A WAR memorial has been proudly installed at a new home in the heart of Wombwell, thanks to a team effort from local businesses and the community.
The Reform Club tribute to soldiers who served in the First World War was moved from the disused Nuwell Shopping Centre to outside the Old Town Hall building on Wombwell High Street.
The works were funded by Wombwell Ward Alliance, Wombwell business Cranswick Convenience Foods and an in-kind donation of labour and materials from builder Jack Mayes.
The Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr John Clarke, performed the official unveiling on Sunday following a re-dedication service and wreath-laying involving members of the local veterans’ community.
Cranswick worked with Mr Mayes to move the memorial after concerns were raised by a member of the public about the condition of the former shopping centre.
The war memorial lists all the members of the Reform Club who served during the First World War, including 23 killed in action.
It has been relocated next to the Boer War memorial in the memorial garden outside the Old Town Hall.
Cranswick general manager Barry Higgins said: “Cranswick is proud to have played a part in the relocation of the Wombwell Reform Club Memorial, reinforcing our dedication to empowering local communities and fostering a sense of pride and identity in the area.”
Mr Mayes, director of Mayes Property Services and Development, sourced matching materials and built a new surround for the memorial.
He said: “I am honoured and proud to be part of this project in memory of all who fought for our country and lost their lives, lest we ever forget.
“It was a hard and challenging job, with the memorial being so big and heavy, and with the pressure to do our lost loved ones proud.
“We wanted to make it as special as we could, for all to see and remember.”
Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said: “I am delighted to see this war memorial now taking pride of place at a prominent spot in the centre of Wombwell.
“It is important we preserve our heritage and history, and this team effort has helped to ensure the sacrifice of our soldiers will never be forgotten.”
Photo caption: From left: Jack Mayes and son Blake Mayes; The Mayor and Mayoress of Barnsley, Cllr John Clarke and Mrs Doreen Clarke; Wombwell councillors Cllrs Robert Frost, Brenda Eastwood and James Higginbottom; Ania Pozorski Sutton of Wombwell Ward Alliance, and Peter Harper of Cranswick Convenience Foods.
