POLICE APPEAL WORLD’S
Road incident
Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage following a serious incident in She eld that has le a woman in her 30s with life-threatening injuries.
Emergency services were called at around 6.32am on Friday, 10 October, to reports of a woman falling from a moving vehicle on Burncross Road.
e woman was taken to hospital, where she remains in a life-threatening condition. Her family has been informed.
A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.
South Yorkshire Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.
Information can be passed to police via the online reporting tool at southyorkshire.police.uk/ro/report or by calling 101, quoting incident number 114 of 10 October 2025.
Getting the NHS Back on its Feet
What changes would you like to see in order to improve the NHS?
Marie Tidball MP, recently held a constituency listening event to hear directly from constituents about what changes they would like to see in order to improve their experiences of the NHS.
The evening opened with a short speech from Marie, who talked about her own NHS experiences as a child, which included the “worldclass” care she received at Barnsley Hospital and Sheffield Children’s Hospital to enable her to walk, and an overview of the work that has been done in government since Labour were elected. She was joined by Councillor for Barnsley’s Penistone East ward, Dr Alex Burnett, a consultant oncologist, as well as Cllr Craig Gamble-Pugh for Sheffield’s East Ecclesfield ward, who works as a mental health nurse in the NHS.
During the session, constituents worked in groups to discuss a range of themes about various aspects of the NHS, from primary care (including GP appointments, dentists, and pharmacies), secondary care (including waiting lists and community-based solutions to continuing healthcare), mental health preventative care, and barriers to accessing health services.
The meeting closed with a summary of the evening from Marie about
the key recommendations that had arisen from the discussions with her constituents throughout the evening. She was joined by Cllr Janet Ridler, for Stocksbridge & Upper Don, who reflected on the feedback she had received from people working and living across her Stocksbridge and Upper Don ward.
Marie will be using the feedback, collected during the evening, alongside correspondence received from constituents who were not able to attend the meeting, to create a series of recommendations about what communities across the constituency would like to see locally in future.
Speaking after the event, Marie Tidball MP said:
“Thank you to all the constituents that attended my constituency meeting, and also to all those who weren’t able to attend but wrote in with their concerns.
“It was invaluable to hear about what changes my constituents would like to see in our communities. There were some excellent solutions around how we can shift care closer to our communities and make a real positive difference in our experience of the NHS across the constituency, so I’m looking
forward to progressing these with local and national governments.
“In our first year in government, we have already introduced 5 million more appointments and invested £29bn to get waiting lists down. I’m excited to see how the Government’s 10-Year Plan for the NHS will seize the opportunities provided by new technology, medicines, and innovation, so we can deliver better care for all patients in our communities across Penistone and Stocksbridge.
“It was clear from discussions throughout the evening that we’re on the right track with shifting to community health care, transforming this kind of care with a focus on prevention, allowing hospitals to be able to focus on patients who need hospital care, and get them seen on time again.
“My next constituency meeting in October will be about our ‘Thriving High Streets’ – keep an eye on my social media for when registration for this meeting opens!”
Proud Day for Penistone
Historic Coal Drops Site Set for Major Transformation
It’s a proud moment for Penistone as Fairbank Investments has been granted planning approval to restore and redevelop the town’s historic Coal Drops and Signal House.
e landmark site, which has long been a reminder of Penistone’s industrial past, will soon be brought back to life as part of a major regeneration project. Plans include a vibrant mix of restaurants, o ces, retail and business spaces — a move expected to create jobs, attract visitors, and breathe new life into one of the town’s most treasured locations.
A spokesperson for Fairbank Investments said the goal was simple: “to celebrate our heritage while building for the future.”
“We’re proud to continue developing right here in our hometown and can’t wait to see this vision come to life,” they added. “A huge thank you to Barnsley Council, Axis Architecture and everyone involved in helping us reach this milestone.”
e company is now inviting interest from businesses, investors and organisations keen to be part of what it describes as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for Penistone.
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Dogs allowed on Supertram
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has con rmed that dogs will now be permanently allowed on Supertram services, following a successful trial and strong public support.
More than 10,600 people responded to a public consultation, with 75% in favour of changing the rules to allow dogs onboard. Since the trial began in March, over 6,000 dogs have travelled on Supertram – a clear sign of demand and public approval.
Previously, only assistance dogs or dogs in carry cages were permitted. Under the new permanent policy, one well-behaved dog per passenger will be allowed to travel on Supertram.
e move follows similar successful trials on light rail networks in Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, and Blackpool.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “Fixing public transport in South Yorkshire means making it work for all of us, and that includes our fourlegged friends.
“More than 10,000 people have told us: allowing dogs on trams makes our network more inclusive and accessible.
Bedworld
Students celebrate industrial roots through art
As part of this year’s Homegrown Festival, talented Year 11 students from Stocksbridge High School have created a striking exhibition exploring place and identity through the lens of their local environment.
e project encouraged pupils to engage with the community that has shaped them, re ecting on the town’s proud industrial heritage and their personal connections to it.
Art teacher Lucy Wood said:
“Too o en, school artwork remains within the walls of the classroom. is exhibition is about breaking that boundary—bringing student creativity into the heart of the community. It’s a celebration of how young people see and interpret the world around them, and a chance for the community to see itself through their eyes.”
e exhibition, titled Celebrating Our Industrial Roots, took place on Saturday 11 October at Christ Church in Stocksbridge. Visitors were treated to a showcase of creative works that honoured the town’s steelmaking past while highlighting the vibrant imagination of its next generation of artists.
Sheffield Wednesday workers take action
Unite, the UK’s leading union, has mobilised against She eld Wednesday owner Dejphon Chansiri for his repeated failure to pay the club’s non-football sta their full wages.
Membership of Unite has rocketed at the club in recent weeks due to ongoing issues over unpaid wages.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite will do everything in its power, industrially and legally, to ensure these workers get their wages. Dejphon Chansiri has millions at his disposal, these workers do not – his behaviour is disgusting.
“He needs to pay his sta and sell this well-loved club and community asset to a buyer who can run it properly as a matter of urgency.” e latest delay in a litany of missed and incomplete payments came in September, when the club’s workers received just a £1,000 payment instead of their full pay packet.
Low paid sta are being forced to take out loans or borrow from family to cover their bills.
Unite regional o cer Daniel Gawthorpe said: “ ese workers have had enough. ey totally dedicated to the club but their loyalty is being taken advantage of. People are facing real nancial hardship, but Chansiri seems to expect them to live on fresh air because of their love for Wednesday. Unite will not let this stand.”
Christmas switch-on
The team at Fox Valley in North Sheffield have partnered with Bloor Homes to launch the search for the Bloor Young Community Champion — a local young person who will have the honour of switching on the Fox Valley Christmas Lights in November.
This special recognition celebrates a child or young person (aged 18 or under) who has gone above and beyond in volunteering or contributing to their local community. Whether through acts of kindness, leadership, resilience, or service, the Champion will represent the heart of Deepcar and the surrounding areas.
Nominees should meet the following criteria: Aged 18 or under
Available to attend the Switch-On event on 14 November
Demonstrated outstanding commitment to helping others or making a positive impact locally
Shown initiative, kindness, or leadership in their community, or
Overcome personal challenges with resilience and inspired others by their example
The chosen Champion will join special guests on stage to lead the countdown and officially launch the festive season. They’ll also receive a special prize from the event sponsor Bloor Homes.
Claire Biltcliffe, Centre Manager at Fox Valley, said: “We’re so excited to once again bring
the community together for this year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On. Partnering with Bloor Homes makes this year extra special, and we can’t wait to find our Young Community Champion who will play such an important part in the celebrations.”
Sam Watkins, Sales Director for Bloor Homes East Midlands, added: “Christmas is all about bringing people together, and we’re thrilled to help make this year’s SwitchOn at Fox Valley a magical evening for everyone.”
The event promises festive markets, family-friendly activities, live performances, and Fox Valley’s stunning festive decorations — all culminating in the magical moment led by this year’s Champion.
The Story of The STEP Venue
The STEP Venue has long been at the heart of community life in Stocksbridge. Originally known as The Victory Club, it began as the employees’ social club for the Stocksbridge steelworks — proudly funded through small contributions from workers’ wages. For generations, it served as a social anchor for local families, a place to unwind, celebrate, and connect beyond the foundry gates.
When the community association that ran the club began to struggle, STEP Charity stepped in to secure its future. Taking on the lease, STEP transformed the former Victory Club into a vibrant, inclusive community hub and performance space. With the help of grant and loan funding, the building was refurbished and reopened in 2008 as The Venue — marking a new chapter in Stocksbridge’s cultural story.
By 2010, The Venue faced financial challenges and needed to rethink its business model. Under the chairmanship of Graham Silverwood, and through the continued commitment of the STEP Board of Trustees, alongside the support of key investors, The Venue was reshaped into a self-sustaining community asset, balancing social purpose with financial resilience.
“The transformation of The Venue was only possible because of the unwavering support from our Board, investors and community partners who believed in its potential to be-
come a self-sustaining community space,” said Sam Tarff, Chief Executive of STEP Charity. “Their trust and guidance allowed us to rebuild on solid foundations and focus on our mission to serve the people of Stocksbridge.”
Over the years, The Venue has weathered floods, financial pressures, and the Covid-19 pandemic. STEP pays tribute to the many staff and volunteers whose dedication carried it through those challenges. Today, a new team — including Owan Atkins, Steph Dungworth, Amelia Grubecka, and Chris Doolan — brings renewed energy and purpose.
In response to community feedback, The Venue has removed ticket charges for its regular live music nights, making them freeentry events to ensure everyone can enjoy local performances and they’ll stay that way through Summer 2026. No cover charge. No fine print. Just great music, creative themes, and unforgettable energy.
Following its rebrand and relaunch in April this year, The Venue continues to thrive, expanding community access and offering online room booking via www.stepcharity. co.uk — once again standing as a proud, selffunded hub built by the community, for the community.
Join us every month: Live DJs/Live music & Rotating Themes & More!
An editorial contribution by…
What the Wantley Ballad Really Was About LOCAL HISTORY: UNEARTHED
OCTOBER
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 looks into the myth of...
What actually the Dragon of Wantley ballad is about – rather than Godfrey Bosville’s claim it’s an allegory of the 1603 Penistone tithe dispute (see last week) -- is another, di erent, earlier legal tussle, in She eld. This explains why there is a stone frieze of a knight, More, slaying a dragon, pride of place in the Town Hall, above the arch just inside the main entrance. It’s strange no historian has asked why it’s there. After all, in the ballad there is the knight’s “new armour to bespeak at She eld town”.
Previously I pointed to the holes in Bosville’s claim, including his admission that More of More Hall was not distinctly remembered, being either counsel or attorney in the tithe battle. How could he be so vague regarding the chief protagonist? Misidenti cation.
In 1573, thirty years before the tithe suit, George More, one of the She eld burghers, acted on behalf of the whole burghery (trust or council) as both counsel and attorney in a lawsuit against the Lord of the manor of She eld, George Talbot, Sixth Earl of Shrewsbury. The Earl had tried to out She eld’s Free Tenants Charter to grab all the wasteland, for its trees (coppicing) to fuel iron/ steel (and glass) furnaces. Single-handedly, George More won. George was a More, if not of More Hall, and a George slaying the talbot hound, as St George slayed the dragon.
There was already great antipathy to the Talbots. George Talbot’s namesake grandad in 1536 had raised forces for Henry VIII to try to take on the 40,000-strong noble & clergy led northern rebellion against the Reformation (Henry VIII’s destruction of the Catholic church and the monasteries) known as The Pilgrimage of Grace. The rebels were far superior in numbers but stood down through an agreement brokered by Talbot, then reneged on by Henry in the most heinous betrayal ever by the Crown. No wonder our and a much wider area became a centre for non-conformist religion.
The astonishing woodcut unique to the Wantley broadside depicts a king before whom monks are devoured by not a dragon per se but a serpent-lion-goat hybrid (a chimera) dubbed ‘hopeless monster’, commonly employed to symbolise a doomed political line. It’s a depiction of the dissolution of the monasteries.
The local revenge on the Earl of Shrewsbury
was emblematic of the Counter-Reformation generally. Its celebration in 1685 in the Wantley ballad is the same year as – and presumably prompted by – what was a Counter-Reformation coup. The accession of the Catholic James (and the defeat of Monmouth), following Charles II’s Catholic conversion and his permanent dissolving of Parliament so as to prevent anti-Catholic measures.
Being highly seditious, the ballad’s authorship had to remain secret. Albeit there was a more Counter-Reformational climate by 1685, reversal was a risk, and anyway the Test Acts (to exclude from any sort of public o ce anyone not of the Church of England) were still in force. Pretty obviously it’s Sir Richard Fanshawe, who had died not long before, and whose wife was his meticulous curator, publishing privately or anonymously. A key Royalist – Charles I’s Remembrancer of the Exchequer (chancellor) –after the Civil War he was internally exiled to Wharncli e, or as near as: Tankersley Hall, and a ve-mile radius thereof, leaving Wharncli e easily his best view and walk. Whilst there he “amused himself in literary pursuits”, being renowned not least for comic poetry and appropriating classical texts or style to comment on current events.
Taking a local folk tale and dressing it up in George & the Dragon romanticism to re-work as political mischief looks right up his street. He would have been intrigued by the preexisting legend we had in our locale (see next week) concerning a battle with a monster. In fact, there would have been an association speci cally with dragon mythology, because, even if there wasn’t such already, a dragonslaying myth was strongly attached to the holders of Waldershelf manor (with its main seat of More Hall): the Knights Hospitallers of St John of Jerusalem. Up until their dissolution in 1540, the last individual locally in charge was lay brother ... George More, no less. Surely not the same George More, but not unlikely of the same family or a not distant relation of both the She eld and More Hall Mores. All connections no doubt pricking Fanshawe’s imagination.
Photos: Sir Richard Fanshawe (two versions of the same painting); A photo of the frieze of More & the dragon from She eld Town Hall entrance; George Talbot, the 6th Earl of Shrewsbury (a painting or a drawing).
WEDNESDAY
15 BOLSTERSTONE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HERITAGE GROUP Wednesday 15th October 7.30pm The rst part of the meeting is our AGM for members only. This is followed by a talk at 8.00pm for members and visitors. Colin Merrony will talk about “The archaeological value of historic aerial photography’ We meet in the hall at Christ Church on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge, and the talk is also available on Zoom (members only) - contact bahgmembership@gmail.com for the link. Refreshments available. There is a small entry charge: Members £2 Non-members £4. Years membership £7 All welcome.
THURSDAY
16 October - Stocksbridge Art Society. Evening art demonstration (7 to 9 pm). “Walk, talk and chalk” - a visual ramble around the countryside surrounding Stocksbridge in mixed media by Sean Barry. Christ Church Community Hall, Stocksbridge, S36 1DY. All welcome: Members free; non-members £5 inc. refreshments.
16 October to 20 November 1.30 - 4.00pm at Stocksbridge Christian Centre, Cedar Road Entrance A level access is now available on Pot House Lane. A 6-week Course for Carers of People with Dementia. This is run by the Alzheimer’s Society. To book a place please contact Liz Brook on 07979 221 077.
FRIDAY
17 Co ee Morning on Friday the 17th of October 10:30am -12 noon at St.Saviours Church , Mortomley Lane, High Green, Homemade Cakes, Tea/Co ee
SATURDAY
18 HomeGrown Festival Finale
- Come and join us to celebrate HomeGrown Festival 2025 with an evening of performances at The Venue. Enjoy music, comedy, acting and more whilst relaxing with a drink. All welcome, children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. 7.30pm - 9.30pm at The Venue, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge. Free entry, pay-bar available. Contact: udacevent@gmail.com
TUESDAY
21 @ 2pm. Stocksbridge & Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild are holding a Charity Games afternoon with tea and cakes @ Christ Church, Manchester Road. S36 1DY. Cost £5. Our charity is Stocksbridge Community Care Group. Contact 07415277266 for further information or tickets.
21 Co ee morning at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road. 10.15 - 11.45 am. Everyone welcome.
SATURDAY
25 October 3 p.m, Green Moor Chapel, Chapel Lane, Green Moor S35 7DX. Harp Concert by Alejandro Barnett supported by local musicians.
Tickets from Samuel’s Kitchen Fox Valley, Wortley Post O ce or Oxspring Post O ce For more info contact Dave on
07930447982
25 Spooky Science Club 2.00 - 4.00 at the Inman Pavilion, Moorland Drive S36 1EG. No need to book a place and only £2.00 for lots of fun! enquiries@ inmanpavilion.org.uk
MONDAY
27 Halloween Craft Club 10.00 - 11.45 at the Inman Pavilion, Moorland Drive S36 1EG. No need to book a place and only £2.00 for lots of fun! enquiries@ inmanpavilion.org.uk
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.
FRIDAY
31 - 2 - “Wonderfully Made”weekend Craft Fair - Silkstone Parish Church S75 4JH. Around 40 stalls selling handmade gifts. Supporting church funds. Friday 10.00 - 7.00, Sat & Sun 10.004.00
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
George Talbot, the 6th Earl of Shewsbury Sir Richard Fanshawe
On
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
THURSDAY
13 Chapeltown WI will hold their next meeting in Chapeltown Methodist Church at 7.30pm.
The speaker is Joey Howard who will speak about Showbiz and Comedy. The competition is for a funny joke.
SUNDAY
16 Magic Show at the Inman Pavilion, Moorland Avenue 2.00- 3.30pm. Book your places at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail. com 07957 206646 Sponsored by TARA
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
SUNDAY
23 Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Christmas Fayre - 11.00 am to 4.00 pm. Seasonal Fun And Festive Treats For All The Family, Santa’s Grotto,
Festive Music, Craft Stalls, Children’s Activities & Much More...
WEDNESDAY
26 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 26th November at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Geo Stevens, entitled “Rolling Stones”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
ONGOING
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.
Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath rst! Contact 01226 764642 for more information 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. 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.
Call Rita to apply 0114
Step back in time at the Penistone Paramount this coming Sunday a ernoon at 3.30pm for a special one-o screening of the iconic silent lm - e Phantom of the Opera, as they celebrate the 100th Anniversary of this masterpiece of the silver screen, starring Lon Chaney - ‘the man of a thousand faces’. is unique screening is extra special, as the lm will be accompanied by the Paramount’s mighty Compton organ (Yorkshire’s only cinema organ in a working cinema) played by none other than Donald MacKenzie - London’s royal lm premiere organist from the famous Odeon, Leicester Square.
What better place to watch this classic silent lm, accompanied by the thrilling sound of the cinema organ played by the master of silent lm accompaniment, than seated in the traditional setting of the Penistone Paramount, which itself is over 110 years old, having originally screened this all-time classic 100 years ago. is is certainly a show not to be missed and a truly unique experience of cinematic history at its very best.
Sunday 19th October at 3.30pm Penistone Paramount. Tickets £15 in advance or on the door.
1,000 healthier futures
Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable cancer, but, through Lung Cancer Screening, South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw is breathing more easily.
An incredible milestone has been achieved in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw’s (SYB) Lung Cancer Screening (LCS), with smoking cessation experts supporting more than 1,000 people to quit through the programme.
Smoking is responsible for around 70% of lung cancers and linked to at least 15 other cancer types. In SYB alone, approximately 23 people every week are told they have lung cancer, which is more than 1,100 cases a year.
Dr Jason Page, Clinical Director of SYB LCS, said: “ is is remarkable for our SYB residents to have achieved and everyone who has quit smoking should be very proud of themselves.
“ e risks are widely known, but tobacco addiction is a disease and it’s not always easy to stop. LCS not only helps nd any cancers earlier, but it also provides free stop smoking support. is is particularly important as evidence shows you’re up to three times more likely to quit with support and stop-smoking treatment.
“Stopping smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health, and it’s not only physical improvements you’ll feel. You’re also likely to feel less stressed and your mood will improve. Let’s also not forget that you’ll have more money in your pocket because you could save at least £2,500 a year.”
More people die from lung cancer in the UK than from breast, prostate, and bowel cancers
combined, which is why it’s essential to attend your cancer screening when you’re invited. For LCS, if you’re aged 55-74 and have ever smoked, you’ll receive an invite letter through the post when the programme is in your area.
rough SYB LCS, 763 cancers have been found so far, with 606 of these being lung cancer. More than three quarters of the cancers found have been at stage one or two, which is the best time to nd cancer as there are more treatment options available to you, including curing it.
Quitting smoking at any age will reduce your risk of cancer and a er 10 years, the risk of dying from lung cancer is around half that of someone who still smokes.
e LCS team spoke to the Mayor of Barnsley Cllr David Leech at a cancer screening awareness event recently, where he said: “I was quite a heavy smoker; I was smoking 140 cigarettes a day! I gave up smoking 38 years ago and I’m so glad I did.
“I’ve been for my Lung Cancer Screening. I got my invite a couple of years ago and fortunately everything was ne. A friend of mine had his and was sent for a CT scan. ey found a shadow on his kidney, which turned out to be a cancerous tumour. He had an operation to remove it, but he de nitely wasn’t expecting that. It just goes to show how important it is to go for your screening when you’re invited.
“I made the decision to stop smoking and managed to stick with it, so didn’t need the cessation services, but I know it’s not that
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Dr Page added: “Every one of these 1,000 quits is life changing. ey’ve reduced their risk of cancer, improved their quality of life, and saved money. is is about healthier futures for our communities and Lung Cancer Screening is helping to create more smokefree homes across South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw.”
Origins of sayings and proverbs
Looking through a recent copy of ‘Look Local’, I came across Steve Moxon’s article regarding various colloquial sayings and proverbs, to which he attributed a Gaelic origin. To say this is a highly controversial and unorthodox hypothesis is not an understatement and it is not the first time that Steve Moxon has presented such a view on language. In 2021, he submitted an article, published in the Transactions of the Yorkshire Dialect Society (1) which similarly claimed that some Yorkshire dialect expressions and some Peak District place-names were derived from Gaelic. This article drew some strong criticism, and even condemnation, from linguists who read the article, both scholars of Gaelic and the English Language, myself included. The principal criticism is centred on the fact that there is a complete absence of evidence that Gaelic has had any linguistic input (lexical, phonological) into any variety of English that exists in England, simply because there is also no evidence that Gaelic has ever been spoken in the political entity that is modern-day England. (2)
Before the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in the 5th C, who brought the English Language to these islands, Brittonic (sometimes referred to as Brythonic) was spoken throughout the mainland of Britain, from what is now northern Scotland to Cornwall – Brittonic is the ancestor of modern Welsh, Cornish and Breton and is one of the two branches of the Celtic languages spoken in Britain; it is sometimes referred to as ‘p-Celtic’. The other Celtic language is Gaelic (so-called q-Celtic) which was confined to Ireland and the Isle of Man until it was brought to Scotland when the Scots tribe migrated from Ireland to Scotland in the 4 and 5th C and established the kingdom of Dalraida. in what is now Argyll – Gaelic remained largely confined to Argyll until around the 8th C, when it spread into the Scottish Highlands and, temporarily, south-West Scotland, where it was superseded by Scots (a language descended from Northumbrian Old English).
More importantly, there is no evidence, linguistic or historical, that Gaelic was ever spoken in England. Moreover, it is evident that Old English subsumed very little from the native Brittonic languages, with only a handful of words of Brittonic origin (at most, around half a dozen) being borrowed into English or any of its regional varieties. It is an incontrovertible fact that, preNorman Conquest, English lexis consisted entirely of words of Old English origin (West Germanic), added to by the language of the Vikings, Old Norse (North Germanic), with a smattering of religious words of Latin origin. In the post-conquest era, some words of Norman French and French origin entered spoken English but the vast majority of lexical items of French and Latin origin were borrowed into English via the written medium, over the succeeding centuries.
To conclude, no linguist with an academic background in chronological, spatial and/ or social linguistics (i.e., historical linguistics, dialectology, sociolinguistics, philology, etymology etc.) would concur with the Gaelic-origin theory posited by Moxon and, moreover, his notion that a Gaelic origin “is likely in the case of English generally and our local vernacular in particular” would be entirely rejected not least because it runs wholly contrary to all linguistic study in the modern era (i.e. over roughly the last 200 years) but also because there is incontrovertible written evidence from 1400 years of written English.
The claims regarding the Gaelic origins of regional sayings should be viewed within the historical context outlined above and specific evidence. For example, with regard to the saying that “go to the foot of our stairs” is derived from Gaelic “gu tur fiadhaich a stiiuireadh”, Moxon provides no evidence apart from apparent, but very loose similarities, on phonological and orthographical levels. This analysis completely ignores the fact that there is no written record of this phrase before the early 20th C – as the phrase is clearly colloquial in nature and, as the written medium is somewhat conservative with regard to the recording of
Local Opinion
neologisms, it could be convincingly argued that this phrase predates the 20th C but what is certain is that it is a coinage of modern English (i.e., within the last 200 years). It is generally believed that the phrase is an exclamation of surprise and represents the substitution of a taboo word / phrase that was a common strategy to avoid swear words, blasphemy or religious references in the recent past (e.g., ‘flipping heck’ is a substitution for ‘fu***ng hell’ and ‘gaw blimey’ for ‘god almighty’); in this case, it has been suggested that “go to the foot of the stairs” represents ‘go to hell’ or other similarly taboo phrase. As to its provenance, the relative dearth of written evidence means it is impossible to claim it as a Yorkshire saying, it is recorded as being a phrase elsewhere in the North and, later, in the West Midlands.
Similarly, the phrase “I go to our house” is another exclamation of surprise that is even more sparsely attested in the written record but, like “foot of the stairs”, is not recorded before the 20th C. It is generally believed to be a variant of the phrase “go to the foot of our stairs” and is perhaps used when the sayer is not at home. The claim that the Yorkshire pronunciation of this phrase (rendered by Moxon as “a gu ter ar aous”) shares similarities with the Gaelic pronunciation is entirely fanciful and runs wholly contrary to a huge corpus of dialectology research undertaken in the modern era and written evidence from the very beginning of English - from Old English (OE) c. 500 – 1100 AD, through Middle English (ME) c. 11001500Mand early modern English (eModE) c.15001700), to Modern English. In this regard, the shortened vowel in ‘go’ and the vowel realisation and elision of initial ‘h’ in ‘house’ are features of the West Riding dialects that have developed from Northumbrian / Mercian OE; and North Midlands ME and eModE antecedents.
Footnotes:
Dr. Jon Fyne, Yorkshire Dialect Society
1) Moxon, Steve, ‘A (Western) Yorkshire Gaelic Lexicon’ in Upton, Clive (ed.), Transactions of the Yorkshire Dialect Society, Part 121, Volume 23, Charlesworth Press, Wakefield, 2021, 84-92.
2) Fyne, Jon, ‘Minding your Ps and Qs – a Gaelic lexicon in Yorkshire Dialect?’ in Upton, Clive (ed.), Transactions of the Yorkshire Dialect Society, Part 121, Volume 23, Charlesworth Press, Wakefield, 2023, 74-113.
MOOD SWINGS
Mood swings have taken over me completely— Not home, not work, not even outside safely. They show up uninvited, like pesky little guests, And follow me around, giving no rest.
One moment I’m laughing, the next I’m mad, Even my closest friends can’t guess what I’ve had. I ruin a conversation, then try to mend, Who knows how many shades I change in a single day, my friend?
When my husband touches me, sparks seem to fly, He jumps back like he’s committed a crime!
I go to the office smiling, cheerful, and neat, But mood swings arrive, like a stormy heartbeat. Boss asks, “What time is it?” and I snap in despair, “Terrible day, sir! Don’t even dare!”
Since that day, I sit at home counting stars in the sky, Yes, pruning these mood swings—oh me, oh my! Life with mood swings is chaotic, a constant surprise,
A rollercoaster ride, reflected in my eyes.
From pools of life, they founded on lands of expression, compounded; their hopes, dreams, desires. For some, a ‘bonfire of vanities’ expounded. What for them is theirs; to you is yours. Will ever the twain agree on a shore of present and yore?
Through our command, these ordinance maps survey our Mind’s land, telling expressions sweet; of loves incomplete; a dilly dalliance of inner eye proclaiming our view so neat: The journeys we’ve had, with all its tumbles and scrapes. Mopping up the gravy from broken plates. So, let us do what words let us do. Tell of our love’s surroundings. For in our stanzas, let our words forever chance us, to live our love of romances.
Andrew Dancer
Seasons End
At seasons end
The days they mellow Leaves of green Turn to yellow
Then from yellow Into Brown
Then they all come tumbling down
To fly again if the north wind finds them
Surfing and swirling until
In drifts of Gold
Lay sleeping
Wrong date
Barbara Horsman would like to apologise sincerely for stating in last week’s letter that the event to vote for community groups bidding for cash provided by Stocksbridge Town Council was on Tuesday 15th. It was on Wednesday 15th October.
Barbara Horsman
Apple Day Success
Apple day at Wortley Hall was a most enjoyable, pleasant occasion and the wonderful volunteers and weather made it a successful day, praise to them all including the car park stewards, all friendly and helpful. All the trees were named (heritage varieties) , apples/pears were available to buy plus freshly squeezed apple juice, vegetables, coffee and home made cakes, everything was excellent. Well done to Wortley Walled Garden Group.
J. Wright, Deepcar
New Image Coffee Morning
New Image Mcmillian Coffee & Cake Event which was held on the 3rd of October raised over £400. New Image
But I laugh, I survive, I embrace the absurd, For who else can turn tantrums into a hilarious word?
Hina Gondal
Words, are they extraordinary? They hold our history; please, study their etymology.
Pete the Poet
Hitting the Ground Running for Cross Country Season
Saturday saw the usual strong turnout from Valley Hill Runners at Concord parkrun, with members either running or marshalling to keep the local event going strong.
Steve Sansom travelled over to Rotherham parkrun and was delighted to record a new course personal best of 20:59. “I’m getting older but still running really good times,” he said with a smile after the finish.
Sunday marked the start of the Cross Country season, with the opening fixture taking place at Clifton Park. In glorious autumn sunshine — a welcome change from the usual rain and mud — a great turnout of VHR runners donned the famous blue vest.
Jonny, Shaun, Joe, Steve, Rebecca, Judith K, Judith E, Tina, Katie and Rachel all represented the team in fine style. First home for the men was Shaun Wright, while Rachel Goacher led the way for the women.
Away from the cross country action, Kim Adcock headed to Lincolnshire for the Hedgehog Half Marathon where she ran a superb personal best, and Kathryn Ward also impressed in Manchester, clocking a PB of just under 1 hour 50 minutes. Damian Hawkshaw completed the Manchester Half too, finishing just under the two-hour mark.
World’s toughest 400m
International action for Stocksbridge RC saw Rachel Howard take on what has been described as the 'World's toughest 400 metre race'.
Hosted by Red Bull and taking place in beautiful Innsbruck at the legendary Bergisel ski jump.
In previous years the heats have only required a 300 metre distance to the first landing strip; no such luck this year as all athletes were required to dig deep and climb their way to the very top.
A vertical ascent of around 130 metres up the ski slope Rachel powered her way through the heats and reached the final, which took place the same day.
Having mastered this race first in Finland and now in Austria, the whole club will be looking to Rachel next year as the Red Bull 400 series continues.
Closer to home we had Nick Boxall and Charlotte Bailey take on the South Yorkshire Cross Country series at Clifton Park, with the ladies tackling 5000 metres and the gents 8000 metres.
This being the first race of the series, the distances required are slighter shorter than at other events, but Clifton Park more than made up for it with the elevation.
Stocksbridge RC hopes to field athletes across the remainder of the cross-country series.
Sticking in South Yorkshire, a number of volunteers from the club stepped up to multiple roles at Penistone Park Run; from pacers to marshalls to funnel volunteers, it was a great day out and a real boost to be able to help the local community keep active.
Pomona Take Derby Bragging Rights
Oughtibridge WM 1–2 Pomona FC
A great result and a huge local derby win for Pomona — full of grit, discipline, and togetherness from start to finish.
Pomona started the game with intent, moving the ball confidently and staying calm under pressure. It didn’t take long for The Pom to make the breakthrough. Stephen Logan whipped in a superb delivery from the left, and Jason Allsebrook finished deftly with the outside of his boot to give the away side a deserved 1–0 lead. From there, Pomona controlled much of the first half. Adam Littlewood and James Illingworth ran the midfield, dictating the tempo and keeping the ball moving. Out wide, Simon Yeadon and Logan were a constant outlet, while at the back, Michael Heppenstall and Joe Hackworthy led by example — brave, composed, and organised throughout. Hackworthy’s outstanding display earned him a well-deserved Man of the Match award.
Stephen Raffo impressed again after last week’s performance, before being forced off through injury, while Robert Gandy provided vital cover in front of the defence, cutting out everything Oughtibridge threw Pomonas way.
The away side carried that composure into the second half and continued to play there football. Substitute Pete Hoult made an instant impact, combining perfectly with Illingworth for a sharp one-two before Illingworth calmly slotted home to double our lead — a special moment for him, scoring back in his hometown of Oughtibridge, this time in Pomona colours.
Oughtibridge pulled one back after a deflection found its way in, setting up what should’ve been a nervy final 15 minutes but Pomona looked more likely to extend their lead rather than give it up
The last 15 minutes as throughout the game summed Pomonas season so far up — defending as a unit, battling for every second ball, and staying composed when it mattered most, all while still looking to play good football.
That’s four wins from five to start the season, a run that sees Pomona sitting second in the Wragg League Division One. They’ll look to keep that momentum going next weekend when they travel to Elsecar Dynamoes.
10k race wins for Penistone duo
James Mumford and Sean Pitt both won 10k races over the weekend, taking the gold medals at Shepley 10k and Sheffield City 10k respectively.
Mumford stormed to victory by over three minutes with a time of 38:16 on a tough course that involved over 200 metres of ascent, recording a course PB in the process.
Pitt claimed his first ever race win at the Sheffield City 10k event held at Rother Valley Country Park, achieving a personal best over the distance in an impressive time of 36:40.
Dawn Broom competed in the Even Splits 5k event and achieved a fantastic time of 20:59.
The result sees her inside the top 20 F60 athletes in the UK and 2nd in the Welsh rankings.
A group of Penistone runners made the short journey into West Yorkshire to partake in the Holmfirth 10k organised by Holmfirth Harriers.
Ian Neville was first back for the club in a time 41:35 to take 24th position.
Steve Storey was representing the club on the fell running scene, completing the Grand Day Out race in North Yorkshire - a seven-and-a-halfmile race with over 1800ft of ascent.
In the weekend's Parkrun events, there were first gender places for Julia Johnson at Pontefract and James Fryers at Town Moor, and third places for Jill Scrivens at Shipley Country, Ashley
Firth at Penistone and Rob Lees at Monsal Trail. Julia Johnson topped the age-graded charts with 87.35%.
Holmfirth 10k
24, Ian Neville 41:35; 39, Alex Crosby 45:41; 90, Pete Beever 49:00; 122, Daniel Canetti 52:25; 188; Tracy Woodward 1:01:38; 214, Emma Canetti 1:07:26; 227, Sarah Norman 1:15:50.
Penistone Parkrun
3, Ashley Firth 18:28; 4, Ben Malcolm 18:46; 12, Jon Hallam 20:46; 15, Simon Pike 21:14; 35, Emily Duckett 22:51; 36, Dan Cooper 22:54; 40, Chris Hodgson 23:07; 54, Shaun Braddock 23:47; 56, Lee Hopkins 23:49; 68, Faye Nicholls 24:38; 69, Dan Limb 24:38; 113, Oliver Found 26:35; 128, Paul Sammon 27:51; 139, Sara Wolstenholme 28:47; 145, Heath Ramsden 29:17; 155, Becky Parr 29:41; 156, Angela Rollinson 29:42; 157, Joanne Sammon 29:50; 181, Claire Watts 31:17; 199, Denise Pozorski 34:10; 210, Martyn Cartwright 38:01; 230, Adele Stenton 47:59.
Barnsley Parkrun
5, Ian Neville 20:02; 52, Michael Walsh 25:49; 83, Sue Hall 28:16; 110, Luke McGuinness 31:17; 125, Danny Batty 32:33; 152, Ray Brown 35:25.
PRIDE IN DEFEAT
On Saturday in The County Senior Premier Division Saturday Church Reserves reacted well to their previous defeat with a twoone win away at Handsworth Reserves, Reece High and Jack Roberts netting for the Reserves.
For the main event on Saturday Church First Team were in league action when they entertained league leaders Liversedge.
In a tough contest Church fought well and once again keeper Harry Ambler (pictured) fully earned his Man of the Match Award producing several excellent saves from the Liversedge attack but they ended up losing with the only goal of the game coming from ‘Sedge forward George Green.
Co-manager Brett Lovell.
A week ago today I was bitterly disappointed with the player’s performance away at Parkgate. Fast forward a week and Jubby (John Whitehead) and I are ultra-proud with the attitude, desire and effort of the lads to try and get a win against a team that will more than likely be up there at the end of the season. We knew the enormous task we had facing a side that in the last fourteen games has won twelve and drawn two but we always thought our lads had the skill, determination and desire to upset the form guide and get a
positive result. It turned out that it wasn’t meant to be but today that was an unbelievably true Penistone Church performance. The lads have done themselves proud and I was pleased that the supporters stayed behind to clap them off because they left everything off that pitch today and we were unfortunate not to get anything from the game. There was nothing much in it at all in the first or the second half to be fair. One of their chances they took and we didn’t unfortunately and that’s just football for you. The lads’ efforts even when we were one-nil down to try and get back in the game were good. We didn’t shy away, we didn’t feel sorry for ourselves for conceding the goal, lesser sides would have done that and gone on to get beaten heavily, we didn’t which I was really pleased to see. We kept pushing and we got a chance with about ten minutes left when Scriv (Sam Scrivens) got down the left hand side and ‘sedge keeper Jordan Porter made a double save from him.
Fixtures
Saturday 18th October 2025
Buildbase FA Vase – 1 Penistone Church v Droylsden Kick off 3-00 pm
IN-FORM STEELS WIN AGAIN
By Andrew McMath
STOCKSBRIDGE PARK STEELS 2 - 1 WARRINGTON TOWN
After a difficult start to life in the seventh tier of English football, an unbeaten run in league and cup is emerging at Bracken Moor. Four wins from four including Saturday’s 2-1 win over Warrington Town has changed the outlook for Stocksbridge Park Steels.
Saturday’s win sees Stocksbridge go four points ahead of their opponents in 19th keeping Ian Richards’ side clear of the relegation zone for now.
Steels’ first goal came as a result of some fine footwork from James Morris who twisted the Warrington Town defender inside and out before his shot was saved only for Oliwier Grzelak to score on the follow up.
After Warrington applied a bit of pressure with some chances. Steels earnt a throw-in down the right flank. The ball was thrown-in by Tom Charlesworth, a one-two saw Charlesworth break the Warrington press flicking the ball over the top to the byline before a backheel saw Alex O’Connor’s looping volley soar into the back of the net. Giving the Steels a 2-0 lead heading into the break.
In the second half, the Steels could have had more if their forwards had
shown more composure. A breakaway in the 65th minute saw the ball trickle wide of the near post. Then a good save from Warrington’s goalkeeper ten minutes later prevented the Steels from feeling comfortable heading into the final quarter of an hour.
A corner for Warrington with ten minutes to play saw Troy Bourne score a free header which naturally raised the nerves with just one goal in it. In added time the Steels appealed for a penalty but played on and nearly buried a third towards the end of the move.
Despite the late miss, the Steels maintained their lead for a fourth consecutive win in all competitions.
Steels Manager Ian Richards spoke after the game:
“Excellent. Exceptional first half. Fully deserved to go in 2-0. I thought we controlled the game. Our structure and organisation was excellent, our intensity and work allowed us to have good quality on the ball.
“I’m proud of the performance, but more proud that you can see the players are learning and getting better and better.”
Success on the coast
A bus trip to the East Coast to face Withernsea RUFC in a tricky Round 5 clash, turned into a seaside romp for Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby as they returned with the spoils and a bonus point victory in an 8 try demolition of their hosts, a final score of Withernsea RUFC 22pts - Stocksbridge Rugby 51pts moved Stocksbridge up to 3rd place in the Counties 4 Yorkshire South competition.
Monsal Hill
Player/Coach Aaron Kaye selected himself at No 8, moving the versatile George Watts into the front row. Jack Spencer was preferred at scrum half, and veteran flier Joe 'cockney' Jones dusted off his boots for a rare appearance on the wing. Stocksbridge started strongly, ripping in to their opponents, and an early score by Will Cuttell, his first for the club, sponsored by Tracey Cuttell + Steve Ward, set the scene for the eager visitors. Withernsea got themselves up and running with a try of their own, as they breached the travelling blue wall however, this was quickly followed by a first club try for rookie winger Oliver O'Keefe, with the conversion nailed by Harrison 'stormin' Norman,
who is kindly sponsored by David and Jacqueline Lambert. Norman was on hand to touch down for the first of his brace of tries, and promptly added the conversion to extend the visitors lead. The home side threatened again, but the Stocksbridge defence held firm and turned the ball over right on the try line when a home score looked inevitable. Jack Leary received a yellow card and ten minutes in the sin bin for a deliberate knock on, which probably saved a try for Withernsea. Norman converted a simple penalty to keep the scoreboard ticking over before talisman skipper Andy 'clock tower' Beal, kindly sponsored by Club Secretary, Mr Mick Gribbins, crashed over from short range for another Stocksbridge score, and a try bonus point sealed before half time. Norman added the extras before young Jack 'milky' Martin, sponsored by Asphalt Grid Systems, crossed from a well worked forwards rumble, to leave the half time score: Withernsea 5pts - Stocksbridge Rugby 32pts. With the game virtually over as a contest.
The home side started the 2nd stanza with a bit more energy and were rewarded with a couple of tries. Normal service resumed as Callum 'whippet' Green, scampered over the line after some enterprising back play. Green is sponsored by Mrs Emily Green at the Business Hairdressers. Norman again improved the scoreboard form a difficult angle. Improving youngster Archie Taylor crossed for his first Stocksbridge try out pacing the defence in a thrilling foot race to the line, and whilst the home side registered their 4th and bonus point try, 'The Storm' Norman had the final word with a try and goal of his own for a personal total of 21pts, as the visitors passed the half century of points, and a final score of: Withernsea 22pts - Stocksbridge Rugby 51pts.
In an all-round excellent team effort, the Bradfield Brewery Man of the Match award was presented to evergreen skipper Andy 'Clock Tower' Beal, currently in a rich vein of form, but he will be the first to acknowledge a total team effort from the travelling squad. He said afterwards, 'this was a top team performance from every
one of the boys, we're putting our training into actions on the park, and it feels good', before adding, 'the young lads are stepping up to the plate as the more experienced players are laying the platform'. There was also a message of thanks from the players to the sizable following from Stocksbridge who must have enjoyed watching their heroes putting on a fantastic display.
Next up for Stocksbridge is a home clash with old foes Hessle RUFC, who visit the Coal Pit Lane Arena at the weekend in a Round 6 fixture, where Stocksbridge will be looking for back-to-back wins, kick off is 3pm and entry is free.
Off the field, the October 100 Club draw was won by Mr Pete Windle £100 No 6, and Mr Gary Caine £25 No 30. Congratulations to both winners.
The Club will be holding a Harvest Charity Auction, with all donations going to The Brain Tumour Society. The event is being held in memory of Craig Hollingsworth and will start at 7pm at the Clubhouse on Saturday, 18 October.
Photo by Myra Little
Wheeler James Shaw rode in
iconic Monsal Hill Climb near Ashford in the Water.
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