Reds fans will be shocked to learn that the man behind popular mascot – Toby Tyke – has thrown in the towel.
David Betts, a hairdresser at Barnsley town centre salon, has donned the big dog costume for seven years and is believed to have been sick of being muzzled by the club and the FA.
Toby's career highlights include jokingly knocking a policeman's helmet off as he celebrated a goal and cocking his leg at Manchester City fans.
Although censured for his conduct in the past, it is thought that the final straw came when he was put in the doghouse by club bosses after sweets he flung into the crowd hit a girl and prompted a complaint.
Mr Betts said in Yorkshire Today: "I have resigned. Toby Tyke is still there and will be there for years and years to come. It is just me who has resigned."
Toby's career highlights include jokingly knocking a policeman's helmet off as he celebrated a goal and cocking his leg at Manchester City fans.
Although censured for his conduct in the past, it is thought that the final straw came when he was put in the doghouse by club bosses after sweets he flung into the crowd hit a girl and prompted a complaint.
Mr Betts said in Yorkshire Today: "I have resigned. Toby Tyke is still there and will be there for years and years to come. It is just me who has resigned."