Hemsworth

Hemsworth
Yorkshire West Riding
Hemsworth
Location
Grid reference:	SE430128
Location:	53°36’36"N, 1°21’0"W
Data
Population:	13,311  (2001)
Post town:	Pontefract
Postcode:	WF9
Dialling code:	01977
Local Government
Council:	Wakefield
Parliamentary constituency:	Hemsworth

Hemsworth is a small town in the West Riding of Yorkshire.

This was a one-industry town, where coal mining employed the vast majority of residents, and the closure of the pits during the 1980s led to huge levels of unemployment and deprivation in the area. Hemsworth, along with nearby villages such as Ackworth, Fitzwilliam, Havercroft, Ryhill, South Elmsall and South Kirkby was made into a special regeneration area, and fortunes have improved as a result.

The parish church is St Luke's.

The town

In May, 2005, the Office for National Statistics estimated that unemployment in Hemsworth was just 2.8%. This marks progress from periods in the previous two decades when it could reach as high as 50%. A large portion of the West End estate and blocks of flats around the Scotch estate in Hemsworth have been demolished to be "regenerated" as in recent years the area suffered badly from the closure of the mines leading to high crime rates and crushing unemployment.

The boating lake at Hemsworth Water Park

Also in Hemsworth is the Hemsworth Water Park, situated on the outskirts of Hemsworth. Hemsworth Water Park has two lakes; the largest lake is available for pedalo rides and has a man-made sandy beach; the smallest lake is in a more secluded area to attract wildlife. Both lakes are stocked for fishing which is available all year round. There are also plenty of grassed areas for picnics and games.

In the Water Park, there is also Playworld, an outdoor adventure playground, which is suitable for children of all ages with a tower slide, climbing frames, a toddlers' sandpit area and a miniature railway.

A new kiosk and toilet facilities were opened in March 2006. New equipment was introduced in 2008. A new restaurant, which opened in 2011, is situated adjacent to the larger of the two fishing lakes, and serves hot and cold meals, drinks and snacks.

Along with the neighbouring village of Kinsley it is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its name as Hamelsworde.

Media

• Newspaper: Hemsworth and South Elmsall Express

Miscellaneous

Hemsworth was used in an episode of the Top Gear series: Series 4 episode 2.

Robert Holgate, a native of Hemsworth (1481? - 1555) was consecrated Archbishop of York in January 1545.

Outside links

• Community Care Network
• Parish of Hemsworth
• St Luke's Church