COLOURFUL wooden crates which appeared in the town centre have been installed to reflect Eldon Street’s performing past.

Once the ‘cultural hub’ of the town centre, entertainers flocked from across the world to perform in theatres such as the Public Hall, now The Civic, and the Empire Theatre of Varieties, which is now the Parkway Cinema.

The artwork - dubbed Crate It - reflects the fascinating history of the area, with many stories being told including George Dinnie, the world’s strongest man, who came to the Public Hall in the early 1900s.

Local artists Lenny and Whale created the contemporary art work which is part of and funded by the Eldon Street Heritage Action Zone.

They said: “We hope our temporary crates installation will spark interest and intrigue in to Eldon Street’s history, as well as create an alternative colourful seating area, whilst the town centre regeneration continues.

“On the day we were installing the artwork we had a great response from passers-by who liked the way the bold coloured crates brightened the area up and were intrigued to hear about the performers of times gone by.”

More information can be found on the Barnsley Council website.