Vandalised Barnsley Pals memorial to Somme dead restored

The memorial was commissioned in 2016, but was vandalised in 2022

An artwork commemorating the 300 Barnsley men who died on the first day of the Battle of the Somme has been reinstalled after it was vandalised.

Light Lines features images of soldiers who died in the battle, including many of the 13th/14th York and Lancaster Regiment - known as the Barnsley Pals.

It was commissioned in 2016 and installed in Churchfield Peace Gardens, but was damaged by vandals last year.

Donations have enabled it to be restored ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

Designed by Musson & Retallick, the images of the soldiers are reproduced as digitally rendered laser-etched acrylic panels, which illuminate in low light using white LED lights.

The panels contain medals cast in plaster, made by children from Summer Lane Primary School, reflecting the memories of those at home.

'Poignant memorial'

It was funded originally by Barnsley Council, Barnsley Ward Alliances, Arts Council England, Historic England's Heritage Schools programme and Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust.

The restoration work was made possible by public donations, including £1,300 from the Barnsley Football Club Supporters Trust.

The artwork has been added to the War Memorials Register administered by the Imperial War Museum.

Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for 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."