THOUSANDS of records relating to local people can now be accessed online thanks to a new partnership.

Previously, all records could only be accessed by visiting Barnsley Archives and Local Studies at Barnsley Town Hall.

Now, anyone with an interest in Barnsley’s history and heritage can view them from anywhere in the world.

The partnership - between the council and Ancestry - has made two databases of historical records available on the latter’s website.

The first database contains more than 100,000 separate records of baptisms, marriages and births.

The second database will be of interest to those with criminal ancestors.

The records of Barnsley Magistrates’ Court, covering 1841 to 1923, have been made available.

They contain almost one million entries, meaning that the chances of finding a relative are quite high.

Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “I’m delighted that Barnsley Archives and Local Studies has partnered with Ancestry to make these fascinating records accessible online.

“It’s a great opportunity for people interested in the history and heritage of our borough to discover more about their ancestors and the lives they lived.

“Whether you are looking for information on your family and friends religious background or if you have a criminal relative, you now have access to thousands of records from anywhere in the world.

“This is a valuable resource that we are sure people will love exploring.”