MP’S SWIMMING FUNDRAISER
Continued from page one ...
Marie’s target for the sponsored swim will be ‘7km for £7k’: Marie will be swimming 7km in order to raise £7,000 towards converting an existing room at Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre into an accessible changing room close to the poolside.
Marie will be completing the swim at the baths at Stocksbridge Leisure Centre at the end of November, and the fundraiser will be open until the end of the year. e distance of 7km (or 4.5 miles) is 280 lengths of the pool and is the distance between Penistone and Stocksbridge – two of the main towns in Marie’s constituency. Raising £7,000 would contribute to 20% towards the approximate total cost of £35,000 for funding the conversion work in the existing room into a fully accessible changing room.
e community-run Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre serves as a hub for people living in Stocksbridge and in neighbouring areas, with facilities ranging from a swimming pool and a fully equipped gym to a café and meeting rooms.
Most of the facilities at the leisure centre are accessible for disabled people, including a hoist at the Small Pool for wheelchair users. One key improvement that the leisure centre would like to make is to have a fully accessible changing room near to the poolside. is would open up use of the centre’s pool to more groups within society.
Donations can be made online at Marie’s Crowdfunder page: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ swim-penistone-to-stocksbridge
Marie Tidball MP said:
“I’m excited to launch my rst Penistone to Stocksbridge Constituency Sponsored Swim to
raise money towards an accessible changing room at Stocksbridge Leisure Centre.
“Stocksbridge Leisure Centre is a special place to me. When I was growing up, I learned to swim at the baths at the Leisure Centre, overlooking our incredible Stocksbridge valley. Never in my wildest dreams, when I was doing swim training three times a week as a 14-year-old, would I have believed that one day I’d become the MP for the area.
“Increasing access to sport for local disabled children and young people is something I’m passionate about. When I was at school in Penistone, I was le to referee netball and hockey matches for my non-disabled classmates. ere was no understanding that I might be able to join in too, as a disabled person. at’s why inclusive sport is so important to me.
“I want to give back to the place that gave me so much by helping to fundraise to make the swimming pool more accessible for local disabled people.”
Graham Silverwood, Stocksbridge Leisure Centre:
“ is is a much-needed project that will bene t the Centre immensely. e existing facilities are dated and not very welcoming. We have wanted to carry out this work for some time but have not had available funds or been able to source grant funding. When we were approached by Marie o ering to raise funds for the Centre, through a sponsored swim, this seemed a perfect opportunity to refurbish and enhance existing facilities. “We are very grateful to Marie for making such a huge commitment to the Centre.”
Supertram Announces Service Changes for Steel City Derby Day
Passengers heading to and from the Steel City Derby this Sunday are being urged to plan ahead, after Supertram con rmed a series of temporary service changes for Sunday 23 November, when Shefeld Wednesday host She eld United at Hillsborough Stadium.
Supertram, working closely with South Yorkshire Police, says the alterations are necessary to manage the huge crowds expected in the area and to ensure the safety of customers, sta and supporters. e changes will a ect parts of the Blue and Yellow routes, which serve large sections of the city’s football tra c.
A Supertram spokesperson said the decision had “not been taken lightly”, but was essential to maintain safe operation during what will be one of the city’s busiest matchdays of the year.
Before the match (10am – approx. 12pm) Blue and Yellow routes will terminate at Cathedral.
Purple and Tram Train routes will run as normal.
During the match (12pm – approx. 1pm) Normal service resumes across the full network.
A er the match (1pm – approx. 3pm) Blue and Yellow routes will terminate at Shalesmoor, serving Kelham Island but not continuing towards Hillsborough.
Purple and Tram Train services remain unchanged. A er 3pm Full normal service resumes on all routes.
Supertram con rmed that all other parts of the network – including services between She eld City Centre, Halfway, Herdings Park, Meadowhall Interchange and Parkgate – will continue to operate normally throughout the day.
Passengers travelling to the match, or those simply moving around the city, are encouraged to allow extra time and to check service information before setting o
With tens of thousands expected to descend on Hillsborough, both Supertram and South Yorkshire Police say the changes will help ensure derby day runs safely and smoothly for everyone involved.
DEEPCAR
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Windows Doors
Patios • Ballastrades • Garage/Loft Conversions • Composite • Aluminium • uPVC • Bi-folds • High Security Locks • Any Size • Any Colour
Driveways
NEW MOBILE COVERAGE MAP GOES LIVE
An innovative mobile coverage checker map has gone live across South Yorkshire to help everyone living and working in the region to check their coverage.
e 12-month £34,000 project, which was funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), allows residents and businesses to check their coverage at home, on the commute and at work enabling informed network choices, reducing unnecessary spending and lost productivity.
SYMCA’s Digital Infrastructure Team (SYDIT) are working with mobile analytics specialists Streetwave, to gather real-time data on mobile signal strength, upload and download speeds and network frequency
across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and She eld.
e project used Streetwave’s specialist measuring equipment, which was carried on South Yorkshire’s bin lorries during their regular rounds. e data collected was then used to create a free, clickable online map and postcode checker, allowing people to see which one of the UK’s four main mobile network operators – EE, 02, ree and Vodafone, o er the best coverage in their area. regular rounds. e data collected was then used to create a free, clickable online map and postcode checker, allowing people to see which one of the UK’s four main mobile network operators – EE, 02, ree and Vodafone, o er the best coverage in their area.
VANDALS STRIKE AT RAILWAY STATION ON REMEMBRANCE WEEK
British Transport Police (BTP) have launched an appeal a er planters at Chapeltown Railway Station were damaged during the evening of Tuesday 11th November.
e incident has caused particular frustration among those who care for the station, as the planting areas are maintained by a small team of dedicated local volunteers who work closely with Northern Rail to keep the site welcoming for passengers.
Sgt Percival from BTP said:
“ is act is particularly concerning given the signi cance of the date and the fact that the station is maintained by dedicated volunteers
Happy Hands
Pre-School & Childcare
McIntyre Road, Stocksbridge
Are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Nursery Practitioner Level 3
For application please email: happyhands1999@gmail.com or phone 0114 2886262 to join our team on a Temporary basis Closing date on appointment of successful candidate.
Interviews Date: TBC
Happy Hands is committed to Safeguarding Children. This position is exempt from the provision of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
working in partnership with Northern Rail. We will continue to carry out high-visibility patrols in the station area alongside our partners from South Yorkshire Police’s local neighbourhood team and She eld Council Wardens.”
O cers are now urging anyone who saw anything suspicious to come forward.
Information can be passed to British Transport Police by quoting reference 2500139021 via:
• Text: 61016
• Email: rst_contact@btp.police.u
Bringing you the best authentic Greek & Italian cuisine
• Freshly made family recipes daily.
• Open Mon-Sun 9am daily.
• Full menu available from 5pm. Bookings can be made:
• Via GREETALY on a Google search Or
• INSTAGRAM page (@thegreetaly)
• Amazing feedback and 5* reviews.
• Italian & Greek omelettes.
• Warm rustic sandwiches
• Hot filled croissants
• New pasta dishes
AFTERNOON TEA COMING NEXT WEEK BOOKINGS REQUIRED
7-9 Langsett Rd, Oughtibridge, South Sheffield, S35 0GY
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00-15:00 17:00-21:00
Friday 9:00-15:00 17:00-22:00 Saturday 9:00-22:00 Sunday 9:00-20:00 NEW BRUNCH / LUNCH MENU LAUNCHING THIS WEEK
£500K Leisure Centre Improvements Begin
Work to transform Hillsborough Leisure Centre in Sheffield has begun, writes Wendy Middleton for BBC Yorkshire.
A refurbished group cycle studio forms part of the improvements, alongside new cardio equipment including treadmills, cross trainers and rowing machines.
The £500,000 investment has come from leisure operator Everyone Active, which runs the centres in partnership with Sheffield City Council.
The work is expected to finish in early December.
650 Manchester Road S36 1DY 19th December 6pm - 9pm
Everyone Active contract manager Phil Bowers said: “We’re incredibly proud to be investing in the future of Hillsborough Leisure Centre, which is much-loved by the local community.”
The centre’s gym will be decorated, and there will be improvements to free weight areas and a new dedicated recovery space for the local community to focus on their wellbeing.
The improvements also include new resistance training equipment such as the latest Olympic flat and incline benches with weight storage, dumbbells up to 60kg, shoulder and linear leg press machines and premium plateloaded equipment.
Councillor Kurtis Crossthorn, chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “The modernised gym and new recovery spaces will ensure people of all ages and abilities have access to high quality facilities that encourage active lifestyles and community connection.”
The rest of the facility will remain open during the works and be unaffected by the gym closure, with group exercises and the pool still in operation.
During the refurbishment, Everyone Active members will be able to use other facilities in the city including Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, English Institute of Sport Sheffield (EISS), Concord Sports Centre, Heeley Pool & Gym and Springs Leisure Centre.
Christmas Party!
WINTER SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR SHEFFIELD RESIDENTS
As temperatures drop and financial pressures rise, Sheffield City Council is reminding residents of the support available this winter.
From help with energy bills and food provision to advice on benefits and budgeting, the Council is working with community partners to ensure people can access help.
Councillor Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “We know that winter can be a difficult time for many, with colder weather and rising costs putting extra pressure on households. That’s why we’re continuing to offer a wide range of support to help residents manage the cost of living. From help with energy bills and food provision to advice on benefits and budgeting, we’re working with community partners to make sure people can access the help they need.
“The Household Support Fund is available for those struggling with essentials like food and fuel, and our network of Welcome Places of-
fers warm, safe spaces across the city. We’re also encouraging residents to check their eligibility for Pension Credit and other unclaimed benefits, which can make a real difference.”
Where to get help:
Household Support Fund Residents can apply for a non-repayable grant to help with food, energy, phone costs, clothing, and other essentials. Applications can be made once every six months. Apply here.
Welcome Places A city-wide network of warm, safe spaces where people can find support. These include libraries, community hubs, family centres, and faith organisations. The map of locations is available via Voluntary Action Sheffield: https://www.vas.org.uk.
Community Support Helpline For urgent help with food, energy, or crisis situations, call 0114 273 4567.
Meet Owan Atkins
Loud, Proud, and Bringing the STEP Venue to Life
When you meet Owan Atkins, Venue Manager at the STEP Venue, it’s easy to understand why the building feels so alive again. “I started out running weddings, conferences, birthdays — you name it,” he laughs. “I’ve worked across reception, bar, and events management, but this is the first time I’ve worked in a community venue — and I love it.”
Before joining STEP Charity, Owan managed events at Sheffield’s Mercure Hotel. Moving into a charitable, community-focused role was new territory, but one that quickly felt right. “Every day’s different, and you feel part of something that genuinely gives back,” he says.
A proud Ecclesfield local, Owan praises Stocksbridge’s community spirit. “People really care for one another — from older residents to the younger generation. It’s a place that thrives on connection.”
FREE ENTRY
Under his management, the Venue has been refreshed and re-energised. “It’s brighter, cleaner, and welcoming — the bar’s had a facelift, we’ve redecorated, added menus — it feels alive again.”
For Owan, it’s not just about great service or smart facilities — it’s about how people feel when they walk through the doors. “We want everyone who comes here to leave with a smile,” he says. “Whether it’s a wedding, a class, or a cup of coffee, the goal is to create a positive, feel-good experience that makes people proud this place is part of their community.”
Looking ahead, Owan is focused on growth. “STEP through its Venue will be expanding its community programme, creating a new youth space for learning about technology, AI, and gaming, and developing an outdoor social area to bring people together,” he explains. “It’s about keeping the Venue vibrant and future-facing.”
He adds a warm tribute: “And we’ll do it in memory of Joan Banks, a long-serving board member, chair and STEP volunteer who gave so much to this place. Her spirit of service is what community’s all about.”
At its heart, Owan believes the Venue is about emotion. ‘It’s how people feel that matters most,’ he says. ‘We want every visitor to leave happier than when they arrived — feeling welcome, supported, and part of something bigger.’”
ST LUKE’S RETURNS TO STOCKSBRIDGE WITH NEW POP-UP SHOP AT FOX VALLEY
McGilveray’s at The Wortley Arms recent winners of the Readers’ Choice Award in Westside & Southside Magazine.
Join us for our Wine Tasting Evening on 28th November, a relaxed night exploring exceptional bottles with friends, followed by our lively Burns Night celebration on 24th January, complete with traditional Scottish flavours and festive spirit Book your place and experience award-winning hospitality in the heart of Wortley.
St Luke’s Hospice is delighted to announce its return to Stocksbridge, opening a new pop-up shop at Fox Valley this week.
e charity had to move out of its previous premises at the start of the year due to the Towns Fund redevelopment, but is now thrilled to be back serving the local community.
e Fox Valley pop-up shop, open for a limited period, will o er a fantastic range of clothing, homeware, and seasonal goods — including Christmas cards.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be back in Stocksbridge,” said Jenny Booth, Head of Retail at St Luke’s. “ e community here has always been so supportive, and we’re really grateful for everyone’s patience while we found our way back. It’s wonderful to reconnect with our loyal customers and meet new supporters too.”
St Luke’s remains committed to maintaining a long-term presence in Stocksbridge and is exploring options for a permanent home in the area.
“We’d like to thank the community for the warm welcome back,” added [Name]. “Your continued support helps us fund the vital care St Luke’s provides for people across She eld.”
e St Luke’s Fox Valley shop opens at 10am on Friday 14 November, and will be open for approximately three months.
Manchester Road crash Stocksbridge: ‘Life-altering’ injuries
A man was rushed to hospital with ‘life-altering’ injuries a er a crash involving six cars, which closed a road in Stocksbridge.
Emergency services were sent to Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, just a er 7 pm on ursday, 13 November, a er the collision involving a blue Renault Clio, a grey Hyundai IX35 and four parked vehicles.
South Yorkshire Police said that a man is believed to have been le with ‘life-altering’ injuries as a result of the crash.
e force said: “At 7.06pm yesterday ( ursday, November 13), we were called to reports of a road tra c collision on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge.
28 December 2pm
Bradfield Village Hall
Book your tickets now online: www.bradfieldvillagehall.org.uk or at Bradfield Post Office
FREE CHATTER CLUB - OAK HOUSE
e free Chatter Club on Wednesday 26 November by Visiting Angels South Yorks will be held at the Oak House in Chapeltown (not the Barrel) on Wednesday 26 November. Guests will be treated to complimentary tea/ co ee, delicious cakes, with an option to purchase lunch o the menu. ere will also be entertainment with the fantastic Paul Anthony. e Chatter Club is a wonderful event, o ering invaluable respite for those who care for someone living with dementia. It is a
brilliant opportunity to meet old/make new friends, to dine and have a dance in a warm and safe environment.
e free tickets must be booked in advance by contacting Visiting Angels on 0114 4333000 (Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm) or Kathy Markwick, Freelance Community Consultant on 0772 9528844 kathymarkwick@gmail. com
We
shop or use our collection and
NOVEMBER
WEDNESDAY
19 Enjoy Scrabble? Why not come along to our friendly Scrabble Club We meet between 12noon and 3pm on Wednesdays at the British Legion Club, Chapeltown £1 per session Everyone welcome
19 BOLSTERSTONE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HERITAGE GROUP
7.30pm Nick Duggan talks about “When She eld ruled the world or at least afternoon tea” He will explore some of the background to the cutlery and atware industry in She eld , illustrating the talk with a wide range of unusual items for people to see and handle, and help with a few mystery items whose function is unknown. He is happy to view any items that people may want to bring a long. 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. Annual membership £7 All welcome.
SATURDAY
22 Christmas Co ee morning 10 to 11.30 am Zion Church Hall Langsett Road Sought Oughtibridge Cakes Ra e Refreshments Everyone Welcome
SUNDAY
23 Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Christmas Fayre - 11.00 am to 4.00 pm. Season-
al Fun And Festive Treats For All The Family, Santa’s Grotto, Festive Music, Craft Stalls, Children’s Activities & Much More…
23 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners – Military Archaeology Session – for more information see www.walc.epizy.com –FREE but donations welcome – meet in Long Lane Car Park at 10am
TUESDAY
25 Book Launch – Stocksbridge ‘Writing for Pleasure’ group invite you to the launch of their new book. Stories, poems and memories told by local people. Come and meet the writers and chat over drinks and nibbles. 1.00 – 3.00 The Voyager Art Shop.
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
26 Everyone is welcome to attend the Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre AGM and Public Meeting. There will be updates on the Trust’s activities over the past 12 months, our nancial 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
THURSDAY
27 You are invited to tell us about you and your family’s memories/ stories of the 1st and 2nd World Wars in this Valley. Also a presentation of Valley at War. Do come! -Stocksbridge Real Community Forum and History Society.-The Venue. 6-8pm
SATURDAY
29 70s, 80s 90s fundraising disco for Greave House Farm Trust at Stocksbridge Legionnaires Club, Edward Street 7.30-11pm Tickets: £10/£5 carers free Available from Samuel’s Kitchen, Voyager Art Space or contact 07724505911
29 Brad eld Church Christmas Fair 10.30am -1.30pm, Stalls, Wreaths, Family Crafts, Calanders, Cards Ra e and more, Meet friends and enjoy delicious refreshments,
SUNDAY
30 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Commoners Muck-In’ - regular conservation morning, probably clearing saplings but check on the website - www. walc.epizy.com, 10am-12pm, bring gloves, tools provided, families very welcome
DECEMBER
SATURDAY
6 Chapeltown forum annual Christmas Fayre 11.00-4.00pm Newton Hall Cowley Lane
LISTINGS
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.
6 Christmas Fair The Christian Centre, Cedar Road Saturday, December 6th 10 AM - 1 PM Santa’s Grotto, crafts, raffle, cakes, various stalls, hot food
6 Chapeltown in Bloom will be holding their annual Santa’s Grotto outside the Memorial Garden from 11.00am - 2.00pm. £3.00 per child (cash only please). This will be followed by the Christmas Lights switch on at 4.00pm.
6 Christmas Fayre at Chapeltown Methodist Church on 6th December 10.30am to 1.30pm. Raffle,cake stall,Christmas pyjamas etc,white elephant,tombola fancy goods etc Coffee ,tea and cake.Lunches from 11.30am ALL ARE WELCOME
SUNDAY
7 “St Mary’s RC Church at High Green are holding a Christmas fair in the church hall and parish rooms off Mortomley Lane, on Sunday 7th December at 11am.
Various stalls including:- Chocolate and bottle tombola, Bric a brac, Cakes, Gifts, Children’s toys, books and games, as well as a raffle for a variety of great prizes.
Refreshments will also be on
offer. Visit Fr. Christmas in his grotto! All are most welcome. “
MONDAY
8 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners – Christmas Social (entry by donation), 7.30pm at Wadsley Church.
THURSDAY
11 Chapeltown WI will hold their Christmas Party at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church, where they will enjoy a cooked meal followed by entertainment.
The competition is for ‘An hand made Christmas Cracker’
FRIDAY
12 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Christmas Concert To Be Held At The Newton Hall, Chapeltown Friday 12th December 2025 At 7.30 Pm Tickets From Margaret And Peter On 0114 2460983 Or 07812425387 Or Julie On 07876472246 Or Paul On 07926377410
SATURDAY
13 Pantomime trip for TARA members Cinderella at the Academy Theatre. Only 19 places left.Coach leaves Red Grouse at12.30. tarastocksbridge.ud@ gmail for application forms.
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
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Oxspring Friends are holding two very special events at St Aidans Church and Community Hall this year - on Saturday 6th December there will be a CHRISTMAS FAYRE from 2.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m., followed by the lighting of the village Christmas Tree (weather
PUBLIC NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE Licensing Act 2003
Notice is hereby given that Gurdeep Singh Bolle has applied to Sheffield City Council for the grant of a Premises License in respect of the premises known as: 109 High Street, Ecclesfield, Sheffield, S35 9XA.
The application is to permit the following licensable activity: The sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises. 07:00 – 22:00 Monday to Sunday
A record of the application may be inspected at the Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council,Block C Staniforth Road Depot Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD during normal office hours. Details are also available on the Council’s website at: www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensing
Any person wishing to make representations about this application must do so in writing to the Licensing Service at the above address, or by email to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk, by no later than 15/12/2025 – 28 days after application submission. It is an offence, knowingly or recklessly, to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for
permitting!). There will be stalls, Santa Claus, games and plenty of Christmas cheer (including mulled wine!).
Then just a week later, it is the annual CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT, starting at 7.00 p.m. This is always a well-attended event, so come along and bring all the family!!
Both events are free to attend, so put them in your diary and invite your family and friends for a superb start to Christmas in Oxspring!!
Witnesses Sought After Tragic Fatal Collision on the M1
Police are appealing for witnesses a er a man and a woman in their twenties tragically died in a collision on the M1 late on Wednesday night.
Emergency services were called at 11.36pm on Wednesday 12 November to reports of a serious incident on the southbound carriageway between junctions 37 and 36. A dark grey BMW saloon is believed to have le the motorway before crashing into a tree.
Despite the e orts of emergency crews, the driver and his passenger were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Both were in their
twenties. Specially trained family liaison ofcers are now supporting their families.
O cers are working to piece together the circumstances leading up to the collision and are urging anyone who was travelling in the area at the time to come forward.
A spokesperson said the team were particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the BMW before the crash or has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police online, via live chat, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 1119 of 12 November 2025.
Sheffield Council Reports
£4.6m Budget Improvement –
But Are Vital Services at Risk?
She eld City Council has reported a £4.6 million improvement in its budget position, according to its Quarter 2 Budget Monitoring Report.
e Council says careful nancial management and improvements in Adult Social Care, City Futures, and Housing Services have helped reduce the forecast overspend by nearly £5 million since the rst quarter. e current predicted overspend stands at £23.6 million, but the Council believes it can bring this below £20 million by the end of the nancial year.
Cllr Zahira Naz, Chair of the Finance and Performance Policy Committee, said:
“We’re making real progress in managing our budget responsibly while continuing to deliver vital services for She eld residents. Our teams are working tirelessly to transform how we operate, and the results are already showing. We’re con dent that with continued focus, we’ll end the year in a stronger nancial position.”
Service Improvements Highlighted
Adult Social Care: Improved by £5 million since April through smarter planning, better use of data, and targeted savings.
Housing Services: Temporary accommodation for families has fallen by 20%, while turnaround times for properties have dropped from 56 days to 23 days. Emergency repairs are now completed on time in 97% of cases, supported by apprenticeships and improved delivery.
SEND Transport: Expansion of Personal Travel Budgets and independent travel training aims to ensure families are supported in the most appropriate way.
Cost-Saving Measures and Transformation Programmes
Tighter controls on recruitment and discretionary spending introduced in September are helping to stabilise nances.
Transformation programmes in Adult Social Care and Children’s Services are being accelerated to deliver better outcomes and value for money.
While the Council presents these gures as a sign of progress, some residents and local campaigners are questioning whether thenancial improvements come at the cost of services people rely on. Cuts to sta ng, tighter spending controls, and accelerated transformation programmes have raised concerns about the future of frontline services, particularly for the elderly, families in temporary housing, and children with special educational needs.
A local parent and campaigner, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:
“It’s good to see the Council managing money carefully, but we need reassurance that vital services aren’t being axed in the process. Budget savings are welcome, but not at the expense of the people who need support the most.”
e Council says it is committed to delivering “vital services” while balancing the books, but the coming months will be closely watched by residents and local media alike as She eld faces continued nancial pressure.
Angela BARLEY (née Barclay)
Aged 72
Passed away peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospice.
Loving Wife of the late Terry, Mum of Mark, Nicola and Carl and Mum in Law of Mick, Nannan of Jacob, and Georgie.
The funeral service will be held on Monday 1st December, 11.00 at Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel.
Donations in lieu of flowers will be gratefully accepted for St. Luke’s Hospice.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, S36 2RE Tel - 0114 2885555
AN ODE TO POETRY
by Craig Minto.
This is an Ode to those who love Poetry. Be it kids, teenagers or those of advancing years.
All ages. From ten to Eighteen and Twenty one to Forty Poems of life, loves and fears.
A little ditty for those who adore an Ode.
No matter if your pleasure is to read or pen a poem to paper.
Poetry is not just for those who live in luxury.The wealthy or bored.
So why not give Poems a Go ! There is nothing Greater !
So here is the final verse of my Poem I have written here.
Hoping to inspire others with a few lines of verse and rhyme.
To write something beautiful, comical. That Cheers.
My Poem is now at its end. So Thank You for reading this Ode. I will be writing another Sometime.
Despite Everything by Imge Tekniker
As the day waved its white flag, Night quietly settled in.
The disheartened sky couldn’t bear it — Its tears kept the floor all wet.
Despite the melancholy of clouds, I enjoyed the walk over here.
Silence fused with the liveliness of streets
When it’s after the rain, When the air feels fresh, And a quiet kind of calmness stays.
Despite everything, Mistakes — I’d make them again.
For all the laughter, For all the hate,
For every possible heartbreak, I’d choose all the wrong men.
For every misery, every cry, Its thorn path without any light.
With every sunrise, The joy of rising anew. With every dawn, To remind myself How beautiful the colours looked.
As she walked by, The sky wept.
The bricked walls kept tightening. The Keeper of Quiet Roads
Dimmed its lights,
Local Opinion
And the night carried it all away.
Despite everything, I’d do it all over again. In the end, the quiet kind of calmness stays.
GRANULAR DETAIL?
Were I a king, this madness to bring? Where I am an orphan would I sing?
An inherited migrant, crossing?
A development aid drossing?
Hell bent for leather, thrapping.
Disharmonious, revolting?
Supercilious, revolving.
A dinner deserted table, tapping on wood, disabled, creaking.
ALL ABOARD THE SKYLARK!
Andrew Dancer
Whalejaw Hill in November
Thousands and thousands of tiny flies
Dance before my very eyes
In the cool November sun rays
As they have since time gone by days I hope the sun shines tomorrow And they can dance again Pete the Poet
EMPTY JIBES ARE NOT IN GOOD FAITH
Deputising for Dave Hansell in regular politically driven lame detraction, Jim Croft gets it wrong -- and knows he does -- two weeks in a row. As I wrote, bonfire nights complete with burning guys were recorded back in the 13th century, so Croft well knows he’s talking nonsense to claim bonfire night originated in Guy Fawkes and enforced commemoration of him. It was utilising what was there already – culturally appropriated, to borrow jargon Croft might be at home with.
The week before, Jim similarly pretended that Kay Kay Night (Cakin Neet) was about cake (!), when all too obviously, as I’d written, Kay or Cake were meaningless stand-ins for what had been lost: càin-càch, ‘each/everyone pays a tribute – a tax’.
Croft previously actually wrote that I should not be believed about anything, simply because I’ve written against extreme Left ideology. So he did once come clean. On that occasion, against all the cross-confirming evidence, he endorsed an utterly daft claim that the Bolsterstone stones were a baptismal font for ‘the unshrivan’ at Unsliven Bridge. Jim’s simple-minded literal-mindedness here is driven by his disingenuous attempting to point-score. Why? ‘Cos in his and the Left’s book nobody’s allowed to say – as I did when I met him – his beloved Marxism is a hopeless fit with reality and has long not been what it says on the tin. In revenge for us not buying it, it’s changed to blaming and hating ordinary folk in identity politics / critical social justice / woke. That’s all our Jim’s about here. At least Peter Morton (last week) is up front about his political pique, though may not be far behind in the lameness of riposte.
Steve Moxon
LOCAL HISTORY: UNEARTHED
LOXLEY AND THE MYTH OF ROBIN HOOD
The Robin Hood (RH) name attached to wells, crosses, caves, stones, etc, is heavily concentrated in the West Riding and Derbyshire, plus a fair number in Nottinghamshire and North Yorkshire. Their epicentre apparently is Pennine South Yorkshire. Loxley, maybe?
With place-names including minor ones such as these nearly always ancient, the idea that RH came from Loxley might long pre-date even the oldest document in which it’s claimed. Loxley (Lokkeslay in 1329) itself betrays an archaic RH connection if, as must be expected, it’s from (Gaelic) laoch (ch as in “loch”), ‘hero / champion’; the last element likely sliabh, ‘hill/mountain’.
The late 1500s is the earliest surviving record of giving Loxley as RH’s birthplace (purportedly in 1160); by the collector Hans Sloane, in turn from a lost RH ballad. In 1637 John Harrison wrote in his Survey of the Manor of Sheffield of “Little Haggas Croft wherein is the foundation of a house or cottage where Robin Hood was born”. [This is near Normandale House, Rodney Hill, and Robin Hood’s Bower, nowadays Bower Plantation.] Also in the 1630s, the antiquarian Roger Dodsworth reckoned to have uncovered material showing that “Robin Locksley, born in the Bradfield Parish of Hallamshire (Loxley), wounded his stepfather to death at plough, fled into the woods and was relieved by his mother till he was discovered ...”.
This is a strange murder tale. Supposedly accidental, that’s hard to believe given the injury is from a scythe. And no way would a harvesting tool be carried when preparing the soil for seeding … unless the very point is to pour blood onto earth just as it’s turned over. And why a step-father? And what’s the mother about? It’s a patricide with odd features.
It screams mythology. It would. RH is wholly mythological. It’s a re-telling of the sympathetic magic notion that to ensure continued fertility of the land blood has to be spilled on to it. Not any old blood, but that of someone you don’t want to lose -- a truer forfeit. RH already had started to be portrayed as aristocratic rather than a yeoman, yet somehow not by birth. Richard
Grafton in 1569 asserted that RH “being of a base stock and lineage, was for his manhood and chivalry advanced to the noble dignity of an Earl”. Again a pretty weird story. Well, paradoxically, to be all things to all men a god needs an ‘everyman’ persona: ordinary at the same time clearly extraordinary; an exalted nobody cum everybody
To get a firmer handle on RH we need to dissect the name. Fitting both sound- and (perfectly) meaning-wise, Robin appears to be from (Gaelic) rubaim, ‘wounded’, and rodaidh, diminutive of ruadhrí, ‘red king‘, an epithet for the generic ‘bleeding’ figure of ‘regeneration’ mythologies, who sacrifices himself because his ‘regal’ blood needed to be shed onto the ground. This closely parallels Dodsworth’s Robin Locksley account.
So is this a deity or, similar to Jesus, akin to a bridge from the mortal world to God? It seems the latter, as the deity to whom sacrifice is made presumably would be Bríd(e)/ Bríg(hid). Interestingly, she has a byname that sounds like robin: rìgh-beann (later rìbhinn), literally ‘king-wife’, though taken to mean ‘maiden-queen‘ – an aspect of the pan-’Celtic’ goddess in a youthful phase before becoming the hag. The cycle mirrors the cyclical nature of life, death and rebirth, in the changing of the seasons. Rìgh-beann has to be considered – hardly could avoid being – a further derivation of Robin. But the divinity wedded to her go-between as one? Well, she’s distinct in the Loxley blood-letting cameo: the mother there represents the goddess. Has she rubbed off on RH when he’s seemingly standalone, shorn of the other characters in that business?
The Robin moniker looks a good bit confused. Then so too is what RH actually is: a half-god? As for hood, the candidates are Old Gaelic hud, ‘progeny of god’ – ah, there you go – or ‘splendid one’, or more directly from what seems the related Aed or Aodh, the ‘Underworld’ God, of fire. Pronounced “awd”, an initial h would be added in its aspirated form.
Complicated as may be, mythology – as I pointed out re the Dragon of Wantley -usually is. Folk down the ages reinterpret, and different facets and layers get mixed up.
MAJOR SHEFFIELD FLOOD SCHEME STARTS
Design and build specialist, JBA Bentley, has secured a 19 million GBP contract to deliver civil flood alleviation works at Sheffield Forgemasters’ Brightside Lane site.
The civil engineering project will intercept the Lower Don Valley’s Bagley Brook culvert where it enters Sheffield 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 flow-rate.
Craig Fisher, Programmes Director at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “We have already made huge steps towards flood prevention on the site, but the Bagley Brook transfer system will address a known flood-risk which can affect both our plant, and this part of the city.
“The 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 with an excessive flow of water, causing it to breach in heavy storm conditions.
“The 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 Sheffield Forgemasters on what is a major flood 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.
“This will involve sinking a five-metre shaft to receive a tunnel boring machine which will drive a tunnel, twelve metres deep, for 320 metres across Brightside Lane. This will be launched from the 15m diameter shaft which will double as storage and a pumping station.”
A section of flood wall at Sheffield 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.
The two-year flood alleviation works form part of Sheffield Forgemasters’ planning requirements for its new 13,000 tonne Forging Line, which is currently under construction adjacent to the Midland Mainline railway.
“Out in Force on Fargate”
Commenting on a South Yorkshire Police operation in the city centre today, Councillor Ben Miskell, who leads Regeneration and Transport in the city, said police were “out in force” - one of many operations carried out over the past few months to tackle the growing problem of illegal electric bikes.
The SYP Motorcycle Team are actively patrolling Sheffield city centre, seizing unregistered and uninsured e-bikes that pose a serious risk to public safety. Several riders have already been prosecuted for operating without tax or insurance.
Following a visit to see the team in action on Fargate, Councillor Miskell said:
“If you bring an illegal bike into our city centre, be warned — you won’t be leaving with it, and you’ll face the full force of the law.
The message is clear to anyone riding illegal electric bikes. South Yorkshire Police will seize your bike, you may receive a hefty fine, and you could get penalty points on your current or future driving licence.
People in Sheffield are sick of this, these bikes are ridden at high speeds, they’re unsafe, and it’s absolutely right that the police are prioritising action.”
BookTrust launches Christmas appeal
BookTrust has launched its Christmas appeal, aiming to deliver 18,000 book parcels to disadvantaged children and those in care across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
With BookTrust research showing more than half of children in the UK don’t get a bedtime story, the charity is warning that hundreds of thousands of children won’t experience the timeless magic of shared reading over the festive period.
Books can help overcome disadvantage and nurture a life-long love of reading, but for many it’s a luxury families can’t afford. Yet evidence shows that sharing stories together supports children’s emotional wellbeing, strengthens family bonds and builds the foundations for language, learning and imagination.
BookTrust, the UK’s largest reading charity, aims to change that by bringing the joy, comfort and connection of stories to children. Donations to BookTrust will help fund its Christmas campaign, which provides 18,000 families with a surprise festive parcel featuring a carefully selected book, alongside its ongoing work.
The parcels will be delivered across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, thanks to book donations by BookTrust’s publishing partners. They will be distributed through local authorities, organisations, partnerships and community foodbanks.
BookTrust research shows 95% of parents and carers know reading with their child is important. But not everyone has access to a book at home and only 40% of parents and carers say a bedtime story is part of their normal routine.
However, the benefits of shared reading are marked. Research shows early shared reading can increase social mobility, overcoming inequalities before they deepen. It also has huge developmental effects, including deepening bonds with parents and carers, improving mental wellbeing, and building empathy, creativity and imagination.
Annie Crombie, Co-CEO of BookTrust, said: “The magic of a good story never fades but less than half of children get to experience a bedtime story. That’s why we’re helping to share that magic with as many children as possible this Christmas. Your support can help bring the joy, comfort and connection of stories to children who may otherwise miss out.
“Your donation helps deliver life-changing support ensuring children have the very best start in life. By helping children and families to create joyful shared moments around reading, you’ll be helping to spark a life-long love of reading and all the benefits that brings.”
To find out more about the BookTrust Christmas appeal and how to donate, visit BookTrust.org.uk/xmas
Foot Care at Home
STRONG HOME SHOWING FOR PENISTONE AT CROSS COUNTRY
Penistone Footpath Runners were out in force at their home South Yorkshire Cross Country League xture, held at Penistone Showground in challenging, heavy conditions.
• 1930’s
• Calor gas heater £30 07951 180442
• Self drive electric wheelchair, lightweight and easy fold to t in car boot, great for holidays and coach trips, hardly used. Cost £2700, asking £1000 07942 341618
• Air Guns and Pistols wanted, Good prices paid, Please phone 07518938321
• Choppers & Bmx push bikes wanted - cash paid 07518 938321
• Gold Pocket & Wrist watches for personal usecash paid 07518 938321
e club elded seventeen athletes across all age groups, producing several strong performances on a demanding and increasingly waterlogged course.
In the junior events, Edward Holley impressed with a solid 10th place in the under-15 boys, while Flynn Rodgers continued his good form, nishing 11th in the under-17 men’s race.
e senior women delivered one of the club’s performances of the day, securing a superb 1–2 nish in the ladies over55 category with Nichola McNally rst in 29-17 and Julia Johnson second in 31-35, backed up by Rebecca Timms (33-45), Lesley Parker (34-15), Helen Turner (35-35) and Kim Rodgers (48-46).
e senior men also produced a committed display. George Parr led the team home in 39-36, followed by Oliver France (43-04), Ian Neville (43-05), Lee Storey (43-51), Oliver Pike (44-48), Andrew Sherbourne (46-40) and Mark Law (47-06).
In the veteran categories, Martyn Goodwin placed an excellent 5th in the male over65 race with 33-37, while Nick Whittingham nished 4th in the male over70 race in 43-05.
Away from the country, Bill Phillips continued his return to form at the Derby 10 Mile, running 1-28-51 to nish third in the male over70 category, placing 987th overall on the fast, at course.
Saturday saw a reduced parkrun programme, with Penistone parkrun cancelled due to a waterlogged eld.
At Barnsley there was another excellent turnout, while across the region three signi cant milestones were reached: Jane Lawcock completed her 250th parkrun at East Holmes Field, John Broom completed his 650th at Barnsley, and Sara Wolstenholme celebrated her 100th parkrun, also at Barnsley, with a personal best.
ere were further high placings, including second place for Rob Lees at Woodlands and third places for Dawn Broom and Ashley
Firth at Barnsley, as well as Flynn Rogers taking third at ames Path. e top age-graded performances were Ian Neville (78.59%), Rob Lees (77.48%), Jill Scrivens (76.08%), Dawn Broom (75.63%) and Keith Gordon (74.45%).
In total, 54 seniors ran across 18 venues.
Results
Derby 10 Mile
987, Bill Phillips 1-28-51.
South Yorkshire Cross Country League –Fixture 3, Penistone
(All results provisional)
Under-15 Boys
10, Edward Holley 17-38.
Under-17 Men
11, Flynn Rodgers 26-43.
Senior and Veteran Women
21, Nichola McNally 29-17; 50, Julia Johnson 31-35; 64, Rebecca Timms 33-45; 69, Lesley Parker 34-15; 78, Helen Turner 35-35; 149, Kim Rodgers 48-46.
Senior and Veteran Men (U65)
42, George Parr 39-36; 79, Oliver France 4304; 80, Ian Neville 43-05; 89, Lee Storey 4351; 100, Oliver Pike 44-48; 116, Andrew Sherbourne 46-40; 122, Mark Law 47-06.
Veteran Men 65+
5, Martyn Goodwin 33-37; 16, Nick Whittingham 43-05.
Barnsley Parkrun
3, Ashley Firth 19-04; 8, Ian Neville 20-24; 14, Simon Pike 20-56; 28, Alex Best 23-31; 49, Dawn Broom 25-39; 50, John Broom 25-40; 52, Michael Walsh 25-52; 65, Ben Wilkinson 26-33; 88, David Arthur 28-57; 98, Sara Wolstenholme 29-19; 100, Sue Hall 29-25; 115, Stu Smith 29-56; 119, Kate Rushforth 30-40; 120, Joanne Sammon 30-48; 131, Angela Rollinson 32-39; 132, Sarah Clough 32-58; 131, Ray Brown 35-43; 156, Denise Pozorski 3645; 174, Dawn Godley 40-42.
Stocksbridge Stalwart elected to Rugby’s Top Table
Continued from page one ...
A familiar face in local rugby circles has taken his place among the sport’s national decisionmakers, as Stocksbridge RUFC legend Dave ‘Franny’ Francis has been elected to serve on the RFU Council Board.
Francis, who has dedicated more than 50 years to the game as a player, coach, mentor and administrator, was chosen by Yorkshire clubs to represent the region. e appointment follows his recent term as President of the Yorkshire RFU, a role he stepped down from at the end of last season.
When the vacancy arose, Francis was nominated by clubs across the county and went on to secure the vote comfortably. He began his three-year tenure on the RFU’s top governing body last month.
Dave’s rugby journey began at the age of 15 when he joined Stocksbridge RUFC, making his rst-team debut a year later. His early promise saw him progress to senior rst-class rugby, spending a decade at She eld and Rotherham.
As injuries began to mount, Francis transitioned into a player-coach role at She eld Oaks, guiding the club to two league promotions and a Yorkshire Shield triumph. A return to Stocksbridge followed, where he oversaw one of the most successful periods in the club’s recent history, including three promotions and a Yorkshire Silver Trophy win.
A er nally hanging up his boots, Francis turned his attention to representative coaching. Over the next two decades he worked with Yorkshire and England North U18 sides, as well as academy squads at Leeds, Rother-
ham and Doncaster. His long-standing role in the RFU’s Coach Education department, where he has spent more than 25 years, has made him widely known and respected throughout the county.
Speaking about his new position, Francis said:
“ e game has given me lots of great opportunities over many years. I have travelled the world coaching highly talented players from Yorkshire, and I am proud of being involved in setting up the player development programme for 15 to 18-year-olds, both boys and girls. is important role on the sport’s national governing body gives me the opening to improve the game and how it’s administered.”
Stocksbridge RUFC o cials say Francis’ election is not only a personal achievement but a proud moment for the town, recognising decades of dedication from a man who has helped shape the sport both locally and nationally.
OUGHTIBRIDGE LADIES
The next fixture for the Oughtibridge Ladies sees them face Kiveton Park on Sunday 23 November. If you don’t have a ticket for the Sheffield derby pop down to the war memorial ground to watch Oughtibridge WM Women take on Kiveton Park Women. KO is 2pm and the clubhouse will be open for refreshments
Trevor shows he’s the Mayne man
Last Monday at the North Midlands CTT District AGM, medals were presented to winners of the District Time Trial Series.
Over the course of the season riders competed in 10 events with the riders best 6 events counting.
Winner of the Men’s Over 40 years old category was Trevor Mayne of Birdwell Wheelers. Winner of the Men’s Under 18 category was Tristan Davies Bennett of Barnsley Road Club.
Squelch slip and slide
Another busy weekend on the calendar for Stocksbridge Running Club, with races taking place both in South Yorkshire and in Derbyshire.
Yorkshire saw Penistone play host to the 3rd iteration of the South Yorkshire County Athletics Association cross country championships, where there were doubts about the viability of the field, given that Penistone park run had been forced to cancel the day prior, owing to flooding from storm Claudia.
Miraculously the field seemed to have drained well overnight, and five SRC athletes squelched, slipped and slid their way to victory.
A tight sprint finish between Jolene Allen and Nicola Heaton brought excitement to proceedings, whilst Charlotte Bailey sailed over
STANDARDS DROP IN DEFEAT
DRONFIELD TOWN 4–2 POMONA FC
Pomona missed the opportunity to go second after a below-par performance resulted in their second defeat of the season.
Pomona began well taking the lead inside four minutes. A direct ball was expertly flicked on by midfielder James Illingworth into winger Simon Yeadon, who struck a half-volley beyond the Dronfield goalkeeper.
However, Dronfield responded immediately from the restart, capitalising on a defensive lapse to go close with a shot that drifted narrowly wide. From that moment onwards, Pomona struggled to regain their early composure. Loose passing, heavy touches and a lack of midfield cohesion began to creep in.
Dronfield drew level when an unmarked attacker was allowed to finish past Brad Swift. Pomona’s problems deepened midway through the first half when centre-back Michael Heppenstall was forced off with an injury. On the half-hour mark, Dronfield took the lead as another unchecked runner broke through.
Following firm words and a tactical reshuffle from manager Rob Wild, Pomona looked more dangerous in the second half, particularly after substitute winger Stephen Logan entered the action providing a consistent threat down the left earning him Pomona’s player of the match.
On 52 minutes, more hesitant defending allowed a Dronfield forward time and space to lift the ball over Swift and extend the advantage to 3–1. Pomona continued to press in search of a route back into the match, with Logan at the heart of their attacking play.
Switching to a two-man strike force placed immediate pressure on the hosts, yet it was Dronfield who found the net again. A poor clearance fell to a home striker, who converted to make it 4–1.
Simon Bonnett grabbed Pomona a late consolation following Logan’s first-time cross.
While far from the result Pomona wanted, the defeat may serve as a timely reminder of the standards required to push in the title race.
the line having completed the first two in the series as well as Penistone.
Narni Fulford was first home for the ladies from SRC, and managed to only fall over once.
Nicolas Boxall was our sole male representative and maintained a superb pace throughout.
Over in Bamford resident wonder-woman Rachel Howard tacked the ‘Beastier of Bamford’; a step up from the ‘Beast of Bamford’ in terms of length and elevation. A challenging 23km fell race with over 1000 metres of elevation, Storm Claudia had runners being forced to wade and swim some small sections of the course owing to flooding.
Not one to be daunted by an impromptu stream, Rachel sped to victory, grabbing first V45 in a very respectable 3:03:14.
PARKRUNS AND CROSS COUNTRY
VHR enjoyed a packed weekend of action, starting with a strong turnout across the area’s parkruns. Saturday marked Concord’s 700th parkrun, celebrating 14 years of free 5k community running. Long-time volunteer John Mappin, a familiar face at Concord since day one, marked an incredible 400 volunteer stints.
VHR played their part as always, with club members stepping up to help marshal and support the event, continuing a long history of giving back to the Concord community.
Over at Hillsborough parkrun, conditions were wet and windy,
but that didn’t stop Louise Harrop, who battled the weather to claim a brilliant new course PB.
Sunday brought round three of the cross-country series at a very soggy Penistone Showground. VHR fielded both men’s and women’s teams, taking on the mud, rain and slippery hills.
Shaun Wright was first home for the men, while Rachel Goacher led the women’s contingent with a strong run.
A tough but rewarding weekend for VHR, showcasing team spirit, resilience and plenty of reason to celebrate.
Photo by Ian Revitt
CUP LOSS FOR STEELS
MARINE 2 - 0 STOCKSBRIDGE PARK STEELS
By Andrew McMath
In a break from league action Stocksbridge Park Steels travelled to face Marine in the FA Trophy.
The home side of the National League North had the best of the opening half an hour. With their closest early effort coming in the 28th minute with a shot rattling the Steels’ crossbar. Six minutes later, a cross into the box found a Marine attacker for a free header only to hit the crossbar once again.
Soon after the restart Marine’s Finlay Sinclair-Smith, who had looked dangerous all game, drove towards the Steels’ goal to see his shot saved. Only for Marine’s Bailey Marsden to follow in and smash the rebound into the net.
As the game headed towards the hour mark, the Steels had two free kicks outside of the Marine box only for both efforts to head over the bar.
With around ten minutes to go, the Steels had a corner which found a free Steels’ header only for the ball to sail over the bar.
The Steels defended well until added time when a ball down the right wing
line looking to challenge Papoola for the ball.
Interim Manager Jordan Lemon spoke after the game:
“The first half game plan worked to a tee. Frustrated them was solid. They hit the bar from a great strike and then apart from that not really had anything.
“Come out second half and we’ve obviously conceded within five minutes which is sloppy by us lads who have made those mistakes to lead up to the goal know what they’ve done but that’s football we go again. We’ve changed up from 3-4-3 and then for 25 minutes it’s just been all us.
“We conceded in the 92nd minute but we’ve had to commit and we’ve had one cleared off the line by someone’s toe in the 88th minute but that’s just how it is.”
Next Game: Ilkeston Town (A) Saturday 22 November. Kick off: 15:00pm. Awsworth Rd, Ilkeston DE7 8JF
Next Home Game: Lancaster City. Saturday 29 November. Kick off: 15:00. Bracken Moor.
CHURCH WOUNDED BY DEFEAT
HANDSWORTH 4-0 PENISTONE CHURCH
Last Wednesday night Church were in league action at home to Golcar United.
They recovered from a goal deficit with an equaliser from Luca Defalco just before the break and took the lead late on when Nathan Keightley’s corner from the left curled in. However, the joy was short-lived when Callum Petch equalised for the visitors in added time.
Co-manager Brett Lovell
It was a really positive front-foot performance from us tonight against a good Golcar side. We got about them from the off and were unfortunate not to go in front but as our luck is at the moment a shot from George Doyle deflected in off one of our defenders and we found ourselves a goal down. We found a way back into the game when Luds (Rob Ludlam) turned their back line, the ball has taken a deflection off a defender, gone round the keeper and Luca (Defalco) has tucked it away into the open goal to put us deservedly level at the break. It was nip-and-tuck in the second half, not an awful lot in it. Nathan (Keightley) had a shot deflected off a defender and their keepers had to save. We then got a corner and Nathan has whipped a great ball in, its eluded everyone and went in at the far corner and I though that’s the bit of luck we need to win the game but unfortunately for us we couldn’t see it out, The ball dropped to Callum Petch who has scored with an ex-
cellent shot from twenty yards past Harry (Ambler) and we drew the game two-two.
The Golcar game saw significant land marks for two Church players
Striker Nathan Keightley and mid-field dynamo Eddie notched their three hundredth and one-hundred and fiftieth NCEL appearances respectively for the club.
On Thursday Church U21s continued their good form with a win against Swallownest U21. A Luke Fretwell tap in and a Charlie Rogerson penalty in the second half sealed a two-nil win.
Looking to build on Wednesday’s game Church travelled to Handsworth on Saturday but it wasn’t to be. After a decent first half and going in just one-nil down Church started the second half disastrously conceding three in the second, losing four-nil.
Co-manager John Whitehead
We had a busy week trying to get a squad together. We had five or six players away from key positions. If it wasn’t for the reserves game being called off this afternoon we would have had both managers on the subs bench today so we’re grateful to Reece High and Rowan Briscoe for coming to help us out they both did particularly well when they came on.
We rode our luck in the first minute or two of the game, they put the ball straight on us but then for the next twenty or so minutes
we had a lot of the ball, played some nice football, had some nice transitions, we got in and around the box and got some shots off at goal. Then they’ve put a long ball in behind Tom Brennan, he got caught under it and they went through and scored.
We got to half-time. We did all the talks, got the lads regrouped and rallied and then within two minutes we were two-nil down and it all went out of the window. The three goals we conceded in the second half were poor.
Biggun” (Co-manager Brett Lovell) came on and did particularly well for half an hour, he made himself a nuisance but we shouldn’t be looking at players who have retired from the game to come back and do us a job we need to look to the future and that is currently mine and Brett’s job. We’ve got a little bit of a task on, we’re not going to shirk away from the responsibility, we just need to be better.
We’re a little bit of a wounded animal at the moment and we need to come out fighting, it shouldn’t be the size of the dog in the fight it’s the size of the fight in the dog, we need to make sure we’ve got the fight and that we’re ready to battle.
Fixtures
Saturday 22nd November 2025
found Anjola Papoola who fired past Ben Townsend who was far off his
Photo by Myra Little