John Barnsley

1. Which year did you join the council?

I joined the Parish Council in September 2017.

2. What is your favourite thing about Crofton?

I am Wakefield born and bred and have lived in the district all my life, living in the village since 1996 (24 years) I like it because its close enough to Wakefield and the motorway network whilst maintaining its very rural and countryside charm.

3. Are there any things about the village which you think could be improved?

The roads in Crofton, evolved from dirt tracks dating back to the medieval period when we were a small farming village, 3 miles from Wakefield. Populations increased mainly in the 19th Century attracted by work in the coal mines, supplying coal that fuelled the industrial revolution, making Britain the leading world power of its day. The village also saw further population growth in 20th Century, which continues today. The roads, in and out of the village are narrow and extremely congested, particularly at peak times. The A638 is the main route to the south and east of the city, anyone trying to get out of the village on Lodge Lane or Pinfold Drive will know exactly my point. I will continually campaign to get a better road system to benefit the village and villagers.

4. Why did you decide to become a councillor?

Since my retirement 10 years ago, my job previously was in management and I worked long hours. It was impossible for me just to wind down, and watch daytime TV. I like to get involved in projects, and what better than the local Parish Council. It’s an atypical PC, just a group of local people who want to contribute their time and talents for the benefit of the community.

5. What do you enjoy most about being a councillor?

Being actively involved in local and community issues, helping to make a real difference in Crofton.

6. What, specifically, do you hope to contribute in your time on the council?

My hope is to drive a real sense of community within the village, the Parish Council has limited powers and of course, limited budgets. But we deliver a number of nice things within the village. The summer time hanging baskets, Christmas lights and light switch on. We have our own parish cemetery and offer massive discounts on burial plots (you must be a Crofton resident to qualify. We are also heavily involved in pursuing a route to deliver a new bigger and better Parish centre. The new centre will be offered as a venue for events that are held in the village. It will also house the Crofton Library (run by local volunteers).

7. Do you hold any current community responsibilities or interests outside the council? What hobbies/interests do you like to pursue in your spare time?

My interests and hobbies in the community are that I am also the Chairman of the Patient Participation Group at Maybush Medical Centre, Treasurer of a Crofton based local charitable trust – Constable & Pinders. I like history and am a member of the Wakefield Historical Society, I am a pastoral prison visitor and I still work part time.

8. Are you affiliated to/a member of any political party or organisation?

No