Matt Travis, the founder of specialist environmental consultancy Enzygo, based in Fox Valley, Stocksbridge, has been named as one of the UK’s best and brightest entrepreneurs by private equity investor LDC, part of the Lloyds Banking Group.
MP Named Parliamentarian of the Year
MP recognised for championing disabled voices and welfare reform
Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Marie Tidball has been named Parliamentarian of the Year at e Spectator Awards 2025. e annual awards, held on 29th October, celebrate political achievements across categories including Speech of the Year, Politician of the Year, and Newcomer of the Year.
Marie was singled out by a panel of respected journalists and broadcasters from e Guardian, e Sunday Times, and the BBC for her work on strengthening the voices of disabled people in Parliament, her contributions to the Assisted Dying Bill and the Universal Credit Act, and her wider campaigns on welfare issues—all during her rst year in o ce.
“I’m utterly blown away to have won e Spectator Parliamentarian of the Year Award,” said Marie. “It is the privilege of my life to represent our communities across Penistone and Stocksbridge. I am the rst person in 100 years to have grown up in our constituency and go on to represent it as its MP.
“I only got here because I am a product of the British Dream. My NHS care in Barnsley Hospital, and local state education in Penistone, meant that I was able to ful l my ambitions. I promise I will continue to ght for the values my communities taught me growing up— fairness, equality, community—and to put them at the heart of everything I do in Parliament.”
Police are asking for your help to nd wanted
Dorrian, 44, is wanted in connection to investigations into burglary and attempted burglary across She eld.
e o ences are reported to have taken place between 22 September and 23 October.
Dorrian is white, 6 tall, of a slim build with greying short hair and is clean shaven or has
Stocksbridge Bypass WANTED: Have you seen Michael?
short facial stubble. He speaks with a Scottish accent.
Dorrian is known to frequent the city centre, Hillsborough and Firth Park areas of She eld.
If you see Dorrian please call 999. If you have any information that can assist o cers in nding him, please get in touch quoting incident number 678 of 22 September 2025.
Motorcyclist Seriously Injured in Collision
Emergency services were called to the A616 Stocksbridge Bypass on Monday a ernoon a er a collision involving a car and a motorbike near the A629 junction at Wortley. Police were noti ed at 4.50pm on Monday 3 November, following reports that a grey Vauxhall Corsa and a red Honda motorbike had been involved in a crash.
e rider of the motorbike, a 35-year-old man, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Police say the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
e driver of the Corsa stayed at the scene and is assisting o cers with their enquiries.
e road was closed for around four hours while emergency services attended and the vehicles were recovered, causing disruption along the bypass and surrounding routes.
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision, or who has dashcam footage, to contact them on 101.
She eld man Michael Dorrian.
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Matt named one of the UK’s Top 50 Leaders
...Continued from front page
Now in its eighth year, the Top 50, delivered in partnership with The Times, celebrates the drive and ambition of UK-based entrepreneurs and recognises the important contribution entrepreneurs make towards shaping Britain’s economy through job creation, championing sustainability and embracing innovation.
Matt, who lives in Stocksbridge, was one of three people who co-founded Enzygo in 2008, in a bid to help businesses to navigate their way through Britain’s complex planning legislation, particularly when it comes to understanding the environmental impact of planned future developments.
Since taking the helm as managing director, under Matt’s leadership, Enzygo has enjoyed significant growth and success, building a 100-strong workforce, which operates from its Sheffield-based headquarters with regional offices in Bristol, Manchester, Belfast, Cambridge and Cardiff.
Matt was recognised on the list not just for the impressive growth enjoyed by Enzygo but also for his commitment to investing in training and development, inspiring the next generation by delivering outreach work with schools and universities, as well as giving back to the communities served by the business.
This year, the programme received almost 700 nominations, showcasing the exceptional individuals who are building successful medium-sized businesses right across the UK.
Matt Travis, Managing Director, Enzygo, said:
“Securing a place as one of Britain’s top 50 entrepreneurs is an incredible honour and one that would not be possible without the incredible hard work and dedication of the entire Enzygo team. Over the past three years, we’ve set ourselves some bold targets, successfully delivering significant year-on-year growth, as well as expanding our regional network. However, I also recognised that business success shouldn’t be simply judged on headline turnover and profitability figures but on the way it plays a role in making a positive contribution to society.
As environmental specialists, we have made a commitment, and we are on course to significantly reduce our carbon emissions across the business. We also recognised that our area of work is a highly specialised field, and we are actively investing back into the communities we serve by working with schools, helping to equip and inspire the next generation with the skills needed to succeed in their future careers.”
Photo: www.enzygo.com
DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN A COLLISION
A black Citroen C3 and a red Audi A4 were involved in a crash as they were being driven on Bank End Road, Worsbrough, at about 04:45 GMT on Monday, according to South Yorkshire Police.
The driver of the Citroen, a 32-year-old man, was taken to hospital with what police said were life-threatening injuries. Officers said his family had been informed.
A 17-year-old boy, a man, 31, and a 27-yearold woman received minor injuries in the crash, officers said.
South Yorkshire Police appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who had any footage or information about the collision, to contact officers.
History Talk Could Be Final Event for Local Group
A free local history talk is set to take place in Ecclesfield next week – and organisers say it could be their final event, depending on the outcome of an upcoming meeting.
The session will be held on Thursday 13th November at 2.30pm, featuring well-known local historian and documentary maker Joshua Daniels, who will deliver an accessible look back at the rich history of Ecclesfield.
650 Manchester Road S36 1DY 19th December 6pm - 9pm
Residents are being encouraged to attend and support the group, with organisers stressing the importance of a good turnout.
A spokesperson said: “Depending on the outcome of our General Meeting, this could very well be our final event, so we’d love to see as many people as possible. Everyone is welcome.”
The event is free to attend and open to all members of the community.
Cannabis plants worth £1.2m found
A "sophisticated" cannabis farm containing almost 1,300 plants with a street value of £1.2m has been uncovered in Sheffield city centre, writes Steve Jones for BBC Yorkshire.
Officers made the discovery when they raided a disused building on Eyre Street on 24 October, South Yorkshire Police said.
"Numerous hidden rooms" and a "living quarters" were also found inside the building, although no suspects were located.
Sgt Simon Pickering said officers were "exploring a number of forensic opportunities to identify suspects and bring them into custody".
He added: "Large cannabis grows such as this one are of-
ten used to fund the activity of organised crime groups who take advantage of vulnerable people and bring violence to our streets.
"Putting a stop to this operation will have made a significant dent in this criminal activity and we're now working hard to progress the investigation."
A force spokesperson said the door to the building where the set-up was located had been reinforced.
A total of 1,298 plants were found inside, as well as "hidden rooms which had been accessed by someone drilling through walls".
The Venue invites you to our:
Towns Fund board boosted with two new members
The Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board have seen two new members ratified this summer – and they are both already hard at work on ongoing regeneration projects.
Local property management and operations expert Richard Nield brings more than 37 years’ experience in the real estate industry in both the UK and internationally.
He is joined by Sheffield City Council’s Councillor Janet Ridler, a Stocksbridge & Upper Don ward member since 2022.
Richard is the owner/director of Richard Nield Consulting Ltd, specialising in providing property management advice to investors, landlords and managing agents across the UK.
He will be a board representative on the Stocksbridge Hub 519 development on Manchester Road, which recently began demolition of the existing former Stocksbridge Library building on the site to clear the way for the new hub to take shape.
Richard said of joining the board: “I am looking forward to assisting
with the set-up of operations and services within the new hub, which will ensure that it is a building of which we can all be proud.”
As well as her experience as an elected councillor – where she is also Sheffield City Council’s Heritage Champion - Cllr Ridler is a member of the South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority, the Sheffield Conservation Advisory Group, and the South Yorkshire Joint Advisory Committees for Archives and Archaeology.
She has worked in the heritage sector for many years and has extensive experience of developing and delivering large-scale heritage projects including bid-writing, project management and delivery, and volunteer training.
About joining the board, Cllr Ridler said: “I am pleased to be joining the board at this important time, and look forward to the ongoing regeneration work providing new and improved facilities in the town for the benefit of our local community.”
Marie Tidball MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocks-
bridge and Co-Chair of the Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board, said: “This is an exciting time to join the Towns Fund Board, right as some of these vital redevelopment projects for the town are coming together, especially the Stocksbridge Hub 519.
“Janet and Richard will bring added expertise on the board in these projects, and with Stocksbridge itself and what makes this town so important, and I’m delighted to be working with them.”
Yuri Matischen, Co-Chair of the Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board, said: “The existing contacts both new board members bring to the table will help us better connect to those who can help us move our regeneration projects forward to the best value for the people of Stocksbridge.
“There will be a lot to achieve over the coming months and we look forward to working alongside the new board members to do so.”
An Oughtibridge-based business dedicated to naturefriendly grounds maintenance has been recognised for its environmental standards.
Andy, who trades as Ecological Land Maintenance (ELM), describes himself as an “environmental groundsperson” o ering eco-conscious gardening and estate management across Yorkshire and North Derbyshire.
Since launching ELM in October 2024, Andy’s commitment to sustainable land care has already earned him the prestigious Peak District Environmental Quality Mark — awarded in March 2025 for promoting biodiversity and protecting the landscape.
With more than 14 years’ experience, Andy combines mod-
ern knowledge with organic and traditional techniques such as drystone walling, coppicing, hedgelaying, and scythe mowing, helping preserve historic countryside cra s while improving local habitats.
He works on gardens and small estates, creating bespoke maintenance plans that support wildlife and enhance natural beauty. As a former Countryside Management lecturer, he also o ers tutoring in the specialist techniques he practises.
His customers clearly appreciate his environmentally sensitive approach, with ve-star Google reviews praising the results:
“ anks, Andy for all your hard work tidying up my neglected garden and disposing of the vegetation with wildlife
in mind. I couldn’t have done it myself, but now I can see my way clear to maintaining it.”
Fully insured with public liability and professional indemnity cover, ELM o ers a full range of so landscaping and estate services, including:
• Habitat landscaping
• Grounds and pond maintenance
• Tree pruning and planting
• Hedgelaying
To learn more about ELM
SHEFFIELD’S FOOD HERITAGE BOOK LAUNCH DRAWS CROWDS
TO STANNINGTON LIBRARY
People from across She eld made the journey to Stannington Library this week to celebrate the launch of ‘ e Unsung Flavours of She eld’ – a new book uncovering the city’s o en-overlooked food heritage.
e free community event attracted former employees from some of She eld’s bestknown food institutions alongside families, local historians and heritage enthusiasts.
Visitors met the project team and shared their own memories of years spent working at iconic institutions like Sutherlands, orntons and other household names.
e book is the culmination of a two-year National Lottery Heritage Fund project led
by the Dungworth Brad eld Heritage Group. With the help of volunteers, the team researched and recorded stories from She eld’s rich food industry – from Bassett’s and Batchelor’s to Henderson’s Relish and Béres.
Richard Godley, project manager, said:
“It was fantastic to see so many people from across She eld come together to celebrate the city’s food heritage this week. Visitors shared wonderful memories of working at places like Bassett’s and Sutherlands. e book proved very popular.”
Compiled by local author Neil Anderson, ‘ e Unsung Flavours of She eld’ shines a light on the city’s food pioneers and the people behind its most enduring brands.
All proceeds from book sales are being donated to Stannington Library.
A spokesperson for the library said: “We were absolutely delighted to host the launch of ‘ e Unsung Flavours of She eld’. It’s been a real pleasure working with the Dungworth Bradeld Heritage Group on such an inspiring community project, and we’re hugely grateful that proceeds from book sales will help support the library.”
e book is available now for £4.50 (plus postage and packing) from: https://dirtystopouts.com/products/unsungavours-of-she eld-book
Friendship Lunch
e next Music Makes Memories’ Friendship Lunch at the Waggon & Horses in Oxspring is on Tuesday 11 November, with the fantastic Oliver Harris.
Tickets are £16 for a delicious lunch and live entertainment.
e ‘dementia friendly’ event o ers a lovely opportunity to meet old/make new friends in a warm and safe environment.
To book please contact Kathy Markwick, Freelance Community Consultant, 0772 9528844 kathymarkwick@gmail.com
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
FRIDAY
7 High Green Methodist Church 10am-12noon. 3C’s, co ee, cake and companionship. Come on your own, or with friends, and make new friends. Fully accessible. All welcome.
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
8 SPECIAL EVENT BY BOLSTERSTONE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HERITAGE GROUP at Bolsterstone Village Hall, from 1-4pm. “FROM THE ARCHIVES”: Sally Rodgers will explain how to access historic information at She eld City Archives, and about rediscovered documents of Samuel Fox. Anthea Helliwell talks of her discovery of old documents in the city archives for her book on the hamlet of Brightholmlee. George Scogings highlights some of the archives held by Stockbridge Museum and Heri-
tage Centre and will bring items to look at. If you have any interesting archives of your own family, do bring them along as there will be a chance to display them. All welcome and refreshments provided. Members £2 Visitors £4 Annual membership £7
8 Crane Moor Methodist Church together with Crane Moor Community Group would like to invite you to join us at our AUTUMN FAYRE on Saturday 8th November from 10.00am until 12.00. We shall be having our usual tombola, ra e and cake stall, not forgetting the ever popular bacon baps. All are welcome
8 Lovers of the Big Band era are in for a musical treat at the Penistone Paramount on Saturday November 8th at 2-30pm. Swing, Swing, Swing, is a celebration concert featuring the Take Two Big Band, the vocals of Craig Williams in tribute to the songs of Michael Bublé and with Kevin Grunill at the Compton cinema organ. Advanced tickets are available on the Paramount website, by telephone on 01226 767532, in person at the box ofce or pay on the day is possible.
8 Councillors monthly dropin surgery. Cllrs Janet Ridler and Mark Whittaker will be at Stocksbridge Library inside Ikon Church, Manchester Road (opposite the old Library) on Saturday 8 November, 11.00 - 12.00. If you have problems with council services or need help or advice, we can help you. Drop in for a co ee and a chat,
no appointment needed.
WEDNESDAY
12 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Hall for a 10 am start. We will be next meeting on the 12th of November when Alan Hancock will present an illustrated talk on ‘Jack the Ripper part 1 ‘ We have a friendly informal club environment for retired men to build and maintain companionship and social contacts . After the club meeting some members continue to Wortley Hall for lunch. Please contact our secretary Trevor Winslow on 07966317258 for more information or look at our website.
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.
13 Stocksbridge & District History Society Meeting - Christ Church Hall 7 PM. Speaker : Mark Dawson - ‘ History of Henderson’s Relish’ All are welcome.
SATURDAY
15 Bolsterstone Village HallChristmas Fayre 11am - 4pm. Good selection of stalls. Hot refreshments. Available as well as our delicious cakes.
SUNDAY
16 Magic Show at the Inman Pavilion, Moorland Avenue
Visits can be arranged. PLEASE CALL: 07872 889385
LISTINGS
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 Bradfield areas. www.walc.epizy.com, FREE, Wadsley Church, Worrall Road, 7.30, home made refreshments
17 Village Made In Oughtibridge. 6.30 to 8.30 pm. Christmas craft fair with genuine crafters and artists from the local area with a variety of stalls. Felting workshops, refreshments and raffle. Also Open Artist studio at 22 Church Street. Free entry.
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 Geoff 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
26 Everyone is welcome to at-
tend the Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre AGM and Public Meeting. There will be updates on the Trust’s activities over the past 12 months, our financial performance, an Election of Directors (for Trust Members only), and a chance to ask any questions. If you are interested in becoming a Trust Member, would like to Volunteer, or would simply like more information please contact us on 0114 2883792
DECEMBER
SATURDAY
6 Chapeltown forum annual Christmas Fayre 11.00-4.00pm Newton Hall Cowley Lane Chapeltown Christmas stalls,Activities on stage Pickering Academy of Dance Refreshments by Station Cafe Free entry
6 Christmas Fayre - Grenoside Scout and Guide HQ, Saltbox Lane S35 8QS. 11am-3pm. Bring the kids to see Santa! Stalls, Tombolas, Raffle, BBQ, refreshments and more! Free Entry.
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 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath first! 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, coffee, 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.
Swing Swing Swing
Enjoy an afternoon of Big Band and Swing classics at the Penistone Paramount this coming Saturday at 2.30pm.
This one-off show, features the celebrated Take 2 Big Band, together with Barnsley’s very own Kevin Grunill at the console of the Paramount Compton organ. Star vocalist - Craig Williams joins the line-up to feature some of the great songs recorded by Michael Buble, Frank Sinatra & many more.
An unforgettable afternoon of toe-tapping Big Band favourites not to be missed.
All seats in the stalls have now been sold but there are limited seats available in the circle.
Tickets £15 each.
Telephone the box office on 01226 767532 or the Paramount website - www.penistoneparamount.co.uk for tickets.
LESLEY CARES
ON WEDNESDAY, 3RD DECEMBER 2025 COMMENCING AT 12 NOON
COUNCILLORS WILL BE ISSUING TICKETS IN STOCKSBRIDGE TOWN HALL
from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on the following dates: Tuesday, 18th November 2025 Thursday, 20th November 2025
Teresa Bisatt, Clerk to Stocksbridge Town Council
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 looks into...
BONFIRE NIGHT ISN’T FAWKES’
Bonfire Night is not Guy Fawkes’ night. The guy isn’t Fawkes either. Remember bonfires locally and ‘penny for the guy’? It was just the guy
Before 1800 the effigies placed atop bonfires were never of Fawkes; usually they were of the Pope. After all, Fawkes wasn’t burnt at the stake, and he wasn’t the ringleader or even in the inner circle of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. That Bonfire Night is the same date as the famous plot was discovered is merely coincidence. The opening of Parliament necessarily was early November, as just before then was harvest-end, when estate finances were reconciled, so MPs had to be back at their piles to attend to this.
Bonfires go way back. There are thirteenth century records of dummies being thrown on them – in the belief this drove away evil spirits. The dummy atop and previously on ‘penny for the guy’ display isn’t just some or any bloke. The word guy here is related to or a shortening of guiser, deriving from Gaelic gìdhisear, ‘masquerader, man in a mask’, related to geas, geis, ‘a spell, an enchantment, charm, incantation, curse’. The guy appears to be an effigy of (someone possessed by) evil spirits. Recall (last week) at this time of year it was thought the veil between this and the ‘otherworld’ was thinnest, so considered a dangerous time with ‘evil spirits’ at large.
Still today in not a few towns & villages on Bonfire Night there are parades of dances or folk plays by a group in costume usually known as mummers, from Gaelic maoimeach, ‘causing terror’. Mummer and guiser are more or less interchangeable terms, and either could denote kids on Kay-Kay Night (and Mischief Night) – see last week – in effect being surrogate evil spirits; a vestige of guising / mumming. Bonfire night corresponds to the end of a ‘Celtic’ ‘fire’ festival. These were five-day events, and this one, samhuinn, ‘sum-
mer’s end’ – the end of harvest -- was no different: Kay-Kay night to Bonfire night, November 1 to 5: the eve of the actual cross-quarter day (the mid-way point between autumn equinox and winter solstice). Burning an effigy of a guiser/mummer was sympathetic magic to get rid of ‘evil spirits’, or something, obviously.
Supposedly, a bonfire is a ‘bone fire’: a pyre of animal bones. This might make sense from slaughtering at this time of year for salting over winter, yet other than the marrow (that surely was too valuable not to be extracted) bone is hard to burn. A bonfire heats up to a peak of 600C, or somewhat higher with very good ventilation. Enough only for bone to become ceramic-like and brittle, making it useless as material for tools and undermining its preservation. It doesn’t combust until 1400C-1800C, which requires a furnace, as in cremation. So bones could neither have been fuel nor what was being burnt. The brittle product potentially could be crushed into a meal to use as fertiliser, but there is no evidence this was done.
It looks like bonfire is from Gaelic buanmhair (Gaelic mh sounding “v” or “f”), ‘last long, endure, everlasting’. The samhuinn fire was the symbol of continuity of life in the face of the ending of the light year and the onset of the dark year. It was thought to purify and renew, that translated into more concrete mythology was the supposed death of the old king (the king of the old year); his place taken by the new king. The old king and his death was symbolised by the burning of the guy. Was the notion that it was about warding off ‘evil spirits’ just shorthand for this?
Anyway, on bonfire night all household fires used to be extinguished and a torch taken from the communal fire to carry on a circuit of the boundaries of every farm, bringing into each house to freshly kindle the hearth, to be kept going for the rest of the year.
Bonfire and Guys, Bonfire Night 1954
Flags
Dear Look Local
Like most readers, I have not done much raising, lowering or even waving of flags. I think most people feel that what we, our government and organisations actually does and says matters far more than flying flags.
Am I right that a majority of people feel uncomfortable about so many flags on public property? Personally, it’s because I am not sure what they are saying, who paid large sums to put them up all over the country and why they did it?
I hope they could be a display of good feeling about what usually happens in this country, our care, kindness, tolerance, and respect for laws.
At this time of year they could also be commemorating our grandparents’ sacrifices in the victory over forces of intolerance, cruelty and genocide.
After the recent storm, I saw a flag wrapped round and round a lamp post so it was never going to fly again. As I said, I’ve never had much to do with flags, but it’s true to say the armed forces, the emergency services and other legitimate national organisations raise and lower them. They aren’t just left to the wind, rain and the birds.
Thanks, Peter Morton
Once Cowards Poem
This poem was written before the turn of the century.
After seeing a documentary on BBC about the young lads who were shot for “Cowerdness” during the First World War copies were sent to various members of Parliament, even the Queen in hope that these lads would receive full pardon before the turn of the century.
I received a letter from Jack Straw saying they wouldn’t have full pardon, but fortunately in 2007 they were granted full pardons so their names could now be put on cenotaphs.
Better late than Never.
ONCE COWARDS
Once cowards now are heroes, aren’t cowards anymore
Once cowards now our heroes, they never knew the scor
They never knew which comrades shot them as they stood
They never knew which captain got splattered with their blood
Twas over there on Flanders Field, over 80 years ago
Why and what they died for i guess we’ll never know
But now at last as poppies bloom, or beneath the frozen snow
Our heroes aere at peace at last at rest among their foe
P. Swift - November 1998
Sheffield Wednesday Dear Editor.
I have been reading a statement from Mr Kris Wigfield who is the joint administrator for Sheffield Wednesday Football Club.
I was so pleased with everyone at Sheffield Wednesday.
Local Opinion
The fans especially. The effort they have put into what in reality is an endeavour to save their football club has been exceptional!
I have been a Leeds united supporter for 52 years ! A club that has also seen their share of scrapes as far as owners of the football
club is concerned. In particular a few years ago when one ‘ Massimo Cellino ‘ very nearly sent us to the wall ! I am not comparing Leeds United’s crisis back then with that of Sheffield Wednesday. As this has been a unique ordeal for everyone at Hillsborough. ‘ Dejphon Chansiri ‘ has left the club now.
But the battle to recover is still not won! In the years to come Sheffield Wednesday will be able to look back and be proud of the incredible fight they showed to save their football club.
Yours Sincerely Craig, Stocksbridge
SHOE BOX APPEAL
All the team at the shoe box appeal would like to say a very big THANK YOoU to all the people who,provided shoe boxes, filled them, made donations and given aid to the appeal.
Through your continued generosity we have been able to send 780 shoe boxes and many cartons of gifts to the children of Romania with the charity Children in Distress
Thank you for continuing to support us again during these difficult times. Just a special thanks to: Look Local The Bridge Community Shop Christ Church.
All the local businesses.
AIl the people who have donated knitting.
Once again many thanks, Margaret McGuire and all the Shoe Box Team
THE TALE THAT BLED INK
It’s not love that brings disgrace, It’s people hiding a different face. Those who seem so pure, so kind, Are strangers once you read their mind.
I, too, was fooled by beauty’s art, By lovely faces, but hollow heart. Those who preach of virtue high, Should dare to look at their own soul’s eye.
In hate, these people run so far, They crush each heart that shows a scar.
Today’s beauty — tomorrow’s shade, Fades like light the sunset made.
And I — like raindrops from the skies, Hold a scent where sorrow lies.
My tale, fragrant, soft, and deep, Awoke the ones who dared not sleep.
Those who read me understood —
But those who lived me — never could.
I’m that tale, that bleeding line, That pen gave life — with its own
spine.
One day, the world will search for me, Within my words — my legacy. For in their hearts I’ll softly stay, A hope that never fades away.
Hina Gondal
Gaelic sayings reply
It can only be assumed that the rather condescending and contemptuous tone adopted by Steve Moxon (Letters, Look Local Issue 1397), used as a means of casting doubt upon the validity of the points made in my email, was because of a general failure on his part to provide any credible evidence to counter my objections made in response to his Gaelic Sayings article.
To set the record straight and remove any ambiguity, I received a doctorate from the Department of English Language and Linguistics at the University of Sheffield (2005). The research for this PhD comprised a fieldwork-based systematic description of a hitherto unrecorded dialect, the methodology of which included a significant historical component, which traced the development of particular dialect features (phonological, grammatical and lexical) from their Old English and Middle English antecedents. Whether such knowledge gained from this research and other knowledge gained over 30 years of studying language has left me unable to “understand the simple [linguistic] processes” is a question that is best left to the expert Steve Moxon (who rhetorically asked this question) to elucidate upon and explain in more detail.
I simply do not have the time, nor the inclination, to respond fully with the sufficient degree of detail that Moxon’s claims merit. However, I feel compelled to address the principal controversies forwarded by Moxon, not least because we, unfortunately, live in an age in which facts and truth are readily and routinely subverted by those with power or those with an axe to grind. In this regard, the motivation for expressing views which run wholly contrary to all scholarly research and evidence is known only unto Moxon himself. The manner in which he responds to the indisputable fact, cited by me, that the AngloSaxons brought the English language to Britain with, firstly, the claim that the Anglo-Saxons “didn’t speak English” and, secondly, by reference to genetic research, which has no relevance or bearing upon the issue being discussed, is perhaps the best illustration of the modus operandi by which Moxon presents his arguments throughout his counterblast, which basically consists of the use of unsubstantiated assertions as ‘proof’.
What I will say with a degree of absolute certainty, is that not one English Language scholar at any academic institution in Britain, Europe or the English-speaking world will dispute the notion that modern English is directly derived from Old English, the modern name given to the West Germanic dialects spoken by the Anglo-Saxons. Of course, the early Anglo-Saxons would have no concept of “English” as being the language they spoke, simply because England did not exist at that time.
Up until the mid 9th C, what is now England was a collection of warring
Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, which had grown out of the settlement patterns of the various Germanic tribes, with the Angles largely settling in the North and East, the Saxons in the South, the Jutes in Kent and Frisians scattered throughout. Thus, from the very beginning of the English language in Britain, there were regional dialects, these being largely defined by the geographical areas of the political kingdoms. The various dialects of OE are attested in the written record, with extant examples of Old Anglian (Northumbrian, Mercian) Kentish, East Saxon and West Saxon texts. During the later A-S period (the 9th C onwards), the Wessex political hegemony meant that almost all the surviving examples of late OE texts are in the West Saxon dialect.
It was during this period that the Viking threat prompted Alfred the Great, king of Wessex, to moot the idea of the unification of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, a notion which came to fruition under the kingships of his son, Edward, and grandson, Athelstan. It was during Alfred’s reign that the word “English” is first recorded. Despite being West Saxon, the chroniclers referred to the spoken vernacular as “Englisc” (i.e., Angle-ish) and, later, during the 10th C, by extension, to the newly unified kingdom as “Engla-lond” (i.e., land of the Angles).
After the Norman Conquest, the language of the new rulers (Norman French, Angevin French) replaced English in the court for the next 350 years. This meant that West Saxon Old English no longer held any prestige and the Middle English period is typified by the plethora of regional texts – these are categorised as Northern, north Midland, West Midland, East Midland, Eastern and Southern, which largely correspond to the Old English dialect areas and which provide evidence of the development of these regional varieties from their Old English antecedents.
I can also state with absolute certainty that no academic scholar of the English language (or Gaelic) would support Moxon’s claims that “with Norse incursions not even leaving a trace outside of Orkney that leaves proto-Celtic or Goidelic (Gaelic) as the base of English” and that the current provenance of Gaelic in “the western and north-western fringes of the British Isles” can be attributed to “its displacement westwards out of England.”
Yet again, there is confused conflation here between linguistic and genetic evidence but this is mere side issue. On a linguistic level, there is a large body of historical textual evidence of the Norse input into English, from Middle English onwards, with hundreds of words of Old Norse origin surviving in modern Standard English (including many common words such as leg, skin, sky, skill etc. and grammatical items such as the pronouns, they and them) and thousands more dialect words in areas where the number of Viking settlements, indicated by place-names with Old Norse elements, were greatest.
Similarly, Moxons’ confused narrative about “lexical diversity” that concludes with the notion that “English arose as long ago as 3,600 BC (the late neolithic)” is otherworldy and would not be shared by a single historical linguist. This era is defined by the complete lack of extant textual evidence, primarily because language was entirely oral in
Europe at this time. Despite this, the orthodoxy, developed over centuries by comparative philologists of the socalled Neogrammarian tradition, is that proto Indo-European (the common ancestor of most European languages and those in the northern part of India and environs) is hypothesized to have been spoken as a SINGLE language from approximately 4500 BCE to 2500 BCE, during the Late Neolithic to Early Bronze Age, until various sound changes resulted in the splintering of PIE into its various language families, including (from c. 500 BC) protoGermanic, the common ancestor of all Germanic languages (English, German, Dutch and the Scandinavian languages) and proto-Celtic (the ancestor of all Celtic languages, including Gaelic), spoken between c. 1300-800 BC.
Nobody has to take my word for any of this – the points made above can be corroborated by a very simple exercise. Go into any library or bookshop and pick up any book which focuses upon the development of the English language. All of them will describe, in varying detail, the general overview presented above. Alternatively, pick up any copy of the Oxford English Dictionary, look up any number of common / everyday words and you will not find one with an etymology that states a Gaelic origin.
It is nothing sort of extraordinary that Steve Moxon has chosen to present arguments that completely trash the entire corpus of evidence-based research conducted by scholars of the English language over the past 300 years and beyond, and, similarly that have ignored and / or blithely dismissed the substantial body of textual evidence. Instead, he has asserted that academics adopt a stance of “sitting in a bunker ignoring inconvenient new evidence”, without providing any new credible evidence himself. Moxon’s bunker will be stuffed full of English language academics, historical linguists, scholars of Old English, Old Norse, Middle English, Celtic languages, phonologists / phoneticians, lexicologists, lexicographers, etymologists, dialectologists and many more language experts (all of whom, no doubt, “we’ve had enough of”). Outside the bunker, flitting about in the hot air of subjective opinion and evidence-free assertions, will be Steve Moxon, flat earthers and other conspiracy theorists from the dark corners of the social media universe, who all share the same belief that the utterance of a personal opinion renders it fact, over and above evidence-based research. Needless to say, the psychologists, Dunning and Kruger, would be mightily encouraged by yet more corroborating evidence.
Finally, of course, Steve Moxon is completely free to challenge any of the points above with appropriate and relevant evidence, backed up by credible peer-reviewed research.
Dr. Jon Fyne, Yorkshire Dialect Society
LETTERS
Caking night
Extract from the Wikipedia article about “Soul cake”s
Hutton (2001) believes souling is being observed in modern times in She eld.[24] e custom on the outskirts of She eld is known as caking-night[75] and traditionally took take place either on 30/31 October or 1/2 November where children “said the traditional caking rhyme (“Cake, cake, copper, copper”), and received about ten pence from each householder” as reported in Lore and Language, Volume 3, Issues 6–10 in 1982.[76] Prior to the Second World War, children in Dungworth, South Yorkshire, went ‘caking’ wearing masks and visiting houses in the village, “asking the householder to guess their identity”.[77] According to Sykes (1977), caking night is also known as caking neet which traditionally takes place on 1 November, or the rst Monday if the rst falls on a Saturday or a Sunday.[78] According to Chainey (2018), soulcaking is still very popular in Cheshire.[79] “ ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soul_cake - I hope it’s not copyright)
A er reading Steve Moxon’s latest local history Article in last week’s Look Local about “Kay, Kay, Kay” (or “Cakin’ “) night which is celebrated during “Allhallowtide”, I was, once again, intrigued by the way in which, in his mind at least, everything he writes about stems back to Gaelic roots (apparently in clear disagreement with the earlier letter from Dr Fyne of the Yorkshire Dialect Society).
It just strikes me that, a er reading the above article in Wikipedia, the derivation of “Kay, Kay, Kay” is much more likely to have derived from “Cake, Cake, Cake” (a Gaelic-free zone …I think ! …unless someone tells me otherwise !?). To quote his article referring to those “as has been surveyed” not thinking it refers to cake, all I can say is that no one surveyed me ( …or Wikipedia apparently!). Anyway, I’m sure readers will make up their own mind, but I look forward to further Gaelic derivations in his future articles as Steve is obviously totally self-convinced on these matters. He has some interesting theories, but maybe he could include some peer-reviews of them in future articles to help prove their validity rather than present them more as accepted knowledge (?)
In addition to the above extract, the same Wikipedia article also includes the 1891 Cheshire version of the English “Souling Song” (categorised as number 304 in the Roud Folk Song Index) from which this is an extract:
“ [Chorus]
A soul, a soul, a soul-cake !
Please good Missis, a soul-cake !
An apple, a pear, a plum, or a cherry,
Any good thing to make us all merry.
One for Peter, two for Paul ree for Him who made us all.
[Verse 3]
e lanes are very dirty,
My shoes are very thin,
I’ve got a little pocket
To put a penny in.
If you haven’t got a penny,
A ha’penny will do;
If you haven’t get a ha’penny,
It’s God bless you “
A week’s play for Sheffielders
is October Half Term, children across She eld took part in the She eld Week of Play — a citywide celebration of free and a ordable play opportunities — just as the House of Lords discussed whether councils should have a legal duty to ensure every child has access to time and space to play.
Supported by small grants from the Shefeld Play Partnership, events took place in Manor and Castle, Sharrow, Gleadless Valley, Hackenthorpe, and Pitsmoor, featuring both well-established projects like Pitsmoor and High elds Adventure Playgrounds and Manor A erschool Kids Klub, and new initiatives such as Valley Youth Hub and Hackenthorpe Youth Club.
Community play projects provide safe, welcoming spaces for children to socialise, be
active, and have fun — many also o er free meals through the Holiday Activities and Food Programme. ese opportunities are increasingly vital as families face challenges linked to children’s wellbeing, screen time, and the rising cost of living.
Nationally, calls are growing for a Play Sufciency Duty, which would require local authorities to assess, secure, and protect play opportunities for all children, as already seen in Wales and Scotland. Play England, who are campaigning for this change, say:
“ is is our chance to show that children matter, play matters, and that every child deserves time, space, opportunity and freedom to play.”
During the Lords debate on 28 October, Baroness Natalie Bennett added:
“...somewhere to just kick a ball around…is a crucial space for children to develop their physical and social skills by getting together to play.”
She eld Play Partnership welcomes the proposal and continues to champion community play initiatives across the city, ensuring every child has the right to play, explore, and belong.
Support children’s right to play by joining She eld Play Partnership at she eldplay. org.uk/sign-up or contact us to develop play opportunities in your neighbourhood.
Follow She eld Play Partnership on Facebook for updates on local events and the national Play Su ciency campaign.
MAJOR SHEFFIELD FLOOD SCHEME STARTS
Design and build specialist, JBA Bentley, has secured a 19 million GBP contract to deliver civil ood alleviation works at She eld Forgemasters’ Brightside Lane site.
e civil engineering project will intercept the Lower Don Valley’s Bagley Brook culvert where it enters She eld Forgemasters’ site, allowing storm water to be diverted, stored and transferred into the River Don.
A large underground catchment system consisting of storage tanks, a cross-site transfer tunnel and pumping station, will allow large volumes of water to be re-routed and contained at critical periods, to be released back into the river at a controlled ow-rate.
Craig Fisher, Programmes Director at Shefeld Forgemasters, said: “We have already made huge steps towards ood prevention on the site, but the Bagley Brook transfer system will address a known ood-risk which can affect both our plant, and this part of the city.
“ e brook, which runs through an enclosed culvert along our northern boundary and into the River Don, was contained in the Victorian era and the culvert simply can’t cope
(QED?) Jim Cro
with an excessive ow of water, causing it to breach in heavy storm conditions.
“ e new transfer system will allow storm water to be diverted from the culvert and contained in large attenuation tanks, before being transferred to the River Don via a new underground pumping station, near to Abyssinia Bridge.
Graham Frudd, Contracts Manager at JBA Bentley, said: “We are delighted to be working with She eld Forgemasters on what is a major ood alleviation project in the Lower Don Valley.
“JBA Bentley will undertake construction of a new weir chamber, integrated into the side of the existing Bagley Brook culvert, to allow a proportion of storm water to be redirected from the Bagley Brook culvert to a new pumping station at the side of the River Don.
“ is will involve sinking a ve-metre sha to receive a tunnel boring machine which will drive a tunnel, twelve metres deep, for 320 metres across Brightside Lane. is will be launched from the 15m diameter sha which will double as storage and a pumping station.”
A section of ood wall at She eld Forgemasters’ boundary with the Don will be repositioned to accommodate a new outfall structure from which the pumping station will discharge storm water back into the river at a rate of 8,000 litres per second.
e two-year ood alleviation works form part of She eld Forgemasters’ planning requirements for its new 13,000 tonne Forging Line, which is currently under construction adjacent to the Midland Mainline railway.
Artists impression of a major Don Valley flood scheme at Sheffield Forgemasters.
Watkins Electrical
MCGILL SHINES IN NEW YORK MARATHON
Suzanne McGill had a standout performance at the New York City Marathon, nishing in 3-13-49 to place in the top six per cent of her age category at one of the world’s premier road races.
40) and Richard Cottam rst overall at Nostell (18-02). Second places went to Sean Pitt at Penistone (18-05) and Jade Crosby (21-21) at Nostell.
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By Sean Flanagan
SPS Ladies beat Handsworth Ladies 3-0 for a h consecutive league win.
e rst real chance came in the 16th minute, Sam Woodham’s strike de ected towards Jodie Shakespeare, who red over.
e Ladies broke the deadlock in the 29th minute. Sam played the ball to Jodie, who beat her marker, drilling it to Gemma for 1-0.
As the half wound down, former Steel Sam Hallam had a chance only for Steels keeper Chelsea Perrett to keep Steels in front.
Steels doubled their lead as Handsworth cleared a corner, the opposition keeper was stranded as Chap headed into the empty net. Just 5 minutes later, Gemma reacted to Laura Kerr’s long range strike to make it 3-0!
e Steels continued to dominate the game earning another three points to sit second.
Next
In Lincolnshire, Olivia Clough continued her good autumn form with 57-22 at the Brigg Poppy 10K.
Further north, Dawn Godley tackled the gruelling Oldham Halloween Half Marathon, nishing in 2-04 and taking second in the ladies over55 category on a course described by organisers as “a gruelling challenge pushing runners to their limits.”
Closer to home, eight Penistone athletes took part in the Kimberworth Striders Canal Race, a ve-mile out-and-back route along the She eld and Tinsley Canal. Ian Neville led the team home to win the men’s over60 prize, followed by Rory O’Sullivan, Mandy Mallinder, Keith Gordon, Stu Smith, John Howsham, Steve Dommett and Ray Brown.
Full results have now been released from the previous weekend’s South Yorkshire Cross Country League xture at Longley Park, where Penistone turned out in strength.
Oliver France led the Penistone senior men home in 44-07, ahead of Ian Neville (45-12), Matthew Robinson (45-53), Lee Storey (4651), Daniel Limb (47-26), Oliver Pike (4940), Andrew Sherbourne (50-00) and Mark Law (51-07), all producing strong runs on the challenging course.
Flynn Rodgers placed sixth in the under-17 men’s race, while Martyn Goodwin (34-34), Steve Storey (35-50), Keith Gordon (40-04) and Nick Whittingham (44-54) all featured prominently in the veteran standings.
Nichola McNally led the senior women’s squad home in 30-33, taking rst place in the ladies over55 category, ahead of Fay Nicholls (33-47), Lesley Parker (34-37), Rebecca Timms (35-00), Jill Scrivens (35-19) and Heather Lindley (41-42).
At Saturday’s parkruns, 67 senior members represented Penistone across 20 venues. Fay Nicholls was rst female at Dewsbury (23-
ird-place nishes were recorded by Richard Heppenstall (18-12) and Josie Smith (2202) at Penistone, James Mumford (18-12) at Pontefract, Flynn Rogers (18-05) at Hillsborough and Nicky Spinks (24-16) at Agnew. Dawn Godley continued her ne form, achieving an 80.53% age grade and rst place in her age group. e top age-graded performers were Richard Heppenstall (82.33%), Ian Neville (80.77%), Dawn Godley (80.53%), James Mumford (77.93%), Richard Cottam (77.45%) and Dawn Broom (76.78%).
Results
New York City Marathon
4457, Suzanne McGill 3-13-49. Brigg Poppy 10K
625, Olivia Clough 57-22.
Kimberworth Striders Canal Race (5 Mile)
18, Ian Neville 33-20; 82, Rory O’Sullivan 4049; 117, Mandy Mallinder 45-37; 122, Keith Gordon 46-34; 131, Stu Smith 47-57; 177, John Howsham 56-40; 180, Steve Dommett 57-03; 184, Ray Brown 57-20.
Soyland Moor Fell Race, 13.5 miles, 1,300 feet of ascent
126, Harriet Drouin 2-43-33.
South Yorkshire Cross Country League –Fixture 2, Longley Park
Under-17 Men
6, Flynn Rodgers 26-19.
Veteran Men 65+
7, Martyn Goodwin 34-34; 9, Steve Storey 3550; 14, Keith Gordon 40-04; 17, Nick Whittingham 44-54.
Senior and Veteran Women
27, Nichola McNally 30-33; 59, Fay Nicholls 33-47; 68, Lesley Parker 34-37; 71, Rebecca Timms 35-00; 72, Jill Scrivens 35-19; 111, Heather Lindley 41-42.
Senior and Veteran Men (under 65) 63, Oliver France 44-07; 74, Ian Neville 45-12; 83, Matthew Robinson 45-53; 91, Lee Storey 46-51; 94, Daniel Limb 47-26; 110, Oliver Pike 49-40; 117, Andrew Sherbourne 50-00; 124, Mark Law 51-07.
Penistone parkrun
2, Sean Pitt 18-05; 3, Richard Heppenstall 1812; 4, Ashley Firth 18-31; 27, Josie Smith 2202; 33, Emily Duckett 22-52; 41, Ash Howlett 23-11; 49, Shaun Braddock 24-06; 66, Alex Melhuish 25-03; 74, Rhianna Banford 2533; 75, Chloe Worth 25-34; 76, Lee Hopkins 25-39; 123, Oliver Found 27-31; 145, Sue Hall 29-25; 147, Heather Graham 29-27; 148, Mark Graham 29-27; 149, Stu Smith 29-30; 150, Sara Wolstenholme 29-35; 152, Andrew Taylor 29-45; 157, Angela Rollinson 29-54; 162, Heath Ramsden 30-09; 186, Laura Bartholomew 31-16; 191, Ruth Albaya Melhuish 31-29; 200, Sarah Clough 32-17; 203, Andrea Lee 32-34; 206, Danny Batty 32-57; 226, Steve Dommett 34-35; 236, Martyn Cartwright 3545; 258, Ray Brown 49-56.
Kimberworth Canal Race
A crisp and bright Sunday morning could only mean one thing – a team of Stocksbridge Running Club athletes taking on the Canal Race in nearby Kimberworth.
e ve-mile out-and-back route, hosted by Kimberworth Striders since 1998, formed the penultimate event in the club’s Grand Prix series, which has o ered members a mix of road, trail, short and longer-distance challenges throughout the year.
With clear skies and no rain in sight, Stocksbridge runners Nick Wright, Jonathan Page, Amy Hutchinson, Helen Kellar and Narni Fulford set o from the Blackburn Nature Reserve. Despite a congested start, all ve
made good progress along the trail, with their choice of footwear proving wise as the course wound towards Halfpenny Bridge.
A er the turnaround point, runners charged back along the canal towpath for a second and nal lap of the nature reserve before heading to the nish line.
As ever, the Kimberworth Striders laid on their traditional post-race bu et in ne style – and plenty of sandwiches were duly enjoyed.
Well done to all who took part! Stocksbridge Running Club continue to train every Monday evening at 6pm, with details available via their social media channels.
Three Wins on the Bounce
Kno ingley 7-22 Stocksbridge
Stocksbridge Rugby Club continued their ne run of form at the weekend, making it three league victories in a row with a solid 22–7 win away at Knottingley RUFC. e result keeps the Globe Holidays-sponsored side rmly in third place in the Counties 4 Yorkshire South table.
Head Coach Aaron Kaye made several changes for the trip to West Yorkshire, naming a new front row of Cuttell, Bowman and Watts, while Sam Porter switched to No. 8 to accommodate ‘Slammin’ Sam Whitaker in the second row alongside skipper Andy ‘Clock Tower’ Beal. Adam Frith passed a late tness test to start at scrum half, and there was a welcome return for former captain Adam RolesMiddlehurst in the centre, with the experienced Ben Westby at full back.
A cagey opening period saw few chances until Reece ‘Diesel’ Aspin was shown a yellow card for not retreating the required distance at a penalty. However, on his return to the eld, Aspin made instant amends by crashing over for the game’s opening try a er a neat pass from Beal. Scotty Bowskill added the extras and later slotted a penalty to give Stocksbridge a 10–0 half-time lead.
Knottingley came out strongly a er the break and crossed the line to reduce the de cit, but Stocksbridge soon reasserted control. RolesMiddlehurst, sponsored by Lemark O ce Equipment, powered through two defenders to extend the visitors’ advantage before Frith, sponsored by E+J Landscaping, capped o a ne personal performance with a close-range try following sustained forward pressure. Bowskill converted to seal a well-earned 22–7 victory.
e Wilson Construction Man of the Match went to captain Andy Beal for another commanding display. Speaking a er the match, Beal said:
“I can’t remember the last time we won over here, so it feels good. It wasn’t pretty at times, but this is a tough place to come, and the lads will gain a lot of con dence from this performance.”
Stocksbridge now look ahead to a local derby with Wortley RUFC this Saturday at the Coal Pit Lane Arena (kick-o 2.15pm). With both sides in good form, the Fox Valley derby promises to be an entertaining clash. Entry is free, and all supporters are welcome.
WOMEN SECURE FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON
Oughtibridge Women nally got their season going with a convincing 4-0 away victory against Rotherham’s U21s. e win will be a huge boost for the team, who have faced a challenging start to the campaign.
Lucy Ridley set the tone early, unleashing a powerful shot to score in the 14th minute. Courtney Clarke then doubled Oughtibridge’s lead just before half-time.
e second half started brightly with Codi Melia making it three almost immediately after the restart. Laura Cain sealed the win on the hour mark, netting the fourth for her side.
Despite having no substitutes available, the Oughtibridge team displayed immense determination, running tirelessly and tackling with grit to see out the game and secure all three points.
Lucy Ridley was deservedly named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance, particularly for her adaptability and e ectiveness in an unfamiliar wing-back role.
Oughtibridge Women will be hoping to carry this momentum into their next xture at the War Memorial on Sunday, November 9th, where they will face She eld United Community Ladies. Kick-o is at 2pm.
KILLER HILL TACKLED
Saturday saw plenty of Valley Hill Runners taking part in the Concord parkrun, which this week marked a major milestone — the event’s 700th run. It was a double celebration as Mel Hipwell also reached her 150th parkrun milestone. True to Concord tradition, there were cakes and sweets on hand to mark the occasion, with runners from far and wide turning out to enjoy the best possible start to the weekend.
Later that a ernoon, Jonny Briggs, Luke Evans, Shaun Wright and Steve Sansom travelled to Mans eld to represent the club at the National Cross Country Championships. Each athlete tackled a tough 5K leg as part of the four-man relay team. Conditions were typically challenging, but Luke said a er-
wards: “It was hard work but enjoyable – I’d de nitely do it again next year.”
Sunday brought another test of endurance at the Kimberworth Striders Canal Race, a ve-mile route around Rotherham that takes in the canal and surrounding nature trails. Alan, Wendy, Dan and Andrew ew the ag for Valley Hill Runners, with Andrew the rst home for the club, followed by Wendy. Speaking a er the race, Wendy said: “It’s a lovely scenic route, but there’s a killer hill –twice! I always look forward to it though, and the bu et a erwards more than makes up for the climb.”
A packed and rewarding weekend all round for Valley Hill Runners!
Photo by Pete Revi
ALL SMILES: First win of the season for Oughtibridge by Myra Li le
MANAGERLESS STEELS SUFFER NARROW DEFEAT
STOCKSBRIDGE PARK STEELS 0 - 1 WORKINGTON
By Andrew McMath
ursday saw a big change at Bracken Moor as Stocksbridge Park Steels manager Ian Richards departed the club a er over four years. Richards and his coaching sta Andy Ring and Pete Goldstraw who joined Stocksbridge in September 2021 headed o to Guiseley AFC.
A er the news of their departure, interim duties went to Jordan Lemon, Kurtis Turner and Mark Fretwell who oversaw this weekend’s loss against Workington AFC.
A fairly even rst half saw both sides having a few chances that ultimately didn’t threaten either keeper.
Workington got the breakthrough just before the hour mark as a shot from the right-hand side of the box was parried upwards into the centre of the box by Ben Townsend to be met by the Workington number 10 who headed home past a scrambling Steels goalkeeper.
From there, the game returned to looking closer to the rst half with both sides having chances. Workington almost got a second with ve minutes to go as Steels played ball round the back. An overhit pass to the Steels keeper saw Townsend play the ball to the oncoming Workington attacker. Fortu-
nately, Townsend did well to recover and make the save.
Interim manager Jordan Lemon spoke a er the game: “I think the performance was probably a tell of the mad kind of week we’ve had. We didn’t train due to the news. It wasn’t our normal performance. Miles o it. Didn’t win rst, didn’t win second but credit to Workington they ran all over us.
“It was a nothing game. A one-nil. I can’t fault the lads’ e ort and endeavour in terms of sticking together but unfortunately on the pitch nothing got going for us.”
If you would like to apply for the role of Stocksbridge Park Steels manager, interested parties should apply to Club Secretary Dave Towler at secretarysps@hotmail.com with a CV and a covering letter.
In other news, the third round draw for the Shefeld & Hallamshire’s FA Men’s Senior Cup sees the Steels travelling to face She eld Wednesday FC U23 Development.
Next Home game: Rushall Olympic. Wednesday 5 November. 19:45. Bracken Moor.
Next Away game: Hednesford Town. Saturday 8 November. 15:00. Keys Park. Keys Park Stadium, Keys Park Rd, Hednesford, Cannock WS12 2DZ
CHURCH ENDURE BAD DAY AT HOME
PENISTONE CHURCH 0 - 2 PICKERING TOWN
Despite having to eld a young side due to injuries on Saturday Church Reserves continued their winning run. A rst half hat trick from Will Heath and a late goal from Luke Fretwell earned them a four-two win away at Wombwell Main.
Manager Tom Wright.
It was a great win to continue our run but it means nothing if we don’t take it into next week when we are at home to Jubilee Sports.
e principal event last Saturday was at the Parker Roo ng Memorial Ground when after a recent cup match Pickering Town returned to play Church in a league encounter.
e day didn’t get o to a very good start when striker Sam Scrivens had to withdraw from the game due to an injury he received in the warm-up session, he was replaced from the bench by Lennon O’Grady then a er just ve minutes of the game defender Tom Brennan was replaced by Sam Hackett due to a calf injury. e situation went from bad to worse when keeper Harry Ambler misjudged the bounce of the ball allowing Souleymane Coulibaly to put the visitors one up, soon a er Souley doubled his tally and Church went in two-nil down at half time. Church improved defensively in the second half but despite not conceding were unable to score.
Co-manager Brett Lovell
“Not ideal preparations for the game today unfortunately Sam Scrivens turned his ankle
in the warm up so he couldn’t play a part in the game and then two minutes into the game Tom Brennan pulled his calf and was unable to continue. at said we just weren’t good enough today against a well-drilled and organised side so congratulations to them. We just weren’t at it defensively in the rst half and we conceded two really poor goals. e rst one was a straight free kick from inside their half, Harry came to claim it, it bounced in the six yard box and over him into the net. For een minutes a er that we looked vulnerable, down on condence and then we conceded a second goal again from a straight ball coming right down the middle, the centre halves should have been better their number nines got inbetween them, li ed a header over Harry, and we found ourselves two-nil down with a mountain to climb.
We had some choice words at half time and the lads reacted positively. We were better in the second half, we put the ball in better areas but we lacked a bit of composure and con dence around their eighteen yard box and I don’t think we’ve made their keeper work enough today. We then had another injury when Nathan Keightley pulled up with his hamstring with twenty- ve minutes to go.
All in all a disappointing day Some positives were that James Young had a great game, he was excellent throughout, Sam Hackett did well when he came on in an unfamiliar right back position. It was great to see Eddie
Newsome make his rst start of the season, he’s had some long-term injuries, he was excellent for sixty minutes, he put his body on the line for the club, he’ll always do that, he’ll run through brick walls, he did that for sixty minutes until his lungs and his legs gave up. So there are some positives to take from the game.
I’ve said to the players something’s got to drop, we have to take a chance and get our noses in front, we have to try and nd a way to lead matches, get some con dence and start to play free owing football again. Like anybody in football knows when the results are going against you it’s di cult to turn the tide. In terms of us moving forward in a relentless league we’re now eight points from the top six teams and only eight points from the bottom two. It’s a wide open league and things can change. We need to start changing thing positively
Games don’t come any harder for us than next week away at She eld FC, a team that got relegated from the league above and are doing well this year. We have to get the lads on the training pitch on Wednesday and work on a few things and try and change our fortunes. ere’s only us that can do that.
Fixtures
Saturday 8th November Macron NCE Premier Division She eld FC v Penistone Church Kick o 3 pm
Photo: Elliot Owen forges forward by Myra Li le