams, we have been tackling those issues that matter most to our local communities.”

A SCHOOL chef has qualified to represent Yorkshire and the Humber in the regional heat to find the best school chef of the year.

Last year’s runner-up, Matt Betts from The Mill Academy, Worsbrough, has again qualified and will have to prepare, cook and present four portions of a two-course meal suitable for serving to pupils in primary or secondary schools. 

He will have to do all this in just 90 minutes and with a budget of £1.30 for each two-course meal. 

If Matt is successful, he will represent Yorkshire and the Humber in the national heats and be in with the chance of winning the title of School Chef of the Year. 

In addition to the title, the 2020 champion will receive a £1,000 cash prize and the LACA 2020 School Chef of the Year trophy. 

LACA national chairman Stephen Forster said: “The impact that this competition has on the health and vitality of children and young people cannot be underestimated. 

“It underpins why all schools should provide quality, nutritious meals. 

“Our school catering teams are totally committed to the role they play in educating children and young people about how food and eating better can help them achieve more, both academically and physically.”

The Yorkshire and Humber Regional Final will take place at Barnsley College on Wednesday.

A HOUSE in Honeywell was forcefully entered by police after reports the tenant was a ‘victim of cuckooing’.

Cuckooing is a term used to describe vulnerable people being befriended by criminals with a view to exploiting them, often taking over their home. 

On December 23, officers from Royston police station assisted Barnsley Council and Berneslai Homes staff to gain entry into a property on Honeywell Street. 

PC Bev Frisby said: “The tenant was an alleged victim of cuckooing and as a result, has left the property.

“Partner agencies gained access to the property, locks were changed and a leak that was affecting another property has been fixed.

“Safety measures have been put in place and the tenant is now free to go back to the property.”

Coun Jenny Platts, cabinet spokesperson for communities, said: “We continue to work in partnership with South Yorkshire Police and Berneslai Homes to protect our most vulnerable people and to tackle this type of criminality.

“Cuckooing is where a person is taken advantage of by organised crime groups. Offenders target vulnerable people, often using violence to take over their homes.

“If you suspect somebody is a victim of cuckooing, please contact police on 101 or email safer@barnsley.gov.uk.”

A spokesperson from Berneslai Homes said: “Berneslai Homes confirmed that working in collaboration with key partners from South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council we have successfully addressed an ongoing housing management issue.

“The positive interventions that have been done helps ensure that estates across the borough are sustainable and demonstrates excellent partnership working.”

A BARNSLEY based online food and drink retailer has made a double donation to good causes.

Approved Food, headquartered at Dodworth Business Park, has provided several pallets full of surplus provisions to the Welcome Centre and Huddersfield Street Kitchen, two Huddersfield-based foodbanks.

The delivery included canned and packet food, biscuits, pet food and household goods.

Managing director Andy Needham, from Huddersfield, said: “It goes without saying that we are more than happy to support such excellent causes and to help put food onto the plates of those who really need it.”

Donations to the Welcome Centre are a result of Approved Food’s pledge to match contributions from Huddersfield Town Foundation’s recent Little Big Sleep-Out event, which saw school children sleep rough in the football club’s stadium to raise money to combat homelessness.

Batley Food Bank also benefited from the event.

Approved Food is the UK’s largest online-only retailer of surplus food and drink, specialising in products that would otherwise go to waste such as short-dated items, cancelled orders and products in less popular flavours or old packaging.

A WOMAN enjoyed a double celebration on New Year’s Eve as she rang in the new year and celebrated her 100th birthday. 

Clarice Wood was born on New Year’s Eve 1919 and celebrated her 100th birthday on Tuesday surrounded by family and friends. 

Born in Grace Street, Barnsley – which is now Union Street – Clarice grew up with her two sisters Annie and Winnie before she married husband, Harry in 1940 and moved to Worsbrough Common where she still lives today. 

She worked at a bobbin mill, as a conductress with Yorkshire Traction and then at the Co-op until she retired in 1985 when she was 67. 

“She has always been a very sociable person,” said Clarice’s daughter, Anne Nelson. “She loves to sing and have a laugh with people. She still lives on her own, even now, but she won’t be moved. I think it keeps her going which is great.”

To celebrate Clarice’s birthday, Anne threw her a party for all the family to get together and celebrate, as well as bring in the new year. 

“We had a party and she threw in a couple of songs and had a dance. It was so nice to get everyone together to celebrate.”

Despite making it to 100 years old, Clarice doesn’t have any advice for living a long life and is taking her age in her stride said Anne. 

“

I would say eat a good meal,” added Anne. “My mum eats whatever she wants when she wants it and I think that has helped her to reach 100.”  

Clarice was also treated to a trip to Blackpool last summer to mark the occasion where she celebrated alongside her two children, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

BARNSLEY Central MP and Sheffield City Region mayor Dan Jarvis has called for ‘urgent and decisive action’ as the transport secretary announced train operator Northern Rail could be stripped of its franchise.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps announced yesterday – the same day that rail fares were hiked by 2.7 per cent – that the process to bring the network back into public hands had already started, calling the current service ‘unacceptable’ and saying Northern could either be stripped of its franchise or issued a short-term contract.

But Mr Jarvis said the government should share some responsibility for a ‘catalogue of disasters’ with the franchisee, run by German-owned firm Arriva.

“Despite calls from Northern leaders and myself, the government has consistently failed to act, with passengers being let down by delayed, overcrowded, and expensive services,” said the Barnsley Central MP.

“Thursday’s announcement merely reaffirms the process which the transport secretary started in the autumn.

“This is something I’ve been pressing for since I became mayor, and I’ll be raising yet again in Parliament on Tuesday to get further clarity on the government’s proposed solution.”

POLICE are seeking a man in connection with an armed robbery at a betting shop in Monk Bretton, after a public appeal led to the arrest of one suspect.

Steven Greenwood, 40, was arrested and charged with robbery after CCTV images showing two men – one wielding a knife – threatening staff at the High Street shop at 5.20pm on Boxing Day were released last week.

Greenwood, of Westfields, Castleford, was identified as a suspect following the release of the footage along with another unidentified man as they allegedly stole a quantity of cash.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting crime reference number 14/194207/19, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

CHILDREN found a dead python-like snake which had been dumped in a field.

Wildlife crime officers attended the field on Belmont Avenue, Smithies and the children escourted the officers to the spot where they saw the creature. 

It was then established that the python was dead, with officers believing it had been dumped there.

The RSCPA was informed and met with officers and an investigation has been launched under the Animal Welfare Act.

This would also look at the issue of a potentially venomous animal being found in a location which children could access.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact PC 403 Mark Winter via 101. 

A FORMER Barnsley FC defender has died aged 39.

Chris Barker, who played for the Reds between 1999 and 2002, was discovered at his home address in Wales yesterday afternoon.

The defender, who made 131 appearances for the club also played for Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City.

Chris was twice a winner of the Young Player of the Year award as well as forming part of the 1999/2000 squad that reached Wembley in the playoff final. 

At the end of his playing career he had a caretaker stint in charge of Aldershot, and more recently he was a youth coach with Forest Green Rovers.

BUS fare changes have come into effect this week with Stagecoach introducing some increases, some decreases and some fares staying the same. 

The company is encouraging customers to buy tickets online or the Stagecoach Bus App before travelling with extra discounts in a bid to lower the amount of time spent at bus stops and speeding up journey times.

John Young, commercial director at Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “Our customers have been telling us for a while that the range of tickets we have on our buses is too complicated, so from January 2 we are making things much simpler and easier to understand.

“Simplifying our bus and tram tickets, the recent investment in the improved Stagecoach Bus App (which allows you to track your bus live on a map) and contactless payment on all our buses continues to help us make bus travel more attractive to non-users and encourage more people to try the bus for some of their travel needs.”

For full details visit stagecoachbus.com

A PROJECT called Haven which aims to help insulate children from the trauma of domestic violence will be rolled out at four secondary and four primary schools across Sheffield and Barnsley, using Violence Reduction Unit grant money.

It is a reaction to the fact that it is known 17,000 children in Sheffield alone are affected by domestic violence they witness at home, experiences which can have devastating consequences on their development and future lives.

The aim is to take a ‘whole school’ approach, training teachers and support staff to support children in those circumstances.

Long term, the aim is to change culture and end the ‘bystander’ approach, where some people are reluctant to react.

Meanwhile, a different project will provide Smartwater protection for domestic violence victims, providing the means to spray those with legal orders to stay away from their victims with a unique liquid which can be used to prove their presence.

• Provided by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. 

OUTLINE planning permission is being sought to turn a shop into three new shops.

Applicant Peter Kwapisz is seeking to turn the existing P and J Textiles, in New Street, Barnsley, into three retail units.

The planning application states that P and J has two members of staff, but the three retail units will see four more people employed.

All nearby neighbours have been notified of the plans and a decision will be made on January 10, on whether to allow the change. 

THE organiser of a 1940s-themed event at a town centre bar hopes it can be the start of a fruitful partnership with the Royal British Legion.

The event, held at the Old Picture House on Eastgate on Wednesday December 11, was organised by Dennis Baker in a bid to make sure elderly people would avoid isolation.

A cream tea, the event saw black-and-white films and music from artists such as Vera Lynn and Glenn Miller played – with some revellers turning up in period-specific attire.

“There’s nothing in Barnsley to get elderly people out and about in a safe place, away from the town centre,” said Dennis.

“People can get stuck in the same four walls and they end up just festering.

“It went really well and we’re hoping to get the British Legion more involved for the next one.”

Members of the Royal British Legion were also in attendance, and Dennis added he was looking to raise money for the charity at the next event – which will take place on Sunday January 12.

A HOMELESSNESS crisis in Barnsley will be made much worse if a ‘vital’ charity which is facing an uncertain future due to rising cases closes its doors, volunteers in the town have warned.

Barnsley Churches Drop-In Project has been dedicated to helping the town’s homeless since 2002 and was founded when two people were found in a church doorway.

The project is reliant on donations to keep providing aid to those in need and since 2014, the charity has seen a sharp increase in the number of homeless cases in Barnsley.

It’s now based in Temperance House, on Pitt Street in the town centre, but recently revealed its future is uncertain due to increasing costs and a rise in the number of people needing its services.

Volunteers for BCDP met to gather donations as part of its annual pre-Christmas collection drive - run jointly with The Rucksack Project - which were handed out to the town’s homeless on Saturday and Monday.

Adie Flute, from The Rucksack Project, told the Chronicle that BCDP provides a vital service in the town and warned that if it was to close, it would have a knock-on impact on cases which are already rising.

He added: “Every single donation helps to keep this valuable service going and ensure those who are worst off in Barnsley are not forgotten.

“The Rucksack Project has been operating in Barnsley since 2013, with a winter handout of food, clothing, sleeping bags and more. More than 90 have been handed out in the last week so it shows the enormous demand.

“Since the very beginning we have worked hand-in-hand with BCDP, who work tirelessly all year round to provide hot food, a warm place to go and a listening ear to anyone who needs it. They’re the lynchpin and if they close, everything falls apart.

“Just in the last year alone BCDP has served up more than 16,000 meals to people, from all over Barnsley, who have found themselves in really desperate situations.

“If they are forced to close then the difficulties faced by those who are the very worst off in our town will no doubt increase ten fold.”

Barnsley Council bosses vowed to do all they can to assist residents who have been sleeping rough this Christmas - after a national charity revealed twice as many homeless people died in Barnsley last year compared to the previous five years combined.

According to Shelter, more than 30 adults are homeless in the town, with 27 children listed as being homeless or living in temporary accommodation.

Although the council told the Chronicle they cannot comment on individual cases, they said they are ‘committed’ to assisting anyone who requires help.

Wendy Lowder, executive director for communities, added: “We cannot comment on individual circumstances but homelessness and rough sleeping are very complex issues with no easy solution. Our teams are committed to assisting anyone who is presenting as homeless or sleeping rough to access support.

“The Homeless Reduction Act, which was implemented in April 2018, is designed to assist those who are at risk of homelessness, as well as those who are homeless.

“The 56 days of assistance is a minimum requirement given, but our housing team will always work with people, as long as it takes, to help them find accommodation.

“In these situations, we continue to offer support but it always requires the individuals involved to engage with our teams.”

Local charities such as BCDP identified increased drug use, austerity and cuts to support services as the main causes of the rise in people seeking help.

Stephanie Peacock, MP for Barnsley East, added: “People being left to sleep rough without a roof over their heads should shame us all, and the increase in those who have tragically died on our streets shows this is a national emergency.

“Instead of removing the vital safety nets some of the most vulnerable people in our communities rely on, this callous government should immediately address this homelessness crisis and end this national shame.”

CHRONIC traffic problems in Cawthorne have been flagged up at a special meeting.

Parish councillors met with ward councillors and a Barnsley Council highways official to examine issues plaguing the village.

But the question of cost was a stumbling block throughout, a meeting of the parish council heard.

Chairman Peter Kilner and Coun Stephen Eyre met ward members Robert Barnard and John Wilson with the highways officer on site, later touring the village to assess parking hotspots.

Coun Eyre said: "Barnsley have no funds to do anything of a major nature. It's a no-go. It was suggested the parish council might pay for some selective work to curb poor parking."

Speeding along the main road above the village was also raised and a camera could now be sited there to measure traffic speeds. "Evidence will be needed before anything can be done," said Coun Eyre.

Coun Kilner said: "We stressed the Kirklees section of the road is 50mph, but then it is 60mph in Barnsley. We want to see 50 all the way along to slow people down. Again, we were told we need data."

Coun Robert Barr said a roundabout at the junction with Silkstone Road would be the answer to many of the problems.

"No chance," said Coun Kilner. "It would be too costly."

Coun Eyre said: "It is unbelievable how much these things cost. We also discussed a one-way system in the village but that would also be very expensive and present difficulties with practicalities. Some sort of curbs could alleviate congestion and they want us to consider this. One idea is to create safe passing places."

It was agreed the ward councillors had been 'very supportive'.

A PRIMARY school which was previously rated ‘requires improvement’ has been rated ‘good’ in every area following its most recent Ofsted inspection.

Holy Rood Catholic Primary has been named a ‘good’ school in its inspection, which took place on November 27 to November 28, according to the report just released. 

In the report, it was mentioned that the school motto ‘Live, Love, Learn’ is at the heart of the school.

The report also said: “Pupils enjoy attending. They are keen to learn and achieve well. Pupils behave well.

“Bullying is rare. When it does happen, staff deal with this well. The vast majority of parents who made their views known to inspectors believe that bullying is dealt with well.

“Teachers have good subject knowledge. They use assessment increasingly well to check pupils’ understanding.

“Staff who made their views known to inspectors enjoy working at the school. They feel well supported by senior leaders and governors. Staff morale is high.”

In 2017, Holy Rood Primary was rated ‘requires improvement’ after student progress had stalled.

However, in the most recent inspection, it was noted that the leaders have high aspirations and ambitions for all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils.

Head teacher Karen Dobson said: “We are absolutely thrilled with our results. The staff and pupils have worked so hard over the last two to fours years.

“To achieve a ‘good’ in all categories is a huge achievement, and it’s a testament to everyone’s hard work.

“I would like to thank the supportive parents, governors and wider community who support our work.

“I look forward to continuing the great work we’ve put in.”

BARNSLEY Hospice is asking people to think about how they’re disposing of their Christmas tree now the festive period is coming to an end.

The hospice will recycle people’s real Christmas trees if they give a donation - but you need to call and book it. 

A spokesman for the hospice said: “With the kind support of D & D Couriers Barnsley and Shaw Skips for a suggested donation of £10 we will take your real Christmas tree and recycle it. One-hundred per cent of your donation goes towards Barnsley Hospice.”

The scheduled collection date for trees is Sunday, with limited slots available so people are asked to book.

Call Barnsley Hospice fundraising on 244 244.

PLANNING permission for refurbishment work at Tankersley’s fire station is expected to be sought next year, a report revealed this week.

The document, which will be discussed by members of the South Yorkshire Fire Authority at Barnsley Town Hall on January 13, sets out planned improvements to its estate during 2020/21.

Barnsley’s main station, on Broadway, Kingstone, will be knocked down and represents the biggest investment, although Tankersley’s refurbishment will cost £998,000.

A full outline for the plan is expected to be submitted to Barnsley Council’s planning board during 2020 and it will include new windows, doors, lighting, wiring, roof repairs, redecoration throughout and a new kitchen.

“Planning for Tankersley Fire Station will commence early 2020,” the report said. “We will spend money carefully, use our resources wisely and collaborate with others to provide the best deal to the communities we serve.

“The head of emergency response met with the Health and Safety Executive on November 14 to present and discuss SYFR’s future arrangements. These plans were accepted by the HSE.”

Tankersley’s new look will also allow its workforce to almost double from the current figure of 19 to 36 by the end of 2021, according to the report.

A MAN who wanted to combat loneliness appealed for help on Facebook for a four-legged companion to share his walks with. 

Malcolm Price, 80, has always always had dogs and felt lost without his four-legged companion, Jack Russell Alfie who died four years ago. But after his wife Susan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Malcolm was unable to get another pet. 

“When Susan was told she had Alzheimer’s my priority became looking after her,” said Malcolm, of Park Road, Kingstone. 

“A few weeks ago she went into residential care and I felt at a loose end. The house was suddenly empty and I wanted a companion on my daily walks around Locke Park but I know I can’t look after a pet full-time.”

Malcolm put out a post on Facebook, asking for small dogs to walk around the park, free of charge and was met with a great response. 

“I thought since I am not in a position to get a dog that I could borrow someone else’s and take the dog out while the owner was at work – that way it benefits two people.”

Malcolm was contacted by Georgia Nield, who owns Jack Russell-Pug mix Pippa, and now takes Pippa out multiple times per week. 

“Pippa lives five minutes away from me and I can go and take her out whenever I want a walk,” added Malcolm. 

“She gets me out of the house and gives me something to get up for in the morning. It’s nice because I can socialise with other people which is something I struggled to do on my own. People will come over and pet Pippa and strike up a conversation or I’ll get talking to other dog owners as the dogs play. 

“It’s a really good way to socialise and it stops me worrying if Susan is being cared for properly, even though I know she is. I still worry about her, but now I know I can go for a walk with Pippa to stop me from worrying too much.”

Now Malcolm wants to appeal to other people who may feel lonely to seek out dogs to walk. 

“People are desperate for their dogs to be walked while they are working and I would recommend it for anyone who is suffering with empty house syndrome.”

A VETERAN councillor who was diagnosed with prostate cancer following a routine test has ‘rang the bell’ to mark the end of his treatment - just in time to see in the new year.

Coun Charlie Wraith, who has served on Barnsley Council since 1974, represents the Cudworth ward and found out he had the illness earlier this year.

However, tests in the autumn revealed the cancer had not spread and Coun Wraith, who was made an MBE in 2013 for public services, told the Chronicle that he had ‘rang the bell’ - a milestone for all cancer patients to signify the end of their treatment - last week.

He survived bowel cancer a decade ago, an illness which claimed his wife Marilyn’s life in 2016, and as a result now has bi-monthly blood tests - something which he says saved his life this time round as he had no symptoms that something was wrong.

“It was those blood tests that picked up something abnormal. Without them I’d never have known,” said Coun Wraith. “Men with prostate cancer don’t necessarily have symptoms so it’s of the utmost importance that people get checked out.

“The emphasis has to be put on them to get tested as it creeps up without warning. Further tests are uncomfortable, not painful, but it’s so important to get checked.”

Coun Wraith, 76, was initially given two options for treatment to either cut the cancer out or receive radiotherapy at Weston Park in Sheffield.

However, doctors ruled out surgery due to his previous battle against cancer and has had to have 20 days’ worth of gruelling radiotherapy treatment instead.

He added: “You’re told by a doctor that you have cancer and the first thing you want to do is just get rid of it. Having it cut out was the quickest, but I couldn’t have that procedure as I’ve had cancer before.

“I was 65 when I was diagnosed with bowel cancer and it mirrors that as it happened at the same time of year. They got me straight in then, and luckily the cancer has not spread this time.

“The treatment has been tough but it’s gone well and that’s the main thing. I spent Christmas, which is a wonderful time of the year, at my sister-in-law’s and I’m glad it’s over and done with so I can start the new year fresh and get back to council meetings.”

Coun Wraith will return to Weston Park in February for a check-up, where he has been alongside a former councillor, Dave North, who is also receiving treatment there for prostate cancer.

Dave, who is the current chairman of Shafton Parish Council, reiterated Coun Wraith’s calls for more men to get checked out.

“It’s an extremely important thing to do as it could prove to be a life-saving thing,” he added. “The earlier it’s caught, the better.”

A CAT lover responsible for rescuing and rehoming more than 800 felines has died.

Maureen Fieldsend, 70, who set up Maureen’s Penistone Cat Rescue and transformed her home’s garage on Westacre, Springvale, into a full-time sanctuary, lost her 18-year battle with cancer on December 11.

A statement released by the charity this week said Maureen died peacefully at Barnsley Hospice and her funeral will be held at St John’s Church, Penistone, on January 9 at 2pm.

The statement added: “Maureen was well known in animal rescue and rehoming circles, having worked with local charities such as Royston Animal Welfare (RAW) and Barnsley Animal Rescue Charity (BARC), before setting up her own voluntary organisation from her home.

“Overall she was responsible for the rescue and rehoming of almost 800 cats and kittens. She was passionate about their welfare, providing veterinary care, cattery facilities and rehoming into forever homes.

“It was as a result of deteriorating health, suffering with extreme fatigue as a result of her illness, but also the chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, that she made the decision to close.

“Maureen will be sadly missed by her family and friends.”

ILLEGAL activity including a host of antisocial behaviour-related offences blighting a woodland has resulted in Barnsley Council issuing a notice in order to protect the site from further harm.

Off-road motorbikers and clay pigeon shooting parties have been reported by locals, who expressed concern about the goings-on in West Wood, Tankersley.

Situated close to residents’ homes, West Wood is a designated as a local wildlife site and an effective banning order has now been confirmed for the area.

The notice was raised in December last year but was subsequently suspended for 12 months to assess the amount of incidents, but it was confirmed last week that a ban on certain activities taking place in the future has now been implemented.

Coun Tim Cheetham, cabinet spokesperson for place, said: “We have many beautiful places in our borough which are key to our biodiversity, West Wood being one of these.

“It is important that we protect, wherever possible, what is special about our borough and our wildlife sites in particular.

“The decision was made to issue a direction to prevent further harm to the woodland and protect residents in surrounding areas. Once activity has stopped, natural regeneration will be able to start and felled trees will need to be replaced.

“The landowner has been fully cooperative working with us to meet current regulations and we look forward to a similar response next year.”

Under planning rules, activities such as clay pigeon shooting and off-road motorcycling can take place for up to 28 days a year without the need for planning permission.

With the new notice now confirmed, the land can no longer be used for activities like these without planning permission being obtained.

Given the continuing scale of complaints issued by residents, police have been tasked with increasing patrols.

Sergeant Dave Baines said there will be a no-nonsense stance taken during future clampdowns on off-road bikers.

“We’ll go and take the bike off them, it really is as simple as that,” he added. “If the supposed owner can’t provide proof that they’ve purchased the quad or motorbike, we’ll crush it.

“It remains a top priority for every neighbourhood policing hub in Barnsley as it’s an issue that’s brought up across the borough, so information as to where it’s happening and where the bikes are kept is crucial.

“This information can be passed on anonymously but a photo of the offender or a description of the bike they’re using can lead to us issuing a notice against them.

THE chairman of a community garden project has said he is ‘at a loss’ over what to do after vandals causing yet more damage attacked a resident who confronting the alleged culprits.

Allan Wood, the chairman of Owd Martha’s Yard, which sits behind the Belmont Working Men’s Club on West Street, Hoyland, said that there has been a lot of damage to the garden this year and that vandalism in general is on the rise in Hoyland.

The latest incident of damage to the garden came just before Christmas, with Owd Martha’s ECO greenhouse ‘trashed’ until it is now of ‘absolutely no use’.

Allan said a resident – who does not want to be named – was ‘struck on the head’ after confronting the people who were causing the damage and had to be taken to hospital.

“A resident approached some people who were ‘messing about’ in the garden, resulting in him being struck on the side of his head with what appears to be a road pin, which was supporting warning tape around some cracked paving flags,” he said.

“He had to go to hospital for treatment to a nasty gash above his right ear. Hoyland in general is suffering with an outbreak of unruly behaviour. It appears around twelve people were in the garden at the time, plus the unfortunate resident who heard the noise in the garden.”

As chairman, Allan said ‘louts’ have been causing problems and damage to the garden for the past few months. Last month, he sent out a newsletter to the Chronicle, councillors, MPs and neighbourhood police officers saying that teenagers had been abusive to volunteers and claimed there was evidence of drug-taking in an area designed for young children.

He added that the ECO greenhouse had been damaged before and volunteers found a syringe in there, but as it was so badly damaged by the recent vandalism, it will have to be dismantled.

“The ECO greenhouse was formed out of 1,500 two litre soft drinks bottles and attached to a timber framework, all this took many hours work,” he said.

“It was completed early this year and has successfully grown tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables. We have had a small amount of vandalism this year from around May time, but, over the next few months, this has escalated into more problems within the garden.

“We had made a den which was a favourite with our younger visitors, but when we found that it was being used at nights for other reasons, we decided to dismantle it.

“The next place used for ‘other reasons’ was the ECO greenhouse, and when one of our gardeners found a syringe that had been pushed into a plant pot, that was when we decided to take some action. The door was removed, but didn’t stop proceedings. After that, the greenhouse was damaged over a few weeks, until last weekend, when it was really trashed.

“We have decided that, as the greenhouse is totally unusable, we are going to dismantle what is left and dispose of the rubbish, but we do intend to rebuild next spring.”

Allan said police are visiting the area, including Owd Martha’s Yard, but said it is difficult for them to ‘be in the right place at the right time’ when an incident happens. 

BARNSLEY will lag behind other towns and cities in phone operators’ 5G roll-outs by several years leaving users at risk of being ‘cut off’, a report has warned.

The study, which will be delivered at Barnsley Council’s next ruling cabinet meeting on January 8, revealed the town is ‘not well served’ by the next generation of digital connectivity.

It says 5G uses much higher radio frequencies and more data to be carried at faster speeds, but warns that 5G is dependent on the wide availability of fast fibre connectivity. 

Full fibre network coverage in Barnsley is at 3.99 per cent, lower than the 10.4 per cent national average.

“Barnsley is well served by the current generation digital connectivity technology,” the report said. “For example, coverage of superfast broadband is at 97.1 per cent of the borough and coverage of 4G ranges from 81 per cent to 92 per cent of the borough depending on network operator.

“However, both superfast broadband and 4G technologies are incapable of meeting future demands for speed, capacity, reliability, and responsiveness and are fast approaching end of life.

“Indeed, Openreach and the government have both announced plans to phase out copper-based superfast broadband infrastructure.”

Full fibre networks dispense with copper wire and traditional street cabinets, providing a direct connection from a property to an exchange using glass fibre and are capable of download speeds in excess of 1,000 mb per second.

The report said: “No mobile network operators have announced that Barnsley will be included in their initial 5G roll-out plans and it will take several years and several iterations of the technology before it is fully deployed.

“Unfortunately Barnsley is not well served by this next generation of digital connectivity technology.

“With copper and early generation cellular networks soon being phased out, we are at risk of becoming cut off, unable to use the applications, products and services that communicate on modern networks.

“This will increase the digital divide, with more people unable to benefit from the social, health, educational and financial benefits of being online.

“Following almost a decade of austerity and year-on-year reductions in central government funding, combined with rising pressures for both children and adult social care, the council’s ability to fund digital connectivity from its core budget is limited.”

However, cabinet members are set to approve Barnsley’s involvement in a South Yorkshire-wide digital connectivity strategy as a result of the findings, which includes local authorities joining forces in a bid to secure more funding.

THREE men were taken to hospital with stab wounds following an alleged aggravated burglary.

The incident, on Welland Crescent in Elsecar, took place in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The victims were taken to hospital, according to police, but their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

A police spokesperson said three men, aged 18, 20 and 31, were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. A fourth man, 27, was arrested on suspicion of assault.

TWO men were taken into custody on Christmas Day following a reported shooting in Athersley North.

Police launched a search for Nathan Harrod, 24, and Daniel Wogan, 22, following an incident at around 10pm last Friday outside a house in Wollaton Close in which a 31-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to his leg.

A large number of vehicles, including a helicopter, were deployed over the weekend as officers looked to track down the men.

Wogan handed himself in to police on Christmas Day, with Harrod arrested later the same day.

The victim was taken to Barnsley Hospital following the incident and underwent surgery. 

A police spokesman said the victim was expected to make a full recovery. 

POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a cyclist was killed in a hit-and-run collision. 

The incident, which happened on Saturday at about 6.40am, took place on Doncaster Road between Brierley and South Elmsall.

A red Ford Fiesta struck the bike before leaving the scene, investigating officers from West Yorkshire Police said, and the cyclist was treated at the roadside but died from injuries caused by the collision.

Following enquiries officers arrested a 20-year old male on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving over the drink/drugs limit in connection with the incident.

Contact 101, referencing 0459 of December 21, if you have any information.

OFFICERS searching for a missing Barnsley man have issued a direct plea to him to get in touch as it's his birthday today.

It has been more than a month since Richard Dyson, 55, was last seen late on Sunday November 17 in Hoyland.

Police say it would be ‘incredibly out of character’ for Richard not to have contacted his daughter since then.

Detective Inspector Neil Coop from Barnsley CID said: “Tomorrow will be Richard’s birthday and the day after is Christmas - occasions when many of us are with our families and loved ones.

“Richard’s daughter is understandably distraught as it has now been over a month since she last saw her dad, which must be especially difficult at this time of year knowing his birthday and Christmas are upon us.

“I’d like to issue a personal appeal to Richard. Please get in touch with your daughter, let her know that you’re safe for Christmas.

“All any of us want to know is that you’re all right - please make contact with someone and let us know where you are.”

Richard was reported missing on Monday November 25 by his daughter, who last saw him on Friday November 15 at 6pm in the Aston area of Rotherham.

Officers believe Richard was last seen on Sunday November 17 at about 11pm, walking towards the A6135 Sheffield Road in Hoyland, close to Parkside Cottage.

DI Coop said: “We continue to progress any and all lines of enquiry as they come in. Unfortunately, we have not yet been able to confirm any further sightings of Richard but we are very grateful to everyone who has taken the time to submit information and contact police.

“Richard’s daughter really misses him, so I’d ask anyone yet to come forward with information to consider the impact of not doing so on his family. 

“No matter how small you might feel your information is, it might be the little piece we need to locate Richard and bring him home.”

You can also call 101 quoting incident number 459 of November 25.

POLICE officers in Barnsley are asking for people’s help to identify the two men in the CCTV images following a burglary in Goldthorpe.

It is believed that on Sunday, December 15 at around 11.30am, two offenders entered a property on High Gate Lane and took jewellery.

It is also believed that the suspects attempted to open the doors of other properties before walking off.

Officers are keen to speak to the two men in the CCTV images about the burglary. 

Anyone who can help identify them is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 587 of 15 December 2019.

WITH Christmas approaching, Yorkshire’s NHS 111 service is reminding the people of Barnsley to order and collect repeat prescriptions before GP surgeries and pharmacies close for the holidays.

Hundreds of patients call NHS 111 during the festive season because they have run out of their regular medication, leading to unnecessary worry for themselves and increasing pressure on urgent care and out-of-hours NHS services.

Dr Eithne Cummins, GP and clinical director for integrated urgent care at Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: “The NHS 111 service will be very busy over the Christmas and New Year period. Many people need repeat medication to manage long-term conditions and most remember to order and collect their prescriptions before Christmas, which is helpful and appreciated. 

“However, in the busy build-up to the holidays, it’s easy to forget and this can lead to problems once GP practices close for Christmas. So, if you think you might need more medication over Christmas and the New Year, save yourself the worry and re-order your prescription while there is still plenty of time for it to be processed and dispensed.

“Not only will you be doing yourself a favour, you’ll also be helping the NHS by reducing pressure on busy urgent care services over the Christmas period.” 

PLANS have been submitted to Barnsley Council for a ‘ground-breaking’ new approach to retirement living in Hoyland.

Hawshaw Bank is the first project from Sky-Lark, a new initiative created by the architects at Sheffield-based CODA Studios in association with Broadfield Holdings, Crossbow Investments, Knight Knox and Alcove.

Their debut development, submitted to Barnsley Council, will feature a selection of 40 one-bedroom homes, with double height living spaces and eco-friendly features.

According to the plans, the gated development will also include communal gardens and allotments, a village hall and a host of security features.

“We aim to deliver 15 to 20 sites over the next three years, predominantly in former mining communities,” said Crossbow chief executive David Cross.

“More than a million homeowners want to downsize but can’t find the right property and yet less than one per cent of UK newbuilds are now bungalows.

“Our research has demonstrated very clearly the need for this style of high quality but affordable development in a market that is ready for expansion.

Subject to planning approval, work is expected to begin on site in spring 2020.

A DRINK-DRIVER who was more than three times the legal limit has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Stephen Evans, of Alexandra Road, Doncaster, was stopped on Park Spring Road in Grimethorpe by police on November 8.

A roadside sample recorded 125mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath, more than three times the legal limit of 35mg.

He was given a 16-week sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.

Evans, 49, was also told to pay a £90 victim surcharge, £85 court costs and was banned from driving for three years.

A YOUNG girl who will ‘save the world one day’ has set her sights on helping Barnsley’s homeless to keep warm this Christmas.

Molly Kaye, ten, first had the idea to help Barnsley’s homeless at Christmas back in September when she saw a homeless man outside of her dance school on Eldon Street. 

When she asked her mum, Caroline, how the homeless got presents at Christmas, Molly was shocked to discover that they would not be receiving any gifts.

“I told her that they wouldn’t be getting presents and she said she would give them one,” said Caroline of Park View Road, Staincross. “She wanted to give them a hat, scarf, and gloves so that they wouldn’t get cold in the winter and she set about getting donations.”

Molly appealed for donations from her dance school, family and friends, and businesses in the Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre (BBIC) on Wilthorpe Road. A marketing business in Leeds even donated £50 after hearing about Molly’s appeal for donations.

“I spoke with Action for Barnsley Homeless, who run a soup kitchen, about what Molly wanted to do and they said that they typically get around 95 homeless people through the door each week, and so Molly set the target of collecting 100 sets of hat, scarves, and gloves to donate there.”

Molly, who is ‘always helping someone’ according to her mum, also wanted to volunteer at the Action for Barnsley Homeless Christmas dinner, but she is not yet old enough so organised a bake sale at her primary school to help raise more funds to go towards donations for the cause.

“She had a meeting with her headteacher and told him what she wanted to do and he said he was nearly in tears by the end of it. She is really quite determined to help – once she gets an idea in her head she will keep going until it’s done which I really admire about her. Last year she even got the school to stop laminating to stop plastic from going into the sea.

“She will save the world one day, I am so proud of her.”

So far, Molly has 82 sets and she hopes to collect more donations to give 100 sets at the Christmas dinner on Monday.

Jill Martin, administrator at Action for Barnsley Homeless, said: “Molly has done a fantastic job – it’s absolutely amazing that she has collected so many donations and it will go a long way here. Without people’s donations we wouldn’t be able to keep going as we rely on donations from the general public. Molly’s donations will go a long way to help people.”

Action for Homeless Barnsley are in need of food, clothing, and toiletries donations in order to keep providing their service to Barnsley’s homeless. If you would like to donate phone 07762 823720 or search for ‘Action for Barnsley Homeless’ on Facebook.