ONE-OF-A-KIND
47 JOBS GONE
A Sheffield-based manufacturer known for creating specialist support equipment for children with disabilities has ceased trading, citing a "sustained period of financial pressure."
Jenx Ltd, which had its manufacturing base in Hillsborough, con rmed the immediate closure on Monday, resulting in 47 redundancies.
e rm's Managing Director, Holly Jenkins, described the decision as "deeply saddening" but "necessary" to secure the future of the wider organisation.
“Reaching this decision has been extremely di cult and marks the end of a proud chapter in Jenx Ltd’s history,” said Ms Jenkins. “I want to sincerely thank every member of our manufacturing team, both past and present, for their contribution, expertise, and dedication over the years.”
Moving forward, the business will focus its e orts on its UK distribution arm, Jira e, which is reported to be growing and o ers "strong long-term potential."
e company has moved to reassure customers that all Jenx products already in use, as well as those supplied in the coming weeks,
will continue to be fully supported. Jenx Ltd also stated it "will continue to work with its global partners" to maintain support for the thousands of children worldwide who rely on its equipment.
Jira e remains fully operational and will continue its close partnership with Ri on to supply innovative products across the UK. Ms Jenkins emphasised that the company's core mission continues despite the closure of the manufacturing division. “Our mission to create a bright and inclusive future for all children remains at the heart of everything we do. With Jira e, we will continue to provide the highest quality specialist products and the dedicated support that children, carers, families, therapists and funding bodies across the UK rely upon.”
No nal timeline for the wind-down of manufacturing operations has been con rmed, with the company stating its priority is to ensure as much continuity as possible for its customers.
Photo Jonathon Taylor
Motorsport Star Unveils Unique Art Collaboration
Sheffield’s rising motorsport talent, Formula 4 driver Rowan Campbell-Pilling, has teamed up with local artist Amadora Art to create a special painting celebrating his career milestone at Silverstone.
Earlier this year Rowan, racing with Dronfield-based JHR Developments, made history by joining the British Grand Prix weekend schedule, where F4 shared the stage with Formula 1, 2 and 3 for the first time. In front of a 480,000-strong crowd, he secured a podium finish, placing third.
To mark the achievement, Rowan commissioned a 70x90cm artwork from Amadora, a Sheffield-based self-taught artist who began painting during lockdown in 2020. Known for her portraiture, Amadora attended the Silverstone event and later unveiled the striking painting of Rowan and his F4 car at Leah’s Yard in Sheffield, where around 100 guests attended. The piece was also displayed at the Winter Gardens.
As part of the collaboration, 42 limited edition prints – reflecting Rowan’s racing number –have been created to raise funds for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, where Rowan is a Children’s Champion. To date, he has raised more than £25,000 for the charity, inspired by his own experience as a patient. Two signed prints will be donated to the hospital for auc-
tion, with the remainder expected to bring in around £4,000.
Rowan said: “It’s been amazing to celebrate both motorsport and Sheffield through this collaboration, while supporting a cause close to my heart.”
Over half of Rowan’s 42 prints have been purchased in support of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity. To purchase your own limited-edition print, register your interest via media@rowancampbellpilling.co.uk.
Local Enthusiasts Donate
£4,000
A recent Vintage Vehicle Show held at Wortley Hall on July 13th has resulted in a significant donation of £4,000 to the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity (SCHC). The funds were presented to Courtney Hunt of SCHC at a meeting held at Wortley Hall earlier this week.
The generous sum was raised through the popular Vintage Vehicle Show, an event that brought together enthusiasts and members of the public.
Joint presidents Peter Perry and David Humberstone were pictured presenting the cheque to Courtney Hunt. The organisers extend their sincere thanks to everyone who attended and exhibited at the show, making this substantial contribution possible.
Photo: Chris Walker
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Local Man Ba les Injury in Push-Up Record A empt
A local tness enthusiast has vowed to try again for a gruelling world record a er injury forced him to adapt during his rst attempt.
Will Bolger took on the Charlie Bronson prison push-up record of 1,727 push-ups in one hour during a charity event at Paul Power’s Martial Arts Centre.
But just a week before the challenge, Will broke his toe – meaning he was forced to attempt the record while keeping one leg raised o the oor throughout.
Despite the setback and with a heatwave adding to the di culty on the day, Will managed an incredible 1,553 push-ups in one hour.
“I didn’t want to pull out because it was part of a charity show,” Will explained.
“I wanted to show that anything is possible with my faith in Jesus Christ, despite the circumstances I had against me.”
e current record of 1,727 push-ups in one hour still stands – but Will isn’t giving up. He plans to rest and recover before making another attempt on Saturday, December 7.
“I’m giving my toe time to heal and then I’ll be going for it again,” he said.
Roof Appeal
St Aidan’s Church and Community Hall are inviting residents to enjoy co ee, cake and conversation this weekend – all while supporting an important cause.
e event, which takes place on Saturday 4th October from 10am to 12 noon, will help raise much-needed funds for the Roof Appeal at St John’s Church in Penistone.
Visitors can look forward to a friendly atmosphere, refreshments and the chance to take part in a ra e, with every pound raised going towards the appeal.
Organisers say that even if people cannot attend on the day, there are still ways to contribute. Donations can be made in person at St John’s Church, Penistone, from Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 1pm, by bank transfer (details available by calling 01226 370006), or through the Roof Appeal’s dedicated Crowdfunder page.
A spokesperson for the appeal said: “Together, we can provide a roof for our community. Every contribution, large or small, makes a real di erence.”
DAY EVENT
HomeGrown: A Festival of Local Talent
The HomeGrown Arts Festival 2025 gets under way from early October with an exciting line-up of events showcasing the talent of Stockbridge and the Upper Don.
From 4th to the 18th October the HomeGrown team have put together a packed programme of performances, exhibitions and workshops which will celebrate everything from creative writing to painting, crafts, music and drama.
The HomeGrown Festival is now in its fourth year and creates an opportunity for local artists, writers, musicians, performers and makers to showcase their talents, and for local people to get involved in activities and events across the town.
This year’s events will be taking place across the festival fortnight in venues such as Voyager Art Space, Christ Church, The Venue, and Samuel’s Kitchen, and a special HomeGrown Makers’ Market will take place at Fox Valley on 4th October, the first day of the festival.
Festival highlights include an Open Studios Trail on 12th October, an open rehearsal by Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir on 13th October, and the HomeGrown Finale at The Venue with a line-up of drama, music and comedy on the evening of Saturday 18th October.
Voyager Arts Space will be hosting workshops and demonstrations throughout the festival (open Monday to Saturday) and there will be an exhibition of work by students from local schools at Stocksbridge Library during library opening times.
Alex Archer, Chair of the Upper Don Arts Community (UDAC) who coordinates the HomeGrown Festival said, “We are looking forward to the start of our fourth HomeGrown Festival; we have a fantastic selection of events this year which celebrate the real talent we have here in our community.
“We have had a great response from our brilliant and creative community so I’d encourage everyone to grab a copy of our programme and get involved in some of the fantastic workshops, performances and exhibitions which are taking place this year throughout HomeGrown.
“Our thanks go to all the organisations who continue to support the Festival, ensuring that we can continue to grow and helping HomeGrown go from strength to strength.”
You can keep up to date with what it happening during the festival by picking up a free programme from locations across the town including Voyager Art Space, Stocksbridge Library and other local businesses. You can also download a copy from the festival website at www.udachomegrown.com. HomeGrown Festival is supported and coordinated by the Upper Don Arts Community (UDAC).
HomeGrown runs from 4th to 18th October 2025, visit the website for more details or keep up to date by following www. facebook.com/UDACHomeGrown
Activity Group Still Going Strong Four Years On
A community group in Grenoside, originally set up to support older and isolated people in North She eld, is celebrating four successful years.
e Grenoside Monday Activity Group was rst launched in August 2021 a er Disability Sport She eld appealed for volunteers to help run a new project. With the help of a grant and a facilitator, the group got o the ground – and thanks to the dedication of local volunteers, it has continued to thrive long a er the initial six-month support ended.
Today, the group is entirely self-funded and meets every Monday a ernoon throughout the year, including most bank holidays. Between 25 and 30 members regularly attend, enjoying a friendly mix of activities ranging
from quizzes, bingo and memory games to cra s and boccia. Guest speakers, including representatives from the re and police services, are also invited along, while special occasions such as Christmas, Easter and VE Day are marked with celebration sessions.
Tea, co ee and refreshments are provided each week, with members asked for a voluntary contribution of £2.
Organisers say they are always happy to welcome new faces, whether as members or volunteers.
For more information, or just for a chat, call Julie on 07920 091363 or email grenosideactivitygroup@gmail.com
Chapeltown Author Celebrates National Book Award Success
Christina Lovelock of Chapeltown is celebrating a er her latest publication was recognised at one of the country’s leading literary events. Careers in Tech, Data & Digital: From Education to Employment was awarded Highly Commended at the prestigious Business Book Awards 2025 this week, a result that Christina hopes will inspire more people to explore opportunities in the fast-growing tech sector.
e judges praised the book for making the world of technology accessible to everyone, o ering clear and practical guidance, and helping to open doors for students, career changers, and professionals alike.
e recognition comes at a time when Shefeld is working hard to expand its own tech sector, against the backdrop of the UK’s ongoing digital skills gap and the government’s recent launch of the Tech First programme.
Christina, who lives in Chapeltown, has also given her time to support local education by volunteering in She eld schools, colleges, and at the University of She eld, raising awareness of the wide range of careers available in technology and digital industries.
She said: “I’m delighted that the book has been recognised nationally. My hope is that it will help more people to see the exciting opportunities available in tech and give them the tools to build successful careers.”
DCSS GARAGE EXPANDS INTO VEHICLE RECOVERY
Local automotive stalwart DCSS Garages, a xture in the community for 14 years, is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of a dedicated vehicle recovery service. is expansion, driven by local demand, sees owner Peter Roper leveraging his extensive background to provide a crucial new o ering to motorists in and around North She eld.
e new recovery service operates an impressive 23.5 hours a day, providing rapid assistance for vehicles up to 5 tonnes. Equipped with a wagon capable of transporting up to three vehicles at once, DCSS Garages is set to become a vital resource for breakdowns and accidents, complementing existing local options and ensuring quick, e cient support. is move was particularly prompted by the recognition that other garages in the area could only handle smaller vehicles, highlighting a gap in the market that Peter Roper and his team are now expertly lling.
While the new recovery service marks a signi cant step forward, Peter Roper is keen to remind residents of the comprehensive range of services that have made DCSS Garages a trusted name for over a decade. Located in Deepcar on Manchester Road for 11 years, the business specialises in Class 7 vehicles and cars, o ering an extensive array of mechanical repairs and maintenance. From essential timing belt replacements, gearbox and clutch repairs, to full engine rebuilds, MOTs, and air conditioning re lls, DCSS Garages covers nearly every aspect of vehicle care.
Peter’s personal passion for HGVs, inherited from his grandfather who was a wagon
driver, underscores the deep-rooted expertise within the business. is specialist knowledge ensures that even with the new recovery o ering, the core focus on high-quality mechanical work remains paramount. DCSS Garages deliberately steers clear of bodywork, preferring to collaborate with specialists in that eld, allowing them to concentrate on what they do best: keeping vehicles running smoothly and safely.
In a competitive local landscape, DCSS Garages stands out not only for its quality of service but also for its commitment to eciency. Peter Roper emphasises their competitive edge, particularly when it comes to quick turnaround times for MOT retests. is dedication to customer convenience, combined with their extensive service list and now, rapid vehicle recovery, rmly establishes DCSS Garages as a comprehensive and reliable choice for motorists. eir competitive advantage is o ering quick turnaround times for MOT tests and retests.
RECOVERY RAPID ASSISTANCE
SEPTEMBER
WEDNESDAY
24 St. Mary’s Church Free Graveyard Heritage tour, 10am with BAHG refreshments in the church afterwards
THURSDAY
25 Stocksbridge Community Forum. 6-8pm at The Venue. “Our Town” All welcome
FRIDAY
26 Macmillan Co ee Morning at Christ Church Stocksbridge 10am - 12 noon. Come and enjoy lovely refreshments. There will be a cake stall and popular green stall
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.
27 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Graham Oxley Memorial Concert To be held at St Mary’s Church Eccles eld on Saturday 27 September 2025 at 2.00 pm Tickets from Margaret and Peter on 0114 2460983 or 07812425387 or Julie and Paul 07876472246 or 07926377410 or St Mary’s Church Co ee Shop on Tuesdays or Fridays
27 Macmillan Co ee Morning 10 to 12 Zion Church Hall Langsett Road South Oughtibridge Bring and Buy stall
27 Wortley church and Thurlstone brass band present Saturday night at the movies.
Playing movie classics with on screen visuals and a movie quiz. 6pm to 8.30pm, doors open 5.15pm at St. Leonards church Wortley. Adults £6 Children £4 on the door. All proceeds to Wortley church funds.
27 Science Club, 2-4 pm. Lots of hands-on experiments to have a go at. Aimed at 7-11-year-olds, but everyone is welcome. £2 per family. For further information or if you fancy helping out, please email enquiries@inmanpavilion.or.uk
MONDAY
29 Members are warmly invited to Bolsterstone Community Group’s Annual General Meeting at 6.30 to 7.15pm on Monday 29th September 2025 at Stocksbridge Golf Club (30 Royd Lane, Deepcar, S36 2RZ) Afterwards, in a public meeting, from 7.15 to 8.15pm, The Yorkshire Ambulance Service will present an important demonstration on how, in an emergency, to use the two de brillators (one is situated in Bolsterstone and one at the Golf Club). The new local bus service managers & local Councillors have been invited, giving opportunity for you to raise issues relating to the area in and around Bolsterstone and to hear other residents’ comments.
OCTOBER
WEDNESDAY
1 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for
7:30pm start. We are having a presentation about new developments in the understanding of the e ects of menopause. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
SATURDAY
4 Macmillan Co ee Morning, Saturday 4th October 10.00am - 1.00pm in St. Nicholas Church Brad eld,Everyone welcome to join us for co ee and cake supporting the Palliative Care Unit Northern General Hospital She eld.
TUESDAY
7 An Evening of Clairvoyance with Debbie Askew at the Inman Pavilion. 7.30 pm Sponsored by TARA. 07957 206646 tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail. com
WEDNESDAY
8 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Hall for a 10 am start. We have a friendly informal club environment for retired men to build and maintain companionship and social contacts. We will be meeting next on Wednesday the 8th of October when Dennis Ashton will give us an illustrated talk on ‘ Iditarod- The Greatest Race on Earth ‘ .After the meeting some members go to Wortley Hall for a convivial lunch. For further information please see our website or contact our secretary Trevor Winslow on 07966 317258
On
LISTINGS
SATURDAY
11 As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the installation of the mighty Compton cinema pipe into the Penistone Paramount cinema one of America’s nest cinema organists is making a ying visit to play just one concert. Mark Herman will be in concert on Saturday October 11th at 2-30pm.. Advanced tickets are available on the Paramount’s website, by telephone on 01226 767532, in person at the box o ce, or pay on the door is possible.
THURSDAY
9 Chapeltown WI will meet at 7.30pm, at Chapeltown Methodist Church, where they will hold their AGM. This will be followed by a Pie and Peas supper for members. The competition is for a Black Cat, any medium.
SUNDAY
12 Wortley Walled Garden Apple Day Apple Day in the Walled Garden Sunday Oct 12th 11am4pm Free Entry.
WEDNESDAY
29 2.30pm at Bolsterstone Church, Ian Enters will be reading from and talking about his “Precious the Seed” poems for Christmas. The First Edition proved very popuar and sold out last year across the country. Ian is keen to bring this rst edition reprint to share with the people of Stocksbridge and She ed where he lived for many years.
NOVEMBER
WEDNESDAY
5 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We will be making Christmas wreaths from recycled materials. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
SATURDAY
8 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners – Guided Walk, led by John and Anne Robinson, Birds in Autumn, meet at 9am at Rural Lane Car Park, Wadsley, circular route, return to car park at any time, FREE but donations welcome, NO DOGS please. www. walc.epizy.com
MONDAY
17 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - AGM and talk by Malcolm Nunn about Loxley Photographs and how war affected Loxley and Brad eld areas. www.walc.epizy.com, FREE, Wadsley Church, Worrall Road, 7.30, home made refreshments
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 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
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.
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.
LOCAL HISTORY: UNEARTHED
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. In this week’s piece, he again looks into speech.
I Go To Our House! … Eh?
Who hasn’t wondered why we say (well) I go to our house – or the foot of our stairs – when we’re really surprised by something? It feels so right yet makes not a bit of sense.
Well, as I outlined last week, words or compound words that are staples of our informal conversation make perfect sense if you trace back to their origin in Gaelic (that I previously explained is likely in the case of English generally, and our local vernacular in particular). For a full phrase, such as are sayings (idioms), in e ect an entire string of Gaelic words are mangled into a corresponding string of English words they resemble and may be mistaken for. ey’re fairly snug ts for both sound and meaning.
(Scottish) Gaelic gu tur air ais, meaning ‘completely backwards’ could not more clearly be the basis of (I) go to our house. All the more so with the English rendered as Yorkshire folk would, to something like “a gu ter ar aous”. Even before looking at the Gaelic pronunciation it seems spot-on both sound-wise and for apposite and succinct meaning in how we use the expression. Similarly, gu tur adhaich a ‘stiùireadh, meaning ‘completely wild guessing’ (or words to that e ect) is the root of (I) go to the foot of our stairs.
Another puzzler is why we talk of incoming bad weather as being over our Bill’s / Will’s mothers. You might just have someone in your close family called Bill whose mum is still with us, but chances are you won’t! is is from beagan dubh suas air a h-uile mullacha, ‘a bit black up on all the tops’. As for another of our faves, he’s got t’monkey on his shoulder – usually shortened to he’s got t’monk on: how on earth did we get this to describe a sulk? It’s from muiniceach, ‘sti -necked, obstinate’, and shealbhú, ‘possessed’.
ere are a number of once very familiar now disused idioms of this ilk, but most of even the oldest of you won’t have heard of ‘em. How about run up a shutter and pump thunder? A quip to bored, restless children. Or all my eye and Betty/Peggy Martin? Sarcastically wishing good luck to a fool and his nonsense. All hitherto gibberish but no longer.
ese are real proof of the pudding in showing Gaelic to be fairly directly the root of our lingo. With single or simple compound words there is always room for doubt and to o er some alternative derivation. A er all, etymology is not a science, as there are no set rules for and so many ways in which a word can evolve. As for phrases, though, there is hardly scope for dispute. ere would have to be an extremely unlikely set of coincidences for a bunch of words from a language other than Gaelic also to t both sound- and meaningwise. is goes for any idiom on its own, with the improbability of being non-Gaelic multiplying enormously in taking them together.
We think of these strange sayings as ours: belonging to our region. Actually they are used
across most if not all of England. e great bulk of idioms generally are current everywhere, of course, and it turns out the majority -- including plenty we might imagine aren’t nonsensical – are from Gaelic.
Of the very well-known, there is, for example, under the weather: from either on d’ath bheothaich, ‘to your revival’, ar n-ath-bheothaich, ‘our revival’, or similar construction – note Gaelic bh is pronounced “w”. Take come hell or high water, that meant ’mindful of / keeping in mind life’s worries’ in the original Gaelic cuimhneachail air draghan bheatha. A construction of stailcidh, ‘shall (or will press) forward’ and a-màireach, ‘tomorrow’, gives us steal a march. ere are dozens upon dozens, that research doubtless will expand into hundreds and hundreds. Even aside from considering place-names and staples of conversation, this amounts to very strong evidence for a Gaelic origin of English.
I’m currently working on longer pieces of gobbledegook, such as what has descended to the nursery rhyme Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the ddle the cow jumped .…. ran away with the spoon. Ancient Gaelic blessings or incantations? We shall see.
Of the very well-known, there is, for example, under the weather: from either on d’ath bheothaich, ‘to your revival’, ar n-ath-bheothaich, ‘our revival’, or similar construction – note Gaelic bh is pronounced “w”. Take come hell or high water, that meant ’mindful of / keeping in mind life’s worries’ in the original Gaelic cuimhneachail air draghan bheatha. A construction of stailcidh, ‘shall (or will press) forward’ and a-màireach, ‘tomorrow’, gives us steal a march. ere are dozens upon dozens, that research doubtless will expand into hundreds and hundreds. Even aside from considering place-names and staples of conversation, this amounts to very strong evidence for a Gaelic origin of English.
I’m currently working on longer pieces of gobbledegook, such what has descended to the nursery rhyme Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the ddle the cow jumped .…. ran away with the spoon. Ancient Gaelic blessings or incantations? We shall see.
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Defibrillators
There are several defibrillators in our areaincluding those in Bolsterstone Village and at Stocksbridge Golf Club. We know that defibrillators can, and certainly do save lives, but does everyone know how to use them in an emergency? Bolsterstone Community Group has arranged for the Yorkshire Ambulance Service to give a short demonstration on how to use a defibrillator in an emergency, straight after their 6.30pm AGM on Monday 29th September. The demonstration will take place at 7.15pm at Stocksbridge Golf Club. The Community Group and Golf Club members are pleased to invite you to this important demonstration and look forward to seeing you at the Golf Club next Monday from 7.15pm to 8.15pm.
From Bolsterstone Community Group Committee
Footpaths
Hello,
I’d like to make you aware of the poor state of the footpaths & pavements between Wortley and Thurgoland.
As you are aware the A629 is not the safest route for a wheelchair/mobility scooter user to use between the villages, it’s a challenging ride for cyclists.
There is the TPT linking both villages, but the cutting at Wortley can be impassable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, due to the build up of detritus and poor drainage.
Another route is the valley bottom, via Finkle Street Lane and Forge Lane. Both with pavements that don’t have safe suitable dropped kerbs and in places they are covered over by detritus.
I’d sent an e-mail to the council and the response was that both the TPT & Pavements between the villages are leisure routes and don’t need to be
maintained as commuter routes.
In the village there is a family without a vehicle, they had been taking their children to school in Thurgoland via both routes. They have stopped using them after a series of mucky walks home via the TPT and dangerous close calls along the valley bottom, where the pavement is unusable. They now rely on neighbours to provide lifts to/ from the school.
Another Wheelchair bound villager has recently started using a recumbent tandem along the TPT, which is great. But there is a concern they can potentially become grounded/stuck in the mucky cutting, only meters from their home.
My daughter is a wheelchair & mobility scooter user. We’ve stopped taking her along the TPT and the valley bottom because of our experiences of using the routes.
If you are able to help improve the situation it would be much appreciated.
Thank You, Tony Sanger, Wortley.
Hunshelf Chat
On behalf of myself, and I’m sure many others, I would like to say a huge Thank You to Claire Derrick. Since Claire took over the production of the Hunshelf Chat 29 years ago after the demise of the originator of it, Joan Firth, it has grown from 2 pages to 8.
Claire has used her professional skills to bring us a publication of the highest quality filled with useful information about activities in our locality and other interesting things in the wider area. It is professionally produced and illustrated and must take many, many hours to produce. I, for one, have really looked forward to it’s regular delivery by members of the Parish Council.
I do hope someone will come forward to take over its production. They have a hard act to follow!
Thank you, Claire, for your dedication to this task over so very many years.
Doris Stubbs
LETTER SL1 bus link
Marie Tidball might generate more sympathy were she not trying to play party politics blaming the Conservative government for the withdrawal of the SL1 bus link.
The SL1 tram link was a great idea but sadly badly implemented and run by Stagecoach and the SYPTE. The refusal of Stagecoach Supertram to work with and coordinate with Stagecoach bus meant that arriving bus passengers watched the tram closing its doors and pulling out or tram passengers arriving and seeing the bus pulling out of the park and ride which was sadly a daily reality. At one point in time the bus company tried hard to sort the problem but unfortunately Supertram were not interested in coordination and telling the bus people where the next tram was. All too often when tram services were suspended from Middlewood to Hillsborough no consideration was given to running the SL1 to Hillsborough to connect with the tram or alternative buses instead passengers had to walk or if provided change and get a connecting bus.
No one was suggesting holding bus or trams excessively but especially in the late winter evening a long wait in the cold and wet because no one could be bothered to tell the bus that the tram was 5 minutes behind schedule was not a pleasant experience.
Unless there is proper coordination between the two then a far better solution would be an increased frequency of the 57 bus.
Alistair Nicoll, Sheffield s6
Poor reporting
In your issue dated 11th September 2025 you
carry a report of a fatal road traffic accident.
The report states that a white Fiat car was involved in a COLLISION in which the female driver was seriously injured and was transported to hospital where she passed away.
Your report refers 4 times to a collision. However there is no explanation of what her car collided with.
Pretty poor reporting I would say.
R Mccormack
Communities in Danger
Miners strike for jobs they say to keep their communities as they are today,
“What’s so good ‘bout going down the pit and then coming up top to cough and spit,
To die in agony a little each day or quickly beneath a ton of clay?”
Understand how they all feel, in an alien world their world is real.
Their troubled fast bound them together, friendships fast, brother to brother.
In that hostile workface they needed to trust, to depend on their names in acrid dust,
The worry each shift, the stain and the strife binds strongly the cord between mother and wife,
The communities ties are no mere token, strong as steel they must’nt be broken,
But shouldn’t rely on cutting coal to hold them tight as a mare and her foal,
Leave the coal in the ground, deep down in the mine,
Find healthier work in God’s golden sunshine, Make solar panels to fuel the nation, No Profits? No loss! Congratulations!!
Sheila Gent
AUTUMN FUN FOR ALL AT WHARNCLIFFE SIDE SCHOOL FAIR
Wharncliffe Side Primary School and Nursery is set to host its annual Autumn Fair on 27th September, promising an afternoon of familyfriendly entertainment from 12pm to 3pm.
The event, run in partnership with the Wharncliffe Side Development Association, offers free entry and a host of attractions. Visitors can look forward to a bouncy castle, a dedicated craft room, and a variety of games and activities. For refreshments, a pizza bar will be serving food alongside a stall offering cakes and refreshments.
The fair will also feature a mini market showcasing local makers, a presence from Foresteers, and live music provided by Paul Hawksworth.
In a special addition, the school’s new nursery will be holding an Open Day, offering prospective families a chance to meet, play and learn about their facilities.
The school emphasises that by attending with some spending money, the community will be supporting the school, local community groups, and small businesses.
The fair takes place at Wharncliffe Side Primary School and Nursery on Brightholmlee Lane, Sheffield, S35 0DD, which is situated just up the hill from The Blue Ball pub.
MAJOR CINEMA UPGRADE PLANNED FOR PENISTONE TOWN HALL
Penistone Town Hall is set for a significant transformation with ambitious plans to upgrade its cinema facilities, as part of the Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme. Following last year’s successful roof replacement, which safeguarded the historic building for the future, the focus now shifts to enhancing the popular Penistone Paramount Cinema.
The proposed works include the addition of a second screening room, capable of seating up to 50 patrons, including wheelchair-accessible spaces. This expansion aims to enable the Paramount to screen blockbuster film releases simultaneously with other multi-screen cinemas, and offer a more diverse range of content, such as National Theatre Live and independent films.
Beyond the screens, the cinema’s overall facilities are set to improve dramatically. A new café/bar, box office, and concession stand will be integrated into the front section of the town hall, designed to
be welcoming for all visitors. The redecoration of public areas will respect the building’s period features, notably retaining the coloured stainglass roof light in the new café/bar as a focal point.
A planning application has been submitted, and subject to approval and final design sign-off, work is expected to commence next year. Barnsley Council is collaborating with Penistone Town Council, the cinema’s operators, on this key project.
Cllr Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, highlighted the Paramount’s status as a “jewel in Penistone’s crown,” expressing how the plans would make the venue even more welcoming. Cllr David Greenhough, chair of Penistone Area Council, also welcomed the “great” plans, anticipating increased visitors to Penistone. This investment underscores the commitment to strengthening community facilities and supporting Barnsley’s Principal Towns to thrive.
LANDMARK HILLSBOROUGH LAW INTRODUCED
INTO PARLIAMENT
A landmark new law aimed at preventing future injustices in the wake of public tragedies has been introduced into Parliament, with local leaders welcoming the long-awaited move.
The Hillsborough Bill – now dubbed the Hillsborough Law – will enshrine a new legal Duty of Candour, requiring public officials and organisations to cooperate fully with investigations into major disasters. Those who fail to do so could face criminal sanctions. The law will also provide the biggest expansion of legal aid in a decade, giving bereaved families fair access to representation at inquests, while a new offence for misleading the public will hold authorities to account when trust is broken.
Marie Tidball, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, described the moment as “historic”, saying:
“I was 5 years old when the Hillsborough disaster occurred less than half a mile away from our constituency. This is a historic moment for our country. This landmark legislation will help to close a chapter on some of our nation’s darkest days.
“This is a law for the 97, but it is also a law for the sub-postmasters who suffered because of the Horizon scandal, the victims of infected blood, and those who died in the terrible Grenfell Tower fire. It is for every person who has been betrayed by the authorities that were meant to protect them.
“I am proud we have a Prime Minister who made this Bill his personal mission to intro-
duce, and I look forward to supporting it as it passes through Parliament.”
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard also welcomed the move, praising the decadeslong fight by families and campaigners to secure justice:
“Today marks a historic and long-overdue moment. The introduction of the Hillsborough Law is not just a piece of legislation – it’s a promise kept to the 97 who lost their lives at Hillsborough, their families, and the survivors who have fought so hard for decades to secure truth and justice.
“The Hillsborough Law will help ensure that the cover-ups, delays, and denials faced by those families can never be repeated. By placing a clear duty of candour on public officials, providing equal legal representation for bereaved families, and holding those in power accountable when they mislead or conceal the truth, the Hillsborough Law represents a fundamental change in how our country responds when things go wrong.
“Here in South Yorkshire, we carry a particular responsibility to acknowledge the failures of the past, and to ensure those failures are never allowed to happen again. The Hillsborough Law will now stand as a safeguard for generations to come – to ensure truth is never again concealed by the state.”
The new legislation has been hailed as a victory for the bereaved families and survivors who campaigned tirelessly for decades to uncover the truth after the Hillsborough disaster.
COTTAM CROWNED AMBRY 10K CHAMPION
Penistone Footpath Runners’ Richard Cottam stormed to victory at the Ambry 10K, leading home a strong club contingent in 36-21. Clubmate James Mumford also made the podium with a fine run for third place in 38-16, doing especially well to recover after slipping at the start on the wet underfoot conditions.
There was excellent strength in depth, with Ian Neville (15th, 42-23), Ian McNulty (47th, 52-36), Chloe Hinchliffe (48th, 54-03), Lisa Hinchliffe (62nd, 58-59) and Carl Matthewman (74th, 63-30) all flying the flag for Penistone.
At the Tissington Half Marathon, a breathtaking race along the old disused railway line through the Derbyshire Dales, Robert Lees impressed with a superb fifth place in 1-2424, also taking first place in the men’s over-45 category.
Further afield, Peter Beever took part in the ABP Humber Coastal Half Marathon at Cleethorpes, completing the flat seafront course in 1-51-42 (chip time) to place 20th in the men’s over-50 category.
Also braving atrocious conditions in the Peak District, Dan Rushforth completed the gruelling High Peak 40, a 40-mile ultra with over 5,500 feet of ascent. Battling heavy rain and difficult terrain, he recorded a time of 7-35 on Strava, with official results still to be published.
There was also plenty to celebrate at parkrun, where James Fryers claimed outright victory at Thorp Perrow in 18-05. Julia Johnson starred at Dewsbury, finishing as second female in 23-12, her 84.84% age grading making her the club’s run of the weekend and topping the week’s club rankings. She was followed by Ian Neville (79.77%), Jill Scrivens (75.87%), Damian Kilpin (73.19%) and
Bill Phillips (73.07%) in the top five runs of the week.
Jill Scrivens (23-33, third female at Wilmslow) and Jon Hallam (20-43, third overall at Bowling Park) also impressed on the podium.
Other highlights included Ian Neville (20-06, first V60 at Barnsley), Lisa Hinchliffe (2714, first V50 at Pontefract), Keith Gordon (27-13, first V75 at Cannon Hall), and PBs for Dan Cooper (24-09 at Thornes), Michael Nicholson (23-09 at Dewsbury), Damian Kilpin (19-50 at Millfield), John Broom (23-17 at Baysgarth Park) and Angela Rollinson (3418 at Barnsley).
Results
Ambry 10K
1, Richard Cottam 36-21; 3, James Mumford 38-16; 15, Ian Neville 42-23; 47, Ian McNulty
52-36;
6330.
Tissington Half Marathon
5, Robert Lees 1-24-24.
ABP Humber Coastal Half Marathon, Cleethorpes
259, Peter Beever 1-51-42.
Barnsley Parkrun
8, Ian Neville 20-06; 32, Martyn Goodwin 24-38; 55, Emma Stead 26-34; 73, Stu Smith 28-13; 80, Michael Walsh 28-29; 91, Paul Sammon 29-18; 105, Sue Hall 30-48; 106, Joanne Sammon 30-49; 144, Danny Batty 3351; 147, Angela Rollinson 34-18; 154, Karen Schofield 34-57; 165, Ray Brown 36-25; 197, Ashley Firth 55-22.
CHURCH SURVIVE THE WEATHER TO PROGRESS
Last Wednesday Church first team were in league action when Bottesford Town were visitors to the Parker Roofing Memorial Ground. A goal in each half from Nathan Keightley ensured a two-nil victory and the three points but Church had some steadfast defending to do during the game from the good young and hungry visiting team.
On Saturday in a game of missed chances and mistakes Church Reserves lost at home three-one to Dod’orth MW, Matty Love (2) and Billy Evans were on target for Dod’orth and Will Heath scored second half consolation goal for the Reserves.
The main event of the week was on Saturday when Church First team were on the road to Merseyside to play Wallasey side Ashville FC in the Buildbase FA Vase. Rob Ludlam opened the scoring for Church early in the game but on the half hour misfortune struck when Church keeper Harry Ambler received an accidental gash to his leg from an Ashville stud and had to leave the game for medical treatment. Central defender Jack Cawthorn (pictured) pulled the keeper’s jersey on and Harry was replaced by substitute Tom Brennan who returning from injury was literally thrown in at the deep end as the rainy conditions worsened. Play restarted with an Ashville free kick from the edge of the area and
Ashville 1-2 Penistone Church
Jack’s first task as emergency keeper was to retrieve the ball from his net after the excellent equalising strike from Mark Madden. Church then regained the lead on the stroke of half time when Sam Scrivens was on target.
During the second half the rain became torrential and credit goes to the Ashville ground staff who worked tirelessly throughout to divert the rising flood water coming from a car park and credit to both teams for playing the game in such bad conditions. There were chances for both sides during the second half notably when Ashville hit the post but the scores remained two-one in Church’s favour.
Co-manager John Whitehead
The weather was biblical, I wouldn’t have been surprised if we’d have seen Noah and his ark. We arrived at one-thirty and it wasn’t bad when we were setting up we thought that we’d dodged the rain because the pitch was in first class condition. We started the game well, we played some really good stuff going forward, we were defensively solid and we got our breakthrough from a corner which went out to Rob Ludlam on the edge of the eighteen-yard box and he absolutely rifled it in to give us an early lead. Then an innocuous coming together in our area left Harry with a serious deep gash in his leg so Jack Cawthorn volunteered to go into the net and we
brought Tom Brennan on. It’s great to have T.B. back in the group because he’s a great character and a solid defender. Cawth’s first opportunity in goal was to try and stop a free kick from the edge of the box which unfortunately got rifled into the back of the net. We continued to produce some good stuff attacking wise, we managed to get Scriv free down the left, he cut inside and produced an absolute worldly from twenty-five yards to put us two-one up at half time and deservedly so.
We just got in the changing room at half time and the ref knocked on the door and said that we might have to abandon the game but both teams wanted to continue, we didn’t want another trip to Ashville for a replay and they sought to take advantage of our stand-in goalie.
In the second half the conditions worsened and it was horrendous for the lads, they had to play in driving rain and hail at times but we were quite dogged. The rain forced us to play a little bit different and we couldn’t get out at times but the lads were excellent. Cawth’s pulled off two or three great saves and we deserved our win.
Finally I’d like to credit the way Ashville looked after Harry, one of their officials took him to the local A&E or a hospital triage
place nearby and monitored him after and we’re grateful for that.
We visit AFC Dronfield on Tuesday (23rd Sept) in the Sheffield Senior cup we hope we can get another win under the belt before Albion Sports visit the Parker Roofing Memorial Ground on Saturday (27th Sept)
Fixtures: Saturday 27th Sep Macron NCE Premier Division Penistone Church FC v Albion Sports Kick off 3-00 pm
48, Chloe Hinchliffe 54-03; 62, Lisa Hinchliffe 58-59; 74, Carl Matthewman
PENALTIES DELIGHT AS LADIES CLAIM THRILLING WIN
Stocksbridge saw an absolute rollercoaster of a match as the Park Steels Ladies edged past Farsley Celtic on penalties in the FA Cup 2nd qualifying round.
The first half belonged to the home side, who dominated possession and controlled the play, heading into the break 2-0 up thanks to a brace from Gemma Harte, proudly sponsored by Terri Harper Boxing Ltd.
The second half, however, saw a shift in momentum. Farsley Celtic fought back with determination, and despite valiant defending from the Steels, the visitors struck twice more to level the match at 3-3, setting the stage for a tense penalty shootout.
When it came to spot-kicks, Chelsea proved to be the hero. Six brave Steels players stepped up, and the team held their nerve to secure a memorable victory.
The club praised the efforts of every player, on and off the pitch, and thanked the crowd for their support. It was a thrilling afternoon of women’s football that will be remembered for some time, and saw the club pick up a handy £3000 in prize money.
Stocksbridge Park Steels Ladies will face Blackburn Rovers Ladies of the FA Women’s National League Division One North (fourth tier) in the next round. The Lancashire side lost 7-0 in West Yorkshire last weekend to Leeds United Women.
Late Summer League Success for Thorncliffe Tennis Ladies
Thorncliffe Late Summer Ladies team, having entered into the league for the first time in years, won promotion beating Rotherham Moorgate C team 4-0 on 18th September.
Thorncliffe, based in High Green, had not been in a position to enter a Late Summer Ladies League team for a few years due to a lack of eligible members, however, following recent court refurbishments from funds raised via their hugely successful crowdfunding campaign in 2024. 4 ladies from within a 5 mile radius of the club, 3 of who had never been members of a tennis club before, joined as first time members in the early spring of 2025, a new ladies squad of 9 players comprising both seasoned and new players was formed. The ladies started practising regularly in May and in June entered the league. Every one of the new squad played in at least one match and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing against other clubs.
Before the last match, the teams were level on points and in second and third place respectively, due to Rotherham having won more sets than Thorncliffe overall. Therefore, as only the top two teams are promoted, a 4-0 victory was needed for Thorncliffe to gain promotion as first placed Chesterfield had already secured top spot.
Both Rotherham and Thorncliffe supporters were out in force acknowledging the excellent play from the teams and the great sportsmanship demonstrated by all the players. After three rubbers, Thorncliffe were winning 3-0, however, there was drama until the very end with the fourth rubber decided via a third
set championship tiebreak which Thorncliffe won 10-4, winning the match 4-0 and gaining promotion to division 4.
The promotion was all the more satisfying as the match should have originally been the first of the season and should have been played on 31st July, however, Rotherham had to pull out at just one hour’s notice due to unfortunate personal circumstances. Thorncliffe could have claimed the points for the match in however, instead, they offered to postpone it to the end of the season and therefore feel their promotion has been truly earned.
Having grown in both confidence and experience, they will now face B teams from Rotherham Moorgate, Doncaster, Fulwood and Barnsley and C teams from Brentwood and Chesterfield next season.
If you’re interested in joining Thorncliffe Tennis Club’s thriving community, please visit our website where you can find out more about our Tennis and Pickleball club and details of the court availability, membership, coaching, free parks tennis, competitive league tennis and holiday camps are available.
TRY YOUR HAND AT INDOOR BOWLING IN OXSPRING THIS WINTER
Oxspring Friends are inviting local residents to enjoy indoor bowling sessions at St Aidan’s Church and Community Hall throughout the colder months.
Whether you’re a keen summer bowler or completely new to the game, everyone is welcome to come along and give it a try. The sessions run every Monday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, starting on 6th October 2025 and continuing through to April 2026. All equipment is provided, along with light refreshments, in a warm and friendly environment. The cost is £5 per session.
FIVE STAR SHOW
Pomona earned a statement victory over long-standing rivals Ring O’Bells, securing their first positive result against them in either league or cup competition.
The home side started quick. Andrew Thompson opened the scoring inside two minutes. Three minutes later, Thompson doubled his tally, finishing past the keeper after being played through by Adam Littlewood.
Thompson’s afternoon was cut short through injury. Before leaving the field, he overstretched assisting Jason Allsebrook, who finished confidently to make it 3–0 after seven minutes. Allsebrook’s tireless performance would later see him named Man of the Match.
Midway through the first 45, Simon Yeadon added a fourth, driving forward before slotting into the bottom corner.
Ring O’Bells responded after the restart. Two quick-fire goals in ten minutes threatened to shift momentum, but Pomona regrouped and reasserted themselves. Chances continued to fall their way before midfielder James Illingworth capped off the performance, firing into the bottom corner to claim a 5-2 victory.
The result lifts Pomona into third. Attention now turns to Wickersley Old Village on 27th September.
For more details about indoor bowling, please contact Val on 07957 457681. St Aidan’s Church and Community Hall is also available to hire for community events and private functions. To arrange a visit or to find out more, contact Ruth Pearson on 07709 068884 or email atkinsonruth@hotmail.co.uk
You can also keep up to date with what’s happening at St Aidan’s by checking the ‘What’s On’ section of their Facebook page – @St Aidans Church and Community Hall.
ACTION-PACKED WEEKEND
Valley Hill Runners were spread across the country taking part in the free weekly parkrun 5k events, with Concord again proving popular.
At Concord, Richard Bowles marked his 250th parkrun. He was given a rousing cheer from fellow runners and volunteers, while birthdays for Katie and Margaret added to the festivities. True to tradition, the finish line was awash with chocolates and cakes for everyone to enjoy.
On Sunday attention turned to the Sheffield Way Relay, a gruelling 50-mile multi-terrain loop around the city starting and finishing at the Canal Basin. VHR fielded a strong team of ten, each runner tackling a 10mile leg in what proved to be challenging but rewarding conditions following recent downpours.
The relay got underway with Jonathan Adcock and Damian
Hawkshaw leading from the canal. They were followed by Jonny and Shaun on leg two, Jess and Steve on leg three, Michael and Peter on leg four, before Chris and John brought the team home on the final leg. The camaraderie and determination on display summed up the spirit of the club.
Elsewhere, members were also testing themselves further afield. Wendy Richardson and Zoe Bradshaw took on the Cleethorpes 10k, battling blustery seafront winds but finishing strongly in the cool sunshine.
Meanwhile, Richard Bowles swapped flat paths for fells as he tackled the Stanage Struggle, Julie Beaumont lined up at the Manvers Help for Heroes 10k, and Laura Fletcher competed in the Woodhall Spa sprint triathlon, raising money for the British Heart Foundation in memory of her mother-in-law Anne.
STEELS SEARCH FOR A WIN CONTINUES
STOCKSBRIDGE PARK STEELS 1 - 2 HEBBURN TOWN
By Andrew McMath
Stocksbridge Park Steels lost again as their wait for the first league win this season continues.
Steels took an early lead through James Morris for his fourth goal so far this season. A move down the right wing saw a cross into the box with Morris outfighting the Hebburn defender to volley past the keeper.
After sustained pressure and a series of long range efforts that ballooned high and wide. Plus a great save from Michael Roxburgh. A quality pass in the second half from the Hebburn midfield unlocked the Steels backline and allowed Joe Posthill to slot past the helpless Roxburgh.
Steels were fortunate to not concede a second from the kick off after the first goal. The Steels midfield stood and watched as Hebburn created a four versus three fortunately the shot went wide of the post.
On the 73rd minute, Captain Kurtis Turner got a shot off from outside the box but unfortunately it was straight at the goalkeeper.
After a few more shots that went high and wide of the Steels’ net, Hebburn countered quickly down the left hand side and the ball was crossed right across the goal line headed back into the middle for Hermengildo Da Silva
to smash into the top corner to give Hebburn the lead. Ultimately, leading to the away side coming away with all three points.
Steels Manager Ian Richards spoke after the game:
“Absolutely electric for the first 15 minutes. Absolutely excellent goal was fully deserved really well worked goal. Great finish thought we would get a second and I don’t know what switch was flipped but after that we were second best.
“That’s probably our worst performance of the season because in the other games we’ve lost. We’ve played well. I thought today we lacked the quality and the intelligent understanding of where the spaces were and where to play out wide and get away from their two centre backs and move them about.
“They were well organised, they were well drilled, they built pressure, their number nine was excellent. Held the line and got them up the pitch.
“I’ve got to look at myself and take huge responsibility for this but it’s another game where we are 1-0 up, on top, don’t get the second and we come back without any points.”
Next match: Whitby Town (H) 3pm. Saturday 27th September. Bracken Moor.
HEARTBREAK FOR TIGERS
LEICESTER LIONS 47 (90) -43 (89) SHEFFIELD TIGERS
SHEFFIELD missed out on a place in the 2025 ROWE Motor Oil Premiership Grand Final by a single point.
The Tru7 Group Tigers were beaten 47-43 at Leicester on Monday - resulting in a heartbreaking 90-89 aggregate defeat which saw them denied in the very last race.
Sheffield conceded a 5-1 in the opener before Anders Rowe and Jye Etheridge responded with a maximum in the battle of the reserves.
Former Tigers’ skipper Kyle Howarth then led a 4-2 for the hosts before reserve substitute Rowe made it two from two as he and Pickering levelled at 12-12.
Howarth and Ryan Douglas then combined for their second 4-2 for the Lions before Pickering took the flag in the first shared race of the night, with a solid ride to get the better of home captain Max Fricke.
Guest Maciej Janowski held on for second place in Heat Seven in a photo finish as he split the home duo of Drew Kemp and Sam Masters before Etheridge and Rowe replied with a 4-2 with the former sustaining some big pressure from American Luke Becker. The hosts won the next four races with three further 4-2s in that fold but many thought a potential turning point occurred in Heat Ten. Leicester sat on a 5-1 going into the final lap, but chain problems saw Becker slide off his machine. Going into Heat 13, the pressure was mounting on the Tigers with them five down
on aggregate. But No.1 Jack Holder produced a stunning ride to get by Fricke whilst Pickering took third.
Janowski then produced a brilliant gate in Heat 14 with Rowe getting the better of Kemp for back-to-back 4-2s - and that took the contest down to the wire.
The Tigers required a heat advantage to progress - and the initial staging saw Jack Holder and Pickering jump out on a 5-1 after deferring their gate selection until Heat 15.
But home man Douglas intelligently leant across Holder into the first turn and earned a re-run with all four riders.
And whilst Holder and Pickering gave it their all, there was no catching Fricke who flew away from gate four to edge it for Leicester.
Sheffield’s senior side are in action for the final time this Thursday (September 25, 7.30pm) as they host Ipswich in their final outstanding fixture of the campaign.
ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP PLAYOFF, SEMI-FINAL, 2nd LEG LEICESTER 47: Max Fricke 12+1, Kyle Howarth 9, Ryan Douglas 8, Luke Becker 6+1, Sam Masters 6, Drew Kemp 6, Joe Thompson 0. SHEFFIELD 43: Jack Holder 10, Anders Rowe 10, Josh Pickering 8+1, Maciej Janowski 6+1, Jye Etheridge 5+1, Chris Holder 4, Leon Flint 0.
Leicester win 90-89 on aggregate.
Photo by Myra Little