News

A BARUGH Green company which helped make the official Diamond Jubilee beacons has presented one to the town so Barnsley folk can share in the national celebrations.

Cutting Technologies, on Whaley Road, specialises in laser cutting and engraving and was given the task of making the metal components for the free-standing diamond-shaped gas-powered beacons which will light up the country on Monday evening.

The beacons’ designers and suppliers quickly sold out but Cutting Technologies managed to secure one of the last so Barnsley can shine brightly, with its beacon placed at Cannon Hall museum.

Jane Robinson, cofounder of the firm, said: "We were honoured to work on such a prestigious project and play a role in a true once-in-a-lifetime event.

"We're very proud of our Barnsley roots and really wanted our home town to be involved in this international celebration.

"Thanks to the efforts of Barnsley Council, we've been able to make sure Barnsley doesn't miss out. Cannon Hall couldn't be a more perfect location."

It will be lit at 10.15pm on Monday (June 4) as part of a spectacular network of more than 4,000 beacons up and down the country and across the Commonwealth.

Jane Galvin, manager of the council's arts and museums service, said Cannon Hall was 'thrilled' to host the beacon.

"We've arranged for the re-enactment soldiers who are re-enacting battles at Cannon Hall over the weekend to form a guard of honour while the beacon is lit, which should form a really impressive display."