Forgotten memorial revealed again

Celebrating the refurbishment of the War Memorial at Mapplewell, Barnsley are, from left Coun Roy Miller, Goff Grifiths, standard bearer John Langley and deputy mayor of Barnsley Coun John Parkinson.

By The Newsroom

Published 28th Jul 2010, 23:28 BST

Updated 28th Jul 2010, 23:28 BST

The memorial in the South Yorkshire village, had become so overgrown that it could barely be seen.

It had become so neglected that some locals did not even know it was there, hidden behind old conifers and laurel.

But yesterday, after a 2,500 council-funded project, the newly-refurbished war memorial was officially unveiled by the deputy mayor of Barnsley and the British Legion.

The restoration scheme was first suggested by people in the local community last year and in October it was decided to remove all the old plants and start from scratch. Work finally got under way last April, starting with the repainting of the railings and the gate. A new timber fence was also put up.

Coun Parkinson said: "I am proud to have been involved in this project. It is important that we never forget those who fought and indeed are still fighting for our freedom."