Barnsley Football Club can confirm that long-serving stadium announcer, Jason Thelwell, has made the decision to step down from his role at the end of the current season, bringing service spanning 35 years at Oakwell to a close. Since first taking to the PA system in the early 1990s, Jason’s distinctive voice, warm personality and passion for the Reds have become an integral part of the matchday experience for generations of supporters. From welcoming fans through the turnstiles to announcing team news, goals, and unforgettable victories, his presence has been a constant through triumphs, challenges, promotions, and cup runs alike. In addition to his duties behind the microphone, Jason has also been a familiar face in hospitality — hosting the Natural Cement Legends Suite on home matchdays, as well as fronting numerous Club events over the years. His friendly manner and deep knowledge of Barnsley FC have helped create memorable experiences for thousands of guests and supporters. Speaking on his decision, Jason said, “To have carried out the role of stadium announcer and the voice of Oakwell Stadium for generations of fans for such a long time has been an absolute pleasure. From sitting in the crowd as a supporter from the 1970’s to playing a small part at my hometown Club for the best part of four decades is a huge privilege. To have experienced the highs and lows of promotions, relegations, Premier League season and Wembley triumphs, it’s certainly been a rollercoaster with memories etched into my DNA. I just feel the time is right for me to step aside and hand the microphone over and let someone else enjoy the experience. I hope come May next year I can finish on a high with promotion. You Reds.” The decision to leave is entirely Jason’s own, and he departs with the sincere thanks and very best wishes of everyone at Barnsley FC. His loyalty, professionalism and dedication have left a lasting mark, and his voice will forever echo in the memories of those who have walked through Oakwell’s gates. Chief Executive Officer Jon Flatman added, "Jason has been an outstanding servant to the Club for four decades. His contribution to the matchday atmosphere and to our hospitality offering cannot be overstated, and his passion for Barnsley FC is evident. We wish him every success for the future and thank him for everything he has given to the Reds." Jason will continue in his role until the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign, when he will be given the opportunity to say a proper farewell to the Oakwell faithful. Supporters will have the chance to show their appreciation for his remarkable service at our final home fixture of the season. Thank you, Jason — from all of us at Barnsley Football Club. Continue reading...
Will be missed and Oakwell matchday will feel a little different. Quite a stint and a great servant for the club Enjoy your retirement.
Jason's been great at it and all I've ever remembered at Oakwell. There have been some terrible temporary replacements over the years. I just hope that they get his permanent replacement right altho they are big boots to fill
It's not about reward or recognition. It's a feeling. Everyone who bought a season ticket, watched a match. Walked in the scaffolding is part of the eternal tapestry.
That is a good shout. Whenever someone has stood in for him it hasn’t been the same. He’ll be a hard act to follow.
