Fox Valley to Celebrate 10 Years
Shopping Centre to Celebrate
10 ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ years with an unmissable
Big Birthday Weekend
Fox Valley is gearing up for a landmark celebration this month as it marks 10 years at the heart of the community, inviting visitors to a vibrant and unmissable Big Birthday Weekend.
On Saturday, June 13th, and Sunday, June 14th, the centre will host a special Big Birthday Weekend packed with celebrations to mark a decade of shopping, dining, events, and community.
Running on both days from 11am – 4pm, a festival-style atmosphere is promised throughout the weekend of family-friendly entertainment, with plenty of opportunities for the local community to come together and celebrate as a thank you for the continued support Fox Valley has received since opening in 2016.
Fox Valley was officially opened in June 2016 by Dame Joanna Lumley OBE, accompanied by Mark Dransfield Chairman of Dransfield Properties.
Developed on a former steelworks site, the centre has since become an integral part of the Stocksbridge community.
Over the birthday weekend, visitors can look forward to a lively programme of entertainment including a 10th birthday cake cutting on the Saturday, as well as stilt walkers, an interactive bubble entertainer and performances from Valley Music Festival, Rock Choir and Hannah Rowe – also on Saturday.
Continued on page 5...
Local author launches new Steelosaurus children’s adventure
Popular Children’s Dinosaur Makes a Welcomed Return
A local author is hoping to inspire young readers while celebrating Sheffield’s proud steel heritage with the launch of a brand-new children’s book.
The latest title, from Helen Hunt, The Steelosaurus (How I Was Made), follows on from the success of the first book, The Steelosaurus (Made in Sheffield), but can also be enjoyed as a standalone story.
In the new adventure, Steelosaurus sets out to discover how he was made, uncovering a surprising story about how the steel industry is changing for the better. Along the way, the character learns about recycling, friendship and helping to build a greener future, while also discovering the mystery behind his colourful rainbow spikes.
As part of the project, Helen has also developed a new
scheme of work for schools, designed to help children explore themes such as sustainability, recycling and environmental responsibility in a fun and creative way.
The project also aims to celebrate and support Sheffield’s steel industry while raising awareness of the positive environmental changes taking place within the sector.
Sheffield children’s author Suzy Senior (author of Octopants) mentored and supported Helen through the second Steelosaurus book after they met after the launch of Helen’s first book.
The book received a warm reception during its official launch event at Horton’s & Daughters in Oughtibridge, owned by local artist Luke Horton.
The launch coincided with the opening of the shop itself, helping to create what the author described as “a wonderful showcase of local creativity and community spirit”. Helen has now joined the team at the shop, which features products from a range of local makers and creatives from Sheffield and the surrounding villages.
Together, the launch of the new book and the opening of Horton’s & Daughters have created a positive local story focused on independent creativity, small businesses and community spirit.
The Steelosaurus series continues to combine imagination with Sheffield pride, introducing younger readers to important modern themes while keeping the city’s industrial heritage firmly at its heart.
Ground broken for new pavilion at Cricket Club
Ground has officially been broken on the new state-of-the-art pavilion at Stocksbridge Cricket Club.
Work got underway with the demolition of the old pavilion, which stood for over 100 years at Bracken Moor Lane, with a modern and inclusive venue to be built in its place.
Following the demolition, ground was officially broken on the site with a spade in the ground ceremony that was attended by Towns Fund Board
co-chair Marie Tidball MP, Board member Ian Sanderson, members of Stocksbridge Cricket Club and Sheffield City Council.
Commenting on work getting underway, Marie Tidball, MP for Stocksbridge and Penistone and co-chair of the Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board, said:
“I’m delighted that construction work has started on a new cricket pavilion for our Stocksbridge Cricket Club!
“With the number 35 Hopper Bus revived, and the 34 route restored to Bolstertone, the 519 en route to being completed and a new cricket pavilion coming soon, I am proud that residents are starting to see the promise of the Towns Fund finally being realised.”
Updated facilities will include ECB-approved changing rooms, better accessibility and a new social space that will be available for private hire by the local community.
The project is supported by the Stocksbridge Towns Fund and will allow the club to develop its men’s, women’s and youth teams to secure the future of cricket in the town for the foreseeable future.
Work is scheduled to be completed by Autumn this year.
Graham Silverwood, Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board member with responsibility for the cricket pavilion project, said:
“A lot of planning and hard work has gone into getting the project to this stage and while there is a lot of work still to do, it’s fantastic to see work on the new pavilion get underway on site.
Dom Gentlesmith, Treasurer at Stocksbridge Cricket Club, said:
“The old pavilion held around a century of memories, so seeing it come down is emotional for many people connected to the club.
“But what’s replacing it will be one of the biggest investments in the club’s history and will give players, volunteers and the wider community facilities they can be proud of for many years to come.
“The aim is to create a modern venue that helps cricket in Stocksbridge continue to grow for decades to come.”
WINDOWS Add value to your home
In 1976 school-leaver Ian Clancy learned his trade at a local doubleglazing company before making the leap two years later of going it alone.
A young enthusiastic worker Ian was described as ‘always first on site and last on site’. It wasn’t long before the hard-working Ian bought his first and current premises on Manchester Road in Deepcar, and set up his own window company Deepcar.
These premises are now home to a new showroom featuring the latest range of products, from tiled roof system conservatories to composite doors.
Early success was to follow when in 1983 Ian was named winner of Yorkshire Televisions ‘Young Enterprise - Businessman of the year’ Ian still has the very first door made by Deepcar back in 1978. Still in perfect working order, the door sits proudly at the back of the showroom, illustrating Deepcar’s pride in their humble beginnings.
Ian beams “ Our aim is the same today as it was back then - we will provide the best products and best customer service.”
He continues “ In todays busy world we pride ourselves in looking after you the customer and will offer the same level of service whether you are having a new conservatory or a lock fixed on your window.
Ian’s son Tom and daughter Alice show the same hard-working and conscientious qualities as their father. They are now helping the successful window company build on the nearly 50 years of trading.
After nearly half a century of providing unparalleled products and service, Deepcar invite you to view the latest in home improvements at their showroom.
If its experience, quality and reliability you are looking for look no further than Deepcar.
MP takes time to visit the Caribbean
Fox Valley - 10 Years
...Continued from front page
A diverse line-up of food vendors will add to the festivities, with tasty options from the traders such as Nomadic Pizza and Greek Pitta, alongside not one, but two fabulous mobile bars courtesy of Sip and Sparkle and Fancy Filly.
The Big Birthday celebrations are already getting underway on social media, with the Fox Valley Instagram page giving followers the chance to win ten amazing prizes to be enjoyed at the centre.
To enter, participants need to follow Fox Valley on Instagram, like the competition post, and tag a friend they will bring along to the Big Birthday Weekend.
Some of the centre’s key businesses who have been part of the Fox
Marie Tidball, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, visited the Caribbean Sports Club in Ecclesfield, touring the fantastic work the Club does to increase inclusion in sports and bring together the local community.
Marie was shown around by Club Chair, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Des Smith, who told the local MP all about the history of the Club and its work as a community hub.
The local MP visited the Club House, which, thanks to members’ fundraising efforts, is going to be completely rebuilt into a redeveloped pavilion over the coming years. This will better enable members of all ages and abilities to participate in a range of sports including cricket, football and netball.
Marie donated a magnolia tree to the Windrush Garden, which has been lovingly planted by club members.
The Club also does a significant amount of school outreach work, as part of the Arches School Sports Partnership. During Marie’s tour, she spoke to Greengate Lane School from High Green, whose pupils were visiting the Club to learn to play hockey.
Marie pledged to work closely with the Club and Greengate Lane School as part of her work in Parliament with Paralympics GB. This work, on the Equal Play Campaign, will ensure that every child has access to sport and PE in school, no matter their disability or special educational needs.
Marie Tidball MP said:
“It was fantastic to see first-hand what a significant recreational and social
hub the Caribbean Sports Club is at the heart of our community. I was so impressed by the beautiful Windrush garden.
“It was also fantastic to speak to the children from Greengate Lane School. They asked me some brilliant questions, including what the best parts of my job are, and giving me some fantastic ideas on what they would like to see our government do for young people. “
Des Smith, Club Chair, said:
“It was an honour to host Dr Marie Tidball MP at our Sports Club. Her beaming smile and enthusiastic support of our activities and plans for the community were truly heartwarming.
Seeing the kids bobbing for questions like MPs was a real treat!
Valley line up from day one are also celebrating their 10th birthday – including Regatta, Seasalt, Holland and Barrett, Crawshaws, Aldi, Costa, Home Bargains and Ponti’s Italian Kitchen.
With M&S opening at Fox Valley later this year, the 10th birthday celebrations also bring an exciting new chapter for the centre as it continues to grow and evolve.
Claire Biltcliffe, Centre Manager, said: “We are so excited to celebrate ten great years of Fox Valley, and to give something back to the local community in recognition of the support we have received over the past decade.”
“Fox Valley has grown into a thriving retail and leisure destination in North Sheffield, and we are incredibly proud of that.
Stocksbridge-based business rewarded
Enzygo secures place on Sunday Times Best Place to Work
One of the UK’s leading specialist environmental consultancies has been named by the Sunday Times as one of the best places to work.
Enzygo, which is headquartered in Stocksbridge and has offices in Manchester, Belfast, Cambridge, Cardiff along with two sites in Bristol, was one of just three Sheffield-based businesses to secure a place on the list, which saw successful applications from businesses operating in 25 different sectors.
The full-service environmental consultancy, which helps businesses to navigate Britain’s complex planning system, secured a place in the medium-sized business category, which recognised companies with a workforce between 49-250 employees.
Based entirely on feedback from staff, the Sunday Times best places to work list compiled data submitted from more than 200,000 employees across the UK, who were asked to rate their employer in six key areas including job satisfaction, empowerment, and wellbeing with businesses
receiving an overall rating of 70% or above securing a place on the list.
Enzygo achieved an overall score of 87% for employee happiness, with 93% of employees saying they had a good relationship with their manager and were treated with respect. 90% of employees reported high levels of job satisfaction, whilst 89% said they felt they were developing in their role and felt empowered.
Placing an emphasis on helping its employees to enjoy a good work-life balance, Enzygo encourages its staff to invest back in the communities in which they live by undertaking a range of company-led activities throughout the year to support good causes. Staff are also supported with access to 24 hour GP and mental health support, discounted gym memberships and a flexible working culture. The company enjoys high levels of staff retention, with many of its employees clocking up more than 10 years' service with the business.
Matt Travis, Managing Director, Enzygo said:
Happy Hands
“From the outset, we have wanted to build a culture and working environment where staff feel valued, empowered and inspired. We all spend a great deal of lives at work and being named as one of the places to work in the UK reflects the positive culture we have worked hard to build.
“In recent years we’ve enjoyed a significant period of growth, something which wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of every single member of staff. It’s clear from the incredibly positive feedback we’ve received that we’re building a workplace where staff enjoy coming to work, feel recognised for their contributions, creating an environment where everyone can be their best”.
Launched in 2008, with just three staff , the company has enjoyed a significant period of growth and expansion, today, the company has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s leading environmental and planning specialists.
SPACES AVAILABLE AT ‘OUTSTANDING’ PRE-SCHOOL
Happy Hands Pre-School & Childcare is delighted to announce that it has places available for children starting in September. Located in the heart of Stocksbridge, the preschool provides a warm, welcoming and stimulating environment where children can learn, play and develop with confidence.
The experienced and caring team at Happy Hands is passionate about giving every child the very best start to their educational journey. Through a wide range of activities, children are encouraged to explore, discover and develop important social, emotional and communication skills, all while having fun in a safe and nurturing setting.
Happy Hands understands that every child is unique and works closely with families to ensure each child feels happy, secure and valued. The preschool’s child-centred approach helps build confidence, independence and a love of learning that prepares children for their transition to school.
As well as providing high-quality early years education, Happy Hands is pleased to offer funded childcare places for eligible children from the age of 2½ years, helping local families access affordable childcare and early learning opportunities.
Whether your child is taking their first steps into a preschool setting or is preparing for the move to primary school, Happy Hands offers
a friendly community where children can thrive and reach their full potential.
Parents and carers interested in securing a place for September are encouraged to get in touch to find out more, arrange a visit and see first-hand what makes Happy Hands such a special place for young children to grow, learn and flourish.
Happy Hands Pre-School and childcare is a charitable committee run non-profit making organisation originally set up in 1999. Since 2011 Ofsted has rated Happy Hands as OUTSTANDING, reflecting all their achievements and showing ongoing development of the provision.
Their friendly and caring environment welcomes all children from 2 ½ to 11 years
Starting the day with a breakfast club at 7.45am followed by morning and afternoon nursery sessions finishing at 3pm when they provide an out of school club, escorting to and from St Ann’s, Stocksbridge Nursery Infant and Stocksbridge Junior school.
Angela Moffatt, Manager, told Look Local “We are all very proud of all our achievements and continue to grow, looking forward to an exciting future.”
Spaces are limited, so early enquiries are recommended.
15 Years of 'Burton’s Got Talent'
Burton Street Foundation is getting ready to raise the curtain on another unforgettable evening of music, performance and celebration as ‘Burton’s Got Talent’ returns on Friday 5 June.
Now in its 15th year, the much-loved annual event gives people with learning disabilities the chance to showcase their creativity, confidence and talent through live performances, art, film, music and dance — with guest judges and plenty of singing along the way.
This year’s show promises to be bigger, louder and more colourful than ever, bringing together clients, families, staff and the wider community for a feel-good evening packed with entertainment.
The event will take place from 6pm–9pm at the Bamforth Building on Burton Street Foundation’s heritage site, which dates back to the 1870s. Hot food and drinks will be available throughout the evening.
Andy Beeston, Senior Learning Disability Manager at Burton Street Foundation, said: ‘Burton’s Got Talent is one of the biggest nights of our year because you get to see all the confidence and self-expression that cli-
ents build throughout the year come to fruition on stage.
‘What started 15 years ago as a few staff performing to entertain clients has grown into a huge celebration of talent and creativity, complete with guest judges who are professional actors and singers.
‘The clients absolutely love it. It’s their chance to shine, express themselves and perform in front of a crowd that’s cheering them on every step of the way. The atmosphere is always incredible.’
Based in Hillsborough, Burton Street Foundation is a Community Benefit Society with charitable objectives, supporting over 250 clients with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health conditions and autism.
Everybody is welcome to attend this not-forprofit event, with all proceeds reinvested into the Foundation’s disability services. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked by calling 0114 233 2908.
New Book captures the spirit of Village Life in Bolsterstone
A LOCAL author has brought the recent history of Bolsterstone to life in a new book celebrating the village’s community spirit and achievements over more than a decade.
‘When Bolsterstone Bloomed’, written by former Bolsterstone Community Group chair Frances Tivey, looks back at the many projects, events and successes that helped shape village life from 2002 onwards.
The photographic record charts the work of the Community Group between 2002 and 2013, with Frances – who served as chair during that period – documenting the people, projects and partnerships that helped the village flourish.
The book includes photographs and memories from a wide range of initiatives, from the Oral History Project linked to the wellknown Bolsterstone Castle Project ‘Dig’, to the establishment of the village Boundary Stones and Beacon.
It also celebrates the village’s success in Yorkshire in Bloom competitions and the development of the Community Garden, while recognising the efforts of the volunteers and residents who worked together to organise Christmas fairs, plant sales and other community events over the years.
Frances hopes the book will not only preserve memories of a special period in Bolsterstone’s history, but also inspire a renewed sense of community spirit for the future.
A launch event for ‘When Bolsterstone Bloomed’ will take place at the Castle Inn in Bolsterstone on Tuesday, June 9, from 6pm.
The evening is expected to provide an opportunity for friends, neighbours and former residents to come together and reminisce about village life, while also looking ahead to how that same community spirit can bloom once again in the years ahead.
Only a limited number of copies will be available to buy on the night, although pre-orders can be made by emailing francests36@gmail. com.
FRIENDLY GROUPS WHERE RETIREMENTS COME TOGETHER
Retirement is a chance to begin an exciting new chapter. But for some, it can come with unexpected challenges such as feelings of isolation or a sense of lost purpose.
Local friendship group South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows wants to remind retirees that its community meetups can help them explore new interests, build lasting friendships, and make the most of this stage of life.
Julie Davis, Social Events Organiser of South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire said: “We understand that retirement can be a big adjustment. When work no longer fills your days, it’s easy to feel at odds or disconnected.
“Our group is here to help people find a new rhythm, reconnect with others, and embrace this next phase with confidence.”
She added: “Retirement is much more than having free time – it’s about adjusting to a lifestyle where work isn’t the centre of everything.”
South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows is a not-for-profit mutual society and has around 600 local members, who are mainly older adults. It hosts regular social events
across Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster, Worksop, Dronfield and Hope Valley areas.
Group member Ann Jebson, from Rotherham, retired from her career in managerial hospitality in 2018. She said joining the Oddfellows helped her build a new routine in retirement.
Ann said: “When I first retired, I thought I’d spend my days relaxing. But I quickly found that I missed the social connections and routine that came with work.
“Joining the Oddfellows changed all of that. It’s given me the chance to volunteer, meet new people, and get involved in local events. I’ve found a sense of purpose that I didn’t know I was missing.”
As well as its events, Oddfellows members can access opportunities to volunteer, wellbeing support and a travel club.
To find out more about South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows, people can get in touch by calling 01709 838673 or emailing julie.davis@oddfellows.co.uk, or visiting www.oddfellows.co.uk/retirement.
ADVERTISE YOUR PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICE WITH LOOK LOCAL
JUNE
WEDNESDAY
3 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We are having a presentation by South Yorkshire Street Cats about how they were formed and the work they are doing in the community. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
THURSDAY
4 St.Nicholas’ Church, Bradfield celebrates 100 years of Mothers’ Union on Thursday, 4th June at 11am. Service followed by buffet lunch in the Church. Contact Pauline on 07763189684 to book lunch. Everyone welcome.
THURSDAY
11 Chapeltown WI hold their next meeting at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church when a representative from Baby Basics Charity will come and speak to them. The competition is for a vintage toy. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
11 High Green WI will be meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 11th of June in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church, on Wortley Road. The event is “Line Dancing” with Lynn Housley. The competition is “A Country Music Item”. Members and Visitors warmly welcome.
11 Stocksbridge & District History Society meeting -Christ Church Hall 7 PM. Speaker Eric Jackson‘Women in Munitions - The Barn-
bow Lasses.’. All are welcome. Also notice of Grand Day Out. - Wentworth..
FRIDAY
12 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Proms Concert To be held at the Newton Hall Chapeltown on Friday 12th June 2026 at 7.30 pm Tickets from Margaret and Peter on 0114 2460983 or 07812425387 or Julie and Paul on 07876472246 or 07926377410
12 Relax with a poem – poetry for pleasure. Stocksbridge Library, Manchester Road. Bring a favourite poem to read of just sit and listen over a warm drink. 2.15 to 3.15
SUNDAY
14 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - This is our regular 4-weekly day of active conservation work. During the summer it is mostly bracken that keeps us occupied because it threatens to shade out the young shoots of heather and bilberry. We also have an area newly-cleared of brambles last winter which will continue to need attention, so it stays away. Check on www.walc.epizy.com
FRIDAY
19 Making Music in Bradfield” - a celebration of local music Friday, 19th June, 7pm - 9.30pm in Bradfield Church Free entry.
SUNDAY
21 On the 21st June we will hold our AGM after the service to which anyone interested in the future of worship in this chapel are invited.
WEDNESDAY
24 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 24th June 2026 at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, when our speaker will be Mike Ogden, presenting “the Slow Road. Please check our website for more details Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings, for more information about our group and activities, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
SATURDAY
27 St Ann’s Catholic Primary School’s Summer Gala has returned! 12 - 4pm FREE ENTRY! Come along and join our amazing school for fun, games, a licenced bar, children’s rides, stacks of entertainment and hopefully some sun! Our Reception/Year 1 classroom will also be open for a meet the teacher for any children wishing to join us and wanting to have a look around. We look forward to seeing you for what is always a fantastic day!
JULY
WEDNESDAY
1 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We will be having a presentation from South Yorkshire Swan & Wildlife Hospital. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
ONGOING
MONDAYS Men’s Activity and Games Ses-
On LISTINGS
sion 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 term-time 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in anytime. Sponsored by T.A.R.A.
Every Monday Indoor Bowling 1.30 to 3.30 at At Aidans Church Hall Sheffield Road Oxspring No experience needed, equipment supplied. Everyone welcome. Gentle fun exercise.
MONDAY ART GROUP at STEPS, The VENUE, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge.
Every Mon 10.00 - 12 noon. £8 per session. Excellent tutor - watercolour, acrylics, pastels etc. Beginners upwards. Just come along and try a free taster session!
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.
From 14 April - Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to their Over 50s afternoons on their greens at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green,S35 3HZ at 1:45 pm. Coaching can be given if you have never played before. The cost is £3 with a cup of tea or coffee
Stocksbridge Bowling Club, on Linden Crescent, will be holding crown green bowling sessions for non members (followed by refreshments) twice weekly. Tuesdays starting at 1.30 pm and Thursdays starting at 5.30pm. Your first session will be free. All equipment and training will be provided. Please come along and enjoy.” This starts on 14th April.
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. 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 St. Marys Church, Bolsterstone - Wednesdays from 10am to 12.30pm. Please come along for a chat to our popular Wednesday coffee morning for tea or coffee alongside our delicious homemade cakes in a warm friendly atmosphere. Do join us, it is open to all.
THURSDAYS
Open House Community Café
Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com
The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m.
High Green Fitness and Fun Aerobics and Activities Paces campus, High Green Thursday 10am12:30pm £4 per person. Call Margaret for more info 0114 284 7190
Volunteer Thursdays at Greave House Farm Trust. Enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise, meeting new friends. Any time between 10am and 4pm. Bring a packed lunch. Also monthly work days on 2nd Saturday. For more info contact Barbara: 07724505911or email greavehouse@yahoo.co.uk
‘WARM WELCOME’ for everyone at The Christian Centre, Cedar Road every Thursday between 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. Meet & Chat - Enjoy a snack - games to play.
GRAYSONS BACKS ART IN THE GARDENS FOR SEVENTH YEAR RUNNING
One of Sheffield’s biggest cultural weekends is set to return in September with one of the city’s’ leading law firms returning as premier sponsor.
Graysons Solicitors, which last year celebrated its 100th anniversary, is returning to support the popular event, which takes place at the Botanical Gardens on Saturday, September 5th and Sunday, September 6th.
Tickets for the event will go on sale from June 1st.
Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the annual celebration of art, craft and design, which attracts artists and makers from across the UK. The event has become one of the largest outdoor art exhibitions in the North of England and a major fixture in Sheffield’s cultural calendar.
From premier artists exhibiting in the marquees and pavilions to sculptures displayed across the lawns and the popular Open Art
Competition, the event also includes a dedicated ‘Home and Gardens’ area.
Peter Clark, Managing Partner at Graysons, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Art in the Gardens once again. Over the past seven years we’ve seen the event go from strength to strength and become one of the highlights of Sheffield’s cultural year. It’s a fantastic showcase for creativity, independent artists and the city itself.”
Graysons Solicitors specialise in wills, estates and trusts, elderly client services, lifetime planning, private wealth, property, family law, personal injury, occupational illness, and clinical negligence.
Graysons are located at Courtwood House, Silver Street Head, Sheffield, S1 2DD. They also have offices in Chesterfield and Hathersage.
More information from: www.graysons.co.uk
JOAN ELSTON (née DIMELOW)
It is with sadness that we announce that Joan Elston passed away peacefully on 22nd May 2026, with family by her side.
Joan had fought a long and courageous battle against dementia, remaining determined, strong and deeply loved to the end.
Beloved Wife of Tom, devoted Mum and Grandma, loving Auntie and treasured Friend, Joan will always be remembered for her warmth, kindness, energy and the happy memories she created for so many - especially family holidays, Christmas, and simple moments together in the great outdoors that meant so much.
The family would like to sincerely thank Belmont House Nursing Home for their compassion, dignity and care, and also thank everyone who continued to visit, support and cherish both Joan and Tom throughout recent years.
We take comfort in knowing Joan is now at peace and reunited with loved ones gone before her.
She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.
Funeral service to be held on Thursday 25th June 2026 at 11:30 at Grenoside Crematorium.
George CASWELL Aged 82
Passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side.
Much loved Husband of Ann, Dad to Julie and the late Garry. Loving Brother, Brother-in-Law, Uncle, Grandad and Great Grandad.
Funeral service to be held on Monday 29th June, 2pm at Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel.
Family flowers only please with donations if desired can be made in George’s Memory to Dementia UK.
NOTICES
Supermarket Hit By Double Blow:
Strike Threatens Northern Supplies as 100 Convenience Stores Face Closure
Supermarket giant Morrisons is facing significant challenges on two fronts: a looming strike by HGV drivers threatens to leave shelves empty across the North of England, while the company also announces plans to shut 100 convenience stores across the country.
Nearly 500 HGV drivers, employed by Eddie Stobart to supply Morrisons supermarkets across the North, are being balloted for strike action over accusations of union-busting. The workers, based at Morrisons distribution depots in Wakefield, Stockton-on-Tees, and Northwich in Cheshire, are angry over Eddie Stobart’s increasing use of agency drivers.
Unite claims that Eddie Stobart is undermining terms and conditions by gradually replacing its unionised workforce with individuals on insecure contracts and significantly diminished terms. Furthermore, the company has confirmed that any new directly employed drivers in the future would also be on inferior terms and conditions.
Hello, I’m Jane Ward-Drummond, your local Estate Planning Consultant of 13 years experience. I am an expert in helping people arrange their Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Pre-paid Funeral Plans.
Along with my colleague Haworth Ward-Drummond we specialise in helping all kinds of people gain peace of mind by providing professional advice, but with a personal touch.
We offer a FREE consultation without obligation for anybody who would like to know more about any of the following:
• Making a basic Will
• Setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Protecting your home for future generations
• Pre-paid Funeral Plans
Neets
Hello Editor
Attention is once again being paid to youth unemployment and it seems to me (being a severely scarred veteran of previous government initiatives to “help” people out of the snare of longterm unemployment down through the decades) that history is about to repeat itself with the same ineffective (for the victims) results.
In a proverbial nutshell, since the end of WW2, there has been more people than there are paid jobs to fill, hence youths who prove unsuccessful on leaving full-time education in quickly finding a steady job with appropriate training attached, find themselves forming a surplus pool of unemployed, with no prospect of ever finding meaningful paid or self-employed work unless someone is willing and able to give them a leg up. A deed that will be unforthcoming in the vast majority of cases, due to the restrictive practices operated as effective barriers to entry into quality, paid work, by those in employment who are motivated to protect their livelihoods from effective competition. Politicians consequently become involved as pressure grows to do something about the situation.
The usual response to youth unemployment is to stress NEETS – not in employment, education or training – and given nothing of note can be achieved in the employment field without creating new paid jobs in sufficient quantity, the focus therefore settles on education and training; giving the impression that if the unemployed acquire appropriate qualifications, jobs opportunities will present themselves as if by free market magic. But, in reality, education, training and resultant qualifications prove useless, due the effective restrictive practice of specifying a requisite period of proven experience backed by references from the previous/current employer. I.e. one can’t get the job without being able to satisfy appropriate experiential requirements, yet one can’t acquire such experience and references without a job in the first place. Thus putting people into a Catch-22 or “double bind”, or “painted into a corner” out of which they cannot escape without effective help. And yet they are required to regularly sign on for a pittance of benefit which is obtained only if one satisfies stringent criteria connected with proving job search activity. I.e. they need to undertake futile activity (e.g. get on their bike and look for work and keep on looking until they find it) that has no chance of resulting in success, or face benefit sanction.
Previous governments created the Youth Opportunities Scheme (YOPS) in 1978 lasting six months, that was replaced by the Youth Training Scheme 1983 of one year duration amended in 1989 to two years. The need for which extension was due to employers who at first specified the need for 6 months relevant work experience, upping the ante to one year and then to two in order to protect existing workforces from possible competition. The only people to benefit, therefore, were those existing civil servants employed to administer the schemes. Which they did by and large incompetently as usual.
Training and Enterprise Councils then became all the rage in the 1990s and due lack of success were replaced by private enterprise companies such as A4E and their ilk, owned and run by one or two people who made millions out of large government contracts aimed at placing people into work, which such companies by and large patently failed to do (as could be predicted) whilst blaming the victims for their own plight. Meanwhile, certain
Local Opinion
politicians and political parties, prospered by receiving consultancy fees, constituency office help and/or party donations and freebies of all sorts for example, from the companies in question who ended up with lucrative government contracts.
Once again, I suspect that the emphasis will be placed on awarding large contracts to private companies to purportedly place the unemployed back into meaningful, quality work; without explaining how this can be accomplished without creating a sufficient number of suitable new jobs. For, as previously mentioned above, the jobs are simply not there to be filled at present and haven’t been for decades. A situation likely to get worse due to the use of new technologies aimed at cutting labour rather than creating new openings. Which leaves education and training. But what’s the use of spending large sums on providing such places if there is no possibility of graduating to paid employment at the end of it? Make the unemployment figures look better than they in reality are?
For all there is to look forward to, is a constant revolving door cycle of compulsory participation in useless schemes for 6 months or whatever, to then return to the dole and the accompanying need to demonstrate job search etc.
There are plenty of people profiting out of unemployment, apart from the unemployed themselves of course. Who are often portrayed as idle, scrounging so and so’s, living the life of luxury on benefits at hard-working people’s expense. Only worthy of evermore draconian sanctions to “nudge” them, “tough love” style back into nonexistent employment. I.e. when in need of serious help, all the get is persecution!
With victims being plunged into a nightmare not of their own making which they are powerless to change for the better yet are expected to do so, when the government and the rest of society prove unwilling or unable to do anything effective about the situation themselves.
If there are too many people of whatever age chasing too few jobs in a society fuelled by the protestant work ethic, then, the options are to create a sufficient number of new opportunities, or share out the existing jobs more equitably in order to soak up the surplus. E.g. generate more parttime jobs/job splits/shares.
But rather than find ways and means of accomplishing such, I suspect that the powers that be will, as usual, simply engage in their adherence to crisis capitalism and cynically look for ways as to how the public purse can be financially exploited both personally and corporately, whilst spinning a tale to make things look the fault of their victims.
Is it any wonder that the number of cases of mental illness amongst the young and society in general is rising? For which, the victims will no doubt get the blame? Thereby rubbing salt into already debilitating wounds?
Yours faithfully Michael Parker.
FASCINATION TRANSPIRES TO FIVE
How then thus we arrive then here?
Where life then so a birthing dear!
Seeming so, a Matriarch, lone!
Wanting then, as she must want to need, being so rich in owning filial souls, a Patriarch not so cloned, as to be a-miss?
Thank you for getting me to this!
Writ with a blistered thumbed pen
Tapping out on a keyboard, a wayward man
A trial to recover, salvage to delight, recommendations to steamy nights!
A fool I am, as am was once!
A fool round every corner’s stance
A scam of the heart, but to my own heart it’s true I love not only me, but many others too
Wise not so, never cajoled it thusly!
But wisdom to a hand, where no fertility would be!
A tug of war; fist o’er hand, where no generation will be!
Andrew Dancer
LAUNCH PAD OFF ZERO
Underhand was afoot, walking on a path of soot!
Embers having burned, a World that has turned on the lessons it taught of Sublimity and its ridicule!
So a mind can expand more, tramping on minds so sore! But journey no more with the Ass but the Mule! With fonds of olive branches underfoot Look up! Turtle Doves fly… My hand, a sooty foot put; astep to front another. Limped on, then I, to a winterland, an eye keeping watch to discover, what seemed right was wrong and wrongs writ pretensions cover. Teaching wrong institutions right to recover mediocrity’s complex systems aflubber! Where no succour is for the user, but fit the space and be thankful!
An understanding then, aglam grappled gutter, surprising! When all the time, there goes with:
“I told you so!”
A right to be said so, though, as their time has travelled their age already. Then your path alone, to you, will discover, that a turn of page is a leafed lived lover!
Andrew
Dancer
Remembering Angela B.
A lady with personality, Her humour and her wit, Her creative speciality. Her stories and poems I must admit, Made us smile and laugh out loud, We are a willing crowd. She was unique, candid, stoic, kind, Some of her trait’s spring to mind. A special person we will miss, Angela B we can only reminisce. Tears and loss for a canny lass.
From our Tuesday creative writing class.
Kath and friends
Public and Legal Notice
Goods
Vehicle
Operator’s Licence
ON POINT SCAFFOLDING LTD of UNIT 4, ROMAN RIDGE ROAD
SHEFFIELD S9 1GB is applying for a licence to use UNIT 4, ROMAN RIDGE ROAD
SHEFFIELD S9 1GB as an operating centre for 3 goods vehicles and 0 trailers and to use as an operating centre for goods vehicles and trailers
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centres who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.
Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at: www.gov. uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-making-representations-objections-and-complaints-goods-vehicle-operator-licensing
Rugby league legend Kear dies aged 71
Former Sheffield Eagles rugby league coach, and renowned broadcaster, John Kear has died at the age of 71.
During a coaching career that lasted more than 700 matches and took in spells at a number of clubs including Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity and Bradford Bulls, Kear earned widespread acclaim for guiding Sheffield Eagles to a shock Challenge Cup final victory over Wigan in 1998.
Sheffield Eagles posted “Everyone at Sheffield Eagles is saddened by John's passing. He will always be remembered as the coach who delivered our finest hour and as a man whose passion for rugby league touched countless players, staff and supporters throughout the game.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with John’s wife Dawn, his family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
John Kear lifts the Challenge Cup in 1998, Sheffield Eagles
Photo:
•
•
•
•
Local Classifieds
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
APPOINT
Sheffield-based branding agency Peter and Paul has been appointed to support Sheffield Wednesday, as the club enters a new chapter under new American ownership.
The investment marks a significant moment for the club, with international backing choosing Sheffield Wednesday and appointing Peter and Paul as a creative and strategic partner. It represents another positive milestone for the city and its sporting heritage.
The agency will work with the club as it looks ahead to its next phase. The campaign, “Born 1867. Reborn 2026” is a focus on how Shef-
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY CENTRE AT RESERVOIR COULD REOPEN
A campaign is underway to reopen a former outdoor activity centre which was enjoyed by generations of children before its closure.
Scout Dike in Penistone operated for many years as a base for school, Scout and Guide trips, , writes Lucy Ashton For BBC South Yorkshire.
The centre was run on a tenancy by Kingswood, but the company went into administration in January 2025 and the lease was handed back to Barnsley Council.
Now a group is hoping to have the building listed as an asset of community value to ensure the site can remain for young people to use in the future.
The centre is built on a World War Two military camp which was acquired by the council after the war ended.
It originally shut in 2000, but a charity was established to operate it and by 2004 it was being leased commercially. Kingswood took over in 2006.
Nick Stubbs, who is leading the campaign, said: "Scout Dike is about 60 years old and was originally sold by a landowner with the purpose of it being an outdoor activity centre.
"Kingswood, a wider group of outdoor activity centres nationwide, ran it but when the sector was hit pretty hard after Covid, Scout Dike closed and has sat redundant ever since.
"It was almost always full through local schools so we're aware of its enormous emotional attachment with people in Barnsley."
The centre had around 120 beds, a swimming pool and offered watersports on Scout Dike reservoir.
Former PE teacher Darren Padgett is part of the campaign, having taken many pupils to Scout Dike.
"There were day-long hikes, canoeing on the reservoir, off-road biking trips and team games on the field.
"Every time I meet ex-pupils they always say what brilliant times they had at Scout Dike and we hope there will be more brilliant times to come."
Stubbs said exact plans for the site were still being discussed but there were "enormous opportunities" and campaigners were looking at setting up a community interest company.
"We are looking at creating a place where people can learn social agriculture and cooking skills because there's 10 acres of land.
"We're well aware the buildings are dated but there isn't anything which justifies them being demolished.
"There is a trans-generational thing here, getting the community involved in rebuilding it and sharing those plumbing, woodworking and electrician skills with younger people."
Barnsley Council responded to a Freedom of Information request to confirm the site has been marketed for sale on Rightmove and approaches made to a number of individuals and companies interested in the property. The council is currently considering its future use.
If it was listed as an asset of community value, the community would be granted up to six months to prepare a bid and raise funds to buy the building.
The council is under no obligation to sell to the community or reduce the price, but the designation gives local people a fair chance to compete.
Matt O'Neill, executive director for place at Barnsley Council, said: "We are currently reviewing the future of Scout Dike. We understand the community's interest in preserving this location and have already offered to meet with the group leading the asset of community value application.
"We look forward to discussing the plans for the site with them to ensure all voices are heard as we consider the next steps."
PETER AND PAUL
field Wednesday shows up both on and off the pitch, and how it reconnects with its supporters and the city.
Peter Donohoe, Founder at Peter and Paul, explained: “Sheffield Wednesday means a huge amount to this city and to so many people in it – me included. It’s a club with incredible history and loyalty, but it’s fair to say that connection hasn’t always felt as strong in recent years.
“I’m so proud that we’ve been trusted by the new ownership to support a fresh start. Our ambition is simple; to help shape a better
Wednesday, on and off the pitch, built with the spirit of the city at its heart.”
The work marks the beginning of a longer-term process, with further brand updates to follow over the summer.
Peter and Paul, which has been based in Sheffield for over 20 years, has worked with culturally significant brands including Warp Films, Google, Domino Recording Company, Universal Music Group and Urban Splash.
THE PENNINE CHOIR MESSIAH LOCAL HISTORY UNEARTHED
by Steve Moxon
Handel’s Messiah full through – not excerpts -was astonishingly ambitious for Stocksbridge amateurs, none (or hardly any) of whom could read music. It’s nearly three hours; or almost two even abridged. Requiring the 200-strong Pennine Choir (an amalgam of several regular choirs, including from Penistone), they were backed by the steelworks’ orchestra led by premier home-grown musician Ernest Aspinall.
October 2, 1946, 7pm at the Victory Club Hall, the conductor and moving force of the venture was Walter Midgley Robertshaw, the local medic, whose life was music. On a mission to revolutionise our music culture, he’d founded and trained all the local choirs – tutoring choristers in the music room at his residence, Belmont House. The way had been paved by his dad, Henry, the Congregationalist minister and exponent of teaching music using the (tonic) sol-fa method, that the Congs’ John Curwen had heavily promoted nationally. There might also be a family connection with Francis Lee Robertshaw, the Manchester choral conductor, hymn composer and key sol-fa populariser. We can’t say, as Henry was born ‘father unknown’ (1826 in Wilsden). Anyway, after five years at the Congs’ Airedale College he accepted a post at the Ebenezer Chapel in 1855, setting up sol-fa classes in 1857, that son Walter later continued.
This is Sound of Music Do-Re-Mi. Successively refined from what had been devised by an 11th century monk, it’s non-technical ear training and sight-singing. Notes are recognised in relation to each other around the home (tonic) one, of whichever key, taken as the doh. This way, any melody can be sung accurately without needing absolute pitch. All is simply and intuitively notated, with rhythm and timing indications.
You’d presume a review somewhere. Nothing in the South Yorkshire Times, Sheffield papers, or the then brand new Fox Magazine. Surprising, that; even if performing this piece had stiff competition in 1946: a number of amateur affairs aside, Sir Malcolm Sergeant famously recorded it with the Liverpool Philharmonic and Huddersfield Choral Society; and the London Symphony, notwithstanding eminent soloists, “maimed, mauled and massacred” it at the Eisteddford – the milder reviews dissing it as “a disappointment“ and “a tragedy”. Our job fared considerably better, at least according to the man with the baton, writing privately to Aspinall (so this is honest: no need to spare blushes):
“In very truth the finest performance of Messiah I have heard, and I have heard a few. … the Passion music was just right … and what shall I say of the Chorus? It was magnificent. Good tone and plenty of it, flexibility, rhythm, attack and release, diction, phrasing were all there, but above all these was the interpretation, which comes from understanding the meaning of it all.”
Actually, Messiah was performed in quite a lot of places – usually, however, as previously here, only certain parts -- millions having learnt sol-fa. It’s testament to the ethos of self-improvement then at large; especially, it seems, in Stocksbridge.
Surely this grand staging warranted photographing. No such can be found. Did folk fear jinxing it?! Yet it’s not that there wasn’t an impressive track record. Major pieces had been put on successfully before: notably Mendelssohn’s Elijah (glowingly reviewed in the Sheffield Independent) in 1927, and in 1933 Handl’s Saul; both themselves ground-breaking. Robertshaw (the son) instigated in 1907 what became the long-running South Yorkshire Music Festival at a trio of venues within the town across three days, pulling in performers from neighbouring counties. Our choirs won prizes at prestigious competitions far and wide. The problem was disbanding prior to war. In 1946 all had to be rebuilt.
Walter confessed “to say I was anxious was to put it mildly. I knew that we could give a good performance, but you know how easily the whole scheme can be upset”. But this was dispelled when he mounted the platform and saw “a gathering of friends who knew the work and who were out to give of their best”.
No photos, but all participants are in the event programme, albeit in briefest mention as surname & initial, as if to highlight collective over individual effort. Now I know why my grandad Hampshire used to go on about Handl’s great opus. Down as bass singers are both my grandads (and a great uncle) – the ensuing mutual respect how a very young daughter of one was allowed to go out with a young son of the other (hence, in time, me). From the list, split by type of voice/instrument, you too can see if/what part your forebears played.
SHAW LEADS PENISTONE SUCCESS AT COLNE VALLEY
Hannah Shaw led the way for Penistone Footpath Runners with victory at the Colne Valley 10K Challenge, finishing first female in 48-06 and 12th overall on the tough trail course.
James Mumford also impressed, placing fourth overall and second in the men’s over45 category in 43-12, while Robin Clough finished fifth in the men’s over55 category in 55-58.
Dawn Godley was next among the club’s age-category prize winners, taking second in the ladies over65 category in 5930, before Bill Phillips claimed first over75 in 1-05-02. Keith Gordon followed as second over75 in 1-05-51, with Mandy Mallinder first ladies over55 in 1-06-06, Barbara Haigh first ladies over75 in 1-12-25 and Ray Brown third over75 in 1-1853.
There was more road action at the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 10K, where Jade Crosby produced a strong run to finish 499th overall in 40-19. Alex Crosby also ran well, finishing 581st in 41-11 and recording a 30-second 10K personal best.
Penistone were also well represented at the Bamford Sheepdog Trials Fell Race, where Daniel Rushforth led the club home in 26th place in 42-08.
Josie Smith produced an excellent run to finish fifth female overall and second in the ladies over40 category in 43-47, while Matthew Robinson was close behind in 40th place in 43-54. Ian Neville continued his strong fell-running form, finishing third in the men’s over60 category in 44-33.
Hannah Shaw was ninth female overall in 48-49, with Ashley Howlett, Andrew Shiel, Rory O’Sullivan, Oliver Found, Rebecca Timms, Shaun Braddock, Michael Walsh, Steve Dickinson and Mandy Mallinder also completing the race.
Lesley Parker was second in the ladies over50 category in 52-21, while Barbara Haigh claimed first place in the ladies over70 category.
Steve Sanders and Liz Hutchinson also took part in the Peak Raid orienteering event, a two-hour score course held in aid of Buxton Mountain Rescue. Sanders finished 24th with 522 points, while Hutchinson was 83rd with 188 points.
Penistone Footpath Runners also supported the Couch to 5K graduation at Penistone parkrun on Saturday 30 May. There was a great turnout, with all the graduates completing the course.
A further graduation run is planned for next week for those who were away during half-term week.
At parkrun, 80 Penistone seniors represented the club across 24 venues. Richard Cottam claimed first place at Hafan Pwllheli in 19-05, while George Parr was second overall at Løvstien in Bergen, Norway, in 19-18.
Suzanne McGill was second female at Penistone in 20-53, where Oliver France ran a personal best of 18-43 to finish third overall and first under18.
At Barnsley, Martin Ball marked his 50th parkrun with seventh place in 19-33. Dawn Broom also impressed at Jersey, where she ran 24-20 on her 300th different parkrun course.
Other notable runs included Flynn Rogers finishing fifth at Hillsborough and first under15 in 18-26, Simon Pike taking first over45 at Skipton, John Lawcock first over-55 at Elemore Park, Lee Storey fourth at Muncaster Castle, and Rory O’Sullivan recording a personal best at Panshanger.
The week’s top age-graded performances came from Dawn Godley (82.66%), Dawn Broom (80.80%), Suzanne McGill (79.53%), Martin Ball (77.92%) and Ian Neville (77.80%).
Results
Colne Valley 10K Challenge
4, James Mumford 43-12; 12, Hannah Shaw 48-06; 33, Robin Clough 55-58; 38, Dawn Godley 59-30; 48, Bill Phillips 1-0502; 51, Keith Gordon 1-05-51; 52, Mandy Mallinder 1-06-06; 57, Barbara Haigh 1-12-25; 60, Ray Brown 1-18-53.
AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 10K 499, Jade Crosby 40-19; 581, Alex Crosby 41-11.
Bamford Sheepdog Trials Fell Race
26, Daniel Rushforth 42-08; 37, Josie Smith 43-47; 40, Matthew Robinson 43-54; 45, Ian Neville 44-33; 69, Hannah Shaw 48-49; 71, Ashley Howlett 49-25; 84, Lesley Parker 52-21; 85, Andrew Shiel 52-22; 92, Rory O’Sullivan 53-30; 95, Oliver Found 53-50; 99, Rebecca Timms 54-17; 103, Shaun Braddock 54-50; 108, Michael Walsh 55-41; 125, Steve Dickinson 1-0055; 134, Mandy Mallinder 1-04-48; 145, Barbara Haigh 1-1216; 146, Keith Gordon 1-12-34; 155, Ray Brown 1-28-37; 159, Steve Dommett 1-43-52.
Peak Raid Orienteering
24, Steve Sanders 522 points; 83, Liz Hutchinson 188 points. Penistone Parkrun
3, Oliver France 18-43; 6, Ryan Duckett 19-39; 24, Suzanne McGill 20-53; 50, Edward Holley 23-19; 55, Oliver Found 2335; 56, Russ Lynam 23-39; 61, Shaun Braddock 24-02; 62, Nick Pepper 24-03; 112, Sarah Bradley 26-09; 115, Chris Baldwin 26-21; 123, Sara Wolstenholme 26-52; 134, Ben Wilkinson 2711; 140, Heather Simpson 27-25; 158, Jen Holley 27-53; 198, Paul Sammon 29-32; 201, Gordon Watts 29-42; 209, Andrea Lee 30-10; 211, Katie Fleming 30-23; 221, Laura Bartholomew 30-48; 223, Sam Shaw 30-56; 230, Hannah Pedley 31-12; 235, Hannah Sammon 31-31; 243, Colin Porteous 31-56; 244, Kate Rushforth 31-59; 248, Jon Hallam 32-09; 249, Claire Watts 32-10; 259, John Pitt 33-00; 275, Joanne Sammon 34-18; 279, Danny Batty 34-51; 287, Steve Dommett 35-22; 313, Anne Wallis 38-12; 319, Andrew Taylor 39-02; 331, Carl Matthewman 40-46; 348, Martyn Cartwright 43-52. Barnsley Parkrun
7, Martin Ball 19-33; 11, Ian Neville 20-48; 32, Martyn Goodwin 23-56; 47, Fay Nicholls 24-53; 48, Dan Limb 24-54; 49, Dawn Godley 24-54; 53, Jill Scrivens 25-19; 79, Kelvin Bowskill 27-38; 83, Sue Hall 28-12; 189, Ray Brown 47-16.
MIXED FORTUNES FOR BLADERUNNERS
It was a weekend of highs and lows for the Sheffield Bladerunners Baseball, with all three teams in action across the north of England. While the first team secured a vital split on the road, the developmental sides faced tougher challenges in their respective divisions.
Sheffield Bladerunners I travelled to face the Manchester Bees in a double-header that proved to be a tale of two halves. In game one, Sheffield’s offence was unstoppable, racking up a dominant 32-12 victory. The team reached double figures in two separate innings and suffered only one strikeout throughout the contest, providing a massive confidence boost. However, the Bees regrouped for game two. Despite a stellar performance from pitcher Thomas Spradling, who recorded a season-high 10 strikeouts, the Bladerunners’ bats went cold, resulting in an 8-12 loss. The first team remains at .500
with a 4-4 record, tied for second in BBF Division 3 North. Meanwhile, Bladerunners II suffered a difficult sweep away at Leeds Locos II. After a tight 3-6 loss in the opener, the Sheffield side opened up a commanding 10-3 lead in the second game. However, a stunning 10-run rally by the Locos in the fourth inning saw them walk off with a 13-12 win. In Division 4 North, Bladerunners III also fell to the Newark Nationals, losing 6-11 and 8-11. Despite the defeats, there were bright spots, including a successful debut at third base for Jamie Braham.
Looking ahead, all three teams return to action on Sunday, 7 June. Bladerunners I make their highly anticipated home debut against the Newcastle Nighthawks, while the second and third teams travel to face the Sheffield Kodiaks and Manchester Donuts respectively.
TEVENDALE AND TAYLOR STEADY ‘SHIP’ TO VICTORY
Stocksbridge 1st XI 252-8 (J Tevendale 82*, R Taylor 69, A Hirst 32) Treeton 2nd XI 244 all out (R Taylor 4-15, J Stevens 2-45, A Hibbert 2-46)
The 1st XI hosted Treeton at Lucas Wheels Bracken Moor this weekend, looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat last time out. Captain Hirst won the toss and elected to bat first and post a total. The innings got off to a tumultuous start, with Price, Murfin and Hibbert all falling inside the first 7 overs. With the scoreline at 16-3, ‘Bridge were in urgent need of a partnership and a rebuild. Opener Joe Goddard and captain Andy Hirst managed to stop the rot, forming a crucial 47 run partnership which settled the nerves somewhat. The pair batted well, with Goddard batting patiently at the top of the innings, whilst dispatching the poor deliveries to the fence. Hirst hit 7 boundaries on his way to a near a run a ball 32, before the pair were dismissed in relative quick succession. With the scoreline now at 86-5, the innings and match was very much in the balance...
Step forward James Tevendale and Rob Taylor, who formed a truly remarkable 142-run stand for the 6th wicket! The pair smashed an incredible 23 boundaries on their way to rescuing Stocksbridge from 85-6 to 2286! Taylor built an excellent innings of 69 from 87 balls and looked in complete control. At the other end, Tevendale put on an exhibition of clean striking, as he smashed 10 4s and 4 6s on his way to a sublime 82* from just 68 balls. The pair racked up the highest 6th wicket partnership in the 1st XI’s history and put Stocksbridge firmly in the driving seat.
The response in the field got off to an excellent start, with Josh Stevens again striking early. Stevens removed the number 1 and 3 batsmen, reducing the visitors to 24-2. Opener Broomhead, however, was looking
dangerous and appeared to be the key wicket in the Treeton lineup. Broomhead and Hardy formed an important 61 run partnership, before the latter was removed by Andy Hibbert. Broomhead passed his half-century and was proving a real danger, as he now formed an excellent partnership with Izaan Ali. Ali was crucially ran out by man of the moment Tevendale, for a well-made 39, but Broomhead was still going at 77 not out. Fresh off the back of his batting heroics, Rob Taylor came into the attack and firmly swung the tie back in Stocksbridge’s favour. Taylor removed the dangerous Broomhead for an excellent 106, before 2 further wickets fell for the loss of just 1 run. 220-4 quickly became 221-7 but Treeton were perhaps still favouries, requiring 25 runs from 30 deliveries.
Excellent work at the death by bowlers Taylor and Hibbert, as well as a sensational run-out by Joe Goddard gave the Treeton batsmen no chance, with the 1st XI winning by just 8 runs! An absolutely fantastic game of cricket, with both teams contributing to a brilliant spectacle.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI 238-7 (D Smith 71, J Musgrove 32*, A Siddall 30)
Houghton Main 2nd XI 120 all out (J Musgrove 5-37, C Lowe 3-44)
The 2nd XI travelled to Houghton Main this weekend, looking to make it an astonishing 7 wins from 7 to start the season! Skipper Thwaites won the toss and elected to bat on a beautiful summer’s day. Openers Siddall and Hague started well and looked in control through the early stages. The pair both dispatched 6 boundaries as they shared an opening stand of 61, before Hague was caught on the boundary. Siddall fell shortly after for a well-made 30, after a direct hit run out just managed to dislodge a bail and send Siddall packing. When Steve Perry fell for
2 shortly after, the hosts were very much back in the contest, with 61-0 becoming 69-3 in the blink of an eye! However, Dave Smith and Parag Tawade had other ideas, with the pair looking in excellent touch. The duo formed a sensational 102 run partnership for the 4th wicket, with boundaries galore in a crucial period of the game. Parag continued his fine form this season, passing 25 for the 7th time in 7 games across our sides so far! Smith took on the majority of the scoring, hitting 14 boundaries in what looked like would be a 3 figure innings! Sadly, Dave fell for a superb 71 off just 47 deliveries, with ‘Bridge now sitting 171-4. Harry Hurst and Jon Pickford both added double figures to the score, before John Musgrove powered the 2nds to a commanding total. ‘Muz smashed 32* from just 17 balls, including a beautiful straight 6, to see the 2nds post 238-7 from their 40 overs.
The Houghton Main batsmen came out firing and after some slack deliveries early on, the hosts raced to a 50 run opening stand. Man of the moment, John Musgrove then came into the attack and quickly got to work. Musgrove removed set opener Kitching, before taking 2 wickets in 2 balls an over later, kick-starting a real collapse by the home side. Houghton Main fell from 53-0 to 60-5 in the space of a couple of overs, with Chris Lowe taking 2 quick wickets to back up Musgrove’s exploits. Good catching and consistent bowling continued to force breakthroughs, with captain Trickett the only man to pass 15 following the openers’ initial stand. Musgrove picked up 2 further late scalps, as he registered his 2nd 5 wicket haul for the club! Joe Taylor returned to the attack and picked up the final 2 wickets, as Stocksbridge ran out comfortable victors by 118 runs! 7 wins from 7 sees the 2nds continue their sublime start to the season, long may it continue!
By Ian Revitt
Pictured: Rob Taylor hit 69 in a 142 6th wicket partnership with James Tevendale 82 NO.
TIGERS DISAPPOINT IN LEICESTER
SHEFFIELD’s away day frustrations continued as they were beaten 49-41 at Leicester on Thursday in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership.
On what has been the theme of the Tigers tales on their travels so far this term, they again hit
the 40 point mark, but didn’t have enough to find their first win on the road of the year.
It was the hosts who won the toss and they wasted little time in opting for gates one and three - and they were the dominant starting
positions in the first half of the contest in particular.
Leicester opened with a 4-2 before the Tigers temporarily took the lead as guest Rising Star Nathan Ablitt and Jye Etheridge popped out of one and three to ease to a 5-1.
But the hosts regained the lead with backto-back heat advantages before a determined couple of opening turns helped Jack Holder take the flag in the first shared race of the evening in Heat Five.
The next five races would see 5-1 maximums swing one way and then the other; Josh Pickering and Etheridge missed out at the start in Heat Six but a forceful first couple of turns from Chris Holder stopped Drew Kemp in his tracks and created a path for Leon Flint to come through for second.
When Anders Rowe and Ablitt conceded in the next, that prompted stand-in team manager Garry May to use Jack Holder as a tactical substitute in Heat Nine.
The Tigers No.1 flew away and was gone and was initially joined by Pickering until the Sheffield skipper hit a bump on bend four, relegating him to third.
But the all-action Aussie wound it on, hunted down Nick Morris and passed his compatriot on the final bends to move the Tigers back within four.
After an initial quick gate, Chris Holder was passed by both Ryan Douglas and Kemp on the opening lap of Heat 10 - and they looked on course for another 5-1 in Heat 11.
IMPRESSIVE TIMES FOR STOCKSBRIDGE
Stocksbridge Running Club enjoyed a fantastic weekend with two of their members achieving impressive results in races both near and far. New addition to the club, Steve May, made a brilliant debut at the Manchester 10k, crossing the finish line in 52:51. The club is delighted to welcome Steve as a regular face at our Monday night social runs, and his enthusiasm and commitment have already made an impact.
Meanwhile, Cathy Steel kept things local and took part in the Gerald Story Memorial run, hosted by Worksop Harriers to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. Cathy finished with a time of 53:32, showing great determination while supporting a wonderful cause. To top it off, Cathy’s efforts were perfectly timed, as she celebrated her birthday the very next day (did somebody say 21 again?!) – making it a weekend to remember.
Stocksbridge Running Club is proud of both Steve and Cathy for their achievements and for embodying the spirit of the club. Congrat-
ulations to them both! The club continues to grow, and meets socially on a Monday night for 8 and 10k relaxed runs.
That was until Jack Holder had other ideas as he produced a truly world class move which saw him go from third to first at the end of lap one.
They did, however, concede another 5-1 in Heat 12 before Leicester sealed the points courtesy of Douglas who pulled off a fine move at the end of the lap one in Heat 13 to pass both Jack Holder and Pickering.
After a spill for Kyle Howarth, Leon Flint made a tremendous pass on Kemp in the rerun in Heat 14 before Sheffield finished off with a second straight 4-2 with Pickering denying Douglas his maximum hopes.
Said Pickering: “We’re disappointed to be honest.
“We were passengers tonight unfortunately and not enough race winners.
“It’s hard to have the answers to everything but tonight the better team to won.
“We appreciate our travelling support; there was a fair few of them all stood on bend one and it does mean a lot to us as riders.”
Sheffield are back in action next Thursday (June 4, 7.30pm) when they travel to champions Ipswich.
LEICESTER 49: Ryan Douglas 14, Nick Morris 11+1, Joe Thompson 7+1, Drew Kemp 6+2, Sam Masters 5+1, Kyle Howarth 4+2, Dan Thompson r/r.
SHEFFIELD 41: Jack Holder 14, Josh Pickering 9+2, Leon Flint 6+2, Chris Holder 5, Nathan Ablitt 4, Jye Etheridge 2+1, Anders Rowe 1.
Baker celebrates 100 runs at Concord parkrun
High Green Harriers headed to Concord parkrun on Saturday to volunteer as runners and helpers and to celebrate a pair of milestones.
There were cakes and chocolates to enjoy as regular Concord runner Paul Baker celebrated completing his 100th run.
His daughter Zoe said, “He loves his visits to see us all at Concord.”
Christine “the baker” Brameld was also celebrating reaching 100, this time through volunteering.
Run director Angela Mappin thanked her mum for the many unseen jobs she does each week behind the scenes.
These include washing the bibs, sorting the tokens and being the chief cake baker for the runners and volunteers.
Christine said: “I love my Saturday mornings with us all chatting and helping. There is no better start to the weekend.”