News

LOCALS have been warned to 'use it or lose it' after it emerged a community centre in Ward Green was living on borrowed time.

The Lew Whitehead Community Centre - managed by Berneslai Homes on behalf of Barnsley Council  - is at risk of closure after the end of January as part of budget saving, unless more people come forward and use it.

Currently only three groups meet there - an art class, a youth club and an over 35s' football team.

A spokeswoman for Berneslai Homes said: "We are concerned that the community centre is in need of some significant repair and improvement work and is only used by a small number of local people.

"We are working with people involved in running the centre to determine an appropriate course of action for the future."

Lew Whitehead was made an MBE in recognition of his long involvement with local football teams. He made a major contribution to the building of the centre and chaired its association, which worked hard to raise funds for community facilities such as a skate park and a play area.

Consultation will continue until the end of January.