e Government has announced £1.5 billion of investment for the South Yorkshire transport system. is forms part of the biggest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city regions as the Chancellor promises the renewal of Britain.
e funding is intended to renew South Yorkshire’s tram network, funding better tram stops and the building of a new eet of trams by 2032. e announcement will also reform South Yorkshire’s buses, with franchised buses operating in She eld,
Doncaster and Rotherham by 2027, and across the whole of South Yorkshire by 2029.
Marie Tidball, Labour MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
“ e government’s £1.5bn investment will reform South Yorkshire’s buses, to make our vision to bring buses under public control in South Yorkshire, a reality.
Continued on page 6
Photo: Sheffield Hallam University
New Mayor Elected
At the Annual Meeting of Stocksbridge Town Council, Councillor Keith Davis was elected Mayor for the 2025/26 council year, taking over from outgoing Mayor Alan Law.
is will be the second time Councillor Davis has held the position, having previously served as Mayor in 2017.
Speaking a er his election, Cllr Davis said: “I’m really looking forward to the year ahead and the opportunities it brings to meet people and attend functions. e last time I was Mayor, I met some wonderful people and had the honour of o ciating at the 100th birthdays of two local residents.”
He has already begun his mayoral duties, recently attending the ceremony to install the new Lord Mayor of She eld, and noted that several further engagements are scheduled for later this month.
e Deputy Mayor for 2025/26 will be chosen at the next meeting of Stocksbridge Town Council.
If you would like the Mayor to attend your function please contact the Clerk to the Council at admin@ stocksbridge-council.co.uk or call on 0114 2887895.
Tributes paid to former top-flight referee
Uriah Rennie, the Premier League's rst black referee, has died aged 65.
Rennie o ciated more than 300 games between 1997 and 2008, including 175 Premier League matches.
Rennie's partner, Jayne, and his older brother, Glenroy, said he would be "so very sadly missed" following his death.
In a statement, they said: "Our family have appreciated all the support from the nursing teams from Northern General and Weston Park Hospitals, plus close family and friends during the past few weeks at such a di cult time."
His family said he had been "privately battling a recent cancer diagnosis" prior to his death.
She eld & Hallamshire County Football Association, described their former chair as a "trailblazing referee" who "broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come."
Rennie recently revealed he was learning to walk again a er a rare condition le him paralysed from the waist down.
Born in Jamaica, he moved to She eld as a child and grew up in the Wybourn area of the city.
He started refereeing in local football in 1979 before making history in 1997 when he
oversaw a top- ight match between Derby County and Wimbledon.
Former sports minister Richard Caborn said She eld had "lost one of its favourite sons".
Speaking to BBC Radio She eld, Caborn, a former MP for She eld Central, said: "He was born in Jamaica but he was adopted by this city and adopted by the great sport of football.
South Yorkshire's Mayor, Oliver Coppard said “As well as his work in football, he campaigned to promote inclusion in sport and worked as a magistrate in She eld…
"My condolences go out to Uriah’s family and many, many friends. May his memory be a blessing."
Rennie had been a magistrate in She eld since 1996 and campaigned on issues including improving equality and inclusion in sport, mental health and tackling deprivation.
He had a master's degree in business administration and law and, in November 2023, was awarded an honorary doctorate by Shefeld Hallam University for his distinguished contributions to sport and his work with South Yorkshire communities.
In May, Rennie was installed as the new chancellor of the university.
DOG SHOT DEAD
Armed police were forced to shoot dead a dog, believed to be an unregistered XL Bully, after it seriously injured a man and a woman in a back garden on Collin Avenue, near Hillsborough. The family pet – a rescue dog – reportedly attacked its owner and his mother, with one eyewitness describing the horrifying scene as “like a lion at the zoo with a piece of meat”.
Police said: “The woman, aged in her 50s suffered serious, potentially lifealtering injuries to her leg and was taken to hospital by ambulance. A man, in his 30s also suffered serious puncture wounds from the dog and was taken to hospital.
“Armed officers used tactics to attempt to contain the animal, but due to the continued risk it posed, it was decided to shoot the dog at the scene.
“The dog involved in this incident is believed to be an unregistered XL Bully, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the dog’s breed and becoming out of control is ongoing.”
South Yorkshire Police said shooting a dog is never a decision taken lightly and is only made when all other tactics are exhausted, but that the safety of communities and officers is and always will be the priority.
Jack’s 165-Mile Run Was No Joke
Runner Battles Injury to Complete Gruelling 50 laps of Damflask Challenge
What began as a joke turned into an extraordinary test of endurance for 25-year-old Jack Sampson from Stannington, who set out to complete 50 laps of Damflask Reservoir—totalling a staggering 165 miles—all in aid of two children’s charities. But with injury looming in the background, his journey became a story not just of physical strength, but of mental resilience.
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Jack’s inspiration for the challenge came last summer after he completed an 80mile run around Lough Neagh, the largest lake in the British Isles. When he shared his feat online, one cheeky suggestion caught his eye: “Do 50 laps of Damflask.” At first, it seemed ridiculous. But for Jack, that was exactly the point.
“The fact it was a joke is exactly why I must attempt it,” Jack said. “It couldn’t be done… or could it?”
Originally planned for 14–15 March, the challenge was disrupted by a painful bout of shin splints. Despite being warned by his physio to stop at the first sign of serious discomfort, Jack still managed an astonishing 24 laps—over 127km—on the first day alone. “I thought I might only manage five laps,” he said, “so to get three marathons done in one go felt like I’d given a good account of myself.”
Unable to complete the challenge in one continuous run, Jack returned in the days that followed to finish what he’d started. Walking and running where he could, he pushed through the discomfort and completed the final 26 laps
across four more days. In total: 50 laps and 266.06km (165 miles).
“This wasn’t how I imagined it going, but I’m proud I kept going,” he said. “It was brutal at times—mentally more than physically—but I said I’d do it, and I did.”
As well as raising money for The Running Charity and Barnardo’s, Jack opened the challenge to others, encouraging people to join him for a lap or two. Many did, and their support proved vital. “Messages, donations, and people turning up with water and snacks—it made a huge difference.”
Now in Australia, Jack says he’s already thinking about what’s next. “This was a big leap from what I’ve done before. Maybe next time I’ll train properly and do it right. But we live to fight another day.”
You can still support Jack’s fundraising effort by visiting www.givestar.io/gs/thedamflask-50
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£1.5 Billion to save Transport
...Continued from front page
e Government has announced £1.5 billion of investment for the South Yorkshire transport system.
e announcement comes alongside the Government’s action to overhaul the Treasury ‘Green Book’, which has held back investment in regions outside of London and the South East for too long. ese reforms will transform the way government evaluates the case for investing in our regions so that everywhere across the country gets a fair hearing.
e record funding comes ahead of thist week’s Spending Review when the Chancellor sets out how this government is investing in the country’s future to make working people across every part of Britain better o .
Marie Tidball, Labour MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
“ is announcement is game-changing for communities across our constituency, as part of the biggest ever investment into our local transport. 14 years of the Conservatives saw us lose 53% of our bus network in South Yorkshire alone and le parts of our country behind with wide gaps between regions, our cities and our towns.
“Our Labour Government is making different choices, investing in all corners of our country.
“I raised in Parliament earlier this week how important buses are to connecting our communities, including my work to bring back the Hopper Bus, the SL1 tram
link bus, and improvements to the number 21 bus from Penistone to Barnsley.
“ e government’s £1.5bn investment will reform South Yorkshire’s buses, to make our vision to bring buses under public control in South Yorkshire, a reality.
“Renewing our tram network also lays the foundation for extending the tram network, and I will continue working hard to secure a tram-train extension to Stocksbridge, via Oughtibridge, Wharncli e Side and Deepcar. e funding from the Chancellor for our local transport shows the government is listening to what our communities need, and backing South Yorkshire.”
IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR!
Valley Festival’s almost here! Happiness is around the corner…..and great local talent, fun, laughter and the odd beer, if you fancy it. Yes, the Valley Music Festival is raring to go this summer, with an amazing line-up for you to enjoy.
Since 2018, we have been show-casing local musicians, from nursery age upwards to lifelong performers, every year in our week-long festival. We have Kids Make Music, at the Venue on the 17th and 18th June, where local primary schools bring along their gi ed young choirs. e children’s choirs on the 18th will be followed by Pint ‘n’ Half - who will entertain us for the rest of the evening (£5 on the door, or through Eventbrite). She eld Legend Big Shaun and Half-Pint Charlotte Proctor will treat us to a variety of songs from Cabaret, Joseph, Calendar Girls and more, plus special guest appearances. is show will be dedicated to the memory of festival founder Steve Osborn. He would be proud to see us, going from strength to strength.
On the 20th, there will be another fabulous Night at the Opera, where you will be wined and dined and hear our best singers, with Hilary Osborn and others, performing some wonderful opera arias and choruses, at Ponti’s Restaurant (tickets direct from Ponti’s). And on the 21st, we will have performers in the Piazza at Fox Valley, from 11-5, with music and dance, and will be followed by several local adult choirs, including Stannington Mixed Choir and Penistone Ladies, who will perform some of their current repertoire at the Venue, in the evening, starting at 7pm. (£3 on the door for this event.)
Every year, we collect all proceeds and donations to the Festival, and plough them back into providing scholarships for children to learn music, and we provide some instruments for local schools. At a time when music education seems to slip further and further down the list of priorities, we feel this is essential for your young people. We have many success stories, of youngsters who have
gone on to study music at higher education, and we encourage as many of them as possible back to the Festival, to show you all how they’re getting on and how amazing they are! Children can learn not only music, but sound engineering, and how to set up, operate and maintain balanced audio. No music festival can go ahead without these talented technicians.
But above all, none of this could happen, without you. We would like to thank you all, in advance, for coming along, supporting our events, giving us a wave in the piazza, encouraging the youngsters and dropping the odd coin into a bucket. You have all been so wonderful in previous years, and we are looking forward to seeing you all again. Come and celebrate our success stories, and sow the seeds for the next crop of young performers. As the song says, “without a song and a dance, what are we?”
Valley Music Festival, a Stocksbridge tradition since 1907 was revived in 2018 to celebrate the area’s vibrant musical heritage. With performances by over 350 local musicians and community concerts that bring people together, the Festival inspires and supports music education.
In the past two years alone it has provided instruments to six schools and awarded eight scholarships to young talents.
Join us in keeping the music alive!
400 CRISP BUTTIES
She eld artist Pete McKee serves up his latest performance event in 400 Crisp Butties, a playful and irreverent celebration of a humble Northern staple that deserves icon status.
Taking place on Saturday 14th June from 12 noon to 3pm at Weston Park Museum, McKee will make and hand out 400 crisp butties – one for each of the rst attendees – in a free participatory event that playfully critiques the o en opaque world of performance art.
Part of his major exhibition e Boy with the Leg Named Brian: Memoirs by Pete McKee, the performance draws on themes of nostalgia, working-class culture, and communal joy that de ne his work.Visitors can expect warmth, wit, and a crisp take on communal art as McKee turns an everyday snack into a subversive act of art-making and memorysharing.
Entry is free with a suggested donation of £5, and the exhibition continues until 2nd November 2025.
CHARITY RELAY RIDE
A local motorcyclist is gearing up for his fourth consecutive year participating in the Relay Ride 2025, a charity motorbike run.
Richard Athey,48, from Stocksbridge a self employed 3D printer will embark on his latest charity ride that starts on 28th June.
e relay’s route is to various handover locations where subsequent riders continue the relay. is continuous 24/7 event culminates on 19th July with a nal group ride out.
Along with the mascot, riders transport a tracker, battery banks, an emergency phone, and donation pots.
Richard’s leg of the run, designated B1-111, takes place on 6th July, departing from Stocksbridge Fire Station at 15:50. He will be arriving at the station from She eld Centre at 15:30 to support the previous rider before his own departure.
Richard and his support rider will then proceed to the next handover point.
e 2025 National Motorcycle Teddy Bear Relay, organised by charity fundraisers ‘Relay Riders UK’ will span three weeks from 28th June to 19th July, in aid of registered charity, Mental Health Motorbike.
WICKER INDEPENDENT LIVING
OPEN A NEW STORE IN SHEFFIELD
Anyone who has grown up or lived in Shefeld for any length of time will be familiar with the Wicker Pharmacy and in turn the mobility shop Wicker Independent Living.
e Wicker brand has been synonymous with excellence in providing bespoke wheelchairs & mobility equipment for 40 years, a reputation built from the lived experience and expertise of their team, many of whom have long-standing links with wheelchair sports and therapy services.
e store has now moved to a fantastic new site on Tyler Way, close to Meadowhall and easily accessible via the main She eld roads and motorway network, with ample free parking on site. e comprehensive retail shop stocks all types of wheelchairs, which can be customised to individual needs. ere are many demonstration wheelchairs available for customers to try out and nd the right one for them. But there’s much more than wheelchairs; Wicker Independent Living o ers a full range of mobility items, from scooters and walking sticks to rise and recline chairs and useful gadgets for the home. ‘We’re passionate about supporting people’s freedom and independence,’ said their sales advisor. ‘ ere are many ways to improve people’s comfort and wellbeing, removing limitations. We see our role as helping customers understand their options, so they can make informed choices.’
Wicker Independent Living’s specialists have a minimum of ten years’ experience each, often signi cantly more, in supplying bespoke wheelchairs and mobility equipment. ey
o er an in-depth understanding, having witnessed how the right speci cation bene ts customers over many years. Customers value the ‘person-centred experience’ emphasised by the highly competent sales team, helping ensure they get the right equipment rst time. e team take a supportive, empathetic approach, recognising each customer’s needs as an individual, working in partnership to nd the right t.
ey’re also experts in mobility equipment repair, with the workshop and engineering team providing service and maintenance.
e new site is open Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm.
Wicker Independent Living Unit 3, Tyler Way, She eld, S9 1DT Tel: 0114 272 3729www.wickerindependentliving.co.uk
COMMUNITY WARMTH
After two years of helping local residents to warm their homes for free, our Community Warming Project is drawing to a close. A celebration at The Venue drew together all the volunteers and paid staff who had given hours of their time to make it such a success. Some of the headlines are:
£24,500 raised from 5 organisations
• More than 500 hours of volunteer time given for publicity, surveys, fund raising
• 17 sewing workshops held with 16 sewing volunteers who spent more than 500 hours sewing
• Over 800 hours of paid work generated for local people
• Over 60 households helped to keep warm
Some of our funds still remain but the project will close soon, so if you think you may be eligible for help. Please get in touch. janet.udce@ gmail.com 07707 762995
Inside / Outside
Celebrating art for outdoor spaces @Cupola Gallery
Do you enjoy gardening? Are you looking to spruce up your outside space for the summer? Do you want to support some great artists? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then Cupola Gallery’s upcoming exhibition ‘Inside/Outside’ is the perfect place to visit. Inside / Outside
From the 7thJune to the 5th July, the gallery will be celebrating outside spaces with a collection of works designed for the garden being showcased across the gallery’s 3 exhibition spaces. With over 20 artists contributing to this impressive exhibition there will be a work that will catch your eye no matter your artistic taste. From vivid garden landscape paintings, gargantuan animals, sprouting seed heads and dynamically abstract sculptures, the exhibition is an exciting and varied collection that is bound to engage. Works are sure to remain eye-catching despite any frost, bug infestation or adverse weather! Come along and join Cupola Gallery in celebrating the beauty of the garden at the Inside/Outside show.
“The diverse materials and range of character in these many works is sure to lift your spirits, raise a smile or perhaps an eyebrow! Work has arrived from as far afield as Japan alongside works from Sheffield based artists and makers. Work is for sale and prices start from under £30. Anything costing more than £100
can be purchased using the Arts Council’s interest free credit scheme ‘Own Art’, where you can take home your artwork the same day but pay completely interest free over 10 months. This scheme is to encourage people to support living artist as the dead ones don’t need the money! This exhibition aims to highlight and celebrate our outdoor spaces and the natural world in general. We hope that, whatever the weather, you will enjoy what is on offer.”
Karen Sherwood, Director
Artists taking part include:
Andrew Tyzack, Clee Claire Lee, Emma Drohan, Frances Lewis, Gwenda Jones Sculpture, Janet Mayled, Jennifer Booth, Jenny Marshall, Jon Michaels, Judy Logan, Julie Cole, Kathryn Watson, Keisuke Takeda, Lee Hardman, Leyla Murr, Lina Avramidou, Melissa Montague, Mick Kirkby Geddes, Paul Stockley, Rachel Mander, Stephen Todd, Steve Roche, Sue Ripley
Art by Jonathan Michaels
Heirlooms antiques urgently wanted.
Vintage items, collectables, furniture, china figurines, military, tea sets, silver.
AnytHing old, unusuAl & interesting considered.
“give us a call, we buy it all. top cash paid.”
PArt / full House cleArAnces wanted. Fully licenced local dealer. t: 07710 921335
then ask for an application form at the above shop at 508 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, S36 2DU We consider grants from each group once every 12 months. Closing date Friday June 20th 2025
THE LITTLE SING
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are having to postpone the Little Sing ANYONE WHO KINDLY BOUGHT A TICKET PLEASE HANG ON TO THEM AND THEY CAN BE USED WHEN WE RESCHEDULE OR EMAIL steelvalleybeaconarts1@gmail.com to arrange a refund.
(Tickets can also be used to see ALLO! ALLO! but please contact us to book a seat on steelvalleybeaconarts1@gmail.com)
Dates for ALLO! ALLO! are July 3rd, 4th and 5th.
JUNE
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.
12 Stocksbridge & District History Society. Meeting . Christ Church Hall 7PM. Talk ‘100 Years of Graysons’ - She eld History - Speaker - Laura Cowan. All welcome.
FRIDAY
13 Relax with a Poem – poetry for pleasure - Stocksbridge Library – now in Ikon Church, Manchester Rd. Listen to some poetry or bring a favourite poem to share over a cup of tea or co ee.
13 & Saturday 14 Steel Valley Beacon Summer program kicks o with the Little Sing, 35 beautiful voices sing and perform some of our favourite 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.
SATURDAY
14 Councillors monthly dropin surgery. Cllrs Janet Ridler and Mark Whittaker will be at Stocksbridge Library inside Ikon Church, Manchester Road (opposite the old Library) on Saturday 14 June, 11.00 - 12.00. If
you have problems with council services or need help or advice, we can help you. Drop in for a co ee and a chat, no appointment needed.
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
MONDAY
16 Enjoy a morning helping out at the Tinies and Tots Baby group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. 9.1511.45. More information 07957 206646 or tarastocksbridge. ud@gmail.com
TUESDAY
17 Save Chapeltown Greenbelt Group meet in The Commercial Pub every Tuesday at 6.30pm
WEDNESDAY
18 “BOLSTERSTONE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HERITAGE GROUP
Members Evening: Wednesday 18th June at 7.30pm. Members of our group will give short talks about aspects of archaeology and heritage that particularly interest them.It will be a very interesting evening We meet in the hall at Christ Church on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge, and the talk is also available on Zoom (members only) - contact bahgmembership@gmail.com for the link. Refreshments available.
There is a small entry charge: Members £2 Non-members £4. All 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
SATURDAY
21Green Moor Church Fair on Saturday the 21st of June 10am -1pm. Bacon Sandwiches & Stalls. All Welcome
SUNDAY
22 Summer Fayre - Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Sunday 22nd June, 11.00 am through until 3.00 pm, craft stalls, fun fair, live music, BBQ and lots of fun for the family.
MONDAY
23 Enjoy a morning helping out at the Tinies and Tots Baby group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. 9.1511.45. More information 07957 206646 or tarastocksbridge. ud@gmail.com
SATURDAY
28 Stocksbridge Christian Centre Cedar Road SUMMER FAYRE on Saturday 28th June 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stalls including: Books & Jigsaws, Crafts, Plants, Cakes, Tombola, Hot Butties & Chips
MONDAY
30 Enjoy a morning helping out at the Tinies and Tots Baby
On
group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. 9.1511.45. More information 07957 206646 or tarastocksbridge. ud@gmail.com
JULY
WEDNESDAY
2 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We are having a talk by Embrace Yorkshire and Humber Infant and Children’s Transport Service about the invaluable work they do for Shefeld Children’s Hospital.
Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
THURSDAY
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
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 fastwe shall only say this once! Tickets £12 from Samuel’s Kitchen and ticketsource. A matinee at 2.30pm on Saturdy 5th
3 St Nicholas Church High Bradeld Mothers’ Union is holding a meeting on 3rd July 2025 at 7pm in church when our speak-
er is from Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.
Tickets are £3 including tea and co ee. Do come along and join us.
FRIDAY
4, 10am onwards to Sunday 6th July Bolsterstone Flower Festival. St Mary’s Church Bolsterstone. Free entry with ra e and programme available. The ower 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 eld. 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, In atable 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
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.
Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath rst! Contact 01226 764642 for more information
SEARCH FOR HOMEGROWN TALENT
by Janet Ridler, UDAC Committee
Organisers of this year’s HomeGrown Arts Festival in Stocksbridge are on the lookout for local talent as they prepare to bring this year’s arts festival to the region this autumn.
Homegrown Festival celebrates local talent in the creative arts across Stocksbridge and the Upper Don. 2025 will see the fourth time this annual festival, organised by the Upper Don Arts Community, takes place in venues across the local area between 4 – 18 October 2025. Local talent in the creative arts such as painting, sculpture, cra s, photography, dance, music, drama, writing and comedy will come together and be celebrated under the banner of Homegrown Festival. ere is no charge to take part in the festival and all events will be publicised in a printed brochure and in the local press, radio and social media.
ere will also be a special Homegrown Makers’ Market at Fox Valley on Saturday 4 October for local creatives who wish to showcase and sell their handmade arts and cra s. e Festival will conclude with a free Finale event featuring music and performance from local actors, comedians, musicians and singers who will get the chance to perform in front of an audience on the evening of Saturday 18 October.
e deadline to register your interest in taking part in the Homegrown Festival, having a stall at the Makers’ Market, or performing in the Finale is Monday 30 June. Application forms can be downloaded from www.udachomegrown.com and should be returned to the organisers by the end of the month. For more information visit the website or email udacevent@gmail.com
Peter
Ian
TAYLOR
of Oughtibridge
Dearly loved by Wife Jean, Daughter Julie, Son Paul and Son in Law Bill. Passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on 21st May 2025.
The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 18th June, 12 noon at Oughtibridge Chapel on Church Street. Donations, if desired, can be made in lieu of flowers to the Yorkshire Ambulance Service who took such good care of Peter.
All funeral enquiries to John Fairest Funeralcare, Wadsley Bridge 0114 234 3129.
Obituary: Peter William Smith
Peter Smith, a well-loved gure in Stocksbridge, recently passed away. He will be remembered for his kindness and dedication to the local haulage industry.
celebration of his life at 2.00pm at Grenosde Crematorium.
Peter will make his nal journey on a restored 1940s truck from Stocksbridge to Grenoside Crematorium. e procession will follow “the rowt” before ascending Jawbone Hill, and will include two other restored Ernest orpe trucks, paying homage to Peter’s career in haulage.
Judith, his widow, described Peter as “the best person in the world”. Peter grew up in Storth House in Stocksbridge. He rst worked at Dickinsons Farmers, then in windows, and later spent over 20 years with Ernest orpes. His nal workplace was Hartley’s Haulage, in Rotherham.
Peter faced signi cant health challenges, suffering from kidney failure which began in his mid-30s. Even while undergoing dialysis, he continued to work, o en hanging his dialysis bag on the rear-view mirror of his wagon.
Known for always having time for others, Peter was also a keen motorbike enthusiast. He was also fondly remembered within the Ernest orpe Truck spotting group.
His last journey on the restored wagon will be on Wednesday 18 June with the funeral and
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Healthcare
Dear Look Local,
In reply to your correspondents in recent weeks who are going to support UKIP, sorry BREXIT, sorry REFORM.
I’d like to address the balance.
Mr. Farage proposes a charge to see your doctor and a health insurance scheme similar to that in America. Fine if you can a ord the premiums and you are t as a ea with no health problems.
I remember my mother, born in 1921, telling me that it was a shilling to see a doctor, but they had not got a shilling (5p).
I was born in 1948 the year Labour Minister Aneurin Bevan created the NHS and Welfare State.
All I would say to prospective Reform supporters and past Brexit supporters.
Be careful what you wish for.
Bolsterstone’s
Neil Wilson, Deepcar.
“Birdman” Upset After Feeders Removed
A local man, fondly referred to as “ e Birdman of Bolsterstone,” is expressing his disappointment a er discovering his bird feeders had been removed and le on the ground.
John Hartley, a 64-year-old former steelworker from Stocksbridge, has been feeding birds daily at Bolsterstone Graveyard for over ve years. He chose this location as it is the resting place of four of his relatives. Upon returning from a week’s holiday, Mr. Hartley found the branches of the tree where his feeders were hung had been cut o , with the feeders scattered on the grass.
“I’m disgusted how the church have just cut down the feeders without even talking to me,” Mr. Hartley told Look Local.
In response, Melanie Fitzgerald, representing the PCC, Church Wardens, and Area Dean, explained the decision. St Mary’s churchyard is a space enjoyed by many, including local wildlife. e feeders, placed on a low branch of a cherry tree, attracted a large number of birds, which led to excessive bird droppings falling onto a grave below. is also inhibited grass growth, creating a muddy patch.
Ms. Fitzgerald stated that a bereaved family visiting the grave were understandably upset and brought the issue to the church’s attention. According to church law, the church wardens were compelled to act. She added that the churchyard is maintained by a team of volunteers, and there is potential to relocate the feeders to other areas of the churchyard, where they would be more spread out.”
It is believed a complaint was made to the Bishop of She eld regarding the bird droppings on the gravestone.
Local Opinion
Chapeltown Bids Farewell to Fearsome Street Icon
Chambers Valley Road has lost one of its most recognisable residents - Rufus the cat - who recently passed away peacefully at the ripe old age of 20.
A grey and white outdoor cat with a ercely independent streak, Rufus was more than just a pet - he was a xture of the neighbourhood. Known to almost everyone on the Chapeltown estate, Rufus spent most of his life roaming the street, slipping in and out of people’s homes, stealing the odd bit of food, and generally doing things his own way. For two decades, Rufus patrolled the street like he owned it - and in many ways, he did.
Owned by residents Dave and Michelle Fox, Rufus was more of a local celebrity than a typical house cat. ough he o en curled up at his owners’ home for a nap or a bit of TV, Rufus truly belonged to the street. He had a reputation - and he earned it. He’d lash out if stroked the wrong way, swipe at passers-by, and was notorious for ambushing unsuspecting dogs from behind bushes.
He was a cat with attitude, charm, and absolutely no interest in your opinion of him. He wasn’t always easy to love - but he was impossible to forget. To some, he was a menace, to others, a legend. But to everyone on the street, Rufus was theirs.
He lived exactly the way he wanted - and really, what more can you ask for?
RIP Rufus. King of Chambers Valley Road.
OUGHTIBRIDGE RESIDENTS RALLY TO OPPOSE GREEN BELT HOUSING PLAN
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
PLEASE ACT NOw
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
PLEASE ACT NOw
PLEASE ACT NOw
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
Residents in Oughtibridge have launched a passionate campaign against plans to build 69 houses on Forge Lane—part of She eld City Council’s wider proposal to build over 3,000 homes on Green Belt land across the city.
Campaigners say the development threatens one of the village’s last remaining green spaces and are urging local people to take urgent action before the public consultation closes on 11th July.
Grenoside, St Mark’s Church – 11 June, 4:30–8:30pm
Winter Gardens, City Centre – 26 June, 10:00am–3:00pm
Brightholmlee Church – 2 July, 4:30–6:30pm
Residents are also encouraged to contact their local councillor and MP to express concerns. e campaign lea et claims that most Labour city councillors and the Green Party have supported building on Green Belt land—something many locals say they feel deeply let down by.
OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve this green space for future generations.
PLEASE ACT NOw
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve this green space for future generations.
PLEASE ACT NOw
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve this green space for future generations
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
Once it's built on it is lost forever.
Sheffield city council is moving ahead with plans to build over 3000 houses on green belt land including 69 houses on Forge lane
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve this green space for future generations
Once it's built on it is lost forever
TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve this green space for future generations
Once it's built on it is lost forever
PLEASE ACT NOw
Flyers circulating around the village declare: “OUGHTIBRIDGE GREEN BELT IS UNDER ATTACK.” e message is clear—residents believe the plans pose a permanent risk to the area’s character and environment.
“Once it’s built on, it is lost forever,” the lea et warns. “Together we can stop this.”
Once it's built on it is lost forev
Make your voice heard visit: https://haveyoursay sheffield gov uk/
PLEASE ACT NOw
TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS
TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS
Make your voice heard visit: https://haveyoursay.sheffield.gov.uk/
Make your voice heard visit: https://haveyoursay sheffield gov uk/
Once it's built on it is lost forev TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THI
The consultation document is live and you have until July 11th to help preserve space for future generation
Make your voice heard visit: https://haveyoursay sheffield gov uk/
The consultation document is live have until July 11th to help preserve space for future generation
TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THI
Make your voice heard visit: https://haveyoursay sheffield gov uk/
Once it's built on it is lost fore TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS
Once it's built on it is lost forever
TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS
Locals are being encouraged to make their voices heard by submitting feedback through the consultation at haveyoursay.she eld.gov.uk. e site provides full details of the proposals and guidance on how to object.
Public drop-in events are taking place across She eld in June and early July, o ering people a chance to learn more and speak to council representatives directly. ese include:
Highlighting expert opinion, the campaign points to Professor John Whitelegg, a lecturer in planning and transport, who recently told BBC Radio She eld (17 May, approx. 17:17hrs) that such developments are unnecessary and avoidable. His comments can be heard on BBC Sounds. With the clock ticking, campaigners are calling for a united front to defend the area’s rural character and protect the land for future generations.
“Please act now,” the yer urges. “ is is about preserving Oughtibridge—not just for us, but for those who come a er us.”
MP URGES GOVERNMENT TO CHANGE LAW
During a speech in Parliament, Marie Tidball MP called for the Government to remove the presumption of contact from law where the parent is a known domestic abuser, as part of the new Victims and Courts Bill, in support of her constituent, Claire rossell’s campaign. Presumption of contact is the legal principle which means parents should always be given contact with their children, even in circumstances where there is a known domestic abuser.
During the speech, Marie recounted the horri c experience of tireless local campaigner, Claire rossell MBE. 10 years ago in Penistone, Paul and Jack Skyes were horri cally murdered, by their abusive father, who set their house on re. Whilst in the family courts, their mother Claire rossell repeatedly warned that their father had a history of domestic abuse and was a danger to the children’s lives. However, presumption of contact meant he was granted ve hours unsupervised contact per week with the two boys.
e Government’s new law marks an important step forward in the mission to rebuild our justice system, to ensure the justice system serves victims, rather than subjecting them to further trauma on top of what they have already su ered. e overdue reforms include strengthening victims rights, forcing o enders to attend their sentencing hearing, and restricting the parental responsibilities of convicted child sex o enders. e new law will also further empower the Victims’ Commissioner to uphold victims’ rights and hold public bodies to account when there are failings. In her speech, Marie made the case that “the Bill before us today presents the ideal oppor-
tunity to make changes to the family courts and to deliver for the victims of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. Labour’s important mission to halve violence against women and girls within a decade will require a national e ort and the use of every single tool available to target perpetrators and address the root causes of abuse and violence.”
e Ministry of Justice’s Harm Report, published in 2020, was clear that the presumption should not remain in its present form.
e Government is currently reviewing the Harm Report. Last month, Dr Tidball urged the Prime Minister to change the law during PMQs. In his response, he made clear the government is currently looking at the presumption of contact, and that the family courts should never be a place which enables abusers to continue their abuse.
Marie Tidball MP, Labour Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
“ e Victims and Courts Bill delivers overdue reform to ensure that victims are nally put rst in our criminal justice system. Too o en, victims were paying the price of a justice system in crisis. I want to see this same change delivered in our family courts, including ending the presumption of contact, to put children at the heart of our family court system.
“Claire rossell is a tireless campaigner, and it is a privilege to work alongside her to deliver this vital change.
“I look forward to the Government’s upcoming response to the Harm Report, and told the Minister in Parliament that they must act now to save the lives of children for generations to come by ending contact at any cost.”
Global business invest £250k
A North She eld-based global paint and coatings company unveiled a major expansion to their research and development lab in a grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
e £250K investment into the Chapeltown site has allowed for signi cant improvements to equipment, testing areas, and development capabilities with the improvements seeing the She eld site become the central hub for all development work for household names like Ronseal™, ompson’s™, and Valspar™.
e site houses facilities supporting the training and technical development of all SherwinWilliams employees in the UK and Ireland, bringing teams together to support their career development and putting the She eld site on the map for the entire business.
Sherwin-Williams, held the ceremony that saw speeches from the senior leadership team, including the company’s Vice President and General Manager, Jane Ryder and Technical Director for EMEAI, Martin Seabrook.
It’s not only the current employees that bene t from this investment. ere have been six additional, highly skilled roles created.
e site also has increased potential to be able to train more research and development chemists through industrial placements and apprenticeships with a goal to continue to grow our links with local universities and colleges and, in turn, support local employment opportunities for future science graduates.
e decision to bring all paint research and development to She eld follows the reloca-
tion of production in 2022 and marks a new chapter in the site’s history, which has been manufacturing Ronseal products for six decades.
Nearly all new products, platforms and technologies from the group will now be fully designed, developed, tested, and produced at the She eld site, from concept to nished goods.
Jane Ryder, Vice President and General Manager at Sherwin-Williams Consumer Brands Group EMEAI, said: “I am delighted to open the expanded R&D lab at our production facility in Chapeltown.
“ e expansion of the lab is a testament to the success of our operations in She eld and our decision to move the production to the Chapeltown site. e expansion will support our investment in the local area and our manufacturing growth strategy for the future.”
Martin Seabrook Sherwin Williams Consumer Brands Group EMEAI - Technical Director who is based in the lab, adds: “ e expansion is a super exciting step for us and will make collaboration between the development scientists and the production facility much easier.
“ e investment will enable us to develop the best products possible with con dence that they will meet the highest standards of performance for our customers.”
RETIRED FIREFIGHTER LIFTS LID ON THE DAY SHEFFIELD NEARLY BLEW UP
A new South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue video is highlighting an evening of near disaster in She eld.
“ e day She eld nearly blew up”, is a conversation between Chief Fire O cer Chris Kirby and retired re ghter Arthur Levick. In the video Arthur remembers a re at Eingham Street gas works that almost ended in disaster in the late 1960s.
Arthur said: “When I received my long service medal from the late HRH the Queen, it said on it that it was for exemplary service, and I can’t think of a greater example than that night at the E ngham Street gasworks. It felt like I really became a re ghter that night.”
Chris Kirby said: “Major disaster was averted by the actions of Arthur, his colleagues and many members of sta at the gas works that night.
“It’s o en the case that if there is a major incident that does result in mass fatalities, those are the emergencies that are remembered and memorialised. But there are many occasions in a re ghter’s career where, through their actions, disaster is averted and not remembered. I hope that through this interview we can change that for Arthur and his colleagues.”
It is the latest episode in a series of videos called Fire Stories, published to give the public a unique insight into South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue.
TEACHING YOUNG DOGS NEW TRICKS THIS VOLUNTEER WEEK
A teacher has helped to nurture three assistance dogs-in-training in the past four years – earning her the title of a charity’s Volunteer of the Year.
Fiona Burton contacted the She eld-based Support Dogs charity in September 2020 about taking on a volunteer puppy socialiser role as it would t in with her lifestyle.
She is almost retired as a teacher of early years and special educational needs children, while her husband, John, 67, is a vet.
While up until now, full-time pet care had been out of the question, puppy socialising for Support Dogs sounded like it t the bill.
Fiona, who lives in the Lodge Moor area, has since looked a er Labrador/Golden Retriever cross Maisie from being an eight-week-old pup until 18 months. Maisie is now a fullyquali ed life-saving epilepsy seizure alert dog.
Speaking during Volunteers’ Week of her rst experience of puppy socialising, Fiona, 66, said:
“It was absolutely fun. We had waited quite a long time because of Covid, but Maisie was so lively, bright and able, which is why she has gone to the seizure alert programme. We keep in touch with Sally, the client, and get updates on Maisie.”
Just weeks a er Maisie le for full-time training, along came Yellow lab, Biscuit, who had been donated by a family. “He was such a bright, able dog,” said Fiona, who is mum to 23-year-old twins Ed and Will. “We absolutely adored him.”
Black Lab Walt was with Fiona and her family from September 2023 until November 2024. He is now with a foster family and in fulltime training, with a client match pending. While having a well-earned breather from puppies to get some house decorating done, Fiona has provided holiday cover for Fergie, a rescue Labradoodle, as well as for pups Gilly and Jessie.
Fiona, who has also helped Support Dogs with its schools work and taken pups into her own school, said:
“I thoroughly enjoy looking a er the dogs. It gets me out and about and keeps me t. We go on lots of walks and I’ve made some good friends through it.
“It’s obviously really hard to give them up, but it’s so special, what they go on to do.
“It was a shock to receive the award – I don’t feel I deserve it any more than the other puppy socialisers, but it’s nice to be recognised.”
ere are many bene ts of volunteering for Support Dogs, which trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to help autistic children, and adults with epilepsy or a physical disability, to live safer, more independent lives.
e charity’s 2024 Volunteer Survey found that 89% of respondents said it’s made them more physically active. 94% have become more socially active. 73% said their mental health has improved since volunteering and 78% said they have more purpose and feel healthier.
Support Dogs chief executive, Rita Howson, said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our charity – we couldn’t do what we do without our 200-strong army of loyal, hard-working volunteers.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our sel ess supporters who help us in a variety of roles, whether that’s looking after one of our dogs or pups, volunteering at events, driving our dogs between our centre and their foster carers, promoting our charity through talks or looking a er a collection tin – you are all truly amazing.”
*To nd out more about the volunteering roles available with Support Dogs, please email volunteering@supportdogs.org.uk, visit www.supportdogs.org.uk/volunteer or call 0114 2617800.
ULTIMATE PAVING & LANDSCAPING
Sport
Podiums Ultras and Firsts
Dawn Broom represented England Masters against Wales Masters at the Swansea Half Marathon, finishing 10th over60 lady in 1-40-53.
Monday evening saw the fourth Trunce of the summer take place at Oxspring, with several fine performances from Penistone runners. George Parr finished in second place overall followed by teammate Richard Cottam in third.
There were also high age group placings for Richard Cottam (first over40 man), George Parr (second senior man), Barbara Haigh (second over70 lady), Tony Wright (second over50 man), Hannah Shaw (third senior lady) and Jill Scrivens (third over50 lady). Edward Holly placed sixth in the junior Trunce race.
Nichola McNally took first over50 lady and fourth lady overall at the Marsden 10 mile trail race, clubmate Lesley Parker was fourth over50 lady.
Jemma Williams took on and completed the Cateran Yomp which is a 56 mile 24 hour event for the Army Benevolent Fund. She completed the challenge in an impressive 20 hours and 13 minutes.
Also going long distances were Jill Carlton and Rachael Mayston who completed the 37 mile Shepherd’s Ultra in Northumberland,
finishing in 6th and 7th place. Martyn Goodwin did the Castleton Fell Race and was second over60 man in 1-00-29. Gemma Nutton finished in a time of 50-59 at the Filey Beach 10k.
Ten runners took on the Billy Bland Challenge which involves a team of five pairs running the five legs of the Lake District Bob Graham challenge as a relay. It’s 66 miles long and involves running over 42 of the Lake District’s summits. Leg 1 runners were Jon Hallam and Dan Rushforth, leg 2 runners were Steve Sanders, Mark Crossley and Shaun Swallow, leg 3 runners were Tom Fryers and James Fryers, leg 4 runners were George Parr and Richard Cottam, leg 5 runners were Damian Kilpin and Suzanne Mcgill.
Supporters Liz Hutchison and Paul Fryers took care of logistics, refuelling and rehydration for the runners. The attempt started out at 1am and the rain soon came, this stayed with the team on and off through the day with each set of runners having their share. The rain did make conditions very slippery in places which makes the overall time for completion even better. The team were very happy to complete in the challenge in a time of 20 hours and 10 minutes.
Four runners took on the Kimmy Kanter race which is part of the KMR series. They were
Jill Scrivens, Mandy Mallinder, Keith Gordon and Gemma Nutton.
Josie Smith successfully completed her firstever marathon at the challenging Conistone Lakeland Trails event.
Martin Hughes and Julia Johnson ran the Ilkley 10k road race, Julia picked up gold in the ladies over60 age category. Some of the club’s members took part in the Jack and Paul’s Fun Run, Flynn Rogers in particular had a good race. On the parkrun scene there were first gender places for Jill Scriven (Horton Park) and Suzanne McGill (Cockermouth Greenway). Third places for Sean Pitt (Penistone) and Alan Nutton (Selby). Age graded runners of the week were Alan Nutton (80.00%), Ian Neville (78.66%), Suzanne McGill (77.02%), Rob Lees (76.47%) and John Broom (75.08%).
Results
Junior Trunce
6, Edward Holley 14-59.
Senior Trunce
2, George Parr 26-19; 3, Richard Cottam 2645; 25, Tony Wright 30-39; 26, Ashley Firth 30-43; 34, Oliver Pike 31-39; 36, Jon Hallam 31-48; 41, Ian Neville 32-39; 50, Gareth Irvine 33-47; 52, Shaun Swallow 33-56; 53, Phil Hinchliffe 34-00; 57, Hannah Shaw 34-21; 66, Steve Sanders 35-15; 71, Chris Hodgson 3541; 75, Oliver Found 36-00; 86, Ash Howlett 37-04; 88, Martyn Goodwin 37-13; 103, Chris Deacon 39-13; 107, Jill Scrivens 39-33; 109, Pete Claydon 39-58; 112, Lois Lopez 40-27; 126, Shaun Walker 41-19; 131, Steve Dickinson 41-42; 145, Ben Thorogood 43-30; 175, Stu Smith 47-18; 176, Jen Holley 47-22; 180, Heather Lindley 47-59; 184, Mandy Mallinder 48-38; 190, Becky Parr 49-19; 208, Tracy Woodward 52-28; 210, Barbara Haigh 53-06; 224, Steve Dommett 56-33; 225, Ray Brown 56-38.
64, Martyn Goodwin 1-00-29. Swansea Half Marathon 1005, John Broom 1-40-51; 1007, Dawn Broom 1-40-53.
Penistone Parkrun
3, Sean Pitt 18-20; 12, Ryan Duckett 20-04; 14, Alex Melhuish 20-12; 34, Edward Holley 2159; 42, Michael Nicholson 22-27; 47, Rhianna Banford 22-46; 48, Steve Stead 22-50; 50, Emily Duckett 22-53; 51, Nick Pepper 22-54; 52, Dan Cooper 22-57; 56, Oliver France 23-08; 57, Hannah Shaw 23-11; 67, Lois Lopez 2359; 73, Chris Baldwin 24-16; 87, Kelly Howson 25-52; 94, Darren Mansell 26-06; 125, Andrew Taylor 27-50; 126, Jen Holley 27-55; 163, Paul Sammon 29-45; 164, Rebecca Parr 29-52; 175, Kate Rushforth 30-39; 176, Rory O’Sullivan 30-39; 177, Angela Rollinson 3045; 191, Sarah Clough 31-24; 194, Sara Wolstenhome 31-28; 210, Daniel Batty 33-04; 214, Adele Stenton 33-13; 215, Steve Dommett 33-16; 233, Dianne McGuinness 35-04; 249, Martyn Cartwright 36-38; 262, Ruth Albaya Melhuish 38-02.
Barnsley Parkrun
8, Ian Neville 20-23; 32, Michael Walsh 24-45; 45, Alan Knox 26-03; 64, Stu Smith 27-14; 69, Lisa Hinchliffe 27-38.
TIGERS WELL BEATEN
SHEFFIELD boss Simon Stead says it’s important everyone at the club doesn’t dwell too much on Monday’s 56-34 defeat at Leicester.
The Tru7 Group Tigers were comfortably beaten for a second week running in the East Midlands having lost by 18 points against the Lions in the away leg of their Premiership Knockout Cup Semi-Final tie last Monday.
But with the Tigers also in action on each of the next three top-flight racenights, and with his side still joint leaders of the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership, Stead wants to keep focussing on the bigger, overall picture.
“The reality is that Leicester have been the better team the last two Mondays and we need to hold our hands up,” he said.
“They suffered a home defeat against Birmingham, which was unexpected, at the end of last month and look how they’ve responded to it - I need to look to my boys to do the same now.
“I don’t want to put too much importance on this result because we’ve had a really good start to the season and in the league we’ve been standing pretty strong.
“Am I disappointed? Of course I am. But the fixtures are coming thick and fast now and for me, it’s important we look forward to the next one which takes us to Ipswich on Thursday night.”
LEICESTER 56: Max Fricke 18, Sam Masters
SHEFFIELD
Anders Rowe 2+1, Lewi Kerr 0.
12+3, Ryan Douglas 11, Kyle Howarth 9+3, Drew Kemp 6+1, Joe Thompson 0, Luke Becker R/R.
34: Josh Pickering 8+1, Tom Brennan 7, Chris Holder 6, Justin Sedgmen 6, Leon Flint 5+1,
RECORD-BREAKING CRICKETERS
Upper Haugh 2nd XI 111 all out
(Tom Perry 8-24, Andy Hibbert 2-35)
Stocksbridge 1st XI 113-5
(Dave Sedgwick 44*, Andy Hirst 29*)
After last week’s victory, the 1st XI travelled to Upper Haugh looking to make it back-toback wins on what was a wet and windy day. After a delay to the start of the game, Captain Hirst won the toss and elected to bowl first, aiming to use the bowler-friendly conditions.
The hosts flew out the traps racing to 30-0 in no time. Young opening bowler Tom Perry turned the game on it’s head, taking three wickets without the hosts scoring a single run with the score 30-3. The ever-reliable Andy Hibbert took the next two wickets to leave Upper Haugh struggling at 64-5. Despite the hosts trying to build a partnership, Perry put Stocksbridge back in the driving seat. It took him just two balls to remove the experienced Reynolds for 18, who was providing the host’s main resistance. The following over Perry claimed his fifth wicket to claim his second ever five wicket haul and his first ever for the 1st XI. He made light work of the Upper Haugh lower order, removing the final three batters in no time, taking the last two wickets in two balls, as Upper Haugh were bowled out for 111. An incredible spell of bowling from a 14 year old playing senior cricket. Tom Perry finished the innings with figures of 8-24 from 8.3 overs. Tom also broke the record for the best ever club figures recorded in our history! The Green Army needed 112 to win, but Upper Haugh were hunting early wickets. Opening bowler Craig Jackson removed Matt Price with the innings’ first ball. The dangerous Jackson wasn’t done there, claiming his second and third wickets in no time, leaving
Stocksbridge in trouble at 20-4. Suddenly the 112 target looked a long way away. Captain Andy Hirst stepped to the crease with the bit between his teeth. Hirst was joined by James Tevendale and the pair began building a partnership, before Tevendale fell to an excellent catch from Plummer with the scores at 39-5. This brought Dave Sedgwick to the crease with Stocksbridge sitting precariously. In typical Sedgwick style, he showed no nerves edging Stocksbridge closer to the target. The pair added an excellent unbeaten 74 run partnership dampening the host’s spirits. Sedgwick will take most of the plaudits with his quickfire 44* from 27 balls, but credit must also go to Captain Hirst who ended with 29*.
Stocksbridge Foxes 360-0
Norton Oaks Acorns 277-3
Stocksbridge Foxes delivered a dominant win over Norton Oaks Acorns.
Norton won the toss electing to field, allowing the Foxes to start explosively with the bat. Claire Dungworth led the way smashing 26 runs off 15 balls. Carlie (21 runs) and Beth (20 runs) supported her, with all three hitting numerous boundaries. The entire team contributed to a record-breaking innings, finishing on a 360 runs. The 2nd highest score in South Yorkshire women’s softball history! In the second innings, Amy bowled well conceding just 9 runs from her 3 overs. Claire also struck with the ball, with Carlie taking a well-judged catch, and Olivia bowled another batter. The fielding effort was commendable, with standout performances from all and strong wicket-keeping from Amanda and Helen. Chasing a steep target, Norton Oaks Acorns delivered 277 runs, but the Foxes’ strong start proved too much.
KIMMY KANTER’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY Into a headwind
All participants received a commemorative medal and a handy shoe bag to celebrate.
Saturday parkrun turnouts
area. Jonnie Briggs led the charge as the club’s first male finisher while Wendy Richardson proudly flew the flag as our sole female entrant.
Saturday saw another strong Parkrun turnouts from Valley Hill Runners. Concord welcomed a particularly large group. As ever, it was great to see such consistent involvement from the club.
Round Sheffield Run Recce
Sunday featured a club recce of the upcoming Round Sheffield Run. A good number of runners took on the scenic 13-mile route, weaving through Ecclesall Woods, Graves Park, Meersbrook, and finishing at Endcliffe Park. It was more than just a training run – it was a brilliant social occasion. Whether you’re training hard or tagging along for the chat, there’s always a place for everyone at VHR.
Last Monday Wheeler Trevor Mayne rode in the Selby CC 10 mile Open Time Trial. On a day with a strong headwind on the way out his time of 24m 53s placed him 2nd in the Road Bike category just 34 seconds off top spot. He placed 23rd overall and 3rd in the 60 – 64 age group.
Tuesday saw the running of the 4th of the Birdwell Wheelers 5 mile time trials at Thurgoland.
On a blustery evening fastest on the night was James Shaw (unattached) in 13m 02s. Second in 13m 17s was Dean Bowmer (Barnsley RC) Fastest Wheeler was Trevor Mayne in 14m 11s followed by fellow Wheeler Paul Heggie in 18m 02s.
Tom Perry, 14, claimed a record 8 wickets. Photo by Ian Revitt.
40th Anniversary for the Kimmy Kanter
Tuesday marked the 40th anniversary of the iconic Kimmy Kanter, hosted by Kimberworth Striders. Four VHR runners took part in the popular 4-mile mixed terrain race around the Kimberworth
