It is with great sadness that we share the news of Margaret Dunstone's passing. Margaret was not only a supporter but also a dedicated advocate for the rights of disabled fans. She played a pivotal role in the fundraising and management of the original disabled stand in 1984/85, which was considered a model for other football clubs at the time. Margaret contributed to the development of the South Stand (Ponte End) in 1996/97, ensuring that the raised disabled section provided an unobstructed view for fans, following the recommendations of the Taylor Report. She also played a vital role in the development of the North Stand, advocating for the replacement of the original disabled stand and the improvement of viewing platforms for away disabled supporters. For over 30 years, Margaret and Joan Dawson dedicated themselves to serving disabled fans, organising events and sponsoring a shirt every year for disabled supporters. Despite her declining health, Margaret continued to support the team at games until her retirement in 2016/17. Margaret's unwavering support for Barnsley Football Club and her positive spirit will be deeply missed. Her absence and Joan's leave a significant void in the disabled stand. Rest in peace, Margaret. Once a Red, always a Red. Continue reading...
Great tribute by the club! They both did a fantastic job for disabled supporters over the years. I used to go in to see Joan from time to time in the disabled stand, as she was the disabled representative for the Supporters Trust for a long time. Both were lovely women and so dedicated to their volunteer jobs. Between Joan and Margaret (and Ken, Joan's husband), fans in there were looked after, making cups of tea, Pork Pie, and snacks every game. Ken also used to organise travel for disabled people to away games. As it says, all are deeply missed! RIP Margaret
I knew her son Phil back in the day, through school football. He was from Honeywell area, if I remember rightly? He played for England at schoolboy level (I think it was, it may have been at sixth form age or above though, can’t remember now - might even have been U16 or U19 level?). Always remember his mum’s name cropping up in the Barnsley programme on matchday in those days quite a few times.
My daughter and I attended the match last night and we were extremely touched by the tribute announced at half time. We were unashamedly blubbering throughout. What made it even more special was the reaction of the supporters as their applause’s rung out around the stadium. Thank you, mum would’ve been so proud. P.S. just to stop put Fearless Tykes mind at rest it was England under 15 schoolboys I played for.
