HUMBERSIDE Police are appealing for help to locate a missing 13-year-old girl who has connections in South Yorkshire.

Mysti Leeza Bell was reported missing to police having last been seen at a family function at Hainton Public House, Grimsby, at 3.35pm on December 9.

Miss Bell is described as white and around 5ft tall with a medium build.

She has very long red-coloured hair which was scraped back in a high bun.

She was last seen wearing a black dress, black tights, black ballet pumps with glittery decoration, a turquoise blue cardigan and black coat with a belt around the middle.

Officers are concerned about her welfare due to her age and are appealing for any information on her whereabouts.

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact Humberside Police quoting log number 523 of December 9 2013.

A WOULD-BE burglar nearly ruined a family's Christmas after wrapping presents up in a duvet cover in a bid to make off with them.

But he was forced to ditch his loot after disturbing the female occupant while in her bedroom at the house in Brunswick Street, Thurnscoe.

The young man, who was wearing a woolly hat, fled from the scene at 5.45am on December 10.

People who had left vehicles at the Alhambra car park could have given thieves an early Christmas present after leaving goodies on view, too.

Chief Inspector Andy Hodgkinson said: "Officers carried out an operation to identify vulnerable vehicles and within an hour they’d found more than a dozen vehicles with items on display from presents and electrical items to sat navs, sunglasses and shopping.

"We want people to be aware, particularly at this time of year, that there are lots of opportunist thieves around ready to pounce and people need to take extra care."

Ch Insp Hodgkinson added that police would continue to carry out regular crime prevention operations.

South Yorkshire Police launched 'Operation Lockdown' in October to target house burglary and vehicle crime.

So far more than 700 suspects have been arrested.

FOUR Birmingham City football fans came to the rescue of a Barnsley couple whose car had overturned.

The incident took place at about 5.30pm near the former Bush Inn on Keresforth Hill Road, Kingstone, after the Reds' 3-0 defeat against Birmingham on November 30.

The football fans helped pull the couple out of the car and stayed with them until medical assistance arrived.

They then headed to the M1 and back to Birmingham without giving their names or details.

Barnsley cricket coach Mark Beardshall stopped to assist as he was driving by.

He said: "These blokes deserve credit. Football fans always get a lot of bad press but they knew what they were doing and really helped this couple, who I would say were in their late 60s.

"They were really shook up and didn't know what to do. Their car was completely upside down but these men were calm and helpful.

"They didn't want to give their names and they didn't want to make a big fuss about what they did, but I thought they deserved a mention for stopping to help and proving that not all football fans are as bad as some people would believe."

ALDI is starting its recruitment drive this month which will create nearly 400 jobs at its new £25million distribution centre.

Its new regional offices and distribution centre means 250 warehouse staff, 100 transportation staff and 40 office-based positions will be brought into the Goldthorpe area.

Although it's not due to open until 2015, the company is starting its recruitment drive to ensure new staff have completed its comprehensive training programme ahead of the opening.

At the same time local councillors announced they have already been in talks with the supermarket giant about how to help local people get the jobs and are about to launch a series of courses to help job applicants.

Cllr Ralph Sixsmith said: "Obviously this is good news for the Dearne - we would like more inward investors like Aldi.

"We're determined to ensure local people are given all the help and support possible, hence these new courses which are being coordinated by the Dearne area management team out of Goldthorpe's library."

Planning permission for the development, off Commercial Road, was granted in 2008.

The new distribution centre will serve stores across Yorkshire and further afield.

Liam Rafferty, Aldi’s financial and administration director, said: "The regional distribution centre at Goldthorpe will provide a hub for Aldi’s growing portfolio of stores across South and West Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire.

"We're looking to engage with the local community to identify suitable candidates who want the opportunity to work for a successful and growing retailer."

Barnsley Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said he was 'very pleased' at the announcement, adding: "This is another example of international businesses thriving in Barnsley."

Aldi is looking to hire individuals with relevant office and secretarial experience to work within its central operations team immediately.

Full training will be provided for all roles at Aldi’s distribution centres in Darlington, Middleton and Atherstone.

Logistics and distribution experience will be vital for the warehouse positions available, which will be recruited closer to the opening date, and drivers with the appropriate licence will be required to fill the transportation roles on offer.

The retailer has enjoyed a sales boom in recent years linked by analysts to its widening appeal and last month opened its 500th store.

Click here for more details.

THE police are appealing for witnesses after a man was attacked in the town centre by a group of men believed to be of European or Asian origin.

The 28-year-old man had left Che Bar in Peel Street with his partner at around 2.30am on December 7 when he was attacked outside the Jobcentre.

He was punched to the ground and then kicked by four or five men of European or Asian origin.

One of the suspects had a white top on and another, who had a black bob-style haircut, was wearing a black jacket.

The group then made off on foot up Fenton Street, along Peel Parade and to Summer Lane.

PC Madalaine Thomas said: "This was a nasty, unprovoked assault on a man who had been enjoying a night out with his fiancée.

"The victim is now out of hospital and is recovering from his injuries.

"I would like to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the attack in the early hours of Saturday morning, or who saw the group of men in the Peel Street area."

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 142 of December 7 2013.

THE town's men and women are living longer, new figures have revealed. 

The latest data published in October 2013 shows the gap in life expectancy between Barnsley and England has reduced for the first time in years.

The gap in life expectancy had been widening from the national average for many years. However, recent figures show that for men the gap has reduced from 1.5 years in 2008-2010 to 1.4 years in 2008-2012.

It's also good news for women too as figures show there has also been a reduction, from 2 years in 2008-2010 to 1.5 years in 2010-2012.

The average life expectancy of Barnsley women has increased from 80.5 years in 2008-2010, to 81.5 years in 2010-2012.

It's also a similar trend for men in Barnsley with average life expectancy increasing from 77 years in 2008-2010 to 77.8 years in 2010-2012.

Improvement in overall health is one of the main reasons for closure in the gap.

The number of deaths in people under 75 years from cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, and cancer has been falling in Barnsley over a number of years following trends across England.

There has also been a reduction in the premature deaths due to cancer. The gap between Barnsley and the national average is now at all time low.

Cllr Chris Lamb, cabinet spokesperson, said: "It's great news that we're closing the gap between Barnsley and the national average.

"There has been a significant increase in the average life expectancy of baby girls and boys born in the borough over the last two decades.

"Today a baby boy born in Barnsley can now expect to live to an average age of 77.8 years, a significant increase of 5.5 years in the last 20 years.

"During the same period there has also been an increase for girls, with average life expectancy increasing 3.8 years to 81.5 years.

"We believe these improvements are partly down to people making healthier life choices, such as not smoking, as well as improvements in the treatment of chronic disease such as blood pressure and cardiovascular risk."

HOW about this for a line-up of snooker's best? Ronnie O'Sullivan, Mark Selby, Neil Robertson, Judd Trump, John Higgins and Ding Junhui are in all Barnsley this week!

The Metrodome hosts the qualifying rounds of two of snooker's world ranking events, with five-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan in action on Thursday.

The venue will stage the first round of the German Masters on December 11 and 12 (Wednesday and Thursday), followed by the Haikou World Open on December 13 and 14 (Friday and Saturday).

Both tournaments feature 128 players, with the 64 winners going through to the final stages in Germany and China next year.

O'Sullivan is competing in the German Masters - a tournament he won in 2012 - and faces Thailand's Thepchaiya Un-Nooh on Thursday at 7pm.

Steve Davis is straight back into green baize action following his jungle adventure on hit TV show I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here.

The six-time world champion, who is flying back from Australia in order to resume his snooker career, faces Dylan Mitchell on Thursday at 7pm and Hammad Miah on Saturday at 2.30pm.

Aussie Neil Robertson is up against Ian Burns on Thursday at 7pm and Alexander Ursenbacher on Saturday at 7pm.

JACOB Mellis has admitted Barnsley's players let David Flitcroft down and has backed Micky Mellon to replace him.

Mellis, 22, scored his first goal of the season with a tremendous strike in last week's 2-1 win at Brighton.

He said: "We take responsibility for what happened to the manager. We're the ones who are playing on the pitch.

"The gaffer put everything into the job and we were down and sad that he left. We've been unlucky at times this season but we definitely let him down with our performances."

Asked if he wanted Mellon to get the job, Mellis added: "It's not down to me but I would like Micky to be the manager. If we keep performing like we did against Brighton he's got a great chance.

"He knows us and he knows out strengths and weaknesses. We know we're in a tough position but we're good enough to do something about it."

The ex-Chelsea man's Brighton goal was a tremendous individual effort which was similar to Paddy McCourt's magnificent opener as they both featured fine individual runs and exchanges of passes with Marcus Tudgay.

Mellis, who played in his preferred position behind the strikers instead of on the left wing, said: "Paddy's inspiring me. When I see him do crazy stuff like that it's breathtaking. I tried to copy him.

"Hopefully that's the first of many because I have missed a few chances recently. Micky came to me before the match and told me to play with confidence and get on the ball."

SOUTH Yorkshire Police officers have arrested three people from Barnsley on suspicion of theft from motor vehicles.

After a theft in Goldthorpe on December 8, the men who are alleged to have been involved were arrested pending further enquiries.

Two men from Thurnscoe, aged 34 and 31, and a 19-year-old man from Goldthorpe were questioned and released on police bail until early February.

THE campaign to stop Barnsley Central Library from demolition to make way for a new sixth form is gaining in momentum, according to organisers.

At a meeting last Thursday campaigners agreed a number of what they hope will be high-profile protests to take place throughout December with the aim of encouraging the maximum number of people to take part in the library consultation process.

Dave Gibson, one of the campaigners, said: "We have decided to continue our petition until December 29 and hand it in to Sir Steve Houghton the next day.

"We have got about 8,000 signatures so far but we want to reach at least 11,370, which will represent ten times more signing than voted against demolition in our referendum.

"Campaigners are going around their streets door-to-door as well as asking local shops to display the petition. We believe that may well make it the biggest petition in Barnsley's history."

Are you in favour of the demolition? Have your say below.

THE Post Office has announced its Barnsley branch will be open for longer in the run-up to Christmas.

The branch, at Pitt Street, will be open from 8.30 am until 6pm Monday to Friday and 9am until 5.30pm on Saturdays.

Stewart Fox-Mills, head of marketing, said: "Christmas is an extremely busy time for many people and we want to make it as easy as possible for our customers by offering longer opening hours at Barnsley branch."

One of the new features on the Post Office’s online Christmas hub is a new service to help customers remember last posting dates for UK and worldwide mails online and through a simple and free reminder service.

Select the destinations you’d like a reminder for and the Post Office will send you an email and text message to help you get cards and gifts dispatched in plenty of time, avoiding a last-minute rush.

HOW about this for an early Christmas present... Three Barnsley bakers are counting their dough after scooping more than £350,000 on the Euro Millions!

Bakery boss John-Stuart Birkinshaw, of L Birkinshaw and Sons in Darton, and two employees, brothers Mick and Matthew Dolan, bought a ticket after forming the syndicate 'The Baker Boys'.

They matched five numbers and one lucky star in the November 6 draw.

John-Stuart, 60, of Barugh Green, said: "We decided to play because it was a huge jackpot, but we didn't think we'd win.

"We didn't know we'd won until we came to work at 3am. We were making pies and I asked Matt to check the ticket.

"We were in a state of shock, we couldn't believe it.

"We phoned our partners to tell them and they thought we were joking."

John-Stuart shot up to the post office and asked them to double check the numbers but it was so early he had to wait for it to open.

But as soon as it opened they verified the win of £359,010.60.

It means they each receive £119,670.

When it comes to their new found wealth, John-Stuart will enjoy a no expenses spared trip to Australia, which he had already booked, and Mick, 40, of Woolley Colliery, said he was looking forward to paying off his mortgage and treating himself to some new wheels.

Matt, 27, of Mapplewell, said he was unsure of what to spend the money on, but the first thing he was going to buy was a provisional driving licence so he could open a bank account.

Mick added: "It's thanks to Matt, he always comes up with bright ideas."

The bakery has been in John-Stuart's family for about 100 years.

He has worked there for about 45 years since he was 15-years-old.

His first job was starring in the famous football scene in the film Kes, playing on the same side as Billy Casper (Dai Bradley).

He is now a partner in the business, along with his father Leslie and brother Andrew.

Mick and Matthew have both worked at the bakery since leaving school.

MICKY Mellon is still remaining coy on his Barnsley future.

Mellon has taken the reins for the last two matches, winning away at Brighton and narrowly losing out at table-topping Burnley.

The Oakwell club have yet to issue a statement on the possible search for a new manager to replace David Flitcroft, leaving fans guessing about his successor.

"It’s as we are, I’ve just been asked to keep ticking things along as best as possible," Mellon said.

"There’s been absolutely no dialogue with anybody about whether any decision is going to be made about the manager’s job.

"I’ve got a job and I’ve got to be respectful of the people above me. I’ve not been told any differently.

"We’ve just got to be professional, keep the players focused and get on with it. I know it’s all about the results."

Top scorer Chris O'Grady could return from a calf injury for Saturday's home clash with fellow strugglers Yeovil Town, in what's already been labelled as a massive game in the Reds' stuttering season.

* Ex-boss Flicker was announced as the new manager of League Two side Bury on Monday.

A LYING father-of-three conned his family and work colleagues into thinking he had cancer in a desperate attempt to win his pregnant girlfriend back.

Martin Heath, who works at Tesco in Penistone, let relatives and co-workers believe he was suffering with the illness for months before coming clean.

He said his imaginary tale ‘snowballed’ after he told it to his former partner - an ex-colleague and mother of his 12-week-old daughter - in the hope she would have sympathy and return after breaking off their relationship.

His attempt failed.

The revelation has angered some staff at the store, who fundraised in his name, and caused supermarket bosses to launch an internal investigation.

Mr Heath, of High Street, Penistone, said he did not gain financially from the fictitious story, which he said started in May or June, and regretted his actions.

"I'm ashamed of what I’ve done and I hold my hands up," he said. "I shouldn’t have done it. I hope they can forgive and forget. Well forgive, not forget."

Mr Heath has been treated for depression and claims to have attempted suicide on two occasions.

He split from his partner of 22 years - the mother of his two teenage children - after beginning the affair with his then Tesco colleague.

His two older children and former long-term partner were also fooled by his fantasy story before he confessed the truth to them.

Mr Heath, who said he continued to work through his alleged illness, and the majority of people have been supportive since discovering the truth.

But some colleagues said they were disgusted by his behaviour. One even did a sponsored race, wearing a top bearing his name on it in aid of cancer research.

A spokesman for Tesco said the supermarket was investigating the allegation and taking the matter very seriously. No further comment was provided.

THE country's first 'social supermarket' opened its doors in Goldthorpe on Monday. We went down to see what it's all about.

Community Shop will provide shoppers on the cusp of food poverty access to surplus food and products, at up to 70 per cent less than normal prices.

Major retailers including Asda, Morrisons, Marks & Spencer and Tesco have all thrown their support behind the project.

Daily items are available for a fraction of their usual price, with things like Warburtons loafs for 20p, cans of branded fizzy drinks also for 20p, Heinz beans for 29p as well as shampoos, baby food, meats and pet food.

Membership of the pilot store will be open to people living in a specific postcode area around Goldthorpe and in receipt of welfare support. 

However, its organisers hope the scheme will be a success, enabling it to expand and help a much wider audience.

Sign-up days at neighbouring Goldthorpe Library will be held for those in need, but you must be from the local area. To check on your eligibility, you can also go to the shop's reception to be talked through it.

"It takes stuff that will not make it to supermarket shelves and uses it to feed people who need it most," said Sarah Dunwell, director of environment and social affairs at Company Shop, the scheme's parent company.

"While we have people in the UK going hungry, it's wrong such foods should be thrown away.

"It's been a hugely positive reaction so far and we hope to open many more across the country.

"Our parent company have a relationship with the manufacturers that means we can get access to large volumes of residual food that we can get to the people who need it the most."

Individuals that use the service will not only get access to cheaper food but will also be offered programmes of tailored support on things from debt advice to writing CVs.

More than 1,000 similar stores in Spain and Greece have opened during their recessions. Twenty more are planned for the UK next year.

Many items thrown away aren't even past their sell-by dates - Sarah said cheeses with the wrong weights couldn’t go on sale, nor chocolate mousses mispackaged with lemon mousse lids.

Sarah added: "We're aiming to fill a gap between food banks and mainstream retail. Lots of families are not in such an emergency situation but are on the cusp of food poverty.

"It's for anyone who's claiming any of a list of benefits. It's not just about the long-term unemployed but hard-working families who are struggling.

"None of the manufacturers and none of the retailers want to see food going in the bin. They have all been really supportive of this project."

One of the shoppers on the day, a 74-year-old ex-miner who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It's hard for us pensioners to get by, so I'm ever so thankful for this place.

"The items are much, much cheaper than in supermarkets and there's nothing wrong with them. It's great to have this in the local community and I think it could solve many problems for many people."

Barnsley Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: "We're delighted that this valuable asset has opened in Goldthorpe.

"The new store will be a great asset for local residents enabling them to access a range of high quality, low cost food as well as a place where they can access local services.

"It will also complement the council's ongoing commitment to support people and the community in this difficult financial climate."

THREE people appeared at Barnsley Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with the theft of £725 worth of power tools.

The trio were allegedly involved in the theft from the boot of a van at Kingfisher Drive, Wombwell, between Friday and Saturday.

David Brian Osbourne, 47, of College Terrace, Darfield, has been remanded in custody until his next appearance at Sheffield Crown Court on December 23.

Albert Smith, 42, from West Street, Darfield, received conditional bail until his next appearance at Sheffield Crown Court on December 23.

He also faces a charge of possession of a controlled drug.

Rachel Penty, 37, from Coronation Terrace, Ardsley, was also committed to Sheffield Crown Court to appear with her co-accused.

A SCHOOL has been given a £3,000 donation in memory of a former pupil whose work in education has been described as 'inspirational'.

Kath Harris died after a battle against cancer in July last year. She was regarded as an outstanding teacher and her death was marked by an obituary in the Guardian.

Her husband travelled from London to Birdwell to present her former school with the donation.

As well as the cheque, the school was also given a framed photograph showing Kath as a nine-year-old attending the school along with one of her in adulthood.

Kath was a pupil for six years in the early 1950s.

She went on to Barnsley High School before moving to Wakefield in the 60s.

For the last 20 years of her life Kath worked in London as a teacher in adult education at Kensington and Chelsea College and at Birkbeck College.

When she died her husband, Willie Coupar, and daughter Louise Hume, received more than 100 messages and tributes from former students.

Her obituary appeared in the Guardian and quoted one student: "Kath had a way of really getting through to you - she changed my life in so many positive ways."

Handing over the cheque to headteacher Jane Gilmour and the school council, Willie said: "Birdwell school fostered Kath's great interest in the world around her.

"It also encouraged her lifelong interest in drawing and painting. She had a total belief that education can bring huge benefits to everyone.

"I can think of no better way to remember her than to give something back to the school where it all started for Kath."

A MAN headbutted a woman during a row about a meal, Barnsley Magistrates’ Court was told.

Matthew Margison, 26, left Carina Hall with a cut on the bridge of her nose, said Julie Grant, prosecuting.

She said the couple ended a relationship when Margison went to Australia but started seeing each other when he got back.

Mrs Grant added that Margison said during police questioning that he retaliated after being slapped.

Margison, of White Lodge, Barnsley Road, Silkstone, admitted assault.

Brian Bushell, defending, said he would put Margison’s side of the story when he is sentenced on December 30.

Margison was granted conditional bail.

THE average number of sick days taken by staff at Barnsley Hospital has risen by 60 per cent in two years - partly because of stress.

Figure show the number has risen from an average of ten days per year, to 16 days per year.

Hilary Brearley, director of human resources and organisational development for Barnsley Hospital, said sickness levels had risen mainly because of 'increased levels of work-related stress and an increase in musculoskeletal problems' which can affect muscles and joints.

She added: "Our sickness levels are higher than we would want them to be and we're working hard to reduce them.

"We're taking action to help staff with stress. For example in January we're providing training for staff on resilience and how to cope better with work pressures, and we have also introduced in-house counselling for staff who need it.

"We have also introduced an in-house physiotherapy service for staff with musculoskeletal problems such as back pain."

She said there had been discussions about whether or not to pay staff for the first few sick days, and although it was decided not to implement this action now, it may be looked at in the future.

A new sickness policy had been launched aimed at helping to give staff more support to get back to work sooner and helping managers to monitor and manage sick leave more closely.

MICKY Mellon is odds-on favourite to land the Barnsley job on a permanent basis - despite the club being 'inundated' with applications.

The club haven't spoken to any outside candidates for the vacant manager's position and hope to give the job to caretaker Micky Mellon on a permanent basis, it's understood.

Mellon was handed the reigns when David Flitcroft was sacked after 11 months in the hotseat.

Sources close to the club said that the board has been 'inundated' with applications but has yet to speak to any other candidates.

Danny Wilson - the only man to take the Reds to the Premier League - hasn't been approached, but a source close to Wilson revealed the former Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United boss would be keen on a return to Oakwell.

The same source revealed Wilson has recently turned down other jobs and believes he has 'unfinished business' at Barnsley.

Other names linked to the job include ex-Reds winger Neil Warnock. Michael Appleton, whose former agent is Barnsley chief executive Ben Mansford, has also been linked.

Reds legend Neil Redfearn - currently a coach at Leeds United - is another name linked to the position but Leeds boss Brian McDermott said he is keen for Redfearn to stay at Elland Road.

Mellon, 41, has refused to say whether he wants the job on a full-time basis and says it's an important time for the club.

He said: "I think I made a claim for the job on Tuesday after the Brighton win but I don't know what's going on behind the scenes or above me.

"I haven't been asked to do the job permanently and until I'm told otherwise I will get on with my work."

Who is your choice? Have your say below.

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 22-year-old woman was seriously injured in a collision on the M1 near Dodworth.

At around 7.20pm on Friday, December 6, a silver Renault Clio was in collision with a blue articulated lorry on the southbound side of junction 37 of the motorway.

The 22-year-old woman, from Barnsley, who was a passenger in the Clio, suffered serious injuries.

The driver of the Clio, a 22-year-old man from Wakefield, received slight injuries in the collision.

It's thought that the driver of the HGV, a 53-year-old man from Sheffield, was unhurt.

Witnesses should call South Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 1021 of December 6.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

CHRISTMAS revellers are being urged to reduce their drinking - to avoid being locked up in a cell.

South Yorkshire Police launched its 'Start Thinking, Reduce Your Drinking' campaign in a bid to reduce the traditional increase in anti-social behaviour over the festive period.

It's hoped it will also lead to a decrease in violent crime, domestic abuse and underage drinking.

Officers will be carrying out extra patrols in hotspots known for drunken behaviour and handing out fixed penalty notices.

They will also be on the lookout for pubs, clubs and shops serving alcohol to underage customers.

Businesses which fail twice will face closure.

Superintendent Shaun Morley, South Yorkshire Police's lead officer on alcohol issues, said: "Unfortunately some people take their celebrations to an extreme, putting extra pressure on public services over the holiday period.

"We’re asking the public to help us by knowing their limits, drinking sensibly and not putting themselves in a vulnerable position through excessive consumption of alcohol.

"We see too many cases where a person has had one too many and ended up being arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

"This has resulted in them being convicted which has a huge impact on their lives, because of one drunken night."

WINDS of up to 70 miles per hour caused mayhem across the borough on Thursday.

Gusts with speeds of 74mph were recorded at 8am and power at the Barnsley Hospital went off at about 10.45am, with people being told only to come in if it was an emergency.

Power was restored at about 1pm.

Students at Shafton ALC were sent home because it had no power or water, and Milefield Primary in Grimethorpe was also closed.

Around 1,600 residents in Shafton, Brierley and Cudworth were left without electric from about 2pm.

A 70ft ash tree was blown over on Hall Balk Lane in Barnsley at about noon, blocking the road.

Dave Walshaw, who worked for the Forestry Commission for 23 years, lives close by.

"I heard it come down and I said 'I know that sound'."

A Met Office spokesman said wind speeds fell as the day went on.

A TEENAGER who climbed on to the roof of the Alhambra shopping centre was taken to hospital after being talked down by police officers.

The 18-year-old girl was seen sitting on the edge of the roof overlooking Cheapside on Thursday afternoon by worried shoppers.

Police said they received a call at about 1.05pm and cordoned off the area until she was safely down.

THE country's first 'social supermarket' officially opens its doors today.

Community Shop will provide shoppers on the cusp of food poverty access to surplus food and products, at up to 70 per cent less than normal prices.

Situated in Goldthorpe, social enterprise Community Shop is a subsidiary of the UK’s largest commercial redistributor of surplus food and goods, Company Shop.

For decades Company Shop, under the leadership of John Marren, has been working with retailers and manufacturers to tackle their surpluses sustainably and securely.

This project goes one step further - matching surplus food with social need.

Membership of the pilot store will be open to people living in a specific postcode area and in receipt of welfare support.

Individuals that shop at Community Shop will not only get access to cheaper food, but will also be offered programmes of tailored support.

From debt advice to cookery skills, home budgeting to CV writing, the project's team aims to provide members with a route back to mainstream shopping.

The launch of the pilot store is being supported by major retailers including Asda, Morrisons, M&S and Tesco.

All are diverting surpluses to the pilot.

Barnsley Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: "We're delighted that this valuable asset has opened in Goldthorpe.

"The new store will be a great asset for local residents enabling them to access a range of high quality, low cost food as well as a place where they can access local services.

"It will also complement the council's ongoing commitment to support people and the community in this difficult financial climate."

Organiser Sarah Dunwell said: "We're aiming to fill a gap between food banks and mainstream retail. Lots of families are not in such an emergency situation but are on the cusp of food poverty.

"It's for anyone who's claiming any of a list of benefits. It's not just about the long-term unemployed but hard-working families who are struggling."

MICHAEL Kightly's superb 65th-minute effort condemned the Reds to defeat on Saturday.

It was caretaker Micky Mellon's second match in charge following the win at Brighton on Tuesday night and, despite a good first-half performance, they were second best after the break.

The result meant Burnley went back to the top of the Championship while the Reds are still bottom, with 14 points from 19 matches.

High-flying Burnley started on top and Sam Vokes twice went close before Barnsley 'keeper Jack Butland palmed away a powerful long-range shot from David Jones.

Danny Ings then headed wide from a fine cross by ex-Red Kieran Trippier.

Barnsley's Paddy McCourt was on top form in the first-half. He set up two fine chances that Tomasz Cywka missed and went on plenty of his trademark runs.

While the Reds played well in the first period, they were dominated after the break and the Clarets deserved their lead when Kightly curled in a fine 20-yard effort after good work from Trippier.

"We missed that clinical finish that's need to get that first goal," Micky Mellon said. "I couldn't fault the players' effort - they gave me everything they have.

"We have to be more clinical and more aggressive in that final third, but there's an awful lot to be pleased about and we'll get better.

"In this situation we're in, some might say we'd have to battle our way out of it.

"I think we can give our players responsibility and play. But we just need to take our chances. We never took them today, hence the result."

* Barnsley will play against Coventry City or Hartlepool United at home in the FA Cup third round on January 4.

MOBILE speed cameras will operate on the following roads from Monday.

A61 Park Road, Barnsley

A628 Barnsley Road, Penistone

A628 Barnsley Road, Silkstone

A628 Cundy Cross to Shafton Two Gates

A629 three-kilometre stretch, Wortley

A633 Rotherham Road, Athersley South

A633 Rotherham Road, Monk Bretton

B6096 two-kilometre stretch, Wombwell to Snape Hill B6411 Houghton Road, Thurnscoe

Brierley Road, Grimethorpe

Pogmoor Road, Barnsley

A6022 Rowms Lane, Swinton

A633 Sandygate, Wath-upon-Dearne

Melton Green, West Melton.

A BARNSLEY bus driver has made a lasting impression on passengers to be crowned the town’s favourite driver for outstanding customer service.

As part of Stagecoach’s customer service week, Jeffrey Mann was voted the most valued driver in the customer service stars campaign for his commitment.

The campaign set out to scout the most committed bus drivers who go the extra mile for their passengers and provide the best customer service and saw more than 350 people vote for their favourite driver.

Sue Hayes, Stagecoach Yorkshire's operations director, also took to Barnsley Interchange to talk to passengers.

Jeffrey, who joined Stagecoach 12 years ago, said: "I take great pride in what I do so it’s fantastic to have been rewarded for what I love doing.

"I try and give the best service possible so this is fantastic recognition."

THE Reds have been in the local community recently handing out 4,000 free match tickets to 25 primary schools across Barnsley.

Tickets for the Reds' Championship clash with Yeovil Town at Oakwell on December 14 were given to the grateful kids.

Wayne Bullimore, chief executive of Barnsley FC Community Sport and Education Trust, said: "It's great to be able to offer this initiative to partner schools during the upcoming festive period.

"This will hugely support and reinforce the importance of the Trust's work and attending a game for any children is the icing on the cake for their whole Barnsley FC experience.

"Feedback from schools and parents has been overwhelmingly positive and we're all looking forward to seeing the North Stand bouncing on December 14."

Each child has been allocated one ticket plus an adult's ticket as the club seeks to engage with future generations of supporters.

Steve Iredale, headteacher of Athersley South Primary School, added: "I think this is a great initiative.

"It provides the opportunity for some of our children and parents to experience a match at Oakwell, particularly at a time of year when finances are tighter and attending a football match may not be high on a list of priorities.

"This again demonstrates the commitment of the staff at Barnsley FC to be fully involved with schools and local communities."

A FORMER footballer has been drafted in to help tackle youth nuisance issues in Barnsley.

Ex-Reds striker Bruce Dyer - the first teenager to be sold for more than £1million - will hold coaching sessions at Netherwood ALC on Friday nights.

The project - for seven to 11-year-olds between 4 and 5.30pm - is free to attend and has been funded by the office of the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Shaun Wright.

It's hoped the sessions will keep youngsters off the streets on Friday evenings and encourage them to stay active.

Dyer, who still lives in the Barnsley area, said: "A lot of kids are bored on Friday nights and hopefully this will give them something to do.

"I've always had a love for the people of Barnsley having played here for so many years and it'll be great to get to know the kids and hopefully pass on some knowledge."

Cllr Karen Dyson was instrumental in securing the funding for the project.

She said: "We've wanted to do something for a while in this area now and it's good that Bruce is willing to put something back into the community and give up his time.

"Hopefully it'll keep kids off the street and get them involved in something they enjoy."

A SHOP owner will be donating meals to those in need this Christmas and is encouraging others to do the same.

Sara Headley, of Sara's Flowers and Teas, on Pitt Street, will be operating a suspended meals scheme at her Barnsley and Stocksbridge shops, where customers can buy a meal for themselves and pay for another to donate to someone in need.

Every donation made by a customer will be matched by Ms Headley.

"We're not doing it for publicity, it's to give something back to those who need it in the community," she said.

"We have a lot of customers who are on their own and are lonely. It's really surprising how many people are on their own, or have just lost their job or are struggling to pay bills and need that bit of kindness.

"People can give someone a token or nominate someone who they think needs it. They hand the token over and that removes the stigma of them having to ask us for a free meal."

The shop will also be running a similar scheme involving cups of coffee and has already had several businesses offer to donate warm drinks as part of this.

She added: "It's all going to be run in good faith. We can't look at someone and decide whether or not they're down on their luck because you don't know.

"If someone wants to abuse that then they're taking help away from someone who really needs it.

"I want other coffee shops to get in touch with me and I can show them how to get involved and how they can register to be part of it."

Very few businesses in Yorkshire are involved in the suspended coffee and meals schemes, an idea that was first piloted in Italy.

For information or to donate, call 01226 283886.

THE Reds have been handed a welcome double boost ahead of Saturday's clash with promotion-chasing Burnley.

Leading scorer Chris O’Grady and Norway international Marcus Pedersen have both been passed fit to make the trip over the Pennines.

Caretaker boss Micky Mellon is quietly confident the Reds can build on Tuesday night’s much-needed 2-1 away win over Brighton.

"Marcus and Chris have both trained this week so that’s a huge boost getting two absolute quality players back," Mellon said.

"We’re delighted everybody is going to be fit and available for selection."

The midweek victory was the Reds' first away win since February and ended a run of 16 games without a victory on the road.

Burnley, who topped the Championship table after an 11-game unbeaten run earlier in the season, have now not won in their last six matches.

Kick-off is at 3pm.

A TEENAGER has been locked up for stealing from his mother and showing 'complete disrespect' to court.

The 16-year-old, from Bolton-upon-Dearne, originally stole a total of £520 from his mother, Barnsley Youth Court was told.

The youngster had shown disrespect to the court by not complying with orders, District Judge John Foster said.

He added: "If you want to have an enjoyable life, you have to put something into it.

"You showed disrespect to your mother by stealing from her and you have shown complete disrespect to the court by not complying with orders.

"You have drifted out of school and you're drifting around in your life."

The teenager admitted failing to keep appointments with the Youth Offending Team.

Jamie Wake, defending, said the youngster was interested in motorbikes and wanted to be a mechanic. The teen stole the money for motorcycle parts and petrol.

Miss Wake said the 16-year-old had acted stupidly and said he had a bad cold.

She added: "He sent a text message to his youth offending team manager and asked her to call him back because he had no credit on his mobile phone. Then he buried his head in the sand."

Stephanie Greening, prosecuting, said the youngster gave 'no acceptable explanations' for missing three appointments.

The teenager admitted breaching the terms of a youth rehabilitation order. He was ordered to undergo four months of training and detention.

A BARNSLEY man who has not seen his mother for more than 50 years is trying to track her down.

Malcolm John Moxon, know as John, is trying to find Margaret Moxon, from Ward Green, who would now be in her late 70s.

John, 54, of Shield Avenue, Worsbrough, and his sister Gillian, 55, were raised by his grandmother Sarah Anne Moxon in Ward Green following Margaret's divorce from his father Gordon when he was a toddler.

He knows very little about Margaret, except she born in 1936, her maiden name was Parker and that she worked in the Jet garage in Monk Bretton.

He said: "It's very painful. I don't know why she didn't take us with her. My sister found her when she was 16 and she told her she didn't want anything to do with her."

After searching internet sites such as Genes Reunited and looking through archives at the Town Hall, John also believes he may have a brother and sister after he found records for a Michael Roy Moxon, born in 1956, and a girl called Lynne who was born in 1952.

He added: "It's like there's a gap I need to fill. If she turns around and says she doesn't want anything to do with me then fair enough, but at least I will know."

BRITAIN'S cheapest supermarket is set to open in South Yorkshire next week - but only for 500 specially selected customers.

Items at the Goldthorpe store will be a third of normal prices, with stock supplied from major chains such as Asda, Morrisons and Waitrose.

The idea has been developed by Tankersley-based Company Shop and its chairman John Marren.

Goldthorpe was chosen as the location for the first, in what is scheduled to be a whole chain of community shops, because it's an area of high deprivation.

The ‘social supermarket’, which opens on Monday, has been set up as a pilot scheme to help struggling families.

All of its 500 customers will have to be on a specified list of benefits and will initially be given a six-month membership.

Organiser Sarah Dunwell said: "We're aiming to fill a gap between food banks and mainstream retail. Lots of families are not in such an emergency situation but are on the cusp of food poverty.

"It's for anyone who's claiming any of a list of benefits. It's not just about the long-term unemployed but hard-working families who are struggling."

It will enable shoppers to buy cut-price food and luxuries that would otherwise be thrown away by big retailers.

The supermarket will not sell alcohol or tobacco, but will use products rejected by stores for a variety of reasons, including damaged packaging or incorrect labelling.

Sarah added: "We will have staples such as sugar, pasta and rice but also more expensive goods such as French cheeses, ready-made lasagne and desserts and household products.

"This isn't cheap food for the poor. It takes stuff that will not make it to supermarket shelves and uses it to feed people who need it most."

SOUTH Yorkshire's firefighters have announced two more strike dates in the ongoing dispute over pensions.

They're to walk out for two four-hour periods on the evenings of December 13 and 14, the Fire Brigades Union announced.

Firefighters, who are being asked to pay more into their pension funds, are fearful that older crew members could be deemed unfit for frontline duties.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said: "We're disappointed that more strike dates have been announced and call on the government and the FBU to negotiate an end to this dispute as quickly as possible.

"We're satisfied with our contingency arrangements which have already been tested on a number of occasions and will now be reviewing our arrangements in light of this announcement.

"Our 999 response service will be severely reduced during any strike periods, so we call on people to take extra care to keep calls low."