South Yorkshire Times, December 15, 1951

The Wayward Dearne

Several theories were expounded at Barnburgh Parish Council Meeting on Friday on the flooding of the River Dearne. Some members contended that, the river overflowed into nearby fields because the banks needed raising. Others said flooding occurred even when the river level was well down

Supporting the latter view, Councillor Stanley Large said after heavy rain, water accumulated in the fields nearby. Because of subsidence, the fields were lower than the banks of the river, and only dyking would ensure that the water drained into the river. There was flooding, he pointed out, even when the river could take more water.

Councillor J. Scott thought a solution would be to canalise a section of the river, probably below Mill Bridge. A straighter course in the river would reduce the flooding, he contended.

It was pointed out that the Drainage Board had cleared a lot of silt from the river.

Councillor Scott said he was surprised there had been no complaints from farmers over the continued flooding of their fields.