


Marie Tidball, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, has launched her Summer School for young people across the constituency.
e Summer School o ers 16-27 year olds from the Penistone and Stocksbridge constituency an opportunity to get an insight into the work of MP, with teaching on skills to get started in a political career, and coaching on how to use your voice to campaign for change.
In the rst week of the Summer School, the young people participating researched their own campaigns to improve their local community looking at topics ranging from increasing neighbourhood police, to improvements to buses and trains locally.
e group also had two skills building sessions on speechwriting and storytelling as a politician, and about how the Houses of Parliament works. roughout the weeks, they will be developing their campaigns using the skills they learn across the di erent sessions.
e Summer Schools is aiming to break down barriers to opportunity for local young people across our communities, and continues for the month of August.
Marie Tidball MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
“It was fantastic to launch my Summer School this week, with brilliant ideas, contributions, and questions from our young people. It’s been a pleasure to get to know and work with such talented and enthusiastic students from across our constituency.
“As the rst MP for our area in 100 years to have grown up here, it’s so important to me to use my position to help young people start their careers in politics, public service, and campaigning.
“With votes being introduced for 16- and 17-year-olds by our Government, I’m delighted so many young people are engaging in politics to make the changes they want to see to our local communities!”
A 15-year-old boy has been found guilty of the murder of fellow pupil Harvey Willgoose, also aged 15, at All Saints Catholic High School in She eld. e fatal stabbing occurred during a lunch break last February.
e defendant admitted to manslaughter— claiming he “snapped” a er alleged prolonged bullying—but denied murder. However, the jury, a er over 14 hours of deliberations, returned a guilty verdict by an 11–1 majority. Prosecutors characterised the act as deliberate and retaliatory, noting the boy’s history of fascination with weapons.
Sentencing is scheduled for October, and attention now turns to calls for a review of how knife-related risks among schoolchildren are addressed.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard, said:
“Today’s verdict brings some justice for Harvey, though it cannot undo the pain his family has su ered. He was a young boy with a bright future, and his death, especially in a school, has deeply a ected our region. My thoughts, as always, remain with his family.”
Responding to the joint decision by the IOPC and SYP that the National Crime Agency be asked to lead the investigation into historic child sexual exploitation cases currently being investigated by South Yorkshire Police, South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said:
“Victims and survivors should always be our priority. They deserve to feel heard, believed, and supported, and they must have confidence in the people and systems that are there to make sure justice is done.
“That’s why it was right that who leads the investigation into these allegations was kept under review, and why I’m pleased that SYP, the IOPC and the NCA have listened to the concerns of those young women who have come
forward to talk about their experiences.
“Unless and until those making allegations have full confidence in any investigation, there will always be questions about any outcome, and whether justice has been done. This decision is a recognition of that reality.
“I’ll continue to stay closely involved in the progress of these investigations, and I’ll keep pushing to make sure victims and survivors are properly supported every step of the way.”
If anyone has been affected by these issues please contact the Independent Sexual Violence Service on 01226 320140 or visit their website: www.syisva.org.uk/
A South Yorkshire Police o cer has been found guilty of gross misconduct a er pursuing an inappropriate sexual relationship with a vulnerable woman he met while responding to a late-night call-out.
PC Andrew Curry, who helped the intoxicated woman gain access to her Airbnb a er fears she was being followed, texted her just hours later for “non-policing purposes.” He went on to date
her, including taking a walk at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
A misconduct panel ruled his actions were an abuse of power and a serious breach of professional standards. PC Curry resigned before the hearing, but the panel con rmed he would have been dismissed. His name has now been added to the Police Barred List.
Read more: https://www.bbc. co.uk/news/articles/c3dpkm1v2meo
e nal stage of this summer’s Supertram upgrades will take place in the last two weeks of the school holidays, marking another phase of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s (SYMCA) £110 million investment into the network by 2027. is programme includes tram, track, control system and power supply upgrades, along with a new Tram Train station at Magna.
Following completion of works on Ridgeway Road on Friday 15 August, with Blue and Purple trams returning to their normal timetable on Saturday 16 August, attention will turn to Middlewood Road.
Middlewood Road works
From Sunday 17 August to Friday 29 August, worn rails will be replaced between She eld Wednesday’s Training Ground and the Hillsborough Grove junction. is will improve comfort, reduce noise and minimise the risk of unplanned closures, ensuring trams can operate safely for years to come.
To carry out the work safely, Yellow Route services will be altered:
Trams will run as normal from Meadowhall Interchange to Hillsborough Interchange, then divert to Malin Bridge every 12 minutes.
A dedicated tram replacement bus, YE1, will operate between Hillsborough Interchange and Middlewood every 12 minutes, serving stops close to the a ected tram stops. Blue and Purple Routes will operate as normal.
Tram Trains will run as normal except on Saturday evenings during construction at the new Magna station.
Middlewood Park & Ride will remain open, with posters advising passengers of service changes.
Replacement bus service (YE1)
e YE1 will accept all valid tram and multi-modal tickets. Passengers can buy tickets in advance via the TSY
Mobile app, from tram conductors, or directly from the YE1 driver using cash or contactless payment. Timetables are available at travelsouthyorkshire.com/Middlewood.
Tra c and bus diversions
e works will require road closures and tra c management measures in Hillsborough. Stagecoach’s 57 bus service will be diverted due to a one-way closure on Middlewood Road.
Melanie Corcoran, SYMCA’s Executive Director of Transport, said:
“ ese works are part of our ongoing investment in Supertram. By scheduling them during the summer holidays, when passenger numbers are lower, we aim to minimise disruption and keep people moving. Investing in the system increases the network’s longevity and ensures safe operation for the millions who use it each year.”
e Yellow Route is due to return to its usual timetable on Saturday 30 August once works are complete.
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Residents living near the Hollins Park View housing development in Deepcar say they are once again battling high levels of dust, just weeks after reporting an improvement.
The community first raised concerns earlier this summer, when groundwork on the site off Broomfield Lane reportedly left homes, gardens, and cars coated in dust. Following complaints in June and July, many locals noticed a welcome reduction in dust levels – but that relief has proved short-lived.
The issues, according to one resident, began in early June when groundwork started on the site off Broomfield Lane. Since then, locals say they have experienced airborne dust “to varying degrees on a daily basis.” The dust, thought to be a mixture of soil, ash, and
cement, has been described by one resident as making skin feel “grimy” and eyes “gritty.”
“The dust settles everywhere – on cars, windows, even bedding. We can’t hang washing out to dry, and during the recent heatwave, many of us couldn’t even open windows or sit in our gardens,” said one resident, who surveyed 14 nearby households. “Ninety-five percent had the same complaint – dust inside homes and noise from machinery.”
Residents also voiced concerns about the lack of adequate dust suppression at the site. Current methods include the use of a low-level water bowser which, according to one complaint, “only affects dust at ground level and does nothing for airborne particles.”
A key source of frustration is the lack of response from developers. Emails sent to developers in late June and early July have so far gone unanswered, residents say. One couple who did receive a response were told that existing measures were considered “adequate” and that no further action was planned at that time.
In response to complaints, Barratt and David Wilson Homes issued a statement acknowledging the impact of the recent weather:
“The unusually long, dry weather conditions in the past two months are presenting some challenges on site. The Environment Agency has said that the Yorkshire region entered drought conditions in June following the driest spring in 132 years.
“Unfortunately, it has been necessary to strip an area of the site to identify mine workings, which require treatment. To mitigate this, we have put in place a number of measures in the past few weeks.
“These include suspending earthworks for the past week until we secure a water supply to increase dampening measures, installing debris netting, and improving enclosure of recycled materials. We are meeting with the Environmental Officer to review our approach.
“We sincerely apologise to residents for the current situation and wish to offer reassurance that we are rapidly responding to this.”
Take a leap into the unknown as St Luke’s Hospice launches an adrenaline-fuelled new fundraising adventure for 2025.
Magna Science and Adventure Centre is the home of The Abyss, the bungee jumping challenge that combines semi-darkness, music, video screens, dry ice, and stunning lighting effects to create an unforgettable experience.
And on November 15, St Luke’s supporters will have the chance to find out for themselves just what it feels like to take on the world’s highest indoor Bungee Jump.
“You’ll be immersed in semi-darkness and spotlights will whirl around the towering structure of the Face of Steel at 150 feet,” said St Luke’s Community and Events Fundraising Manager Katie Fielding.
“As you ascend the 143 steps to the jump zone, music will pulse from massive speakers, dry ice will fill the air, and seven giant video
screens will display what’s to come…before you take the plunge!”
There’s a sign-up fee of £55 per person, with a suggested Minimum Sponsorship of £250 each.
And for anybody who doesn’t feel quite ready for everything The Abyss has to offer, there’s also a chance to sign up for Magna’s Abseil challenge, a daring 150ft descent from the centre’s iconic Face of Steel, with a sign-up fee of £35.
“Of course, if you’re feeling truly adventurous and would like to take on both the Abseil and Bungee challenge on the same day, we’d love to hear from you,” said Katie.
To find out more about the two challenges or to register, visit www.stlukeshospice.org.uk/ support/events/detail/bungee-jump
It was another busy week for the Valley Hill Runners, with members competing both close to home and overseas.
Wednesday evening brought the Braithwaite Dog Leg race, part of the popular KMR series. VHR had just one representative, but she certainly made an entrance. Wendy Richardson, fresh from a three-week holiday in Italy, landed back in the UK and made a dash straight from the airport to Doncaster for the start line – her e orts rewarded with a well-earned chip butty at the nish.
Saturday, of course, was parkrun day, with club runners taking part at events up and down the country and even abroad. Over in the Netherlands, three of VHR’s ‘jet-setters’ were in action at Zuiderpark, ticking o the elusive letter Z in the parkrun alphabet challenge.
Back home, Concord parkrun saw a urry of personal bests. Ash Molloy continued his ne form with another course PB, while John Weatherall and Joanna Myers both claimed new parkrun PBs. With sunshine overhead, chocolates to hand and plenty of friendly chatter, it was the ideal way to start the weekend –particularly for Myers, who was beaming a er her latest success.
Oughtibridge War Memorial — (formerly Hallam FC and HSBC) — have long been the dominant force in the league, o en regarded as champions-elect before a ball is kicked. As such, they provided the ideal pre-season benchmark for Pomona to gauge their progress and ambitions for the coming campaign.
From the outset, Pomona set the tone with purposeful attacking play. e “three Simons” Hawley, Bonnett, and Yeadon were central to the team’s forward momentum. Hawley repeatedly picked out Bonnett with intelligent passes down the le , while Yeadon looked a constant menace on the opposite ank.
Pomona enjoyed the better of the early exchanges, restricting Oughtibridge to speculative e orts. However, the visitors capitalised on their sustained pressure in the 25th minute, a short corner saw a precise diving header lead the ball into the bottom corner.
e response from Pomona was immediate. Just ve minutes later, Bonnett threaded a clever ball to Yeadon, who battled past a deection, slotting beyond the goalkeeper to restore parity. It was a moment that typi ed Yeadon’s performance. A relentless work rate, direct running, and a willingness to make things happen.
e second half saw Pomona continue to apply pressure at key moments. On 70 minutes, Paul MacCluskey broke up play in mid eld, released Yeadon down the right, and continued his run into the area to nish the return pass clinically — 2–1 Pomona. Ten minutes later, MacCluskey sealed his brace unleashing a thunderous 30-yard strike into the top corner to give the hosts a commanding 3–1 lead.
Oughtibridge did manage a late consolation under contentious circumstances, with strong claims that debutant goalkeeper Scott Slack had the ball taken from his hands. Nevertheless, the 3–2 scoreline attered the visitors, as Pomona’s control and composure ensured the result was never truly in doubt.
at’s two great pre-season wins under Pomonas belt following the previous weeks 4-3 win against Dron eld. Next up - Pomona welcome newly promoted Yorkshire Main to the jubilee as they continue their preparations for the upcoming season.
Man of the Match — Simon Yeadon
A goal, an assist, tireless pressing, and a constant threat on both wings. At the heart of almost every dangerous move, Yeadon’s performance set the standard for the season ahead.
By Andrew McMath
A er a second-half penalty saw the Steels’ players defeated by a Barnsley XI last Tuesday by two goals to one. Stocksbridge Park Steels have the relentless new competitive season ahead of them.
ey are helped out by defender Jaz Goundry, 21, who joined the club on Sunday last week on loan from Sherwood Colliery. A graduate of Grimsby Town’s academy, he had several loan spells with clubs like Bridlington Town and Frickley Athletic. A er his release from Grimsby Town he joined Grimsby Borough and moved to Sherwood Colliery his current parent club. Goundry and the rest of the Steels’ players faced Whitby Town on Tuesday night.
Next game: Saturday 16th August 2025 vs Ashton United (A) Kick O : 15:00. Hurst Cross Stadium. Surrey St, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 8DY.
Next Home game: Wednesday 20th August 2025 vs Cleethorpes Town (H) Kick O 19:45. Bracken Moor.
Another busy week for Penistone Footpath Runners saw some standout performances.
At the City of Preston 10 Mile, James Mumford finished fifth in 58-40. His time secured first place in the men’s over40. As well as setting a new men’s over45 club record.
In East Yorkshire, Gemma Nutton claimed a podium finish at the Howden Town 5K, clocking 22-49 to take third lady and 14th overall. On the same evening, Alan Nutton tackled the Howden 10K. Alan crossed the line in 3619 for fifth, a great night for the husband and wife. Jill Scrivens recorded a PB of 22-57 at the Tatton 5K, taking first in the women’s over55.
In the Yorkshire Dales, Nichola McNally won in the ladies over55 category finishing in 2659 at the Littondale Fete 4 Mile Road Race.
Overseas, Jen and Edward Holley took on Spain’s Cursa Nocturna de Cala d’Or. Entered after spotting the kilometre markers they swapped sangria for start lines as the only UK entrants. Edward stormed to first in the J13–15 category and Jen secured third in the women’s over40 category in the 11.2km race.
Five Penistone Footpath Runners took on the Cracken Edge fell race, a Peak District classic, 7-mile course featuring over 1,000 feet of climbing. Matt Robinson was first back for the club in 56-08 then Chris Hodgson in 61-11, Shaun Swallow in 64-08, Ruby Sanderson in 67-11 and Sarah Jones Morris in 72-18.
The latest Trunce round saw great success for Penistone Footpath Runners. Richard Cottam claimed overall victory in 27-00. George Parr took fourth in 28-28. Jon Hallam finished 13th in 31-04 and Ian Neville finished 21st in 32-24. In the women’s standings, Rebecca Timms finished in 38-28, Jill Scrivens in 3845 and Lois Lopez in 39-00. Chloe Hinchliffe impressed with 40-59 while Susan Braddock won the ladies over60 with 41-07.
Penistone parkrun runners were covered 25 venues. First gender finishes went to Richard Cottam at Market Rasen and Suzanne McGill at Penistone with Flynn Rogers taking second at Neckarufer in Germany. Stuart Woodhead celebrated his 200th Hillsborough parkrun with first place in the V70 category.
City of Preston 10 Mile
5, James Mumford 58-40.
Howden Town 5K
14, Gemma Nutton 22-49.
Howden 10K
5, Alan Nutton 36-19.
Tatton 5K
Jill Scrivens 22-57.
Littondale Fete 4 Mile Road Race
Nichola McNally 26-59.
Cursa Nocturna de Cala d’Or – 11.2km
Jen Holley 3rd F40; Edward Holley 1st J13–15 (junior race).
Cracken Edge Fell Race
44, Matt Robinson 56-08; 78, Chris Hodgson 61-11; 96, Shaun Swallow 64-08; 113, Ruby Sanderson 67-11; 148, Sarah Jones Morris 7218.
Trunce Race 7
1, Richard Cottam 27-00; 4, George Parr 28-28; 13, Jon Hallam 31-04; 21, Ian Neville 32-24; 26, Chris Howden 32-56; 37, Shaun Swallow 35-03; 41, Mark Crossley 35-34; 48, Daniel Limb 36-29; 60, Rebecca Timms 38-28; 62, Jill Scrivens 38-45; 66, Lois Lopez 39-00; 89, Chloe Hinchliffe 40-59; 92, Susan Braddock 41-07; 95, Steve Dickinson 41-21; 99, Stuart Woodhead 41-37; 111, Mark Graham 43-44; 113, Shaun Braddock 44-09; 123, Heather Graham 45-31; 124, Luke McGuinness 45-34; 125, Martyn Goodwin 45-50; 127, Lisa Hinchliffe 46-01; 137, Heather Lindley 46-52; 142, Stu Smith 47-15; 150, Bernice Nixon 49-58; 157, Heath Ramsden 51-18; 160, Tracy Woodward 51-59; 162, Barbara Haigh 52-49.
Barnsley Parkrun
12, Ian Neville 20-30; 39, Michael Walsh 2516; 47, Martyn Goodwin 25-45; 76, Stu Smith 28-09; 85, Sue Hall 28-44.
Penistone Parkrun
4, Alex Harris 19-11; 8, Suzanne McGill 20-45; 23, Damien Kilpin 21-52; 28, Mark Crossley 22-50; 34, Dan Limb 22-42; 44, Ash Howlett 22-20; 52, Dan Cooper 23-44; 57, Chris Baldwin 23-57; 60, Hannah Shaw 24-05; 64, Nick Pepper 24-15; 65, Ben Wilkinson 24-23; 69, Shelley Gill 24-41; 113, Jill Carlton 26-51; 151, Lucy Clough 29-08; 175, Olivia Clough 30-20; 187, Becky Parr 30-54; 205, Nell Law 31-58; 234, Claire Watts 33-59; 240, Karen Schofield 34-29; 244, Martyn Cartwright 35-39; 246, Danny Batty 35-58; 255, Dianne McGuinness 37-08; 285, Ray Brown 58-03.
Sheffield Eagles suffered a 46–6 defeat to Halifax Panthers in Round 21 of the Betfred Championship on Sunday afternoon.
Two changes were made to the starting thirteen that were beaten by Widnes Vikings. With Martyn Reilly and Josh Hodson unavailable, Jayden Billy and Blake Broadbent stepped forward. Full-back Matty Marsh returned from injury on the bench, alongside new loan signing Harry Bowes.
The match began in difficult fashion for the visitors, as Halifax scored four tries in the opening 16 minutes.
Zack McComb, Ronan Dixon, James Woodburn-Hall and Jack Hansen quickly gave Halifax a 24-0 lead before the 20 minute mark.
The Eagles went wide to try and edge back in the game. Billy was held up as he went close to scoring, but was unable to ground the ball.The hosts weren’t done in the first half as George Whitby gave Halifax a 30–0 lead heading into half time.
Early in the second half, Matty Dawson-Jones registered Sheffield’s first points of the afternoon. However, the Panthers regained control with Charlie Graham intercepting a misplaced pass and scoring on the hour-mark.
Woodburn-Hall secured his second try with but couldn’t prevent Halifax sealing a 46–6 victory, as Sheffield fell to a seventh successive league defeat.
Next Match: The Eagles face Toulouse Olympique in their next Betfred Championship fixture, travelling to Stade des Minimes on Saturday evening. (6pm local / 5pm BST kick-off).
Halifax Panthers: Nofoaluma, C. Graham, Crooks, Sambou, Tibbs, Hansen, WoodburnHall, Douglas, O’Brien, Dixon, McComb, Tangata, Calcott. Interchanges (all used): Whitby, Fairbank, Davies, Graham. 18th Man: Johnson
Tries: McComb (6’), Dixon (11’), WoodburnHall (14’, 71’), Hansen (16’), Whitby (35’), C. Graham (61’), B. Graham (78’)
Goals: Hansen (6/7), Whitby (1/1)
Sheffield Eagles: Walker, Billy, Welham, Dawson-Jones, Walkley, Aston, Craven, Battye, Butterworth, Broadbent, Roberts, Hodgson, Bussey. Interchanges (all used): Marsh, Gwaze, Green, Bowes 18th Man: Millar
Tries: Dawson-Jones (49’)
Goals: Aston (1/1)
Sheffield Tigers defeated Belle Vue 55-35 at home, bouncing back from their recent loss at Owlerton and following a significant away win in Birmingham.
They established an early eight-point lead with four 4-2s in the first seven races. Key performances included Anders Rowe’s strong start, Leon Flint’s continued good form, and Chris Holder’s strategic riding.
Despite Belle Vue’s efforts, including a tactical substitute heat win, the Tigers maintained their advantage, securing their biggest winning margin of the season. Jack Holder was a standout, taking four straight wins, as the Tigers moved closer to securing a play-off spot.
Sheffield are next in action this Thursday (August 14, 7.30pm) when they travel to Oxford.
SHEFFIELD 55: Jack Holder 13, Leon Flint 13, Chris Holder 8, Josh Pickering 7+2, Anders Rowe 7+1, Nick Morris 6+3, Jye Etheridge 1.
BELLE VUE 35: Dan Bewley 13+1, Brady Kurtz 9+1, Jaimon Lidsey 8, Zach Cook 2+1, Jake Mulford 2, Norick Blodorn 1, Tate Zischke 0.
Jack Holder took the flag in Heat 13 before another eventful Heat 14. That had to be re-run with Zischke taking a tumble after an unsatisfactory start but in the re-run, Flint and Morris overcame the challenge of Zach Cook for another home 5-1.
The night rounded off with a 4-2 as Jack Holder reeled off a fourth straight win as the Tigers took another massive step towards securing their play-off place.
Sheffield are next in action this Thursday (August 14, 7.30pm) when they travel to Oxford.
SHEFFIELD 55: Jack Holder 13, Leon Flint 13, Chris Holder 8, Josh Pickering 7+2, Anders Rowe 7+1, Nick Morris 6+3, Jye Etheridge 1.
BELLE VUE 35: Dan Bewley 13+1, Brady Kurtz 9+1, Jaimon Lidsey 8, Zach Cook 2+1, Jake Mulford 2, Norick Blodorn 1, Tate Zischke 0
Harmony Works Trust is celebrating another major funding milestone a er securing a £1 million grant from the Gar eld Weston Foundation – moving the long-term ambition to redevelop Canada House into a dynamic new music hub within touching distance.
e Gar eld Weston Foundation is a UKbased charitable grant-making organisation that distributes more than £80 million annually across sectors including the arts, education, youth, health, community, environment and welfare.
is latest pledge adds to a growing list of funders, including £4.7 million from e National Lottery Heritage Fund and £3.5 million from Arts Council England.
Additional support has also been secured from She eld City Council, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, and several other trusts and foundations. As a result, Harmony Works has now raised the vast majority of the funding required to deliver the project.
However, a nal funding gap of over £1 million is still being sought.
Emily Pieters, Project Director at Harmony Works, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply grateful to the Gar eld Weston Foundation for their extraordinary belief in our vision. eir pledge is a powerful re ection of their condence in what we’re trying to achieve.
“With this, we’re closer than ever to creating a permanent home for inspirational music education in the heart of She eld. But we’re not quite there yet. We still need to raise over £1 million to facilitate the transformation of Canada House and unlock the full potential of this iconic building. If you believe in music, heritage and young people – now’s the time to get involved.”
Sophia Weston, Deputy Chair of Gar eld Weston Foundation, added:
“We believe in supporting a diverse range of charities across the UK. From local community initiatives to large national projects, the common thread is that all our grantees make a real positive di erence, improving lives and strengthening communities throughout the country. We are thrilled to be supporting Harmony Works, who do amazing work inspiring young people through music.”
Canada House, a Grade II* Listed building with a rich history dating back to 1875, was acquired by the Harmony Works Trust last year. Best remembered by locals as TurnUps nightclub during the 1980s, the building is set to be transformed into a centre of excellence for music education in South Yorkshire – welcoming partners such as She eld Music Academy, She eld Music Hub, Brass Bands England, and others. Construction is expected to begin next year, with the new hub scheduled to open in late 2027.
WEDNESDAY
13 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Centre for10am. We have a friendly informal club environment for retired men to build and maintain companionship and social contacts. We will be next meeting on Wednesday August 13th when George Clark will be giving a presentation entitled ‘ Richard 3rd Villain or Hero’. After the meeting some members continue to Wortley Hall for a convivial lunch. For further information please look at our website or contact our secretary, Trevor Winslow 07966 317258
THURSDAY
14 Stocksbridge & District History Society Meeting - Christ Church Hall - 7PM. Speaker Eric Jackson - ‘Court Houses and the Legal System’ .
FRIDAY
15 Stocksbridge Family Fun Day at Stocksbridge Youth Centre, Coalpit Lane. Free fun for all ages. 11am - 2pm. Join us for inatables, Steel City Arcade Gaming Van, games and much more!
SATURDAY
16 Bullhouse Chapel is open for quiet re ection or to learn about the history of this Independent Chapel from 11am-1pm. Our usual Christian worship on Sunday afternoon the 17th will be at 2.30pm.
MONDAY
25 Chapeltown Fol Festival from 12noon to 11pm @ the Commercial, Station Road, Chapeltown. The event is free but we will be making collections for St Luke’s Hospice. Guests include Fretworks, Gloria Monday, Some Antics, Monkeys Fist, New Horizons and Richard Memmott. Floor singers, musicians and audience are all welcome- any acoustic music goes!
WEDNESDAY
3 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. This is our AGM so unfortunately we are unable to accept visitors or new members at this meeting.
SATURDAY
6 Chapeltown WI will be holding a Craft Day in Chapeltown Methodist Church, morning session 10.00am, afternoon 1.30. pm. Teddybear felting, Christmas bunting, Cards and bread making. Further details contact 07913842020 or 07846292673.
6 Chapeltown Forum Annual Autumn Fayre Newton Hall Cowley Lane 11.00-3.00pm Light refreshments available Free Admission
SUNDAY
14 Table Top Sale - Stocksbridge Community Leisure CentreSunday 14th September, Open To Buyers 10.00 am to 1.00 pm.
SATURDAY
20 Jumble Sale. 11.00-1.00pm.
Great bargains at rock bottom prices.
Grenoside Scout and Guide HQ, Saltbox Lane, S35 8QS. 50p. Donations accepted from 9am or contact grenosandg@gmail.com. No electricals thanks.
SATURDAY
27 Chapeltown WI will be hosting a Macmillan co ee morning at Chapeltown Methodist Chapel, 10.00am until 12.00noon. Co ee and cake, Tombola and ra e. Everyone welcome.
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 Baby and Toddler group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Mondays during termtime 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in
anytime. Sponsored by T.A.R.A.
TUESDAYS
Stocksbridge Bowls Club hold a weekly open session at 1.30pm every Tuesday at Linden Crescent. All ages welcome.
CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) Tea, co ee, cakes, dominoes and other games, and friendship. Every Tuesday 2-4 pm at St Andrew’s Church, High Street, Penistone. (Next to the library).For more details: 07903 628820
Deepcar Drop-In every Tuesday from 10am - midday at St John’s Church, Deepcar. All are welcome for drinks, cake and company.
Tuesday social bowling starting at 1.30pm Stocksbridge Bowls Club, Linden Crescent
WEDNESDAYS
Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:00-3:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435
Thurgoland Community Choir, every Wednesday 7pm - 9:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Thurgoland.
Co ee mornings with homemade cakes. Wednesdays from 10am to 12 noon at St Mary’s Church Bolsterstone. Friendly company, and delicious home made cakes are waiting for walkers, residents and anyone else wishing to drop in for a co ee and a chat. You can be assured of a warm welcome in
Bolsterstone St Mary’s.
THURSDAYS
Open House Community Café
Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for co ee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com
The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m. High Green Fitness and Fun Aerobics and Activities Paces campus, High Green Thursday 10am-12:30pm £4 per person. Call Margaret for more info 0114 284 7190
Volunteer Thursdays at Greave House Farm Trust. Enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise, meeting new friends. Any time between 10am and 4pm. Bring a packed lunch. Also monthly work days on 2nd Saturday. For more info contact Barbara: 07724505911or email greavehouse@yahoo.co.uk
‘WARM WELCOME’ for everyone at The Christian Centre, Cedar Road every Thursday between 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. Meet & Chat - Enjoy a snack - games to play.
FRIDAYS
Stocksbridge Community Care Group’s Friday Drop In Service for elderly residents is once again being held weekly at The Venue, between 10am and 3pm. For a small charge visitors can enjoy a hot drink, company,
games, talks and a light lunch. For further information contact Dave Owen on 0114 2864426.
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)
An editorial contribution by…
In this new regular feature, local writer and researcher Steve Moxon delves into the lesser-known corners of our area’s history. Drawing on archival sources, place-name clues, and local folklore, Steve will be unearthing stories that connect our present-day communities with their o en-forgotten pasts.
In this third piece, he turns his attention again to Bolsterstone and writes about the possibility of there being a large hall.
A well-known pair of huge stones lie just within Bolsterstone churchyard. Rectangular, roughly dressed, laid at, with that atop featuring two recesses, one very shallow ... so what are they?
A longstanding guess is the base of a ‘double cross’, but a double cross has a shared sha with two beams. ere is no such thing anywhere as a cross either of twin sha s and a shared beam or two crosses right next each other. In any case, neither of the recesses are deep enough or of the right shape and size to take a cross sha , and are at di erent heights – though the beams would have to be at di erent heights with the sha s so close together. Nothing about such an incongruous arrangement would make sense … except that a big recess in a stone we intuit is a socket to receive something, and, in thinking historically, people conjure up a cross.
A double-cross base likewise is assumed for a similar stone laying on the oor inside the entrance of Eccles eld Church. Of two broken cross sha s found outside, one has been crudely inserted into one recess, having to be packed with lead to adjust for the ill t and to stop it falling over. e second recess is of a wrong shape and size to take the remaining sha , which is merely placed alongside it. A da failed assembly.
A 19th century photo of what are clearly the Bolsterstone stones show them not where they are now but on the village green, near the stocks, prompting John Wilson of Broomhead Hall in the mid-18th century to imagine they too were part of some punishment device. He thought a maiden (an early type of guillotine); the common take was a gibbet. Again, neither account for the contrasting sized/shaped recesses.
So where had they come from? Olive Hepworth (in 1959) dug and found that “tradition says these stones were taken out of the old chapel, when it was restored in 1687 or 1707”.
A small eenth century job, said to resemble Midhope’s, this was two churches before
the present one. Remembering it in 1748, the Clerk of Bolsterstone, Mark Stanley detailed: “in the chapel wall is a hole, and in the hole a stone made like a basin for the holy water to be kept in”. is would explain the deeper recess. In 1862, Eccles eld historian, the Rev Jonathan Eastwood wrote: “ e piscina from the old building is still standing on the village green, where are also the stocks.” at nails it.
A piscina is a basin used in association with the Catholic mass for ritually washing the holy vessels. O en, as here, it includes an adjacent shallower basin or recess for draining. e whole thing needs to be raised to a workable height, hence the lower of the two stones to act as a plinth. Piscinas were once familiar in churches across the country until removed come the Reformation as being considered part of Catholic idolatry. ese ejected stones can be seen in many places, all now unfathomable to locals, save clues in folklore or mangled community memory.
A stone discovered buried in the churchyard at Haslingden, Lancashire, is remarkably similar to the Bolsterstone top stone. As is the Great Stone, Stretford, dumped on the side of Chester Road. is even shares the same stepchange in height of the recesses. A legend there associates it with ‘holy water’ and use as a ‘mass stone’. A near dead ringer was carted o to the parish boundary, which is symbolic of non-Christianity (re ecting Reformational disdain): the Dipping Stone on Whaley Moor. Local lore has it that the holes were lled with spring water into which money was dropped for cleaning. at’s a mangling of the original use that nonetheless gives a clue to it. It seems our own local lore also almost got there: Wallace Charlesworth, writing in 1895, reckoned the stones were for catching water to use in Christenings.
So how has the false notion of a double cross persisted? Well, even when you show that it’s a piscina, some still go on about a cross base. ey seem unwilling to let go of the take that is the more romantic.
To: Messrs Moxon and Hansell
I really think it is time to put an end to this polemic. Your wordy cleverness of outdoing each other is, I’m afraid, nothing short of cerebral selfabuse. Whilst this may not be a ecting either of your eyesights, it is certainly making some of us cross-eyed. As the Bard put it “sound and fury signifying nothing”!
May I suggest a better solution would be pistols (water) at dawn on Castle Field. I am happy to hold your handbags. Or, if you prefer, and tapping into Steve’s penchant for medieval history, pigs’ bladders on sticks.
Please agree to disagree and move on chaps.
Steve Tivey, Bolsterstone
Rats - le er sent to council
I wanted to report antisocial behaviour.
Problem occurs in block of ats on Shayhouse lane ere are litters everywhere in the back garden. I do not know who is responsible for this , but it cause at the moment re safety hazard as rubbish are literally stores everywhere. Pathway is blocked by furniture. ere is persistent smell and rats.
Our property is few yards away but we smell it and see rats coming to our back gardens. Please do something about it but it is not safe to live there , especially that I observe there are little children playing amongst rubbish.
I want to stay anonymous. ank you.
I couldn’t and wouldn’t want to match the verbosity of my lame detractor … and note my letter was re-written by LL, so quite bit of what he comments on was not from me. Su ce to say his argument against cutting spending is a non-starter with the national
debt – the debt taxpayers have been saddled with – of either £3-4 trillion or £12 trillion, according to how much money you pretend is ‘o the books’ and somehow doesn’t count. A private company trying to hide debt as the Government does would be immediately declared bankrupt. e amount in tax receipts that in e ect goes down the toilet in interest payments on the national debt -- now well over a hundred billion annually -- is going to go exponential as interest rates multiply with loss of faith by lenders that debt will be repaid. Pretty soon the great bulk of vastly increased borrowing will be just to pay interest (it’s already half of it). is means ever largerscale money printing, which is the major basis of poverty as in ation hits the poor especially. Famously in Germany, the rich got by through carrying their dosh in wheelbarrows to buy a loaf of bread while the poor literally starved in the streets. A cracking sort of redistributive social justice that, eh? Of course, the government could just default and get no more loans from anybody bar the IMF, with the swingeing cuts that entails. You see, all roads lead to a similar outcome, though worse the longer it’s le before sorting; if not irretrievable combined with the other forms of collapse no longer hidden. If you don’t give the unpleasant but necessary medicine when the disease it still just about treatable then the patient dies, no matter how much ‘love’ he gets from those who nurse rather than treat him. e answer is certainly not just to cut spending: it’s to step back and allow growth –there isn’t the money for government-primed growth, and anyway they’re mostly rubbish at it. Increasing the size of the pie is needed not just before you worry about how you slice it, but to avoid many slices being thin air. ere ends common-sense economics 101 many supposed sophisticates think they can ignore.
Remember ‘the end of boom and bust’?
Steve Moxon
South Yorkshire residents are being encouraged to return any unwanted medicines to a pharmacy.
People are also encouraged to only order the medicines they need, check their medicines bag before they leave their pharmacy and to tell their GP if they no longer want/need a medication.
ese messages aim to reduce harm caused to the environment from medicines pollution as well as potential harm to pets and people at home, and to prevent medicines over-ordering and stockpiling.
If unwanted and unneeded medicines are returned whilst still in the pharmacy, those medicines can be safely re-used.
Dr David Crichton, Chief Medical O cer, NHS South Yorkshire said:
“Returning unwanted medicines to a local pharmacy is a simple and e ective action that can help to protect nature and ourselves.
“When medications get ushed down a toilet or put in bins they can get into our soil and waterways and cause harmful pollution.
“If you have unwanted medication you can return it to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
“ is includes any products with medication in them, such as creams, liquids, medicine bottles, used patches and inhalers.”
“We would ask that patients only order the medications that they need.”
Inhalers in particular, are incredibly important to dispose of correctly as they can leak greenhouse gasses long a er the medication has been used.
NHS South Yorkshire urges all residents to check their medicines supply before ordering more, and to check their medicines bags before leaving the pharmacy to help protect supply chains and our environment.
For more information visit the NHS South Yorkshire Website: https://southyorkshire. icb.nhs.uk/your-health/south-yorkshiremedicine-waste
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Tucked into the upper Don Valley on the edge of the Peak District, the twin communities of Stocksbridge and Deepcar o er something rare in modern Britain: a place where rich industrial heritage meets natural beauty, and where a tight-knit, proud community continues to thrive.
For many, the name Stocksbridge is still synonymous with steel. e legacy of Samuel Fox, who began manufacturing steel products here in the 1840s, shaped the town and gave it global recognition. His invention of the paragon umbrella frame may seem modest, but it led to a burgeoning steelworks that would become a key employer and the town’s beating heart. Even today, Stocksbridge Steelworks – now operated by Liberty Steel – remains a signi cant industrial presence, continuing a tradition of skilled metalworking that’s lasted nearly two centuries.
But while the steelworks cast a long shadow, this valley has always been more than just smoke and machinery. Deepcar, with its own roots in farming and early industry, sits where the Little Don and River Don meet, a natural crossroads that once saw Roman roads and packhorse trails weave through the landscape. Both areas grew in the 19th and 20th centuries, shaped by industry but never dominated by it. Today, that sense of balance still de nes the place: industrious, yes, but also serene, green, and welcoming.
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One of the rst things newcomers o en remark upon is the strength of community spirit. ere’s a strong sense that people look out for one another here. Generations of families live within walking distance, neighbours know each other’s names, and support networks – formal and informal – run deep. From the regulars in the Co-op or post o ce to the warm greetings exchanged on the Four
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Lane Ends, it’s a place where you’re never truly anonymous.
at neighbourliness spills into local initiatives. Groups such as the Stocksbridge Community Forum, the Town Council, and the recently established Stocksbridge Town Deal Board have worked hard to ensure the area continues to move forward. Plans for a revitalised high street, new leisure facilities, and improved transport links are all in the pipeline – not to mention the recently announced funding to regenerate the steel town’s image and infrastructure.
But it’s not all about long-term plans. On the ground, amenities are solid and ever-growing. e town boasts a bustling Fox Valley retail park, home to independent shops, cafes, and high-street staples. It’s helped to reinvigorate the area and draws visitors from further a eld. Nearby, the Stocksbridge Leisure Centre – once threatened with closure – is now a thriving, community-led hub o ering swimming, gym sessions, tness classes, and even roller discos.
Sport also plays a big role in local life, with several active clubs keeping both residents and supporters engaged. Stocksbridge Park Steels FC, who compete in the Northern Premier League, are perhaps best known as the early home of Jamie Vardy – the England international striker who started his career here before rising to Premier League stardom. e club remains a vital part of the community, giving young players a platform and fans a team to rally behind. Just up the road, Stocksbridge Rugby Union Club competes in the Yorkshire leagues, fostering team spirit and camaraderie across all age groups. Meanwhile, the local cricket team continues to enjoy success on
Footworks Podiatry, founded in 2012 by Melanie Toulson, is stepping into a new chapter with the arrival of a second generation in the business.
Originally launched as a home visiting service in the north of She eld, Melanie expanded her practice by opening Valley Footworks Clinic on Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, in 2020. e clinic o ers treatment for a wide range of foot-related problems.
Melanie is now delighted to announce that her daughter, Millie, has followed in her mother’s footsteps and graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Podiatry from the University of Hudders eld.
Millie will be joining her at the clinic, allowing the business to expand its services and open on more days each week — o ering patients greater convenience and exibility.
Valley Footworks, Podiatry & Chiropody clinic, 526 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, S36 2DW CONTACT US
Tel. 07984032519 Web: valleyfootworks.co.uk
and o the eld, with strong performances in recent seasons and a growing reputation for welcoming new players and families into the fold. Together, these clubs not only promote tness and competition but also strengthen community bonds across generations.
Families are well catered for, with several good local schools, including Stocksbridge High School and many primary schools, alongside nurseries and playgroups. Health services are provided through GP surgeries, dental practices, and the well-used Valley Medical Centre. en there’s the undeniable pull of the great outdoors. Few places can match the blend of industrial legacy and rural escape like Stocksbridge and Deepcar. Within minutes, residents can be walking on moorland trails, beside reservoirs, or along the Trans Pennine Trail which passes through the town. Underbank, Langsett, and More Hall reservoirs are favourites for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike – and the views across the valley on a crisp morning are something to behold.
For visitors, this makes the area a perfect gateway to the Peak District, especially for those wanting to avoid the crowds of more touristy villages. You can start your day with co ee on the high street, take a walk up onto Wharncli e Crags, and be back in time for a pint at one of the many local pubs.
And of course, the towns are rich with local characters and stories. From the dedicated volunteers who run events and keep local parks clean, to the unsung heroes helping neighbours through hard times, there’s a resilient, authentic energy here that doesn’t always make headlines – but quietly makes all the di erence.
In short, Stocksbridge and Deepcar are towns that remember where they came from while quietly building a better future.For residents, it’s a place to be proud of. For visitors, it’s a glimpse into a community that has kept its identity intact while adapting with the times.
Whether you come for the history, the hill walks, the markets, or the warm Yorkshire welcome – one thing’s certain: you won’t leave without feeling you’ve found somewhere special.
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Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre is opening its doors to the public on Saturday 16th August, from 9am to 4pm, for a completely free Open Day packed with activities, taster sessions, and information for everyone.
The event is designed to show case the wide variety of ‘Dry Side’ activities the Centre offers and to encourage more people to make regular use of this important Community facility.
Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a fitness beginner, or just curious about what’s available, the Open Day is the perfect opportunity to explore everything the Centre has to offer, with no cost and no obligation.
Throughout the day, visitors can take part in free tasters of popular activities including see timetable (left). Numbers may be limited for some of our fitness classes.
Staff and Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions, provide information about the Centre’s regular programme, and help new visitors find the right sessions or membership options to suit their interests.
The Centre’s Health and Wellbeing Team will also be available to speak to anyone interested in activities that support recovery, or about the wider community, volunteering opportunities across the Upper Don and much more. Their work is just one part of the wider offer that makes the Centre a
welcoming and supportive place for all members of the Community.
“This Open Day is all about showing people just how much the Leisure Centre has to offer,” said Centre Manager Duncan Walker. “It’s a chance to try something new, meet the team, and get a feel for what’s going on here every week, completely free.”
As well as its regular sports and fitness schedule, the Centre hosts a growing range of clubs, classes and community events, making it a valuable asset for Stocksbridge and the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re thinking of joining a class, trying a new sport, or just want a look around, this is a great chance to get involved. There will also be a Membership Special Offer available on the day so why not come along and see what the Centre has to offer.
Remember, the Centre is run by the Community for the Community.
£16,995
Last Tuesday Church made a long mid-week trip to play last season’s play-o nalists and NCEL League cup winners Beverley Town. A er the disappointment of last week’s exit from the FA Cup it was important for them to produce a performance to be proud of.
Church went about their business in the rst half really well, withstanding early pressure from Beverley, in which keeper Harry Ambler produced two excellent saves to keep the score at nil-nil. ey then grew into the game, creating several chances and unlocked the door on twenty-three minutes when a through ball from Carlton Pownall went to Lennon O’Grady who took it round the keeper to make it one-nil. at’s how it stayed until in the rst half added time, Beverley equalised when striker Cameron Connolly headed home.
Spurred on by the goal and no doubt their half-time team talk, Beverley emerged for the second half, took the game to Church, proceeded to apply great pressure and took the lead on sixty-three minutes when Cameron Connolly doubled his tally. Church continued to defend doggedly and determinedly and grew back into the game when substitutes Nathan Keightley and shortly a er Leon Hurles-Brook were introduced. A er narrowly missing a narrow angle shot Na-
than then went on to equalise the score with seven minutes remaining, and a er end-toend play, Skipper Danny Howes played Leon through, who kept his cool to slip it past the keeper for Church to win three-two.
Co-manager Brett Lovell:
“On the passage of play tonight people may say we didn’t deserve all three points tonight but the togetherness and the mentality to drive us forward and get that result epitomise what we are about as a group and our neversay-die attitude. Was it a smash and grab? Yes totally but we’ll take it all day long.
“ e drama started early on Saturday when Eccleshill United were visitors to the Parker Roo ng Memorial Ground, Church central defender Tom Brennan pulled up injured in the warm up routine and was replaced by substitute Jack Cawthorn. is le a place on the bench for t again mid- elder Danny Howes who had to dash home for his kit.”
Fixtures
Saturday 16th August 2025 Macron NCEL
Premier Division Penistone Church v Tadcaster Albion Kick o 3-00 pm
Wednesday 20th August 2025 Penistone Church v Rossington Main Kick o 7-45 pm
Church Goalkeeper
Last Wednesday Wheeler Dan Taylor rode the Border City Wheelers 10 mile time trial near Carlisle. On a warm and still night Taylor nished in 23m 15s to place 4th of 14 nishers just 13 seconds o a podium place.
Birdwell Wheelers next event is a club hill climb up to Green Moor on Tuesday Sept 2nd. First rider o at 18:30. All welcome. Riders must have a working front and rear light and must wear a helmet.
More details on all the above can be found on the club website at http://www.birdwellwheelerscyclingclub. co.uk