What do we do?

The parish council serves as the grassroots level of local government, representing the interests of the Thurgoland community. Its primary responsibilities include managing local services, maintaining public spaces, and ensuring the well-being of residents.

 Responsibilities of the Parish Council:

• Planning and Development: The council is a statutory consultee on all local planning applications. While it does not make the final decision, it provides essential feedback to the planning authority, ensuring that the interests of the community are considered. This includes preserving the character of the village, supporting sustainable development, and opposing inappropriate proposals.
• Public Spaces and Amenities: The council oversees the maintenance of parks, playgrounds, and other public spaces, ensuring they are safe, clean, and accessible for residents. It may also be responsible for allotments, bus shelters, and public seating.
• Community Events and Initiatives: Supporting and organizing events that foster community spirit, such as fairs, festivals, and commemorative ceremonies, is a key part of the council's role. It may also initiate projects to improve local amenities and services.
• Environmental Stewardship: The parish council plays an active role in protecting and enhancing the local environment. This includes tree planting, managing wildlife habitats, and promoting recycling and sustainability initiatives.
• Highways and Footpaths: The council works closely with higher authorities to report and address issues related to roads, footpaths, and street lighting. It may also advocate for traffic calming measures and improved pedestrian safety.
• Representation and Advocacy: Acting as a voice for the community, the council represents local concerns to district and county councils, as well as other organizations and agencies.
• Community Safety: Collaborating with local police and community groups to address issues such as vandalism, anti-social behaviour, and emergency planning.
• Grants and Funding: Administering small grants to support local groups and organizations that benefit the community.
• Communication: Keeping residents informed through newsletters, noticeboards, and the website. The council ensures transparency in its operations and encourages community engagement through consultations and public meetings.

All Councillors are legally required to declare their interests. You can search by Councillor on the Barnsley Council website - https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/services/council-and-democracy/parish-and-town-councils/parish-and-town-councillor-register-of-interests/ 

 

List of Councillors and Pictures

Chair - Sarah Mann

I was co-opted onto the Parish council in September 2021 as a Councillor, voted into the role of Vice Chair in May 2023 & became Chairperson in May 2024.

I have lived in Thurgoland for over 20 years, I attended Oxspring Primary & PGS as a child, I’ve living in the area for over 40 years & I am passionate about our villages (Thurgoland & Crane Moor) keeping them a safe, clean, & an unspoiled environment for all to live in & enjoy.

I am a working mum, wife & mother to 2 boys & 3 dogs, I am a part-time self-employed bookkeeper & most recently became a part-time Postie – which I love - being out & about in the fresh air meeting people.

In my spare time I volunteer at Oxspring Football Club, I enjoy walking, reading, socialising & generally spending time with family & friends.

I consider myself & others very fortunate to live in such an unspoiled rural area, with a fantastic community spirit & it’s something that needs  to be preserved, it what makes our village such a special place to live in & that’s why I was keen to get involved with the parish council.

Since becoming a Councillor, I’ve been involved in many council sub-groups including:

The Rural Transport group (who’s focus was to improving local transport links, without the group we wouldn’t have got the No 26 Bus).

The Cricket group, focusing on improving facilities, supporting Thurgoland Cricket Club in bringing cricket back to Thurgoland.

The Boundary Walk Group & most recently the Christmas Event group.

I am a member of the Ward Alliance.

As a Councillor, I find the work very rewarding, it’s great to be able to give something back to our community.

If you see me about, please don’t hesitate to say hello.

 

Vice-Chair - Ben Barton

 

Councillor Catherine Evans

 

 

Councillor Ian Faraday-White

I moved to Thurgoland in 2017 with his wife and two children. I am a registered nurse by background working in a non-clinical role in healthcare informatics. I joined the Thurgoland Parish Council in 2024, and is interested in Council work on biodiversity and community events.

Councillor Martin Hodder

I have lived in Crane Moor for 16 years now and love the neighbourhood and access to fantastic walks.  I am passionate about keeping the local area safe and welcoming.  I am a massive Sheffield United fan, and love spending time with my partner and our gorgeous grandchildren .

Councillor Joan Methley

I have lived in Thurgoland all my life. I have been a member of the Parish Council for some 30 years plus. I have also been a founder member of the Thurgoland Thespians, acting as prompter for 43 years, which I thoroughly enjoy.

I was also involved in the Ladies Group, known as the Tuesday Group for a number of years. I'm also chairperson to the Thurgoland Charities group.  Along with the other trustees, we organise a free trip to the coast for any resident over 60 years of age, once a year who live in the parish.

Councillor Sylvia Oxley

I was born and raised in Thurgoland, born in Romptickle and then moved further into the village. I've been on the Parish Council for around 28 years plus. In those years I have done and been involved in so many things, too many to mention. I attend the Police, PACT meetings and the Crime and Safety ones as well. I also had time involved in Thurgoland Village Welfare and also as a governor at Thurgoland Primary School. I am also involved in the Thurgoland Charities Group. if you need to contact me regarding any crime and safety issues my mobile number is 077 31893742.

Councillor Charles Richard Warttig

I have lived in Thurgoland all of my life, attending primary school in the village before secondary school in Barnsley. After secondary school,  I attended Agricultural College in Norfolk. Upon completing my course at college, I returned home to work on the family farm, which I did until my retirement. I have been on the Parish Council for at least 20 years.

Councillor Mark Grant

After completing nine years in the HM Armed Forces, I transitioned into the private sector within the crowd management industry. This move enabled me to apply my leadership experience while working with major clients across the global sports, leisure and entertainment sectors.

I was later approached by a global security organisation seeking to strengthen its expertise in my specialist field, and I joined the company as Operations Director. Committed to developing my professional capability, I completed degrees in Business Management and Crowd Dynamics, which broadened my strategic and operational insight.

With this foundation, I moved into a senior role within a UK business, where I continued to refine my skills and contribute to organisational growth. My final position before retirement was as Managing Director for the North of England, supporting a company preparing to go to market. I worked closely with the board throughout the sale process, which concluded successfully.

Since retiring, I have been able to enjoy more time in my garden and on my motorbike. As a member of the Cranemoor community, I now dedicate time to the Parish Council, supporting local requirements and helping deliver the events and initiatives that matter to residents.