Cash bid for 'leaning tower of Barnsley'

The Friends of Locke Park are applying to the Heritage Lottery Fund for cash to revamp, or possibly rebuild, Locke Park Tower.

The 70ft structure dominates the area but was closed on health and safety grounds.

From the top on a clear day it was said visitors could enjoy spectacular views of South, West, East Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

David Allen, Friends of Locke Park chairman, said: “This is one of Barnsley's landmarks.

“But it has a list and it's also known as the leaning tower of Barnsley. I think it might have to be rebuilt and we are talking about a seven-figure sum.

“It's an iconic tower, a landmark which can be seen from some distance. If it was lit up at night it would create a beacon.“

Locke Park was donated to the people of Barnsley in 1862 by Phoebe Locke in memory of her husband, Joseph Locke, the famous railway engineer.

The tower was built in 1877 by Sarah McCreery in memory of her sister, Phoebe Locke, who died December 1866.

The Friends of Locke Park are already set to refurbish the children’s play area.

The work has been funded to the tune of 173,000 which was raised by locals and businesses.

n The fifth annual Locke Park Gala is on Sunday, August 12, starting at noon.

Attractions include a vintage car rally, birds of prey, majorettes, children’s magic show, fancy dress, Irish dancers and live music.