Generous donations help Goldthorpe launch Christmas celebrations
DECEMBER’S monthly get-together at the Union Jack Memorial Club in Goldthorpe saw a packed house as residents pulled out the stops to celebrate Christmas.
The club, formerly know as The Comrades, hosts regular sessions with dozens of residents gathering each month.
Those sessions feature entertainment and offer support and friendship, maintaining a community spirit which dates from the era of the mining industry.
Pupils from Goldthorpe Primary Academy turned up to launch the festive event, offering a selection of lively songs to set the mood.
The sessions are organised by the Goldthorpe Development Group, a dedicated team of volunteers supported by local businesses and councillors from the Dearne. Each meeting features a performer, food, and of ever-popular bingo.
Although organised as entertainment, the sessions provide an opportunity for social interaction, helping to combat the problems of loneliness and isolation.
The club donates its facilities and time free of charge, working hand-in-hand with Dearne councillors to sustain this community lifeline.
Local businesses also play a crucial role, with contributions from Tesco Express (Furlong Road, Bolton on Dearne), Fishfella’s, JJ’s Chippy, Elmhurst Butchers, and John Crooks & Son Quality Meats – all based in Goldthorpe.
A recent highlight came when new business Spudies provided food for the group’s gathering - returning the £400 bill as a donation.
This was shared among charities supporting Parkinson’s disease, kidney disease, the Mayor’s charities (SOBS/Veterans), and BIADS – each receiving £100.
John Hays, committee member of Goldthorpe Development Group, said: “I’m proud to be part of Goldthorpe Development Group which helps maintain the strong community spirit and resilience in the area.”
The Development Group can be found on Facebook.