Johnny Barnes is given a handrail to go with his bench

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Johnny Barnes has received a supporting handrail at his post at the Paget roundabout.

The handrail complements a bench that was placed where he stands earlier this summer.

Commuters pushed for a permanent seat for Mr Barnes after he had a fall in July.

After morning commuter Ron Spencer alerted the media, the Mayor of Hamilton and Works and Engineering placed a bench at the Crow Lane location so that Mr Barnes, 89, could have a place to sit.

When the bench had been placed, Mr Spencer said: “The bench was great for Johnny as he now has a place to sit and rest, but Johnny still needs to stand up.”

He continued: “Originally, my intent was to raise funds and build Johnny a bench and a handrail — to make it safer for him. I never intended to have W&E do all the work. But W&E came through and supplied the bench, and earlier this week, a handrail.”

When asked about the addition of the handrail, Mr Barnes expressed his sincere thanks.

“I want to thank God for it. Thank him for the handrail and thank him for the bench.”

He added: “But I was hoping that they would put it in the front, but that’s all right. I’m still thankful. I’m able to stand up and when I get tired I can sit down.

“It’s beautiful so I’m thankful all around.”

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