A memorial commemorating the 300 Barnsley men who lost their lives on the first day of the Battle of the Somme has been reinstalled in Churchfield Peace Gardens, after it was damaged last year.
The artwork ‘Light Lines’ was originally commissioned in 2016 and designed by Musson & Retallick, featuring images of local soldiers who lost their lives in what was one of World War One’s bloodiest battles, including many of the 13th/14th York and Lancaster Regiment, more commonly known as the ‘Barnsley Pals’.
In June 2022, the artwork appeared to have been smashed by vandals which led to it being removed so that repairs could be carried out.
The suspected vandalism triggered an investigation by South Yorkshire Police, as well as an appeal for donations to help pay for the repairs.
Today, thanks to public donations, including £1,300 from the Barnsley Football Club Supporters Trust, the artwork has been restored and is now back on display in the gardens in time for Remembrance Sunday.
‘Light Lines’ has received national recognition and was awarded a commendation from the Civic Trust in 2017 and has also been added to the War Memorials Register administered by the Imperial War Museum.
Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “We were extremely saddened by the damage to the poignant ‘Light Lines’ memorial as it commemorates such an important time in history.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us in making the repairs possible and allowed us to reinstate this artwork, which many people wanted to see happen.”
For support during the Remembrance weekend, resources can be accessed at www.southyorkshire.police.uk/support-for-veterans-through-project-nova or www.southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/Support-for-Veterans