BARNSLEY Council is looking back at the countless changes over the last five decades with a new exhibition celebrating their golden anniversary.

The Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council celebrated its 50th anniversary on Monday, after being formed in 1974 following the Local Government Act which abolished the previous county council.

Prior to this, there were 14 separate councils covering the area that is now governed by the metropolitan council.

In the 50 years since many changes have occurred in the area, which the council is now commemorating with a new display within the town hall which will be on open until next Friday.

Barnsley Archives and Local Studies archives manager, Paul Stebbing, told the Chronicle: “To celebrate our borough’s 50th anniversary, we have been busy creating some fabulous displays of items relating to the history of the borough through the years from 1974.

“You’re in for a real treat with items including, ‘The New Barnsley’ newsletter, old photos of council buildings, local improvement area newsletters and the opening plaque of the Central Library in 1975. We also have on display the very first Barnsley MBC minute book which dates back to the inaugural meeting on 5 April 1974.

“We are delighted to be marking this important anniversary for the borough and to have the opportunity to look back at the many milestones and achievements.”