Artwork at Wombwell Station

An inspiring new artwork has been unveiled at Wombwell station following a collaboration between SYMCA, Barnsley Council and the town’s community.

Artist Nikki Whiston was commissioned by SYMCA and Barnsley Council’s South Area Team to produce the colourful creation.

Featuring the distinctive Wombwell “unicorn” emblem and references to the Roly Poly Hill and Wishing Tree at Wombwell Park, it aims to capture the essence of Wombwell's rich history and diverse community spirit.

The brightly-coloured artwork, shaped with input from young people, families and community groups, features the slogan "Together We Create” alongside words such as safety, pride, home, diversity and hope, with a rainbow representing diversity.

The new installation, which has been designed to be weather- and graffiti-proof, forms part of a community rail initiative to bring more character and personality to South Yorkshire stations, to make them more welcoming. There are also community-inspired artworks at Woodhouse, Swinton and Darnall stations.

Community Rail Officer Cathrine Ashworth said: “Smaller stations like this one are here to connect and serve the local community. “It’s their station, so seeing them work together to develop such a creative and uplifting artwork and putting a real Wombwell stamp on the station has been great.” 

Cathrine is keen to hear from anyone who would like to “adopt” Wombwell Station and help it to become a community station, full of character and interest. “There is so much potential at this charming station, surrounded by nature, and would be a perfect canvas for a group to develop,” she said.