A COMMUNITY group which has kept men social during lockdown has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for their work in the community.
Penistone Round Table, a group made of men under the age of 45, has been recognised for delivering essentials and picking up waste during the pandemic.
Simon Marshall, the chairman of the group, has said that the group is more important now than ever before.
He said: “Our group is made up of young men who come together to socialise whilst supporting our neighbours in Penistone.
“Before the pandemic hit, we held community galas, our annual bonfire event and Santa’s Sleigh events where all the money raised goes to local charities across the borough.
“With things going into lockdown, we’ve tried our best to find ways to continue to fundraise and get involved with the community.
“I’ve also set up the ‘Love Thy Penistone’ scheme where we’ve been clearing and strimming the grounds at St John’s Church in Penistone and keeping an eye on our green space.
“We’ve also started a virtual call centre where our volunteers take calls from residents across Penistone and deliver essentials to those who need it.
“It’s been great to see our members get stuck into this and do amazing work that benefits others.”
The group encourages mental health awareness in young men and has taken extra steps during the coronavirus outbreak.
“A lot of our members have been furloughed or are working from home so it’s been important to get people talking.
“These past few months can be incredibly isolating, especially for young men who may find it more difficult to reach out.
“Our main aim is to support our community and keep men in the area social and talking to each other.”
Penistone Round Table’s efforts have landed them a nomination in the Community Group category at this year’s Proud of Barnsley awards.
“We’re really proud to be nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award. It feels like a nomination for Penistone as everything we do is for them.
“Penistone is a strong community as we’re kind of on our own away from the rest of the town, so we tend to hold each other up.”
