17/07/2026
A very hard statement to write. But a proud one too.
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We’re gutted that our Fanzone journey has come to an end so agonisingly close to the final game. Like all of you, we are completely heartbroken by that Semi-Final result.
Due to a pre-arranged Archery GB National Tour event taking over the grounds at Shaw Lane this weekend, we won't be hosting a screening for Sunday's final or the third place game on Saturday.
While we didn't get the fairytale ending on the pitch, looking back, we are bursting with pride at what we have all built together over the last few weeks.
Fanzone started as an early-morning phone call between Joe our chairman and Mike our events officer. Joe wanted our organisation to put on a brand-new summer event for the town, and Mike had an idea to bring a giant screen to Barnsley so local folk could experience the World Cup together.
Fast forward five months, and that tiny idea became a reality thanks to the dedication and passion of our Round Table members. This was our group’s first brand-new event format in over 30 years, and the very first of its kind for our current generation of members. We took a massive gamble, we faced some issues and rejections along the way, but we backed ourselves because we believed in this town.
And Barnsley, you absolutely blew us away.
From our very first group game trial to that packed-out Semi-Final, you didn't just attend, you championed us. You helped us grow this from a screen in a car park into an amazing, vibrant community hub where families, friends, and neighbours could share the absolute highs and lows of watching England on the big screen. Most importantly, your incredible generosity at the gates and bars has meant the world to us.
This is absolutely not the end for Fanzone. This was just the foundation.
We are walking away with a notebook full of learnings, a battle-tested team of volunteers, and the absolute certainty that Barnsley wants this. No matter the sport or the live event, if the people of this town want a space to gather, we will work tirelessly to bring the Fanzone format back to life.
Thank you, from the very bottom of our hearts, to every single person who bought a ticket, sang a song, brought their family, and believed in a group of local lads with a vision.
We will be back.
Barnsley Round Table
