Shackletons daily news
New Store Comes to Fox Valley:
New home and lifestyle store now open at Fox Valley FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES RETAILER
Stocksbridge buzzed with excitement as Shackletons, the awardwinning, family-owned home and garden retailer, prepared to open its doors at Fox Valley on Saturday 24 May. It wasn't just another store opening; it was the arrival of a unique retail experience that promises to enrich the
truly special to shoppers.
UNVEILS
doors with local ‘Lollipop Lady’ Jacqueline Higginbottom BEM, cutting the ribbon.
Jacqueline received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2023 New Year Honours for her dedicated service to the community. She has served 50 years as the ‘Lollipop Lady’ at Deepcar St. John’s School.
NEW CONCEPT STORE
AND HOMEWARES RETAILER
NEW CONCEPT STORE OPENS FURNITURE
The award-winning home and furniture retailer Shackletons has launched the first of its brand-new concept stores at Fox Valley in North Sheffield this weekend.
The company has transformed a prime unit at the shopping centre into a beautiful new home and furniture store, working in collaboration with the leading home and outdoor furniture and homewares specialist, Gallery.
The new Fox Valley store is the first dedicated Gallery living concept store in the UK – with further stores planned.
The local community voted Local hero Jackie Higginbottom to cut the ribbon on the new store to welcome the family-run business to Fox Valley.
The company launched an online poll to ask residents who they would like to see as the ribbon-cutting guest of honour for their opening day. Jackie was voted as the community’s local hero and treated to a special gift hamper as well as the honour of cutting the ribbon.
Jackie is a well-known local resident, having worked in Deepcar as a lollipop lady for fifty years, looking after generations of local children on their way to school. She received a British Empire Medal from the King in his first New Year’s Honours List.
Jackie said the new store looked “absolutely wonderful” and it was an honour to be nominated by the local community.
As well as a full range of Gallery furniture, the 14,700 sq. ft. store
also sells fabulous home accessories, from cushions and vases to tableware, candles, bedding and diffusers, alongside a great gifting range.
The ground floor features outdoor furniture as well as beautiful and affordable dining suites, sofas and accessories.
The first floor has been transformed into a showroom for bedroom furniture and accessories as well as a stylish café overlooking the ground floor entrance.
Shackletons was founded 26 years ago by brothers David and Paul Shackleton with a garden centre, furniture, home furnishings and gift store in Chatburn, the heart of the Ribble Valley.
The company has expanded in recent years with an outlet store at Redbrick Mill in Batley, and they are delighted to be rolling out the first of their new format stores in North Sheffield, bringing something completely new to the area.
Co-founder David Shackleton said: “We have been given such a warm welcome here at Fox Valley. The new living concept store is a close collaboration with Gallery, and we are so grateful for the hard work of their talented team in creating this fabulous new concept that we’re proud to have launched at Fox Valley.
“Our existing team and our new Fox Valley team have also worked incredibly hard to create our new living concept store. Our new team at Fox Valley have really understood what we want to achieve here in the look
and feel of the store, and they’re already a key part of the Shackleton and Gallery family.”
“We would also like to say a big thank you to our local hero Jackie for cutting the ribbon. We are an independent, familyrun business, but we are new to this part of South Yorkshire, so we wanted to ask the local community who they would like to see opening the store – Jackie was the unanimous choice!”
Shackletons has taken on the former Sandersons Department store unit at Fox Valley by the entrance to the centre. The company has employed a number of former Sandersons staff at the new store.
Managing Director of Dransfield Properties, which owns and manages Fox Valley, James Shepherd said: “The Shackletons team have done a fantastic job with the store, it looks great and we’re sure customers are going to be really impressed and inspired for their home décor with the fresh and contemporary feel.
“We are particularly pleased to be welcoming a family owned and run business to this very special space at Fox Valley and we wish David and the whole team all the very best in their new store.”
To keep up to date with news and events at Fox Valley visit www. foxvalleysheffield.co.uk and to find out more about Shackletons visit www.shackletonsonline. co.uk
NOW OPEN
consults with High Green residents Page .2
VOTERS TO GO TO THE POLLS IN BY-ELECTION
Voters in Stocksbridge and Upper Don are to head to the polls on ursday 26 June to ll the vacant seat on She eld City Council. It comes a er Julie Grocutt (pictured), the former Councillor for Stocksbridge and Upper Don, resigned from her seat earlier this month. As a result of her resignation, a by-election has now been triggered and will be held in the ward on ursday 26 June. Further details of the candidates standing in the by-election will be announced on Monday 2 June 2025.
MP LISTENS TO HIGH GREENERS’: CHANGES TO THE WELFARE SYSTEM
MP gathers constituents’ views on the Government’s proposed changes to the welfare system
Marie Tidball MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, held a constituency meeting in High Green, to hear from her constituents about how the Government’s changes to the welfare system, proposed in the ‘Pathways to Work’ green paper and consultation, will a ect them.
e meeting, which took place at the High Green Club, started with a speech from Marie about the changes that the Government has proposed to the welfare system, including an additional £1 billion per year of investment in support for employment, health and skills by the end of the decade.
During the evening, constituents worked in smaller groups to discuss ve themes based on the changes proposed by the Government. ese
themes included changes to the bene ts assessment process, including the scrapping of the Work Capability Assessment for those claiming the health element of Universal Credit, changes to Personal Independent Payments (PIP) and Universal Credit and reforms to the Access to Work scheme.
e evening ended with closing remarks from Marie, who re ected on some of the key recommendations from discussions with constituents during the evening. She will be using all the correspondence and views that she has gathered from her constituents to feed into the Government 12 week consultation.
Marie Tidball MP said:
“I was grateful to hear such valuable contributions from constituents
about the Government’s proposals. eir skills and lived experiences led to some brilliant recommendations around innovative ways to better support disabled people into work, volunteer experiences and access reasonable adjustments more easily.
“I will be using the views contributed by those attending, alongside constituents who have written to me, to inform my engagement with the Government on this issue. I would encourage any constituents concerned about the changes to write in to me with your views.
“ ere must be nothing about us, without us. Disabled voices must be at the heart of decision-making about our own lives, and to design a welfare system that remains compassionate, fair, and t for purpose.”
Rob puts his road surface experience to the test
As the boss of a company that specialises in surfaces and tarmac, Rob Saxby knows all there is to know about what makes a good road.
But there’s nothing likely to give you a better sense of the perfect thoroughfare than the gruelling 26.2 miles of the celebrated London Marathon.
Rob, the director of Eccleseld company Saxsby Surfacing Contractors took on the famous sporting challenge in memory of his nan Margaret Mawson, who was a St Luke’s patient.
“My mum and my auntie used to take her up to St Luke’s and they always said how brilliant everybody was and how much she enjoyed it,” said Rob.
“So when I got my place in the London Marathon I thought about who I was going to be running for and I literally had one of those light bulb moments and knew I’d run it for my nan and St Luke’s.”
And a er completing a tough training schedule, running at weekends and tting in other sessions around a busy working week, he eventually crossed the nish line in London’s Mall, knowing he had raised a fantastic nal total of £5,827.
“I want to thank all the people who sponsored me, including all regular customers, who have supported me and kept me going,” Rob said.
“People always say that when you’ve done one marathon you get into it and I’ve already been asked if I’d do it againbut I’d say ask me again in a month’s time when my knees are better!”
ere’s still time to support Rob by visiting www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/robsaxby-londonmarathon2025
Rugby Royalty Presents Medal to Stocksbridge Captain
Rugby legend and iconic British & Irish Lions leader Martin Johnson presented former Stocksbridge Rugby club captain Adam Roles-Middlehurst with his winner's medal from the Fox Valley Trophy series.
Johnson, who was in She eld for a speaking engagement with She eld Eagles at the OEC on ursday, took the opportunity to honour Roles-Middlehurst, who missed the club's recent awards night. Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby emerged victorious in the series against local rivals Wortley RUFC, winning two games to one.
Roles-Middlehurst admitted he was surprised by the presentation. "It came as a bit of a shock," he said, "but what an honour to receive my medal from the man himself."
Picture: Rob with St Luke’s fundraiser Rebecca Walker
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Friends of the Earth Stage 'Planet Over Profit' Photo Stunt
'Planet Over Profit'
Members of She eld Friends of the Earth, over the weekend staged a photo stunt in the city's Winter Garden to launch their new 'Planet Over Pro t' campaign. e demonstration aimed to highlight the threat posed to global forests and wildlife by the supply chains of UK companies.
Campaigners dressed as endangered animals, using props, face masks, and placards, to show solidarity with international forest defenders. e local action coincided with the launch of Friends of the Earth’s broader 'Planet over Pro t' campaign.
e campaign will work with partners in a ected countries, including WAHLI (Friends of the Earth Indonesia) and SAVE Rivers in Malaysia, to raise awareness of injustices linked to UK companies. ese companies are alleged to contribute to the destruction of forests,
wildlife, and indigenous livelihoods through palm oil and timber plantations, soy elds, and cattle farms in regions like the Amazon and Southeast Asia.
She eld Friends of the Earth argues that UK companies have long prioritised pro t over environmental and social responsibility in their supply chains. e group is advocating for a new Business, Human Rights and Environment Act to mandate that companies prevent environmental damage and human rights abuses within their supply networks.
e 'Planet over Pro t' launch marks the start of a series of activities by Shefeld Friends of the Earth, including creative events, public actions, social media engagement, collaboration with local groups, and lobbying local Members of Parliament to support the proposed new law.
Shaun Rumbelow of She eld Friends of the Earth commented: " e everyday products we buy in She eld o en have a hidden cost. Many consumers are unaware that their purchases are linked to devastating deforestation worldwide."
He added: "Communities are losing their homes and forests, while UK companies make huge pro ts with little accountability. A new law could change this."
Mr Rumbelow noted that a signi cant majority of the British public and numerous businesses support stronger regulations on supply chain environmental abuses. He urged the public to contact their MPs and encourage them to support legislation ensuring UK company supply chains do not contribute to overseas forest destruction.
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
MAY
WEDNESDAY
Entrance for visitors £3 to include refreshments.
books, a children reading group for 8-11 years held on the 1st of each month.
Text ‘EYUP’ to 85258 for urgent support
A new partnership, launched this week, o ers urgent mental health support by text message to people in South Yorkshire.
e service – a partnership between NHS South Yorkshire and innovative digital service Shout, which is powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations – o ers free, condential, 24/7 text support for anyone struggling to cope.
Anyone in the area experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health challenges can use the service by texting the word ‘EYUP’ to 85258 at any time of day or night. e text service is designed to provide urgent, anonymous support for people who need urgent mental health assistance. e service ensures patients can access help directly, day
or night, without having to wait to speak to someone face-to-face or on the telephone. As well as providing support to members of the public, it also helps ease pressures on mental health services.
Dr David Crichton, Chief Medical O cer at NHS South Yorkshire, said: “ is is an excellent partnership between the NHS and Mental Health Innovations and enables us to provide a much needed service to the people of South Yorkshire. We know that some people are uncomfortable seeking face-to-face support for mental health issues so the option to have a text conversation encourages more people to reach out for help.
“‘If you feel like yours, or someone else’s, life is at risk from mental health crisis, please call 999.”
28 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 28th May at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Jane Ashby, entitled “For The Love of China”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting.
THURSDAY
29 Penistone and Stocksbridge Fairtrade Group 7pm- AGM at Stocksbridge Christian Centre, Cedar Road, S36 1AS. All welcome.
SATURDAY
31 Stocksbridge Christian Centre are having a Quiz Night with home made Pie ‘n’Pea supper on Saturday 31st May at 7 p.m. price £10 each. Please ring 07415 277266 or 07532425641 to book your place. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking.
JUNE
MONDAY
2 Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting at Christ Church, 2.30pm Manchester Road, Stocksbridge. S36 1DY. Speaker is Helen Slater “ Revisiting Nepal or Florence”
TUESDAY
3 Why not come along to the TARA Co ee Morning at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS ? 10.15 - 11.45 am Everyone welcome to drop in any time for a chat and some cake. tarastocksbridge.ud @gmail. com 07957 206646
WEDNESDAY
4 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We are having a talk about the work done by Burton Street Foundation to support people with learning disabilities to enable them to reach their personal goals. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
THURSDAY
5 High Green WI will be meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 5th of June in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church, on Wortley Road. The event is “A History of Newton Chambers” with Josh Daniels. The competition is “An Industrial Item”. Members and visitors warmly welcome.
SATURDAY
7 Join Stocksbridge Library 2, The Ikon Church for Chatter-
FRIDAY
6 High Green Methodist Church 3C’c Co ee, cake and companionship. 10am-12 noon. Come on your own, with friends and make new friends. All welcome.
WEDNESDAY
11 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 16th April at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by John Lyte, entitled “History of The Post O ce”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting.
THURSDAY
12 Chapeltown WI will meet at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church. Eric Jackson will talk about ‘Votes for women’. The competition is a Su ragette item. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
FRIDAY
13 & Saturday 14 Steel Valley Beacon Summer program kicks o with the Little Sing, 35 beautiful voices sing and perform some of our favourite
On
pieces from stage and screen. A wonderful fun evening for all music lovers. 715pm.Tickets £12 from Samuel’s Kitchen and ticketsource. Matinee 2.30pm Saturday 14 June.
SUNDAY
15 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Commoners Muck-In’ - regular conservation morning, probably clearing saplings but check on the website - www. walc.epizy.com, 10am-12pm, bring gloves, tools provided, families very welcome
FRIDAY
20 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Proms Concert To be held at the Newton Hall Chapeltown on Friday 20th June 2025 at 7.30 pm Tickets from Margaret and Peter on 0114 2460983 or Julie and Paul 07876472246 or 07926377410
SUNDAY
22 Summer Fayre - Stocksbridge Community Leisure CentreSunday 22nd June, 11.00 am through until 3.00 pm, craft stalls, fun fair, live music, BBQ and lots of fun for the family.
JULY
THURSDAY
3,4 & 5 Classic comedy, “Allo! Allo!” 7.15pm A wonderful cast of talented actors bring this much loved comedy to the stage at Christ Church, Stocksbridge.
Tickets are going fast - we shall only say this once! Tickets £12 from Samuel’s Kitchen and ticketsource. A matinee at 2.30pm on Saturdya 5th
FRIDAY
4, 10am onwards to Sunday 6th July Bolsterstone Flower Festival. St Mary’s Church Bolsterstone. Free entry with raffle and programme available. The flower festival is an integral part of Bolsterstone/St Mary’s Village Festival.
SATURDAY
5 from Noon to 5pm. Bolsterstone/St Mary’s Village Festival in the square and on the village field. Music from Deepcar Brass Band and Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir. Lots of fabulous Craft Stalls. Classic Cars Display. History Tours. Cafe with Hot and Cold Food, Drinks and Cakes. Farm Shop. Bouncy Castle, Inflatable Slide. Face Painting. Ice cream, Popcorn, Candy Floss. Flower Festival. Art Show and more. A Family Afternoon of Activities catering for all ages, with various interests and tastes. Free entry and parking.
WEDNESDAY
9 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 9th July at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Mike Higginbottom, entitled “The Windy City”. Our relaxed meetings take place on
alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
AUGUST
WEDNESDAY
6 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 6th August at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Peter Drake, entitled “The Cleveland Way”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
ONGOING
SATURDAYS
Councillors Janet Ridler and Mark Whittaker hold a monthly drop-in on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 11.00 – 12.00 at the temporary Stocksbridge Library inside Ikon Church, Manchester Road (opposite the old library). We can help with council services, advice, or if you need a listening ear. No appointment needed, everyone welcome.
SUNDAYS
Join us at 9.30am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Grenoside, S35 8RL Salt Box Lane crossroads (not 1st Sunday in April or October)
Friendship Lunches a Resounding Success
The inaugural Music Makes Memories' Friendship Lunch at Ponti's Italian Kitchen in Fox Valley has been hailed a resounding success. The event, which coincided with Dementia Awareness Week, was noted for its excellent service, delicious pizza buffet, and a stunning performance by Oliver Harris.
Amy Mosforth, Events & Marketing Manager, and her team at Ponti's were praised for their first-class service. Kathy Markwick, Freelance Community Consultant, who initiated dementia-friendly events in South Yorkshire 11 years ago, expressed her gratitude to Angela and her team for hosting the special occasion. Pat Anyon, a guest, described the event as "amazing" with the "fabulous Oliver Harris" providing the entertainment.
The next Friendship Lunch is scheduled for Thursday 3 July. This event is generously sponsored by Jay Bhayani, MD of Bhayani HR & Employment Law, and will raise funds and awareness for the Master Cutler's Challenge. Oliver Harris is also set to perform at another Friendship Lunch at the Barrel in Chapeltown on Wednesday 4 June.
Tickets for both events must be booked in advance through the respective venues. For inquiries or to discuss hosting an event, Kathy Markwick can be contacted at 0772 9528844 or kathymarkwick@gmail.com.
A photograph captured Diane Hurrell, Sheridan Taylor, and Pat Anyon at the inaugural lunch.
Viral Reggae star to perform
The Fringe at Tramlines returns to Sheffield city centre from 25 to 27 July, offering a packed weekend of music, DJs and culture across more than 40 venues. Supported by Sheffield BID, Sheffield City Council and Tramlines Festival, The Fringe has become one of the most important and accessible events in the city’s cultural calendar. In 2024, the event attracted over 45,000 people.
The Fringe Stage at Devonshire Green, the centrepiece for the event, is programmed by Tramlines co-founder, Alan Deadman (aka Papa Al). Devonshire Green offers a place for audiences of all ages to meet, dance and enjoy the weekend’s atmosphere. The stage is headlined on Saturday 26th July by Fringe favourites Jungle Lion who return with their full ska orchestra, while Sunday’s headline set comes
from reggae pioneer Macka B and the Roots Ragga Band. Alongside many other acts performing will be Ed Sheeran-supported artists from Tracks music project.
Headliner Macka B is a legend of the UK reggae scene whose career spans four decades. Known for his conscious lyrics, witty wordplay and deep roots in Rastafarian culture, he has built a following that crosses generations. In recent years, Macka B has also become a viral figure on social media, where his freestyle series promoting healthy eating have gained millions of views. Tracks like ‘Cucumba’ have been shared by global stars including Alicia Keys and Naomi Campbell. His appearance in Sheffield will celebrate 40 years since the release of his first record.
David M BEVAN
Passed away peacefully at home on 11th May, aged 78.
David, the devoted Husband of Grace and loving Father of Grace and Sophie, had been battling Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia for many years.
The Funeral Service will be held in St Mary’s Church, Bolsterstone on Tuesday 3rd June at 2pm. This will be followed by refreshments in the Village Hall. All friends and family are welcome.
Donations in lieu of flowers will go towards the building of a safe home for people with Dementia in Rwanyana in Uganda.
Pauline MARSHALL
Aged 90
Devoted Wife to the late Harry, much loved Mum of Scott and the late Adrian. Grandma to Ashley and Amy.
The funeral will take place on Wednesday 4th June at 14.00, Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel. Family flowers only please but donations will be appreciated to the Retired Greyhound Trust, Wortley.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Rd, Deepcar, S36 2RE 0114 2885555
MP Supports New Mental Health Law and Service Changes
Marie Tidball, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, has backed the Government’s proposed reforms to the Mental Health Act in Parliament. e new Mental Health Bill aims to modernise the 1983 legislation, placing mental health on an equal footing with physical health and enhancing patient care while maintaining public safety.
e new legislation coincides with the Government’s plans to expand mental health support in secondary schools, with new teams expected to reach nearly one million pupils. Backed by £680 million in funding this year, the rst wave of support will target 500 schools, prioritised by NHS-identi ed local needs.
Dr Tidball welcomed what she described as the “most signi cant change” in the Bill: removing autism and learning disabilities from the legal de nition of mental disorder. Under the proposed law, individuals with these conditions will no longer be detained under the Mental Health Act unless they also have a separate, treatable mental illness requiring hospital care. She said this change would help create a more supportive, community-based approach to care.
Citing current gures, Dr Tidball criticised the legacy of 14 years of Conservative government, during which over 2,000 autistic people and those with learning disabilities remain in mental health hospitals in England—some for nearly ve years on average. She described this as a “human rights scandal” and said the status quo is “simply wrong”.
ese teams will o er a range of services, from group sessions to build resilience to one-to-one support for managing anxiety. ey will also provide expert guidance to school sta and link up with NHS services to ensure joined-up care.
Dr Tidball welcomed the move as part of Labour’s broader vision to have mental health support teams in every secondary school and to recruit 8,500 mental health professionals by 2029/30.
She highlighted the work of local organisations such as Greave House Farm Trust and Action for Autism Barnsley, and said: “Too many people are still being detained who could live well in our communities with the right support.”
She added that the Government’s 10-Year NHS Plan o ers a real opportunity for an integrated, preventative approach to care.
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LIEBORE IS TOAST, AND BURNING THE HOUSE DOWN
As if Liebore hadn’t lied and bored us to death long ago … just how politically inept can they get? After the transparent electoral spite against a defenceless low-income group of everyone who is on just the new state pension, in axing the WFA (when fuel prices had been driven up by net stupid zero) ... the dumbest political move ever? … now they make the totemic gaff of completely selling out our fishermen. Hilariously they also point up their actual goal of making us strangers in our own land by the most risible empty promise in political history. Guffaws everywhere. Absolutely nobody believes Starmer on immigration. His position has always been to have no border.
Liebore is toast of course; burnt to a cinder. And they’re burning the house down with ‘em. Their mantra of a £22billion black hole is playing us all for total fools as they increase the national debt by about that figure MONTHLY.
They don’t care because they take us for worse than fools. They hate us. In their eyes we are political blacklegs in settling for ‘capitalist’ consumerism, resisting being educated out of our human nature. The whole of ‘identity politics’ is about replacing us with a new ‘deserving poor’. ‘Anybody but the worker’ meant folk from the ghetto (ethnic minorities, migrants, gays, etc) when they realised they had to have at least some blokes and not just the sisters.
The UK is a failed state. We are being made to live hopelessly beyond our means because nobody is willing even to talk about what is needed: government spending slashed by no less than a third right across the board – and if you think this excessive, it’s exactly what Daniel Hannon called for last weekend. At the same time, spending needs to be redirected to what the state should do, as its primary duty, but doesn’t: maintaining a border, defence and policing. On top of this, tearing up idiotic international agreements so as to end disastrous uncontrolled mass immigration, and a bonfire of regulation to allow a Singapore-like explosion of economic activity to grow our way out of the financial abyss. Liebore promised merely anaemic growth, which it then did everything to prevent, and promised trivial spending cuts then rowed back even on these.
If politicians don’t address the reality, the IMF will impose measures the like of which we’ve never seen and few will have considered remotely likely. I live on just the state pension of about £230 a week, and in line with massive pain for everybody and everything else, £75 needs to be cut from this to get nearer what the country can afford to pay out. Never mind losing the WFA. That was singling out. The comeuppance for our state and economy will be a case of most if not all of us in the same boat.
A start would be Reform axing all net zero measures and properly cutting waste. So I’ve joined ‘em. Yet nobody can come clean on what is required and hope to be elected. On this you could say our cynical politicians are right that the electorate is stupid, but nobody can vote for something that’s not on the ballot card. All we can do is not vote for the tried and tested failure of Liebore and of the Tawdries before them (nor the still worse Gweens or Glib Dems) and instead support what at least is moving in the right direction. Reform is the only game in town.
Here in Stocksbridge we can send a signal in the forthcoming council by-election: the independent Julie Grocott is stepping down. She’s been a good local councillor who took a stand against Liebore in resigning from them. It would be fitting for her replacement also to spurn Liebore.
Steve Moxon, Deepcar
Local Opinion
8 Weeks to find new buyer for Steel works
Liberty Steel is on the brink of a winding-up order. Putting at risk 1500 jobs in South Yorkshire, at the Rotherham and Stocksbridge sites.
Courts last week put the winding-up order on hold, as a possible buyer for the steel group emerged.
Insolvency and Companies Court judge Sebastian Prentis adjourned a winding-up petition for eight weeks until 16 July to allow time for the sale of the company to go through.
Marie Tidball MP, Labour Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
“I have listened to my constituents in Stocksbridge and agree with them that it is time for Gupta to go. He has run out of road; his chaotic ownership must end now. Our Stocksbridge Speciality Steels site needs new, competent ownership to maximise its potential, so that the business has a real chance for success.
“As I said in Parliament earlier today, Stocksbridge Speciality Steels has strategically significant, highly specialist capability, to produce world-leading steel, crucial to our national defence, aerospace, and energy industries. The site employs 650 people and has an excellent skills training centre.
“I know the capability of the site, the extraordinary ability of the workforce and the exceptional quality steel produced in Stocksbridge. What we need now is a
new owner to come forward and restore the glory of a site which has proudly made steel in our constituency for over 180 years. This is an exciting investment opportunity, and these works are part of the strategically important South Yorkshire Steel Corridor.”
Roy Rickhuss CBE, General Secretary of steelworkers' union Community, said:
"Our members at Liberty Steel have endured far too much turbulence and uncertainty over recent years as a result of the erratic and irresponsible way the company has been run. Failed restructuring plans and broken promises from the company have become a familiar, demoralising pattern, and things simply can't go on as they are.
"Ever since the collapse of Greensill Capital, we have worked with the company in good faith, even when refinancing deadlines have been missed. Our patience has now run out.
"Liberty Steel's plants are strategically important sites for the UK steel industry and the country as a whole, and these assets must be secured.
"New, responsible ownership is needed to give the business the brighter future it needs and deserves, and that can only be achieved with a decisive change at the top. Enough is enoughSanjeev Gupta must invest in the business or step aside
LABOUR GOVT FACING REBELLION
Labour Party members in the Sheffield Central constituency voted last week (22 May) to oppose the government’s proposed benefit cuts, calling on the government to ‘scrap these cuts’, ‘retain and improve the Access to Work fund’, and ‘seek alternative methods of improving public finances that do not target the poorest’.
The motion passed at a Sheffield Central constituency Labour Party (CLP) meeting with a convincing majority of the vote. This follows similar motions passed at Sheffield Heeley and Sheffield Hallam CLPs last month.
Labour Party members in Sheffield have been increasingly outspoken against the government’s cuts to welfare. An organisation, Sheffield Labour Against Benefit Cuts, was formed in recent months to build consensus within the party against austerity. They recently hosted a demonstration in the city centre, calling on the government to rethink the cuts.
The government has recently announced a U-turn on its cuts to winter fuel payments, recognising the harm the cuts caused to its electoral prospects in areas like Doncaster.
Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones notably told the Prime Minister that he must ‘look again’ at policies like the winter fuel allowance and proposed benefits cuts, saying that her city’s results ‘demonstrate that [Labour] need to be listening to the man, woman and businesses on the street and actually deliver for the people, with the people.’
The Labour government is reportedly facing a rebellion of 130 Labour MPs over its benefits cuts, with the majority of Sheffield’s MPs having spoken against them previously.
Léo Karran, a Sheffield Central Labour member who proposed the original motion, said: "This motion passing shows what we all already know: the majority of the Labour Party, like the majority of the public, are against benefit cuts.
"As with the U-turn on the winter fuel allowance, the government must reject the cuts and instead refocus on supporting the most vulnerable in our society."
The motion spoke to the government instead ‘taxing big business and the super-rich rather than taking away the support that disabled people need’, and stated that the ‘cuts are alienating Labour’s working-class support.’
Minesh Parekh, Labour and Co-operative Councillor for Crookes and Crosspool, said: “No one gets into politics wanting to push people into poverty but unfortunately, that’s all these cuts will achieve.
“The government promised to reverse fourteen years of austerity and lift people out of poverty. We must reorient ourselves to that vital mission.”
Foot Care at Home
by Yvonne Newton
Local Sport
Relay success for Penistone
Wednesday saw the annual running of the Rother Valley Relays, one of the most popular events on the regional athletics calendar, drawing 270 teams from clubs across South Yorkshire.
Conditions were ideal for running and the fourteen teams from Penistone Footpath Runners fared well.
The club’s men’s over40 team delivered one of the most impressive results of the day, finishing fourth overall and placing first in their age category. The team consisted of Alan Nutton, Richard Cottam, Andrew Hepenstall and James Mumford. Their time overall was 1-0846. The ladies over50 team also put in an excellent performance, taking second in their category thanks to the efforts of Rachael Mayston, Lois Lopez and Nicola McAnally.
In the men’s over50 category, the team of Andrew Pearson, Martin Ball, Matt Robinson and Ian Neville secured a well-earned third place.
Adding to the club’s success, Penistone’s youth male team—Edward Holley, Owen Moxon and Finn Pepper raced to second place in their category.
The senior ladies team of Suzanne McGill, Jade Crosby and Hannah Shaw put in a strong performance to claim sixth overall in the ladies category.
The following evening saw the first running this year of the Silkstone Shuffle which is a 4.5 mile hilly trail race. Penistone runner George
was first overall clocking 28-29. Lois Lopez of Penistone was second lady overall and first over50 lady in a time of 39-15. Heather Simpson grabbed third lady overall in 39-37. There was an age category win for Alan Knox (men over70).
A weekend packed with standout performances saw Penistone’s runners securing podium places across several parkrun events, with the ladies leading the charge in impressive fashion.
First gender finishers were Alan Nutton at Nostell, Jade Crosby at Thornes, and Suzanne McGill at Concord. Second gender places went to Julia Johnson at Nostell, Hannah Shaw at Penistone, and Richard Cottam at Dover Waterfront. Third gender places were earned by Lesley Parker at Concord, Rhianna Banford at Penistone, and Rob Lees at Muncaster Castle.
A special mention goes to Suzanne McGill, who not only took top spot at Concord but also broke the ladies over45 course record previously held for over 16 years by fellow club member Dawn Broom.
In terms of age-graded performances, Julia Johnson topped the weekend with a remarkable 85.58%, followed by Suzanne McGill at 82.45%, Dawn Broom at 81.23%, Ian Neville at 78.34%, and Richard Cottam at 77.45%.
Results
Nostell Priory Parkrun
1, Alan Nutton 18-55; 15, Julia Johnson 23-00; 23,
Phil Hinchliffe 23-43; 31, Jill Scrivens 24-34; 32, John Howsham 24-34; 35, Gemma Nutton 24-45; 39, Martin Hughes 24-56; 48, Heather Simpson 25-30; 60, Lisa Hinchliffe 26-04; 74, Steve Dickinson 26-50; 81, Stu Smith 27-19; 88, Sue Hall 28-17; 119, Olivia Clough 29-15; 139, Heath Ramsden 30-30; 171, Sarah Clough 32-48; 225, Jackie Howsham 38-37; 229, Rory O’Sullivan 3847; 230, Mandy Mallinder 38-47.
Penistone Parkrun
5, Lee Storey 19-22; 14, Ian Neville 20-28; 20, Jon Hallam 21-11; 37, Oliver France 22-50; 45, Hannah Shaw 2309; 46, Ash Howlett 23-09; 47, Rhianna Banford 23-19; 52, Dan Canetti 23-31; 56, Lee Hopkins 23-48; 68, Emily Duckett 24-27; 86, Peter Claydon 25-24; 135, Andrew Taylor 28-27; 160, Rebecca Parr 30-04; 199, Kim Rogers 33-49; 204, Danny Batty 34-52; 213, Dianne McGuinness 35-48; 233, Ray Brown 43-06.
Rother Valley Relays Mens Teams
4, 1-08-46; Alan Nutton 18-05; Richard Cottam 1646; Andrew Heppenstall 16-37; James Mumford 17-17. 10, 1-11-20; George Parr 17-23; Sean Pitt 1746; Ashley Firth 17-50; Oliver France 18-20. 25, 1-15-57; Andrew Pearson 18-42; Martin Ball 17-50; Matthew Robinson 1937; Ian Neville 19-46. 48, 1-20-52; Simon Lovidge 21-14; Michael Nicholson 20-46; Robert Lees 19-03; Gareth Irvine 19-47. 66, 1-26-25; Robin Clough 21-53; Shaun Swallow 2024; Robert Davies 20-46; John Howsham 23-21. 75,
Shuffling Jeni scoops first place
Thursday saw four Valley Hill Runners (VHR) tackle the Silkstone Shuffle, a course known for its lengthy uphill start.
Jenni Fiander continued her winning streak, claiming the vet 70 women's prize shortly after her 71st birthday. Jenni has been performing exceptionally well in this recent series of races.
On Saturday, Pete Townsend celebrated his 150th parkrun at Concord by bringing chocolates for his fellow runners.
iting Hyde; and Jenni and Gordon Fiander at Y Promenad in Wales, where Gordon marked his significant 400th parkrun – a fantastic achievement that takes many years and most Saturdays. Todd Bailey completed the single lap at Rother Valley and achieved a new personal best in his first run on this course.
1-27-32; Alex Crosby 2049; Luke McGuinness 2432; Mark Crossley 19-31; Chris Baldwin 22-40.
Ladies Teams
6, 1-00-20; Suzanne McGill 20-07; Jade Crosby 19-56; Hannah Shaw 20-15. 17, 1-04-55; Rachael Mayston 2018; Lois Lopez 22-55; Nichola McAnally 21-41. 53, 1-16-13; Amelia Cottam 25-46; Olivia Clough 26-22; Lucy Clough 24-04. 62, 1-19-43; Gemma Nutton 23-45; Jen Holley 2731; Emma Canetti 28-26. 68, 1-20-59; Jill Scrivens 24-09; Lorraine Mackie 28-25; Sue Hall 28-24. 94, 1-33-14; Andrea Lee 28-34; Kim Rogers 32-45; Myfanwy Cross 31-54.
Youth Team
2, 1-01-54; Edward Holley 19-30; Owen Moxon 2206; Finn Pepper 20-17.
Male V60 Team
12, 1-26-00; Stuart Smith 27-22; Steve Dommett 3202; Keith Gordon 26-34. Silkstone Shuffle
1, George Parr 28-29; 9, Richard Williams 32-24; 10, Ian Neville 32-35; 13, James Pierce 33-16; 18, Philip Hinchliffe 34-36; 19, Shaun Swallow 34-57; 21, Simon Lovidge 35-26; 28, Andrew Shiel 37-13; 31, Paul Fryers 38-36; 33, Daniel Canetti 38-55; 34, Matthew Coldwell 39-00; 36, Loida Lopez 39-15; 37, Heather Simpson 39-37; 39, Steve Dickinson 40-38; 40, Alan Knox 40-44; 43, Stuart Woodhead 41-26; 53, Stu Smith 44-16; 55, Keith Gordon 44-36; 57, Chloe Hinchliffe 45-28; 63, Lorraine Mackie 48-38; 64, Becky Parr 48-50; 68, Tracy Woodward 49-52; 71, Sarah Clough 50-43.
Several members were on the tourist trail again: John, Steve, and Luke at Black Rocks; Laura Deacon at Cusworth Hall; David Moorwood at Hillsborough; Kevin and Gemma Randall vis-
Sunday involved a social run for VHR over to Derwent, with some members tackling a 10mile route. As always with Valley Hill, it's clear that the club offers the best of both worlds: enjoyable running alongside a very active social scene, exemplified by Jenni, Gordon, Steve, and Luke.
Brave Hawks valiant in defeat
Parr
Rother Valley Relays: Men’s over50 team
In a closely contested fixture at Parson Cross Park, the Sheffield Hawks U13 Girls put in a determined performance against a strong Farnley Falcons side. Both teams showcased impressive skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the match.
The contest was played in great spirit, and both teams should be proud of their display. Photo by: Aaron Miller
Chapeltown create history
Chapeltown RBL 3-2 Royal Earl
Sponsored by Glasby Pallets, Chapeltown RBL finished the season off in style beating Premier Division Champions Royal Earl 3-2 in the league cup final - winning the competition for the first time in their history.
At Chesterfield FCs ground, the first half was an even encounter with Leon Howarth of Royal Earl having the best chance seeing his effort go wide, and Owen Cooke looking lively for RBL.
After a goalless 45 minutes the second half saw five goals, with the first coming two minutes in. Danny Booth burst from midfield and fed man of the match Josh Nodder who found the bottom corner with his right foot.
Alex Mosley’s sweetly struck volley hit the inside of the post and somehow stayed out, before Nodder added a second on 62 minutes when he cut inside and fired home from the edge of the area, leaving Dylan Parkin no chance.
The Earl goalkeeper then made two great saves to keep it at 2-0 and 5 minutes later they reduced the arrears with a Sam Fewkes free header from a corner, giving them the momentum.
Legion made changes to weather the storm, and on 89 minutes substitute Morgan Cowell was sent through making no mistake as he
rounded Parkin and slotted home cueing big celebrations from the RBL bench.
The fourth official indicated 6 minutes injury time, and on the stroke of 95 minutes Earl made it 3-2 through Tom Bishop, but RBL saw off any late pressure - resulting in Niall Smith deservedly lifting the trophy.
The win means Chapeltown RBL have now won all 4 Blades Super Draw trophies over 4 years, the most successful period the club has ever seen.
League Cup winners 2025. Premier Division winners 2024. Division One winners 2023. Division Two winners 2022
TIGERS STEAL POINTS
Weekend of Woes
Stocksbridge 1st XI vs Barnsley Woolley Miners 3rd XI
Stocksbridge 1st XI suffered a disappointing defeat away at Barnsley Woolley Miners 3rd XI. After losing the toss on a damp pitch, Stocksbridge were put into bat and struggled throughout their innings. Only opener John Musgrove (20) and captain Andy Hirst (17) reached double figures as wickets fell regularly. Stocksbridge were eventually bowled out for a meagre 81.
In reply, Barnsley Woolley Miners lost two early wickets thanks to Jake Vickers (2-21). However, a strong 75-run partnership secured victory for the hosts, who reached their target with eight wickets in hand.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI vs Rockingham CC
The 2nd XI hosted Rockingham CC and conceded 170-4 after electing to field first. Young leg-spinner Archie Jowitt took a wicket on his debut, while Paul Hargreaves bowled an economical spell.
In their chase, Stocksbridge's batting faltered, slipping to 68-7 despite a resilient 68 from Harry Hurst. Jon Pickford offered some late support with 18, and Stocksbridge managed to reach 140 all out, securing valuable bonus points.
Green Moor 1st XI vs Stocksbridge 2nd XI (Cup)
Stocksbridge 2nd XI travelled to Green Moor for a cup tie. Batting first, they struggled to build partnerships despite a halfcentury from Ant Siddall (57) and 19 from Chris Thwaites, eventually being dismissed for 122.
Green Moor chased down the total comfortably, reaching 126-3 in just 16.1 overs despite early wickets from Fin Siddall, Tom Perry, and Liam Grayson.
Photo by Ian Revitt
SIMON Stead was pleased to see his Sheffield side overcome a ‘couple of hiccups’ and still claim maximum points at Oxford on Thursday. The Bank Holiday clash at home to Leicester was called off early due to the forecasted rain.
Photo credit: LES AUBREY
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DESIGNED TO CREATE A HOME YOU’LL LOVE.
With beginnings as a small, family-run business and now a heritage that spans over 50 years, Gallery Direct has grown into one of the UK’s most loved and respected names in home and outdoor living.
What began with beautifully handcra ed wall décor has ourished and evolved—guided by three generations of furniture-making passion—into a brand known for quality you can rely on, and style you’ll love coming home to. From statement furniture to those all-important nishing touches, every piece is lovingly
designed by Gallery’s in-house team here in the UK. oughtful design, considered materials, and timeless appeal come together to help you create spaces that feel e ortlessly ‘you’.
Whether you’re refreshing a single room or reimagining your entire home, Gallery Direct offers everything you need to bring your vision to life—indoors and out.
Stylish, dependable, and made with care, it’s a brand that’s here for your home, now and for the years ahead. KEY EVENTS IN OUR TIMELINE:
The Acer Sofa (Top Left) The Artisan Sideboard (Bo om Left) The Madrid Open Display Walnut (Right)
Since
With beginnings as a small, family-run business and now a heritage that spans over 50 years, Gallery Direct has grown into one of the UK’s most loved and respected names in home and outdoor living.
2009–2012:
Broadening Horizons
e company’s journey of diversi cation began with the introduction of occasional furniture and photo frames, paving the way for a more comprehensive product o ering.
2014: A Milestone in Furniture
A de ning year for Gallery came with the acquisition of heritage brand Frank Hudson, established in 1947—bringing decades of ne furniture-making expertise into the brand. is year also marked the launch of Gallery’s textile division, reinforcing its position as a multi-category supplier.
2015:
Strengthening British-based manufacturing and further range expansion
Further expansion followed with the introduction of UKmade mattresses and the company’s rst dedicated upholstery collection, deepening its focus on comfort and cra smanship.
2020: Elevating the Finishing Touches
Recognising the importance of home styling, Gallery launched a dedicated Home Accessories division—curating versatile accents to complement its growing interiors portfolio.
2021: Taking Style Outdoors
e launch of the dedicated Outdoor Living category reected a natural progression for the brand, o ering designled, durable solutions that bring interior elegance to outdoor spaces.
2023: A New Era for Wall Décor
Gallery further cemented its position in the wall décor market through the acquisition of Art Marketing, signigicantly enhanced its range with an expanded portfolio of artwork, omas Kent clocks and photo frames.
