Work has begun to revamp Castleford's 'Wheel of Light'

The wheel is dedicated to the thousands of people who worked at the Glasshoughton Colliery and Coke Works including the many who died due to accident and illness.

It is currently owned by construction and development specialists Waystone, who are responsible for much of the development in the area. They will repaint the wheel before handing it over to Wakefield Council, who will complete the works with new lighting.

The wheel will be subject to structural checks, have a new multi-coloured painting scheme applied to it and will be lit with simple white uplighters. Works are expected to be completed by June.

Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to take over the ownership of this wonderful memorial which embraces our district’s history and heritage.

“I know it means a lot to the local community and once fully refurbished, it will shine bright for many years to come.”

Waystone Managing Director, Stuart McLoughlin, said: “Waystone are delighted that we’ve been able to make an arrangement enabling the Council to own and maintain the Wheel of Light, which has become a local landmark.”