FAITHFUL replicas of the historic regimental flags carried into battle by the Barnsley Pals more than 100 years ago are to be commissioned in time for the centenary of the armistice.
Historian Jane Ainsworth had originally hoped to lead a campaign to conserve the original colours of the two Barnsley Pals battalions - hundreds of whom were killed during the Battle of the Somme in 1916 - which are currently on display in St Mary’s Church in the town centre but in terrible condition.
But it emerged that the work would have cost about £13,000, and futhermore the Ministry of Defence said it would not be allowed. The flags must never be repaired and must be allowed to ‘return to dust’.
But now Jane is leading a campaign to have detailed and accurate replicas made which can be used at remembrance and other events, starting in November for the centenary of the Armistice.
The replicas will cost about £1,800 and she hopes to raise about £3,000 in grants and donations in order to have them made, and to fund a public event on November 11 with supporting displays and information booklets.
“We decided to commission reproductions of the colours to show people what they would have looked like when first awarded 100 years ago by King George V,” said Jane, of Victoria Road, Barnsley.
“Sadly the originals are in very poor condition as they return to dust and they may not be handled. We hope that the copies will help us to promote a renewed interest in and understanding of the colours, since they appear to have been long forgotten about.
“The new flags will be long lasting and allow a variety of uses.”
Jane said she was delighted that Fr Stephen Race had given his blessing for her to host a special event for the centenary of the Armistice at St Mary’s, combined with his annual remembrance service on November 11.
“I am, therefore, planning for people to be able to drop in while the church is open to view the colours, reproduction flags and an exhibition about the history of the colours, chapel and memorials. We also aim to produce more detailed booklets, with a First World War timeline and First World War town map for Barnsley that I have been keen to create for some time.
“We also want to encourage people to visit St Mary’s - a beautiful and important church in the heart of Barnsley - to appreciate its history and First World War heritage.
“The timescale is tight but it is feasible if we are able to obtain the necessary funding.
“We hope that many people with an interest in the Barnsley Pals will want to support this project, individually or as groups or businesses.”
A meeting will be held in the Barnsley Chronicle offices at 11am on Thursday June 28. Anyone who wants to offer support or make a donation is welcome to attend but please email secretary@barnsley-chronicle.co.uk in advance to let us know. Email the same address if you are unable to attend but would still like to offer a donation.
