Tributes paid to Wombwell sporting hero Mark Jones as high street improvements are completed

Barnsley Council today marked the completion of major improvements to Wombwell High Street by paying tribute to one of the town’s sporting heroes, Mark Jones.

A memorial stone was unveiled today in memory of the late Manchester United footballer, one of the “Busby Babes” who died in the Munich air disaster.

Mark was born in Wombwell and signed for United as an apprentice, making 103 league appearances in defence and winning two league titles.

He and seven teammates were among 23 people killed when their plane crashed during take-off at Munich on 6 February 1958.

Mark’s daughter Lynn Hargreaves, who was born just months after he died, was invited by Barnsley Council to unveil the memorial stone as we marked the conclusion of improvement works to the high street under our Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme.

Lynn said: “I am grateful that Barnsley Council has recognised my dad and his achievements with this tribute in Wombwell so his legacy lives on for years to come.

“Sadly, I never knew my dad, but my mum told me and my brother Gary all about him and he was a legend to me. I am proud of what he did and hope everyone will notice the memorial stone in the high street and remember him, too.”

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “We are proud to pay tribute to Mark Jones, one of Wombwell’s greatest sporting heroes, as we mark the completion of our major improvements to the high street.

“It is only fitting that Mark’s achievements are recognised at the heart of the community where he was born and grew up and I’m pleased we have been able to help ensure his memory lives on.

“The wider regeneration of the town centre is part of our work to support our high streets to thrive, and I hope everyone will welcome its impact in ensuring everyone can enjoy a safe and pleasant shopping experience.”

Ifty Ahmed, chair of the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation, said: “The Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation is delighted that Wombwell is honouring Mark Jones with a permanent plaque in his home town.

“This tribute rightly connects Mark’s local roots with his place in Manchester United’s history and the wider legacy of the Busby Babes.

“By marking this site, Wombwell ensures that Mark’s story remains visible, understood and remembered by future generations.”

Barnsley Council’s improvement works to Wombwell High Street included new paving, seating, road resurfacing and painting of street furniture.

We’ve also demolished the disused former public toilet block and paved the area where it stood.

You can find out more about our investment in our Principal Towns and Local Village Centres at on our Principal Towns webpage.