A TOWN centre hairdresser raised £200 for charity as they celebrated their 20th anniversary.

Adele Jones Hairdressing marked the milestone this week and, to add to the celebrations, they raised funds for charity.

The Eldon Street-based salon raised £200 on Wednesday, which is being sent to their affiliated charity, Barnsley Hospice.

Owners James and Adele Murphy jointly said: “We would like to thank all the clients who have helped to raise the money and the clients who have been to us over the years.”

JUNIOR doctors will be taking part in industrial action next week for a total of five days.

Starting at 7am on Thursday until 7am the following Tuesday, junior doctors will go on strike once again over a long-running pay dispute.

A spokesperson for the South West Yorkshire NHS Partnership said: “The care and safety of people who use our services is our highest priority, and it is important that people continue to use our services when they need them.

“Some appointments with our services between Thursday and Tuesday may be rearranged.

“You will be contacted by your healthcare team if your appointment needs to be changed.

“If you have not been contacted, please continue to attend as planned.

“To help us continue giving high quality safe care to everyone, some of the usual activities our services provide may be limited during this time.”

A ‘MAD’ fundraiser will be jumping out of a plane today to support Deangate Care Home.

Rachael Addy, who works as activities co-ordinator at the Mapplewell-based care home, has done plenty of fundraising activities in the past.

For each, she asks for the input of residents, who this time round asked if she’d be willing to do a skydive.

She said: “I’m a bit nervous – it’s getting to me now. All the residents are asking if I’m excited, I just say ‘it’s something like that’. I’m always trying to do fundraising for the home.

“So I asked the residents what they wanted me to do next, and someone suggested I jump out of a plane. They’ve all been telling their families that I’m doing this so now they’re giving me support too.”

Some residents will be joining Rachael today, with transport provided by Globe Holidays who have also sponsored her fundraising effort.

So far she’s raised more than £2,200, and is hoping to reach £2,500 by the time it’s done.

Before starting, she made a deal with residents that if she reached £2,000 she’d let them choose a fancy dress costume for her to wear.

“I’m going dressed as Supergirl,” Rachael added. "I don’t know who’s more mad, them or me. It’s probably me.”

POLICE are becoming increasingly concerned for the welfare of a missing teenager.

Joddielea, 16, was last seen in the Brierley area at 9.45pm last night (Wednesday).

Joddielea is described as white with a tanned complexion, 5ft 5ins tall, and of a slim build.

She has shoulder length dark brown hair, hazel eyes, a tongue piercing, and a distinctive rose stem tattoo on her inner left forearm with the word 'mum' as part of it.

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned for Joddielea’s welfare and want to speak to anybody who has seen her.

If you know where she is or have information that could help find her, please contact police on 101, quoting incident number 972 of 19 June 2024 when you get in touch.

You can also contact police online here: https://orlo.uk/0CyR4

AN EVENT at Cannon Hall Museum tomorrow explores the stories and memories of the Polish Resettlement Camp and its residents and celebrates its connections to the country.

To celebrate and commemorate the historic links between Barnsley and Poland, Cannon Hall Museum is hosting an event on Friday 21 June, where members of the Polish community and the public can learn more about the history and heritage of the camp and the people who lived there.

The event features a talk by Julie Fearn, an author whose father lived at the Cannon Hall camp, and Melissa Gallimore, a curator who will share the history and significance of Cannon Hall and its collections. There is also a discussion panel where participants will be able to share memories and stories of the camp and its impact on their lives.

The event will also launch an archival book that will document the experiences and perspectives of the Polish community in Barnsley, which will be kept for future generations.

After the Second World War, thousands of Polish soldiers and their families who had fought alongside the Allies were unable to return to their homeland, which was under Soviet occupation. Many of them resettled in Britain, where they formed new communities and contributed to the social and economic life of the country. One of the largest Polish Resettlement Camps was located at Cannon Hall Museums. The camp housed around 1000 soldiers and their families from 1946 to 1960, and some of them decided to stay in Barnsley and the surrounding areas.

The event will be attended by a cross section of the Polish community from Barnsley and the surrounding areas. They include Polish students from Barnsley College, members of the Barnsley Polish Library, and descendants of the camp residents. A selection of traditional Polish cakes and pastries will be available for the guests.

Lynne Minett, Group Leader, Heritage and Museums said: “We are delighted to host this special event that will showcase the rich and diverse history of the Polish Resettlement Camp at Cannon Hall Museum. The camp was home to hundreds of Polish families who came to Britain after the Second World War and contributed to the social and cultural life of Barnsley and beyond. This event will honour their legacy and celebrate their heritage through stories, memories, and food. It is part of our commitment at Barnsley Museums to ensure our programmes are relevant and open to all residents of the borough. "

A MOTORBIKE dealership has abandoned its site in Sheffield city centre and moved to Barnsley to avoid pressures caused by the city’s ‘clean air zone’.

Via Moto was located on Shoreham Street in Sheffield, however is now in the process of moving its operations to Wombwell’s Everill Business Park.

The change comes in response to owner Matthew Gilder’s fears regarding the zone, which enforces charges on large commercial vehicles travelling in Sheffield.

While there are currently no restrictions on personal vehicles, there are concerns this may be the next step as cities like Bristol and Bath have already begun charging individual travellers whose vehicles don’t meet emission standards.

Matthew told the Chronicle: “There were several things all happening at once.

“We were having trouble with one of our suppliers – the building we’re currently at was becoming much more expensive to run.

“Then on top of all this they introduce the clean air zone.

“While it’s not a massive burden yet, because it doesn’t affect personal vehicles, anyone delivering to us was affected so they had to put on this extra charge.

“My thought is that day follows night and it’s likely they may choose to introduce the same charges as Bristol.

“Half our staff probably have cars that don’t meet the standards, and then what if customers can’t get in?

“Or what if they want to test ride a bike that doesn’t match?”

Matthew decided Wombwell would be an ideal and easily accessible spot – and believes Barnsley will have a ‘competitive edge’ with businesses moving forward.

The the new site will be opening on June 22 where Mayor John Clarke and superbike champion James Toseland will attend.

“I have to compliment Barnsley Council,” Matthew added.

“In all the years I was in Sheffield I didn’t hear anything from that council, but as soon as I started renting this new place I got a call from the council asking what they could do to help.

“It makes a big difference actually feeling wanted.

“Not having these charges is really going to help, I can imagine Barnsley will have a competitive edge in future.”

A UNIQUE art installation designed to raise awareness around domestic abuse was placed in Barnsley last week.

A total of 132 T-shirts with motivational quotes and personal stories represented the number of individual domestic abuse cases reported to the police every week in Barnsley.

The Washing Line Project, which will be on display in the Glass Works until Friday July 5, aims to raise awareness of the profound effects of abuse and violence.

Anna Hartley, executive director for public health and communities, said: “We’re committed to tackling and preventing domestic abuse in Barnsley, working with our partners to help anyone affected by abuse or violence to benefit from the right support for them

“It’s great to see our teams taking a different approach to starting conversations about domestic abuse with The Washing Line Project.

“This installation allows guests to take a moment to reflect on the effects of abuse and learn more about the brilliant support we have in Barnsley.

“I would like to encourage everyone to come down and explore the personal stories and motivational quotes on display for themselves.”

A ROAD closure is currently in place following a road traffic collision.

Police were called today at 1.19pm to reports of the incident in Bolton upon Dearne .

It is reported that a motorcycle and pedestrian were involved in a collision on Thurnscoe Road.

Officers attended alongside the ambulance service, and a 72-year-old woman has been taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

A road closure is currently in place at Thurnscoe Road in both directions between the junctions with Station Road and Carr Head Lane.

MORE than 1,000 residents in Kendray and Worsbrough have been supported by the ‘Game Changer’ project in the last two years.

Funded by Sport England and the Football Foundation, the scheme aims to get more people physically active by focusing on mental and physical health and wellbeing, food security, employability and skills, and bringing the community together.

In total, 1,508 sessions have been delivered, providing 872 hours of community engagement to 1,093 participants.

Matt O’Neill, executive director for growth and sustainability, said: “It’s been fantastic to see the positive impact and success of the Game Changer project in Kendray and Worsbrough over the past two years.

“It’s so important that our residents have the opportunities to be physically active so they can move more, live well and feel better.

“The participation figures across the various activities show there is a real appetite in our communities for projects like Game Changer.

“We’re grateful to Sport England and the Football Foundation for their funding and thank the partners involved in the delivery of the project including Barnsley FC Community Trust, our Central Area Council, our sport and physical activity team, Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Sheffield FA.”

FIVE Barnsley students have danced their way to a bronze medal in Croatia.

The Barnsley College students took third place representing England at the International Dance Federation World Championship.

The students represented Lauren McCaslin School of Theatre Dance, performing several different styles of dance including modern, jazz, musical, tap, street and acro. The students train 10 hours a week to perfect their fitness, strength, flexibility, agility and endurance.

Sport student Chloe Tingle; Photography student Ella Tingle; Public Services student Lucy Frudd; Barnsley Sixth Form College students Elisia McCaslin and Lucie Roberts, all represented the England Dance Team at the event.

Elisia McCaslin, an A Level Biology, Criminology and Psychology student, said: “It felt amazing, I’m so proud of our school and the whole England team. My auntie owns the dance school and I have been dancing there my whole life, so this achievement is extra special.”

Lucie Roberts, an A Level Sociology, Psychology and Law student came third in her jazz funk duet, sixth in jazz funk solo and first in the musical category. She said: “I decided to get into dance age 11 after seeing how much my friends enjoyed it. It felt amazing to come third – everyone worked so hard, and it was so rewarding to see all our work pay off.”

The students were part of a team of 21 dancers. The students had access to the College’s Elite Sports Performance Bursary to fund aspects of their competition such as equipment and travel.

Chloe Tingle, a Level 3 Sport Science and Physiotherapy student, added: “It feels so amazing to come third, I’m proud of everyone and all the hard work we put in. We joined the England team after being scouted by an England judge at a competition. The College gave me £500 towards expenses of the trip, which helped a lot.”

The students also achieved a gold medal in troupe class and duet, followed by a bronze medal for street dance.

NERVOUSNESS, embarrassment and anxiety are among the reasons almost one in three women don’t attend their routine appointment for a smear test which is a vital check for cervical cancer.

Concern about the procedure is a common cause of ‘Smear fear’ and the theme of national Cervical Screening Awareness Week running until Sunday, which aims to reassure women that they are not alone and offer tips to help overcome those fears.

 Dr Steph Edgar, GP and Clinical Lead for South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Cancer Alliance, said: “We understand that people invited for a smear test often go through a range of emotions and find reasons not to book or attend for an appointment.

“But there is a wealth of information available about what to expect during the screening procedure and how to prepare for it, not only by talking to your GP or practice nurses, but also by listening and talking to others through support groups, online forums and blogs, to hopefully help quell people’s fears.”

Cervical cancer screening is offered to anyone with a cervix aged 25-64, this includes women, some trans men and some non-binary people who were assigned female at birth.

Screening is key to preventing cervical cancer as it tests cells for human papillomavirus (HPV) which has potential to cause cell changes in the cervix, which may lead to cervical cancer over time.  Not all cell changes will develop into cancer, but monitoring any changes, and giving treatment if required is important.

 Dr Edgar added: “It’s so important for people to book and keep their appointments when invited as screening helps to save around 5,000 lives a year.”

Macmillan and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust are among the charities giving tips and advice this week about how to prepare for a smear and what to expect.

For more tips and information visit their websites: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-awareness/cervical-screening-awareness-week and https://www.jostrust.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/cervical-screening-awareness-week

You can also read here about the experiences of one Sheffield woman whose smear test saved her life

PENISTONE’S Young Farmers’ Club have been named the county champions for the first time in over a decade.

The group, now in its 80th year, have more than 60 members aged between ten and 28.

Held at the annual county rally in Thirsk, the group took home the top prize for the first time in 11 years – much to the delight of each and every one of them.

Chloe Mott, who is a member of the group, said: “This is a massive achievement for the club as we have been in the top three for many years but we’ve never come close enough to bring home the champion trophy.

“It also makes it even more special as it is the club’s 80th year.

“The club has been going since 1944 and in the photo many of the members are wearing specially made jumpers to mark the anniversary year, sponsored by Melvyn Carrs.

“The club has beaten all the other young farmers clubs in Yorkshire at the annual ‘county rally’ which was held last month at Thirsk Farmers’ Auction Mart.

“At the rally the members of the clubs compete in various different competitions throughout the day such as; floral art, cookery, sheep shearing, tug of war and lots more to mention.

“Many other trophies were brought home by the members too for winning in their individual competitions.”

A MEMBER of the world-famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band said he was honoured to play The Last Post in Normandy on D-Day.

Cornet player Sergeant Scott Walker, of the British Army Band, performed at the Bayeux War Cemetery as part of the 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day.

While at the war cemetery, Scott met with Harry Birdsall.

Harry’s son in-law is Steve Peacock, who is also a member of Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

He was called up to serve his country shortly after his 18th birthday, just three months before D-Day.

Scott said: “It was a fantastic event to be part of. I was honoured and proud to show my respects to these remarkable men.”

POLICE are asking for your help to find missing man Steven.

Steven, 59, was last seen at 10pm last Monday (June 10) in the Bolton-upon-Dearne.

He is described as white, around 5ft 9ins tall and of slim build. He has light grey stubble and a bald head.

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned for Steven's welfare and want to speak to anybody who has seen him.

If you can help, you can pass information to police by calling 101 or reporting information online here: https://www.southyorkshire.police.uk/ro/report/.

Please quote incident number 637 of 17 June 2024 when you get in touch.

JIM Morton is finally planning to take a break from walking after raising a further £3,000 by walking the entirety of the Normandy D-Day beaches.

The 64-year-old dad-of-three, from Penistone, set off in a motorhome with his wife Sue and dogs Shona and Maisie on April 12, 2021 - the day the Covid lockdown ended to undertake his walk of a lifetime.

He spent 537 days on his trek around the entire British coastline to fulfil a life-long dream and to raise money for the Gurkha Welfare Trust which provides aid to Gurkha veterans, their families and communities.

To help reach his goal, Jim travelled to Normandy to walk the entirety of the D-Day beaches - ending the walk on June 6, the 80th anniversary of the operation.

He managed to raise a further £3,000 and is now hoping to raise the additional funds in a different way.

Jim said: “I managed to complete the mission by walking 95 miles in five days. I’ve raised another £3,000. I started at Utah, then to Omaha, Gold, Juno and ended at Sword - I event had time to finish it off nicely at Pegasus Bridge.

“The coastline walk was a lot bigger but I’ve put on two stone since then so I’m carrying a bit more weight with me,” he joked.

“I’m now just over £7,000 off the target and I’ve still got 350 of my books left so if I can sell all of those I won’t be too far off. Hopefully I won’t have to get my walking boots out again - but I’m more than happy to do some more if I need to.”

To follow Jim’s journey and to donate, follow his Facebook page ‘I May Be Gone A While’.

STAFF and pupils at Gawber Primary School are celebrating this week after being rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

At its last inspection in 2013, the school received the highest grading possible - and upon Ofsted’s return in May, they picked up the education watchdog’s top accolade yet again.

The school has a total of 212 on its roll - and it’s been described as an ‘inspirational’ place for children to learn.

The report, which was released last week, states: “This is an inspirational and thriving school - pupils feel safe here. Staff are aspirational for pupils’ achievement.

“They nurture pupils from the moment they arrive at the school. Pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), have excellent attitudes to learning.

“They succeed in all areas of the well-designed curriculum.Pupils behave exceptionally well.

“The school’s motto - ‘a caring family school’ - encapsulates the values. Kindness underpins everything the staff and pupils do.

“Pupils conduct themselves in an exemplary manner - they respect and value their time together. Behaviour in lessons is strong without exception.

“This is because staff are experts in modelling the desired behaviours.”

A NUMBER of rolling road closures will be in place across the town later this month whilst the Barnsley 10K race takes place.

The closures will be in place from 8.30am to 11am on Sunday, June 30.

Impacted areas in and around the town centre include the Glass Works Square, May Day Green, Queen Street, Peel Square, Wellington Street, New Street, West Way, Town End Roundabout, Shambles Street, Church Street, Huddersfield Road, Wilthorpe Road, Barugh Green Road, Claycliffe Road and Whaley Road.

A council spokesperson said: “The rolling closures will try to minimise disruption throughout the event and give access as and when needed for blue light services.”

A LONG-TIME volunteer at Parkinson’s UK has been recognised for his dedication with an invitation to attend the prestigious Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

Nominated by the chair of Parkinson’s UK Barnsley branch, Terry Kendall, 87-year-old George Spencer was honoured at Buckingham Palace for his years of service with the charity.

For the past 22 years, George has been an active and dedicated member of the local Parkinson’s UK support group, playing a key role in setting up the Barnsley branch all the way back in 2001.

George’s late wife, Grace, lived with Parkinson’s and having seen Grace’s issues with mobility, he initiated a weekly exercise class for people with Parkinson’s, which continues to be well supported to this day.

George said: “I was so honoured to have been nominated for a once-in-a-lifetime invitation to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

“When the invitation arrived in its official envelope from the palace, I couldn’t have been more excited.

“My daughter, Jane, felt just the same and set about planning our trip to London.

“We queued outside the palace along with thousands of other guests, huddled under umbrellas and once our papers were checked by the police at the gates, we entered the lovely gardens.

“There was a band playing and people were beginning to form a walkway across the lawn for the party.

“We managed to see the Duke of Gloucester and Peter Phillips, who stopped to talk with the Mayor of Wakefield who was just in front of us.”

Terry Kendall, chair of the Barnsley and District branch said: “George has made a fantastic, meaningful contribution to the success of the Barnsley branch and to the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their families, as well as the wider Barnsley community.

“George’s meticulous administration and unwavering dedication have laid strong foundations for our branch, which stand firm to this day.”

TWO lifelong friends are excitedly looking forward to their biggest gig to date in their hometown.

It’s the first headline show for Eletto, an Americana, folk duo from the town. 

Mila Whitaker, 21, and Zoe Aradipioti, 22, started singing and writing songs together during lockdown 2020 over Zoom, just for a little bit of fun! 

Mila said: “Fast forward to now, we have a single and EP out that we’re both so proud of. Four years ago we never would have thought we’d be putting our own headline show on in our hometown. 

“We're feeling apprehensive and excited. This is the biggest gig we've put on to date and we're really hopeful that people who have followed our journey so far are able to join us.”

The gig is taking place at The Old School House in Barnsley on Friday August 2 and doors are at 8pm with support from local band Undergoove.

CONGRATULATIONS to two Barnsley students who have won a silver medal at the Special Olympics World Games.

Rob Crosse and Tom Shaw, have won the medal as part of the Great Britain field hockey squad at the Special Olympics World Games in the Netherlands.

The goal-scoring forward, Rob, is a Level 2 Sport student who currently represents Wakefield Hockey Club, where he trains twice a week to perfect his fitness, strength, flexibility, agility and endurance. 

His greatest achievement was winning a gold medal at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin last year.

Teammate Tom, a Foundation Learning student has played field hockey for the last nine years and his dedication has led him to representing England and GB international level winning both gold and silver medals.

Rob said: “It feels amazing to win silver, I’m so proud of myself and my team. I decided to play field hockey after seeing it on the television at the 2012 Olympic London Games as it looked exciting and fun.

“I’ve done all this with my best friend Tom Shaw, we are like the deadly duo as we train together and compete together. We support each other and it’s amazing to be at each other’s side on our hockey adventures.”

Tom added: “It is a dream come true to be part of the Special Olympics and it feels amazing to win Silver for team GB. To build on last year’s success at the Special Olympics World Games is an extra bonus.

“I wanted to be a part of the Special Olympics after I watched it, I feel it would open me up to reach my full potential in my hockey career. It has always been my dream to represent the country.”

AN inquiry into Barnsley Council’s decision to reject plans for 215 homes in Carlton is set to be held.

Plans to build the houses north of Shaw Lane were knocked back by the council’s planning board last year following a number of concerns from residents.

However, documents made public earlier this month confirmed applicant Network Space intends to lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate, a government-run body which has the power to overrule a local authority’s decision.

PLANNING permission is being sought to convert an Athersley South property into two flats. If approved, the work will take place on Chatsworth Road. A total of 11 neighbouring properties have been made aware of the plans with no appeals to date. Public consultation ends on July 3.

PLANS to install three digital advertising boards on the side of a town centre property have been approved by the council. An application was submitted in April for work to take place on Britannic House, on Regent Street. These plans were approved by the council’s planning board last week.

PLANS to erect a new link bridge between two units in Carlton have been approved. An application for the bridge will be built on Carlton Road was originally submitted in March. These plans were given the green light earlier this week.

AN ILLEGAL tobacco trader has pleaded guilty to multiple offences related to the possession and concealment of illicit goods.

The charges against Ahmed Mohammed Amin related to items including 17,900 illicit cigarettes and 172 pouches of 50 grams of illicit hand-rolling tobacco found at Goldthorpe Mini Market, High Street, Goldthorpe.

The goods were intended for sale to the public  and did not comply with UK packaging regulations in relation to colour and shade and with inadequate health warnings. 

He pleaded guilty to three offences under the Fraud Act 2006 in relation to the possession and concealment of the illicit tobacco products. 

Mr Amin was sentenced on last Thursday  to four months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. 

He will be required to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £600 towards prosecution costs. The goods seized as part of the case were forfeited and ordered to be destroyed. 

Anna Hartley, Executive Director for Public Health and Communities, said: "We're fully committed to cutting down the availability and preventing the sales of illegal tobacco in Barnsley.  This is another case which shows that we will take action against those who continue to sell it and put people in our communities at risk. 

"While all tobacco poses significant health risks, the unregulated products sold as part of the illicit tobacco trade may contain higher levels of toxins and unknown substances, which can be even more dangerous and harmful to people's health. 

“Trade in illicit tobacco damages legitimate businesses, undermines public health and facilitates the supply of tobacco to young people. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade, protecting our communities from both the criminal elements involved and the potential health hazards posed by these unregulated products. 

"I’d like to thank our Regulatory Services and Legal Services teams for their assistance in this prosecution." 

BARNSLEY has been ranked the fourth-worst affected town or city in the country for fly-tipping, new figures suggest.

A study conducted by the research team at Cartridge Save has revealed the English areas dumping the most rubbish illegally.

Barnsley ranks fourth worst for fly-tipping incidents, with 637 incidents per 10,000 people.

Nearby Rotherham ranks third, with Lancaster and Durham topping the table.

Ian Cowley, a spokesperson from Cartridge Save, said: “The study exposes a worrying trend of fly-tipping in English cities. Places like Durham and Barnsley highlight the need for a collective effort.

“Clearer government policies, responsible business practices, and individual accountability are all essential. Residents can make a big difference by utilising council waste services and checking waste carrier licenses. By working together, we can keep England’s cities clean and healthy.”

BARNSLEY Council are celebrating Learning Disability Week.

Taking place from today until June 23, the council is working closely with local organisations to celebrate the creativity of local people with learning disabilities.

A free programme of events will be hosted across the town centre during the week.

On Wednesday, June 19 an exhibition will be launched at the Library @ the Lightbox – displaying artwork, paintings and creative projects from local people with learning disabilities all week long.

Outside the library, there will also be the autism experience bus which is designed to help people better understand some of the challenges some people with autism face on a daily basis.

A series of other events are also taking place throughout the week which can be foung on the council’s website.

Wendy Lowder, executive director for place health and adult social care, said: “It was great to hear from people with learning disabilities, their families and carers earlier this year at our My Big Voice event, helping us to develop the right support and services in Barnsley.

“We’re really passionate about making sure everyone in our communities is seen, heard and valued, so it’s great to see so much planned to celebrate Learning Disability Week in Barnsley.

“Made possible by our brilliant health and care partnerships, pop along to our art exhibition in the Library @ the Lightbox and help us celebrate the creativity of our learning disability community.”

A PROJECT which outlined major improvement work at more than 1,000 council houses has recorded an underspend.

Berneslai Homes identified 1,101 properties in need of new boilers, rewires, kitchen replacements and insulation work.

However, the multi-million pound scheme saw £1.395m left over, although that sum will be ringfenced should work be needed.

A report said: “The reduction in cost is reflective of a combination of works not being required to the value originally assumed and tenant refusals, totalling 136 properties.

“The funding is ringfenced and as such will fall back into unallocated monies to be utilised in future years.”

A DRUG dealer who drove a stolen vehicle dangerously through Wath before being taken down by police officers has been jailed.

Ryan Nisbet, 23, of Doncaster, was spotted by officers who were on mobile patrol in Wath displaying false number plates on a Ford Fiesta.

He sped off and ignored calls to pull over and instead led officers on a 70mph pursuit down a 30mph road.

Nisbet also drove 50mph down a narrow street with parked cars before crashing the vehicle and trying to escape on foot.

Officers were able to track Nisbet and apprehend him as he tried to climb over a fence near Moor Road.

He admitted to having drugs in his possession and said that he’d been paid to drive the stolen vehicle.

Stan Bentley, 25, of Stuart Street, Thurnscoe, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was arrested by another officer after fleeing in another direction, with both brought into custody.

Nisbet’s phone was seized, with analysis showing damning evidence that he had been involved in the supply of illegal drugs.

Temporary Detective Inspector Laura Procter said:“Nisbet’s version of events just didn’t add up. When he was first arrested, he claimed he wasn’t driving the vehicle but he later said that he’d been paid to drive it instead.

“He admitted to having drugs in his possession and a drugs expert concluded that the amounts recovered far exceeded what would be considered ‘personal use’.

“The pursuit of the vehicle led to the arrest and prosecution of two drug dealers who I’m pleased are now behind bars after being given custodial sentences.

“A lot of hard work went into this case, with meticulous forensic enquiries, drug testing and video compilations all helping to secure charges against these two individuals.

“We won’t tolerate the supply of our drugs in South Yorkshire, and we will continue to pursue those who deal illegal substances in our county.”

Nisbet was jailed for a total of three-and-a-half years on June 7 at Sheffield Crown Court after pleading guilty to aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine and possession of cannabis.

He has been disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for three years and three months, with a judge also ordering that the drugs seized be forfeited and destroyed.

Bentley was jailed for a total of five-and-a-half years at the same court for a number of offences which included selling cocaine.

A LOCAL school has been told it ‘requires improvement’ by Ofsted inspectors.

Saint Pius X Catholic High School, based on Wath Wood Road in Wath, was the subject of the inspection in April.

The school currently has 693 pupils on its roll and was told by inspectors it ‘requires improvement’ for the second consecutive time.

A report said: “Pupils experience an inconsistent quality of education at the school.

“In some subjects, pupils are enthused about their learning. They are well-supported by staff and develop a secure understanding of the curriculum.

“However, this is not consistent across the school. Pupils at the school do not achieve as well as they could, or as well as the school want, in public examinations.

“In too many cases, this is reflected in weaknesses in the curriculum that pupils study or how it is taught.”

TWO Barnsley men have been ordered to pay hundreds of pounds between them to the police for drug trafficking offences.

Lewis Royston, 24, and 60-year-old Wayne Royston – both of Hallsworth Avenue in Hemingfield – were sentenced to nine months in prison, suspended for a year, for the offences.

Wayne was ordered to pay £285 and Lewis £360 through a confiscation order.

Financial investigator Laura Hough, head of asset recovery, said: “We see first-hand the damage criminality causes to communities.

“It’s very often that innocent members of the public are impacted greatly and are left to live through the havoc left when criminals are put behind bars.

“Ensuring that resources are put in place to help build back a sense of community provides great motivation for me and my team.”

A CANCER support event will take place at Shaw Lane Sports Club next month.

Taking place on Thursday, July 11 between 10am and 3pm, residents are being encouraged to come along and seek help if they need to.

The event, which has been organised as part of the Take Action Live Longer campaign, has been funded via Barnsley CVS, Barnsley Council and the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.

It aims to offer advice on cancer prevention and signposting for people who may be affected by cancer.

A number of local organisations will be on hand to offer any support.

Community engagement manager Fiona Hall said: “This event will bring together local experts and care providers who are making themselves accessible to offer advice and support.

“We want to pass on a strong prevention message, but also make people aware that early detection is really beneficial.

“Where families are already affected by a cancer diagnosis we want them to know that there is help out there.

“We’re facilitating this to help our local community save lives.”

A GROUP of scientists from Barnsley ditched their day jobs for the outdoors to help clear a popular walking spot of one of the UK’s most invasive weeds.

Ten members of staff from Lubrizol, who have offices in Carlton and in Huddersfield, were volunteering with the River Holme Connections charity which is working to conserve and improve the Yorkshire river for the benefit of the area.

The volunteer morning, part of the company’s ‘Building Global Bonds’ initiative to give back to communities around the world, saw Lubrizol employees don waders and clear a large site at Upper House Dike in Huddersfield from highly invasive Himalayan Balsam.

Faiza Mahmood, a chemist from Lubrizol, said: “Some of us were in the river, and others along the side, pulling the Balsam up by the roots. It was a really good day.

“We did about a 100-metre stretch. When we were leaving the area, some local homeowners came out and thanked us for our work and asked us when we would be back.

“They have been trying to keep it in check too, and I think they really appreciated it. It was very peaceful to be working beside the flowing river and it was a very satisfying task.

“Any opportunity we get to volunteer and improve our local environment, we jump at it.”

A NATIONAL roadshow to highlight the impact of climate change stopped off in Barnsley town centre laet week.

The Great Big Green Week, organised by the Climate Coalition, saw an art installation arrive at the Glass Works on Wednesday.

Created by Friends of Glass – a group that supports glass as a packaging choice due to health and environmental benefits – a forced-perspective floor artwork was on display.

A spokesperson said: “It was created by Dutch artist, Remko Van Schaik, and depicts the journey of a recycled glass container from being recycled to being melted and remoulded into a new container.

“It’s been across Europe so we were thrilled to arrive in Barnsley."

PLANS  to build dozens of homes on a flood-prone ‘wildlife haven’ – which has met with fierce opposition – appear to have taken a step closer after planning bosses confirmed they are satisfied by new access arrangements.

The scheme, on a field off Darton Lane, Darton, already has outline planning permission but a wrangle ensued over vehicular routes into the 46-home site.

However, documents revealed the issues have been rectified by joint applicants, Duchy Homes and The Church Commission, following discussions with the council’s planning and highways bosses which saw five entry points agreed on.

A report, which will be discussed by councillors on the planning board on Tuesday, said: “The applicants have been in consultation with the council’s highways officers in order to make a number of amendments to the internal layout and the provision of a road safety audit.

“The audit has been referred to the traffic team to review and they have advised that they are satisfied with the findings of the audit, which raises no significant concerns, and as such have no additional comments to add.

“Swept paths have also been supplied to demonstrate refuse vehicles can manoeuvre around the proposed junctions to demonstrate that the layout is acceptable.”

STAFF at a Barnsley college are hoping to raise £10,000 for new fitness facilities at the site.

A group of the staff from Northern College are in training and are ready to take part in the Barnsley 10K on June 30.

Their aim is to use the event to kickstart a £10,000 fundraising campaign.

The funds will be used to create an outdoor exercise gym for adult learners who attend the college – some of whom stay residentially whilst completing their studies.

Emma Beal, principal and chief executive at the college, said: “A crucial part of our ethos is to not only support students to develop their knowledge and skills but also their confidence and wellbeing.

“We are rallying support from the local community to create a vibrant outdoor space where students can prioritise their health and wellbeing using modern equipment that caters to diverse fitness levels.

“Together, we’re shaping a healthier future for our college community.

“It is great to see colleagues coming together and training for a cause, which is keeping us focussed and motivated.”

A ROTHERHAM man has received a suspended prison sentence for offences related to the supply of illegal electronic cigarettes in Barnsley.

On August 31 2023, Omid Swatiwal was found to be supplying electronic cigarettes from Saving Store in Peel Square which had a nicotine volume of more than 2 millilitres or contained nicotine in excess of 20 milligrams per millilitre.

The items were also supplied without a leaflet containing instructions for use, traceability contact details, the batch number, and a health warning that the product contains nicotine - a highly addictive substance.

Mr Swatiwal was sentenced on Wednesday for offences contrary to 36, 37 and 48(d) of the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016. He was given two months’ custody on each offence to run concurrently, suspended for 12 months.

He received a nine-month community order, a costs order of £1,359 and is to pay a victim surcharge of £154. The goods seized as part of the case were forfeited and ordered to be destroyed.

Anna Hartley, Executive Director for Public Health and Communities, said: "This is a very serious case which put unsuspecting members of the public at risk.

"All tobacco poses a significant health risk, so it's vital that products like e-cigarettes meet legal requirements, come with the right safety information and are properly labelled. Ignorance is no excuse and this case shows that we will take action where required.

"We're fully committed to cutting down the availability and preventing the sales of illegal tobacco and vapes in Barnsley. I’d like to thank our Regulatory Services and Legal Services teams for their assistance in this prosecution." 

A FUNDRAISING trio from Barnsley have officially set a new Guinness World Record for the quickest half marathon run in a three-person costume.

Lee Severn, Pete Jenkins and Warren Edwicker donned their Cool Runnings’ outfits and bobsleigh to complete the Manchester Half Marathon in a record-breaking time.

The trio raised a total of £2,725 for Barnsley Hospice after completing the 13-mile journey completely in sync.

Lee said: “Running as a team in costume was a real challenge.

“The hardest part was staying injury-free, staying in time with each other, and finding time to train.

“We chose this local charity because of the fantastic work they do.

“It’s an amazing cause providing essential care for those in our community with life-limiting illnesses.”

Despite receiving the Guinness World Record accolade, the trio aren’t stopping there – and this time they’re hoping to become the fastest team to take on a full marathon in costume.

“We’re always looking for the next challenge,” Lee added.

Community relationships manager at Barnsley Hospice, Vicky Stead, added: “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and efforts of Lee, Pete and Warren.

“Their record-breaking run and the funds raised will make a significant difference to those we care for in the Barnsley borough.”

WORSBROUGH Common Primary School has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted.

The school, on Bruce Avenue, currently has 409 pupils on its roll.

The report said: “Pupils are proud to attend this safe, caring and inclusive school.

“They enjoy learning and strive to meet the school’s high expectations of them. This is particularly apparent in the way that pupils behave.

“The school environment is calm and orderly. Pupils show respect for each other and adults and behave very well.

“Instances of bullying are unusual. If bullying does happen, pupils know that adults will act swiftly to resolve it.”