THE Thurgoland Scarecrow Trail which took place last weekend has been deemed a ‘huge success’ by all that took part.
The trail began as a replacement for the village’s usual fun day which was cancelled in April due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Rachel Marshall, of Cragg View in Thurgoland, decided to create the event as a way of keeping spirits up in the area following the cancellation of one of their biggest annual events.
She said: “I know when the fun day was cancelled that all of the kids were extremely disappointed – I know it was the last straw for my daughter because she was unable to see her friends and then this happened.
“I just thought that we could do something like a scarecrow trail because we could host that and still socially distance, and the whole village got behind it.
“We had well over 100 people getting involved over the weekend and there were a total of 39 scarecrows from 32 entrants.”
The trail wasn’t just for children either, as Rachel saw lots of ‘old dears’ getting involved with the action that brought the community together during a difficult time.
“It was really nice that people were able to do it with their extended families, it was a ‘day out’ rather than spending it in the back garden with them which was nice to see,” she added.
“We only received positive comments and people were really pleased with the event – a lot of people are wanting to do it again next year and that’s something we’re definitely looking at.
“It was an event for all ages, it wasn’t just children, we had parents and old dears getting involved in making the scarecrows as well.”
Mum's plea to get 'life-changing' support for disabled youngster
THE mother of a disabled youngster has launched a ‘desperate’ appeal to raise £50,000 for the care of her son.
Logan Smith, of Worsbrough Road, Birdwell, was born with hydrocephalus, a condition that causes build-up of fluid in the brain, which has stunted much of Logan’s development.
The three-year-old spent three months in hospital when he was first born – where his mum, Cody, was told that Logan may ‘not make it’.
Cody has now launched an online fundraiser to help her get ‘life-changing’ support for her son.
“Logan is now three years old and he has been diagnosed with global development delay, visual impairment, and doctors are now querying cerebral palsy,” Cody told the Chronicle.
“He uses a wheelchair full-time because he cannot sit or hold his head up and has trouble eating.
“I do as much as I can to help support Logan, but I have joint pains so I’m unable to lift him. This is why I’ve set up this fundraiser to try and get more support.”
Cody aims to raise £50,000 for key equipment, home renovations and physiotherapy that she believed will help improve Logan’s quality of life.
“The reason I’ve set up this page is to financially help us adapt our current home into an accessible downstairs area for Logan due to his wheelchair.
“We’ve already had to move house because of lack of space, but we’re still limited with how much Logan can move around.
“I would also love for Logan to get private therapy to help build his strength so someday he can hold his head up and even walk.
“As a parent, all you want to do is look after and provide for your child as best you can.
“I can’t thank the people who have donated so far enough for their generosity. This money will be completely life-changing for our family.
“I feel I’ve been left with no other choice but to ask for people’s help to support me in giving Logan a better life.”
To donate to the Go Fund Me page, click here.
Author looking for Barnsley voice to read audiobook
A LOCAL author is on the search for a Barnsley resident to read his latest novel out loud for the purpose of an audio book.
Jonathan Lee, a nationally acclaimed author, is appealing to members of the public to read his latest novel.
He said: “We are looking for someone to read my sixth novel ‘337’ which is due out later this year.
“When I say read, I mean read out loud, for the purposes of an audio book.
“We are hoping that we can find the right voice in Barnsley.
“I like to keep anything book-related as local as possible as it’s good for the town and good for the community.”
This is Jonathan’s six novel, and his debut book, The Radio, was shortlisted for The Novel Prize in 2012.
“It may be that you are a drama student, involved in local amateur dramatics or you just have an excellent reading voice,” he added.
“We could do with someone who can put some emotion into the words they read, though you don’t necessarily need any experience.
“We have a tight budget but you will be paid for your time.”
Register your interest by emailing contact@hideawayfall.com.
Professorship awarded to dementia expert Selina
BARNSLEY-BORN dementia researcher Selina Wray has been awarded a professorship at University College London for her groundbreaking work into the disease.
Professor Wray uses cutting-edge techniques with stem cells to unravel the causes of dementia, a condition for which there is currently no cure.
Dementia affects 850,000 people in the UK, including 3,000 in Barnsley alone, with statistics showing over a quarter of people who have died with Covid-19 also had dementia.
Selina, who grew up on St George’s Road in Barnsley, went to Longcar and then Holgate School before attending Barnsley College and now investigates how a protein that builds up in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia causes damage to nerve cells in the brain.
Previously, Professor Wray was a winner of Alzheimer’s Research UK’s 2018 David Hague Early Career Investigator of the Year and was voted Red Magazine’s Pioneer of the Year.
She said: “Being promoted to this position is a huge privilege. From growing up in Barnsley on free school meals and in social housing to becoming a full professor at UCL has been quite the journey.
“Breakthroughs in science have opened up new and exciting avenues for dementia research. My work involves using the latest research techniques to better understand how a particular protein, which we all have supporting nerve cells in the brain, starts to go wrong in diseases like Alzheimer’s.
“By shedding light on this important aspect of Alzheimer’s, I hope that my research will pave the way for new ways to tackle the disease.
“Alzheimer’s Research UK has supported me throughout my career and are a major funder of my current work. I have also been lucky enough to be involved in their work in a number of ways outside of the lab, hosting lab tours for supporters and politicians, speaking at public events, appearing in the media and championing dementia research in Parliament.”
Dr Rosa Sancho, head of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said Professor Wray’s work was invaluable to learning more about the disease.
“Our warm congratulations go to Professor Wray for her contribution to dementia research throughout her career so far,” she added.
“We are delighted to be able to support a passionate dementia researcher like Professor Wray as she works to unravel a process that underlies two forms of dementia which cause heartbreak to so many.
“There are 850,000 people currently living with dementia in the UK, and with this number set to grow to over a million people by 2025, we urgently need to see more research funding to help find new treatments for the condition.
“Dementia is the greatest medical challenge of our generation and it requires a concerted response to tackle it effectively.”
Carol and Mick dress up each Sunday in lockdown
LOCKDOWN has forced residents across the borough to find new ways to pass their time but a couple from Dodworth might just have found the most creative.
Carol Roberts, 69, and Mick Roberts, 75, both of High Street, have been dressing up every Sunday in different costumes since lockdown began.
Carol told the Chronicle: “It’s just a bit of fun really, when this whole thing started we were down in Devon babysitting and we decided to dress up in nice clothes while having our Sunday dinner with the family.
“We’ve carried on dressing up every week and we’ve started to get a bit more silly with it – it’s becoming a bit of a tradition.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed doing it, the weeks have seemed to fly by and it’s better than just sitting around being bored.”
The couple have dressed up in an array of different costumes, from Chas and Dave to Jonah and the Whale, but they aren’t fazed about what people think of them.
“We dressed up as our favourite duo Chas and Dave a few weeks back which was great, and we even tried to do Jonah and the Whale – I spent all morning trying to make the costume and I nearly hit Mick when he suggested I should be the whale,” Carol added.
“When we’ve been putting it on Facebook the support has been great, it was a bit strange because we only posted it for family to see but it’s really taken off.
“I’ve got a feeling the kids might be embarrassed but we’re used to making fools of ourselves so we don’t really care what people think.”
The show must go on with Dean taking popular programme online
A LOCAL actor has used the lockdown period productively by filming another series of his cult sitcom.
Up North, created by Bolton-upon-Dearne actor Dean Sills with collaborator Bradford filmmaker Steve Call, is a down-to-earth comedy exploring the lives of a colourful cast of working-class characters.
With filming of the third series derailed by the Covid-19 outbreak, the cast put their heads together to think of ways they could continue to put out new episodes.
Lockdown Up North, filmed from their homes, is the result.
The three-episode mini series sees Dean’s character Mick Smith talking to Patch Thatch, played by Steve and Skint Flint, played by Keiron Goodwin, and taking part in lockdown challenges.
Dean said: “Myself and Steve had a few phone calls where we were discussing ideas for something to do in lockdown.
“All having cameras at home, we decided we could try to film an episode and it went on from there.
“The first episode was entirely improvised, and then I scripted episodes two and three.”
The spin-off series has been released on DVD after being picked up by Sheffield Live TV.
Despite being postponed for the foreseeable future, Dean has a reason to celebrate Up North after it was picked up by the Lit Laughs comedy festival.
Originally scheduled to take place this month in Harrogate, the festival will instead take place online – with Up North in the ‘web series’ category.
“I’ve been to a few festivals, and while it’s not the same as being there and seeing the audience’s reactions, it’s still great to be nominated,” added Dean.
Summer music club will bring back music to The Civic
YOUNG people will have the opportunity to try out musical instruments thanks to a series of clubs to run throughout the summer holidays.
The Summer Music Clubs will be run by staff from the Barnsley Music Service and will provide children with the opportunity to learn musical instruments.
Instruments and equipment will be provided and there will also be the opportunity to apply for booster sessions which could help pupils study for graded exams.
The sessions will be hosted at The Civic and will adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Helen Ball, Chief Executive at The Civic, said: “We are really pleased to be able to support Barnsley Music Service to offer summer activities. This will be the first stage in our phased reopening to the public and we hope lots of young people will take up the opportunity to try something new.”
Coun Tim Cheetham, cabinet spokesperson for place said: “Staff at Barnsley Music Service have worked hard with The Civic to ensure they are able to provide a safe environment for our young people.
“Although they’ve done so much online in the last few months, it will be wonderful to see and make music face-face.
“Our tutors have planned the sessions to be fun and engaging and give children the chance to explore a new musical experience.
“Our thanks go to everyone at The Civic for allowing this to happen before they are fully open.”
For more information, or to book your place email barnsleymusicservice@barnsley.org.
Filmmaker put forward for raising £30,000 for Tiny Hearts Appeal
THE team who created a film about Barnsley FC’s promotion into the premier league has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for their fundraising efforts.
Almost £31,000 was donated to Barnsley Hospital’s Tiny Hearts Appeal last year after the group behind the Daydream Believers project donated the £20,000 profits to the charity.
The group continued to fundraise for further donations in the form of a £1,000 bucket collection, followed by donations of £10,000.
Producer Liam Dyson said: “When we first came up with the idea of making Daydream Believers we were always very clear that this would be a project that should benefit Barnsley.
“That benefit comes by telling the story of one of Barnsley’s greatest achievements for future generations to look back on, by reminding people of some of the best days of their lives and by leaving a lasting legacy.
“That’s why we decided that should we be lucky enough to make any profits from the film that they would be donated to an incredible cause close to our hearts – the Tiny Hearts Appeal.”
The group have been nominated for Fundraising Team of the Year for their continued fundraising ideas at this year’s Proud of Barnsley awards.
“We never set out for anything in terms of trying to get any rewards or recognition from our side.
“We just wanted to make a film that people would enjoy watching and that the town would be proud of.
“But this nomination is a nice little ‘pick-me-up’ for the hours and time that the lads have given to this.
“Everything we do is for the people of Barnsley, so for us to be able to donate to local causes is incredibly important.
“I’m proud of the team and we’re really overwhelmed but thankful for this nomination.”
Council approved plan to help reduce the impact of coronavirus
BARNSLEY Council members have pledged their support to a plan which could help to prevent, detect and, reduce the impact of Covid-19.
The Outbreak Control Plan (OCP) was approved in yesterday’s (Wednesday, July 8) full cabinet meeting.
The plan was created last month and focuses on seven key themes including care homes and schools, local testing capacity, supporting vulnerable people to get help, and integrating national and local data.
It will also help to identify and suppress possible outbreaks before they gain momentum which will help protect the public’s health.
Alongside the OCP, an engagement board was introduced which will oversee plans made through the OCP and will help engage communities with the plans.
Barnsley council leader, Coun Sir Steve Houghton, said: “I want to reassure the people of Barnsley that your council, and partners, continue to do all we can to keep you and your loved ones as safe as possible.
“As we move to our new future, we must continue to follow the critical public health advice – maintaining social distancing, washing our hands thoroughly and regularly, and using face coverings in indoor spaces outside the home, or where social distancing isn’t possible.”
Enjoy summer safely by following official advice
People across the country are being encouraged to enjoy summer safely by following official advice and staying safe.
Pubs, restaurants, bars and hairdressers have followed UK Government advice and started to reopen, marking the start of summer. Safety measures to protect staff and customers are in place, with people asked to be sensible, continue to follow social distancing messages to remain two metres away from other people where possible and stay close to home to support local business.
To help people plan days out, the UK Government has launched the Know Before You Go website at visitbritain.com/gb/en/ know-before-you-go
Here, we look at what action businesses have taken to ensure we can all enjoy summer safely.
.jpg "SAFTEY ADVICE: Business Secretary Alock Sharma.")
The UK Government helped thousands of pubs, restaurants and hairdressers reopen safely on Saturday, July 4, with detailed practical information to help keep staff and customers safe.
The new Covid-19 secure guidance for the hospitality sector and hairdressers meant businesses were able to reopen across England, provided they met key criteria.
UK Government officials have worked alongside over 300 key industry stakeholders and trade unions to develop clear plans in line with scientific advice and public health directions, building on existing guidance published in May. The new guidance sets out a range of measures for pubs and restaurants to become Covid-19 secure, including:
Requiring use of table service where possible instead of ordering at the bar and assigning a single staff member per table.
Discouraging non-essential trips by staff within venues, such as between the kitchen and front of house, by using radios and other electronic devices to communicate.
Providing clear guidance on social distancing and hygiene as people arrive on the premises, with signage and visual aids.
Encouraging use of contactless ordering from tables where available, such as through an app.
Encouraging customers to use hand sanitiser or hand washing facilities as they enter the venue.
Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “We know this pandemic has been particularly hard for people working in hairdressing and hospitality. Allowing pubs, restaurants and hairdressers to open will be another step in our plan to kickstart our economic recovery in a safe manner. The guidance we have set out provides clear, practical steps businesses can take to open in a way that is as safe as possible for workers and customers.”
Separate guidance has been published for hairdressers, which states that a clear visor should be worn by the person providing the service, covering the face and providing a barrier between the wearer and the customer from respiratory droplets caused by sneezing, coughing or speaking.
The government is also consulting with industry on how businesses should record customer information to help keep customers and employees safe and support the new test and trace system.
Community pub which is making the safety of its customers a top priority
CASE STUDY
THE DOG AND PARROT
A community pub in Nottinghamshire is among many across England that has worked hard to put plans in place to be able to reopen on July 4 after being closed for more than three months.
Kathryn Boam, who owns the The Dog and Parrot Real Ale House in Eastwood with husband David, talked us through the steps they have taken to follow UK Government COVID-19 guidance and ensure staff and customers are safe when they open their doors. Kathryn said: “We are a community hub in the area and have quite a few older customers that use our pub to maintain their friendship group.
“We are safeguarding them, making sure that social distancing guidelines are in place, and kept to.
“Myself and my husband work full time and we have one person working 29 hours with five others working part-time as and when required.
“We have needed more staff on duty to make sure all the measures are kept to correctly. This is a higher cost to the business and will be factored into our business model.
“We carried out a full risk assessment of the business and premises, putting safe distancing measures in line with government guidance.”
Measures introduced at the pub include:
Placing hand sanitiser stations at the front and back door, and in all toilets.
Ensuring there is clear signage throughout the pub, and the instructions and rules are clear.
Anyone not following the instructions, or acting in a manner that is not safe, will be asked to leave.
Placing social distancing markers on the floor.
Wiping down surfaces with anti-bacterial spray using disposable cloths.
Providing hand sanitiser for staff.
Implementing table service only, so no one will be walking up to the bar.
Washing glassware after each use and jugs for the ales/ ciders/ lager where possible.
Having a single person responsible for cleaning tables and monitoring the floor and only one person serving behind the bar.
Checking all toilets regularly to ensure customers have hand soap and there are electric hand dryers in all toilets.
Changing opening times to ensure the pub can be deep cleaned regularly.
Kathryn added: “With the help of our staff, we carried out a risk assessment and came up with ideas and plans to ensure we can open safely and be COVID-19 secure.
“We have also been talking to other local landlords, working together to exchange ideas and ensure we are all joined up in our actions.”
Guidance to help your business
The UK Government has published guidance to support businesses to reopen and keep workers and customers safe so they feel confident to return.
To find out about measures your business needs to implement to reopen safely, there is an online tool, which will direct you to guidelines specific to your type of workplace at gov. uk/coronavirus-business-reopening.
If you run a business and would like to know which of the coronavirus support schemes you are eligible for, you can use the business support finder tool.
It takes just minutes to complete and will help you easily find support for your business.
Visitbritain.com/gb/en/know-before-you-go to plan your days out
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