Building ‘destroyed’ in collision
VEHICLE COLLISION DRIVER TAKEN TO HOSPITAL
Emergency services were called to an incident on Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, on Monday afternoon following a single-vehicle collision. The collision resulted in significant damage to an uninhabited building situated adjacent to Christ Church, opposite Hole House Lane. The property, once home to Paul Cotteril TV Repairs, has been left in ruins following the incident.
Emergency crews, including several fire engines and ambulances, were quickly in attendance at the scene.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police confirmed: “This was a single-vehicle collision. The driver was taken to hospital with injuries that are not believed to be serious.”
It is understood that a silver vehicle was involved in the collision. The vehicle was seen on its side to the rear of the building, suggesting it had travelled through the wooden structure and onto land below, located to the rear of the property.
Teenager's Staggering £79k Fundraising Feat Celebrated on BBC's The One Show
A remarkable 13-year-old from our community has been thrust into the national spotlight after her incredible charity work was featured on BBC One’s The One Show.
Leah, a talented footballer for Penistone Church U13s Black, has captured hearts across the region by raising more than £79,000 for sick children.
The Stocksbridge High School pupil was surprised by F1 Mercedes Superstar George Russell, who was on hand to show her and her parents around the F1 Mercedes ‘factory, where the teenager was given a special memorabilia collectors toy car and a host of thank yous from all those she has helped in her fundraising.
Leah’s journey began in March 2022 during a trip to Hillsborough Stadium. At just 11 years old, she was moved by the story of Jude Mellon-Jameson, a three-year-old boy whose family was desperately seeking funds for neuroblastoma treatment abroad. Driven by a selfless desire to help a stranger, Leah launched into action.
By September 2023, Leah had raised an impressive £16,105. Tragically, young Jude passed away that month at the age of five, with the remaining funds donated to Solving Kids' Cancer. However, Jude’s legacy lived on through Leah’s determination. Just ten days after his passing, she committed to continuing her work, turning her efforts toward the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity as a tribute to the care Jude received.
Today, Leah’s total for the hospital stands at a staggering £63,319. Her methods are as tireless as they are varied; from sponsored swims to crafting and selling bespoke cushions, coasters, and keyrings via Facebook and local fete stalls. She has even reached out to celebrities and sports stars to secure signed memorabilia for auctions.
What makes Leah’s story so poignant is her pure motivation. Without any personal tragedy to spur her on, she has dedicated her teenage years to helping families she may
never meet. In a touching personal tribute, an illuminated star shines in her back garden every evening in memory of Jude, who loved stars.
As she prepares to move up to the U14s next season, Penistone’s own fundraising star shows no signs of slowing down. For those wishing to support Leah’s ongoing mission in Jude’s memory, her JustGiving page remains open for donations.
You can support Leah’s fundraising for Sheffield Children's Hospital at: https://www. justgiving.com/page/leahwalton21012
Watch the One Show episode with Leah featured! Catch up on iPlayer. https://bbc.in /3RQqqIj
Pictured: Leah with F1 Star George Russell.
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.
Scout Group Celebrates Century of Adventure
“Scouting has always been about adventure”
The 105th Sheffield (High Green) Scout Group is preparing to celebrate a truly historic milestone this year as it marks 100 years of Scouting in High Green.
For a century, the group has been inspiring young people to develop #SkillsForLife through adventure, challenge, teamwork and community service. Since 1926, thousands of local children and young people have worn the High Green neckerchief, learned new skills, made lifelong friendships and experienced countless adventures that have helped shape their futures.
To celebrate this remarkable achievement, the group is inviting members of the local community, former members, leaders, volunteers and supporters to join them for a special Centenary Celebration Event at their High Green Headquarters on Pack Horse Lane on Saturday 4 July, from 11am to 3pm.
The event will be a chance to look back on 100 years of Scouting in High Green and celebrate the generations of young people and volunteers who have helped make the group what it is today. Visitors will be able to explore displays of photographs, memorabilia and memories from across the decades, charting the group's journey from its beginnings in the 1920s through to the modern-day Scout movement. There will also be a variety of fun activities, games and interactive stalls for all ages to enjoy, offering families the chance to get involved, try new challenges and experience a taste of Scouting.
From campfires and camping trips to hikes, community projects and international adventures, Scouting has given countless young people the opportunity to try new things, gain confidence and discover what they are capable of achieving. Many former members still look back fondly on the adventures they experienced and the friendships they made through the group.
The centenary event will also recognise the dedication of the volunteers who have given their time and energy over the years. Generations of Scout leaders, trustees, supporters and parents have played a vital role in ensuring that young people in High Green continue to benefit from the opportunities that Scouting provides.
A spokesperson for the group said: "Scouting has always been about adventure, friendship and helping young people reach their full potential. To celebrate 100 years of Scouting in High Green is something very special. We are incredibly proud of the young people and volunteers who have been part of our story, and we would love the community to join us in celebrating this milestone."
As the group reflects on a century of service, it is also looking to the future. Today's members continue to enjoy a programme packed with outdoor activities, practical skills, teamwork, leadership opportunities and community involvement, ensuring that the spirit of adventure remains as strong as ever.
The 105th Sheffield (High Green) Scout Group hopes the celebrations will bring together past and present members, allowing old friends to reconnect, stories to be shared and memories to be relived. Former Scouts and leaders are particularly encouraged to attend and help celebrate the legacy of a group that has been at the heart of the community for 100 years. At 100 years old, the group goes from strength to strength. Receiving £1.8m in 2023 to build a state-of-the-art headquarters facility. Seeing a significant increase in membership, from 3 weekly session meetings in 2023 to 8 weekly meetings today. There’s a high demand for scouting in High Green.
The Centenary Celebration takes place on Saturday 4 July from 11am to 3pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and help celebrate 100 years of adventure, #SkillsForLife and Scouting in High Green.
Karate Club Celebrates 25 Years
Chapeltown Karate Club is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating 25 years of dedicated service to the local community.
To commemorate this achievement, the club is inviting residents to an Open Day on Saturday 11th July, from 1.00pm to 3.00pm, at the Karate Centre, 4 Burncross Road, Chapeltown, S35 1SF.
The event offers a wonderful opportunity for past and present students and their families to reconnect, share memories, and see the improvements made to the centre during the 14 years it has been at this location.
It is also an open invitation for potential new starters to visit and participate in a short taster session with one of the club's coaches. The club proudly welcomes members of all ages, with current students ranging from 5 to 68 years old.
Asked why, after 25 years, the motivation was still there, Sensei Gary Baker told Look Local “ well after 42 years of training and being an Army Veteran, it's the Discipline that reshapes a student's personality to be more resilient, never to quit and achieve lots more than they ever imagined, which carries over into their adult life/profession.”
Coaches will be available throughout the afternoon to answer any questions visitors may have about the club and its programmes.
now for
former Labour deputy leader Roy Hattersley dies aged 93
Tributes Paid After Death of SheffieldBorn Labour Giant Roy Hattersley
Tributes have been paid following the death of Sheffield-born former Labour deputy leader Lord Roy Hattersley at the age of 93.
Lord Hattersley, who was born and educated in Sheffield, served as a Labour MP for more than 30 years and was deputy leader of the party under Neil Kinnock between 1983 and 1992.
He entered Parliament in 1964 as MP for Birmingham Sparkbrook and later served in the Cabinet under Prime Minister James Callaghan. Following Labour's defeat in the 1983 General Election, he became one of the party's most prominent figures during its years in opposition.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described Lord Hattersley as “a
giant of the Labour movement” who “never lost his belief in a more equal Britain”.
Former Labour leader Lord Kinnock praised him as “a socialist of deep conviction” and highlighted his commitment to democracy, equality and public service.
After leaving the House of Commons in 1997, Lord Hattersley was made a life peer as Baron Hattersley of Sparkbrook. He also became a respected author and columnist, publishing 20 books during his lifetime.
Lord Hattersley is remembered as one of Sheffield's most influential political figures and a major figure in Labour politics over several decades.
Singing success for Junior School Choir
Deepcar St John’s Junior School Choir is celebrating a remarkable achievement after being selected to perform at the prestigious Music for Youth National Festival in Birmingham.
Earlier this year, the choir entered the Music for Youth Regional Festival Mentor Connects programme, which enables groups unable to attend regional festivals in person to receive feedback from professional musicians and participate in the UK’s largest music festival series for young performers.
More than 500 groups and 15,000 young musicians took part in regional festivals across the country.
Following highly positive feedback from the programme’s music mentors, the choir has been awarded a place on the Festival Fringe Stage at the National Festival, which takes place at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall on Friday 10 July.
Securing a place at the national event on their first application is an outstanding accomplishment for the choir and the school.
To help fund travel costs and ensure all choir members can attend, the school is hosting a fundraising ‘Performance Party’.
The event will celebrate the arts and showcase the talents of pupils, while raising money towards the £700 needed for coach transport to Birmingham.
Families and members of the local community are invited to enjoy an evening featuring performances by pupils, a music quiz, games of ‘Pop Bingo’, cakes, refreshments and a raffle.
The school is appealing to local businesses and residents for support.
Donations of raffle prizes, such as vouch-
ers, gifts or services, would be greatly appreciated, as would one-off financial contributions towards the trip.
Anyone wishing to support the choir can
contact the school office at deepcar.enquiries@deepcarprimarypartnership.co.uk
The school hopes the community will help send the choir on it’s journey to Birmingham while enjoying a fun-filled evening celebrating local talent and creativity.
JUNE
FRIDAY
19 Making Music in Bradfield” - a celebration of local music Friday, 19th June, 7pm - 9.30pm in Bradfield Church Free entry.
19 BIG COMMUNITY WEEKEND at Christ Church, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge 6-7pm Beacon Open Under 11s Open rehearsal. Christ Church Community Hall. All welcome Refreshments available. 7pm Team Quiz in Church. Bring your own drinks. £2pp Register Team beforehand on Tel 07952 944810
19 10 30AMTO 12 NOON COFFEE MORNING AT ST SAVIOURS CHURCH, MORTOMLEY LANE, HIGH GREEN. HOMEMADE CAKES AND COFFEE/TEA. Proceeds to Charity. All welcome to our lovely Church.
SATURDAY
20 Green Moor Methodist Church Summer Fair Bacon Butties,Raffle, bric-a-brac, Gifts, Crafts, Cakes, Teas & Coffee 10am - 12:30pm Donations for stalls please contact Ann Taylor: 07743926359
peal for Alzheimer’s Society Tombola & Raffle All Welcome
SUNDAY
21 Bullhouse Chapel is open every Saturday for quiet reflection or to learn about the history of this 334 year old Independent Chapel from 2pm until 4pm. We put the Sunday School banner on display for Pentecost Sunday and have decided to leave it out until the end of September. We will be holding our usual Christian Sunday service at 2.30pm on the 21st of June when the service will be followed by the Annual General Meeting where anyone who is interested in the continuation of worship at Bullhouse Chapel is invited to attend.
21 BIG COMMUNITY WEEKEND at Christ Church, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge All age Sunday service 10.45 followed by Soup lunch. Afternoon fun starts at 2pm with Rhythm and Rhyme taster session, Face Painting, Cream teas £4, Bake Off Competition and bring your Teddy for a zipline experience! Register your Bake-Off entry on Tel 07952 944810
munity 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!
27 Summer Fair at Stocksbridge Christian Centre, Cedar Road on Saturday 27th June from 11a.m to 3 p.m. Lots of stalls, games and food. Come and join us.
toys and dolls also
THE
20 BIG COMMUNITY WEEKEND at Christ Church, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge 10 till 4, Refreshments, Stalls Incl Pop up ‘Pre loved’ and many more, Children’s activities, displays and Showcase performances from 12 noon. 6pm Les Misérables Sing a Long and French meal £10 Final tickets available 07952 944810
20 Afternoon Cream Tea at Brightholmlee Chapel,Main Road Wharncliffe Side 20th June 2pm - 4pm Proceeds to Forget. Me. Not, Ap -
MONDAY
22 Come and join ‘Singing Buddies’. Sing-a-long type singing afternoon for anyone. Refreshments served £1.50. Can’t sing, doesn’t matter! A mixture of songs. All welcome. The Salvation Army, Stocksbridge Monday 2-4pm
WEDNESDAY
24 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 24th June 2026 at 10.00AM in Christ Church Com-
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
On LISTINGS
FRIDAY
3-5 Hoylandswaine’s annual festival - live music, scarecrow trail, art & crafts, children’s activities etc. Details - Fb Hoylandswaine Events Group.
SATURDAY
4-7 - Brushstrokes & Colour - Art Exhibition by villagers 12.003.00. Therapeutic Art Workshop Tues 12.00 - 2.00. Refreshments. Hoylandswaine Church S36 7JQ. 07974 969319 workshop bookings.
THURSDAY
9 Chapeltown WI will be holding their meeting at 7.30 pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church. Sarah Lewis will explain Mindful Paint- along with anonymous craft. The competition is for A Mouse in any medium. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
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 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.
COMMUNITY IS ALIVE AND WELL
We hear so much in the media and from some politicians that our communities and even our country is broken. We don’t believe this is the case in our valley. When Deepcar Methodist Church and Stocksbridge United Reformed Church merged to form Christ Church in 2008, one of its principal aims was to reach out into the community and provide a place where people could come together. We want to showcase the community that has developed within Christ Church and the links to many groups in the area. Many people are moving into the new developments in the valley and we hope this will be an opportunity to for them to discover what goes on.
A full weekend of activities from 6pm on Friday 19th June to Sunday 21st June is planned.
Displays, open events and refreshments are happening including a team quiz on Friday night from 7pm. Drinks and refreshments, pop up charity stall, craft stall and entertainment from 10am till 4pm Saturday, Les Misérables singalong with French meal Saturday evening, an all age service Sunday morning and rounding the weekend off on Sunday afternoon we have Stocksbridge Bake Off competition, cream teas from 2 till 4pm, face painting and the chance to bring your teddy for a go on the zip wire and receive a certificate!
Telephone 07592 944810 to register your quiz team, your Bake-Off entry and request tickets and more information. Come and join us and see what Community is all about.
Marjory MORRIS (MOXON)
Much loved Wife of Chris, loving Mum of Graeme and Julie, Mother in Law of Graham, Sister of Stuart and the late Barbara.
Passed away 26th May 2026, after a short illness, in the Northern General Hospital, aged 83.
Funeral arrangements by Pure Cremation.
The family ask that friends take a moment to remember Marjory on June 17th as this would have been her 84th birthday.
FAMILY NOTICES
HARVEY
12.12.75 – 20.06.20
The world changes from year to year… Our lives from day to day… But the love and memory of you shall never pass away
Miss you loads Mum & Dad, Chloe & Amy
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 In LovIng MeMory Lee David
I, Yash Kumar Toor, son of Naresh Kumar, have changed my name from Yash Kumar to Yash Kumar Toor. I wish to be known as Yash Kumar Toor from now onwards.
Student Grants available
Dear Look Local,
Your readers may be interested to hear that grants of up to £600 are now available from Bolsterstone Educational Fund to help school leavers in the Stocksbridge area meet the cost of materials necessary for their ongoing education and training.
The awards can cover things like text books, specialist equipment (e.g. clothing and equipment for catering students), and computing equipment required for home learning. They are available to those aged 16 to 24 who live in Stocksbridge, Deepcar and Bolsterstone and who have made the transition from school to college or university (including those on apprenticeships).
The application process is simple and awards are made three times a year. The next round of applications will be considered on 3rd July 2026.
Further details are available on Facebook (search for Bolsterstone Educational Fund) or via email to: clerk@ bolsterstoneeducational.charity or call 0114 2884033 for an application form.
Both of my children have benefitted from the Fund in the past, and it would be lovely to see it fully subscribed in 2026-27.
Yours faithfully, Peter Fearnley
BOLSTERSTONE VILLAGE
It was good to read about Bolsterstone village between 2002 and 2013 in the article: “New Book Captures The Spirit of Village Life” in 4th June 2026 edition of Look Local and to look at the book itself.
I know from family members and from my own visits to the village, that Tony Peers worked alongside others during the period covered by the book, to maintain the village, place the boundary stones, clear and renew the allotment/community garden and shed, plant bulbs, gain funding for, and erect and light the beacon on special occasions, organise games for everyone in the village around the boules pitch he helped create, and helped run Christmas fairs. He has gained considerable funding for the village over the years and the wreath making evenings he ran have attracted hundreds of people to take part, so I was surprised that these contributions were not mentioned in the book about this time.
I remember particularly the wreath-making evenings run by Tony and Anthea Peers, both committee members of the community group, which were accomplished with great humour and hilarity. And I continued to attend them after I moved into the village. I also remember playing boules and other games that Tony set up in the village field. I attended one of the early beacon lighting events that Tony and Alan Rodgers, another committee member, organised which was attended by the MP and the Lord Mayor.
When I later moved into Bolsterstone I was immediately met by another committee member, Chris, who worked on the village allotment (still does), with some lovely courgettes as a welcome gift and an armful of daffodil bulbs to plant on the grassy banks opposite my new house.
Having never lived in a small village before, I was immediately made to feel welcome and included in the community spirit. Thank you to all the people who committed their time to building social cohesion and community events through the Community Group over the years in the village, and to those who continue to do so.
Jean Lane Bolsterstone resident
Local Opinion
LOCAL HISTORY UNEARTHED
Our Fossil Forest: Wadsley’s Giant Ferns
By Steve Moxon
Imagine a tropical swamp in which stand what resemble ferns yet with stems that have swelled massively to three metres in girth and growing up to forty metres tall. Go back 300 million years, when Britain was near the equator, and in our area that’s what you would have seen. Today, very unusually the intact stumps of several of them lie buried on the west bank of the Don where now is the new Wadsley Park village.
These fern-like trees belong to the class of plants called club mosses. That sounds odd, but ferns are fairly closely related to mosses: similarly non-flowering plants that instead of making seeds release spores – a type of plant reproduction pre-dating sex.
The tree is Lepidodendron, nicknamed the scale tree (from the marks on the trunk left by branching rootlets), which thrived in a period when many plant species first emerged, 310 to 320 million years ago, dubbed the Langsettian era. Yes, it’s named after our own Langsett, from intensively studied rock strata in the banks of the Little Don thereabouts: rock and coal seams known to be laid down during this term.
This tree type and other plants decomposing in the swamp, in some cases rather than decaying to form local coal seams became fossilised. At Wadsley this was of the whole mass of soil containing lepidodendron stumps, not just the boles themselves. The Don riverbank, in being frequently flooded, rapidly accumulated sediment, preventing decay of the dead tree bases: the right conditions for fossilisation. Minerals would have replaced the original organic material, and, under pressure of overlaying sediments, in geological time produced stone: sandstone between seams of coking coal and of alternating coal and clay layers.
Nowhere else in Britain is there anything of this ilk. We have the only conserved stumps from coal measure swamp-forests. Spread
across 35 to 45 metres are thirteen of them, complete with roots.
They weren’t at the surface waiting to be recognised for what they were. They wouldn’t have come to light but for the building of The South Yorkshire Lunatic Asylum. Opened in 1872, the discovery was made the following year by workmen digging out a portion of hillside to create level access to the Asylum’s rear.
Local geologist amateur (yet a Fellow of the Royal Society) Henry Clifton Sorby filed a report to the Geological Society of London, and – unusual for the time – decided all should be left exactly as found. He selected a few of the best specimens to be kept exposed, while protected from the weather by wooden sheds. Once these became derelict, a proposal of removal to the University of Sheffield Geology Department was aborted when each assemblage of tree and soil was deemed too unstable. A lack of money to construct a proper display facility on-site meant re-burial was the preferred option to ensure preservation –not least to be out of reach of those wanting to hack bits off to take home and plain vandals, never mind the climate.
What you see there now is merely a durable cast of one of the stumps. Still, it is a facsimile. About as good as the real thing. You get a full impression of size and shape. The cast, together with an information board, has been placed beside the burials, on the western part of the Wadsley Park Village estate, in the grassy open space next to Middlewood Drive. A recreation of the whole tree is on display at Weston Park Museum (in the Ancient Lands section of the Natural History Gallery).
The fossils of shards of scale trees do turn up on our patch, though people don’t usually twig them as such. A stone featuring a set of circular depressions in a consistent pattern understandably is assumed to be manmade – some sort of decoration: prehistoric ‘rock art’, even (see last week). One example was discovered near Allman Well, Townend Common above Deepcar, by Ian Steel, a local detectorist, who, through on-line reverse image searching, realised that in fact it’s natural; a fossil. The patterning is much too regular in comparison to any actual ‘rock art’, and in any case the cup-shaped indentations are far too small. The tiny ‘cups’ are the series of scars of the afore-mentioned rootlets branching from a tree trunk – the scales that give our primeval tree its nickname.
A fossilised tree stump, part of Wadsley Fossil Forest, here still above ground in 2003
Lepidodendron, scale tree
Penistone Prepares for Final Farewell to Rugby League Icon
CHAMPIONS: John Kear lifts the Challenge Cup in 1998 for Sheffield Eagles.
LARGE CROWDS EXPECTED
The rugby league community is preparing to gather at St. John's Church in Penistone on Friday to say a final goodbye to the legendary John Kear, who passed away at the age of 71.
Kear, a former England and Wales coach and celebrated BBC broadcaster, died while travelling back from the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
In a fitting potential tribute, there is speculation that the Challenge Cup itself may be present at the service, which will be held at 12 noon on Friday, 19 June.
Due to the immense impact Kear had on the sport, a large crowd is expected to attend the funeral. To accommodate the high numbers, a large screen will be provided outside the church for those unable to fit inside the building.
Funeral directors have issued a note advising that Penistone is expected to be exceptionally busy throughout the day.
The Rugby Football League (RFL) reiterated that Kear "was loved and admired throughout the sport and well beyond," a sentiment echoed by the clubs he served.
Kear's coaching legacy spans over 700 matches, including successful spells at Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity, and Bradford Bulls. He remains most famously revered for guiding Sheffield Eagles to their historic Challenge Cup 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.”
Artist unveils designs to spark life-saving conversations
Sheffield artist and transplant recipient Pete McKee has unveiled six specially designed NHS organ donor cards aimed at encouraging more people to talk to their loved ones about organ donation and consent to becoming a donor.
The cards were launched at a special event at Pete McKee's studio in Leah's Yard, Sheffield, attended by transplant recipients, donor families, healthcare leaders and supporters of the Westfield Health British Transplant Games - which come to Sheffield between 5th and 9th August.
Pete signed the cards for attendees - including the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Andrew Sangar - to share with family, friends and colleagues in the hope that each card will spark a conversation about consenting to organ donation.
The initiative comes at a time when the national transplant waiting list has reached a record high, with more than 8,200 people currently waiting for a transplant across the UK, including more than 140 people in South Yorkshire.
The cards also highlight the crucial role families play in organ donation decisions, as relatives still need to consent their loved one’s donation after they have died.
Pete’s ‘spread the word’ design features a family’s WhatsApp conversation in which someone is telling their loved ones they are now an organ donor, while his ‘steel worker’ card, which shows molten metal being poured into a heartshaped cast, is a love letter to Sheffield’s proud industrial heritage.
Pete, who received a life-saving liver transplant in 2017, created the six designs to help people express their wishes and start discussions that could ultimately save lives.
He said: "The organ donor card is a great way of confirming to your loved ones that you wish to donate your organs, because it is your family who make the final decision about donating your organs once you are gone.
"Having received a transplant myself, I know first-hand how life-changing organ donation can be. I hope these designs encourage
people to have that conversation with their families and make their wishes known.
"I'm particularly proud to launch the cards ahead of the Westfield Health British Transplant Games coming to Sheffield this summer. The Games celebrate what is possible after transplantation and the incredible gift that donors and their families give to others."
Mahmud Nawaz, Chair of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Games ambassador, first became aware his late wife’s wishes to donate after finding her NHS organ donor card.
Mahmud also spoke at the event about the importance of addressing health inequalities amongst the Asian community when it comes to organ donation.
He said: "Those from Asian backgrounds are half as likely to consent to donate, but are twice as likely to need a transplant – that's the health inequality we are facing.
"Organ donor cards help people communicate their wishes clearly
to loved ones. By having those conversations, more families can feel confident supporting donation and helping others receive a second chance at life.
The donor card launch forms part of the build-up to the 2026 Westfield Health British Transplant Games, which are on track to be the biggest in the event’s history, with more than 2,500 people, including transplant
recipients, living donors and donor families, expected to participate in 26 different sports.
The Games are returning to Sheffield for the first time since 2013 and are the flagship event of the Transplant Active campaign, which promotes active recovery for transplant recipients and increases awareness of the benefits of organ donation.
Local Classifieds
PENISTONE DOMINATE BARNSLEY BOUNDARY RELAY
Penistone Footpath Runners enjoyed a memorable day at the Barnsley Boundary Relay, winning the open race and claiming a clean sweep of the men’s veteran team titles.
Organised by Penistone in conjunction with Barnsley Rockley Rotary Club, the event follows the Barnsley Boundary Long Distance Path around the edge of the borough, covering around 72 miles with 7,350ft of ascent over ten legs on roads, tracks and footpaths.
Penistone Men were the class of the field, finishing first overall in 8-44-36, more than seventeen minutes clear of Denby Dale Men. Sean Pitt set the tone by finishing second on the opening leg before Richard Heppenstall, Marc Robertson, Richard Cottam, Hugh Mackie and Flynn Rogers all posted the fastest times on their respective legs. Ash Howlett was second on leg five, Alex Crosby fourth on leg four, and Oliver Found completed the final leg back to Cannon Hall to seal an excellent team victory.
There was strength in depth across the club, with Penistone Men over50 finishing third overall and first in their category in 9-41-34. Penistone Men over40 were sixth overall and first over40 in 10-11-15, while Penistone Men over60 completed the veteran team sweep by finishing eighth overall and first over60 in 1026-37.
The ladies open team also ran strongly, finishing second female team in 10-55-40, with Jade Crosby third overall and first female on leg five, Josie Smith sixth overall on leg seven and Jemma Williams eighth overall on leg eight.
Penistone Ladies over40 were second in the women’s over40 category, while the mixed team also completed the demanding route.
Conditions were testing in places, with runners reporting wet ground, boggy moorland and strong winds on the higher sections around Langsett and Winscar.
Away from the relay, Jade Crosby produced one of the standout individual performances of the week at the York Even Splits 5K, running a personal best of 19-26 and setting a new Penistone senior women’s club record. Alex Crosby also ran strongly, clocking a personal best of 19-41.
Graihagh Turner continued her outstanding season on the track, winning the senior girls’ 1500m at the South Yorkshire Schools Track and Field Championships in 4-49.3. The victory earned her selection for the English Schools Championships despite windy conditions making fast times difficult for the middle-distance runners.
Turner was also in fell-running action at the Edale Junior FRA Championships, which doubled as round four of the Fell Runners Association Junior Championship and the Junior Inter Counties Championship. Representing Yorkshire, she finished fifth individually and helped the county to team gold.
Dawn Broom proudly represented Wales at the Tonypandy Track Classic in South Wales, competing in the Masters Women International 3000m. She finished eighth overall in 13-29.96 and took third place in the women’s over60 category.
Amanda Field completed her first marathon at the Windermere Marathon, finishing in a chip time of 4-44-43 and placing 12th in the women’s over45 category.
Tom Fryers produced another strong coastal run at the Filey Beach 10K, finishing third overall in 37-55, while Damian Kilpin was 14th at the Ripley 10K in 39-32 and eighth in the men’s over40 category.
On the fells, Steve Sanders enjoyed success at the Mike Mallen Memorial Round Latrigg Fell Race, with results listed by the Fell Runners Association.
Sanders finished 27th out of 90 runners in 39-36 and took first place in the men’s over50 category over the five-mile course with 787ft of climb. Julia Johnson also flew the Penistone flag abroad, finishing second in a tough, hilly and extremely hot trail race in the Limousin region of France.
Penistone juniors were also in action at Jack and Paul’s Charity Run, where Flynn Rogers was first boy, Grace Revitt first girl, Heidi Morley second in her age category and Harry Revitt third in his age category. There were also third places for Matilda Cottam in the under11 girls and Thom Cottam in the under7 boys.
On the day when the millionth parkrun took place, the Barnsley Boundary Relay meant a lower than usual turnout for the club, but 34 Penistone seniors still ran across 15 venues. The Fryers brothers produced the standout parkrun performance, taking the first two places at Woodlands, where James Fryers won in 16-23 and Tom Fryers was second in 17-23.
Damian Kilpin was fifth and first over45 at Glossop, Dawn Godley was first over65 at Nobles, John Broom was second over55 at Cardiff, and Dave and Ann Lindop both placed second over65 at Paarl in South Africa. At Barnsley, Lee Hopkins, Heather Simpson, Sue Hall and Keith Gordon all won their age categories, while Danny Batty was first over80 at Penistone.
The top age-graded performances came from James Fryers (78.74%), Dawn Godley (77.16%), John Broom (75.06%), Sue Hall (74.79%) and Tom Fryers (74.21%).
Results
York Even Splits 5K
61, Jade Crosby 19-26; 63, Alex Crosby 19-41.
South Yorkshire Schools Track and Field Championships
Senior Girls 1500m
1, Graihagh Turner 4-49.3. Tonypandy Track Classic
Masters Women International 3000m
8, Dawn Broom 13-29.96.
Windermere Marathon 483, Amanda Field 4-44-43.
Filey Beach 10K
3, Tom Fryers 37-55. Ripley 10K
14, Damian Kilpin 39-32. Barnsley Boundary Relay Team results
1, Penistone Men Open 8-44-36; 3, Penistone Men over50 9-41-34; 6, Penistone Men over40 10-11-15; 8, Penistone Men over60 10-26-37; 11, Penistone Ladies Open 10-55-40; 27, Penistone Ladies over40 13-28-40; 28, Penistone Mixed 13-34-32.
Penistone Men Open
Leg 1: 2, Sean Pitt 34-01; Leg 2: 1, Richard Heppenstall 1-06-34; Leg 3: 1, Marc Robertson 49-15; Leg 4: 4, Alex Crosby 46-10; Leg 5: 2, Ash Howlett 39-55; Leg 6: 1, Richard Cottam 1-21-53; Leg 7: 1, Hugh Mackie 45-47; Leg 8: 1, Flynn Rogers 42-50; Leg 9: 11, Oliver France 1-27-17; Leg 10: 7, Oliver Found 3054.
Penistone Men over50
Leg 1: 11, Nick Pepper 43-45; Leg 2: 7, Martin Ball 1-12-49; Leg 3: 5, Tony Wright 50-01; Leg 4: 3, Matt Robinson 43-49; Leg 5: 6, Robin Clough 42-06; Leg 6: 10, Chris Hodgson 1-45-39; Leg 7: 7, Julian Williams 59-56; Leg 8: 4, Jonathan Bentley 48-40; Leg 9: 9, Steve Sanders 1-23-18; Leg 10: 8, Dan Cooper 3131.
Penistone Men over40
Leg 1: 6, Steve Stead 41-20; Leg 2: 9, Rob Lees 1-15-07; Leg 3: 15, Russ Lynam 1-03-15; Leg 4: 6, Chris Baldwin 52-43; Leg 5: 8, Matthew
Coldwell 45-39; Leg 6: 17, Gareth Irvine 1-5449; Leg 7: 14, Simon Lovidge 1-07-16; Leg 8: 3, Dan Rushforth 45-20; Leg 9: 4, Lee Storey 1-19-24; Leg 10: 2, James Mumford 26-22.
Penistone Men over60
Leg 1: 19, Alan Knox 48-42; Leg 2: 5, Andy Pearson 1-12-03; Leg 3: 4, Ian Neville 49-22; Leg 4: 8, Rob Davies 53-34; Leg 5: 10, Shaun Braddock 47-21; Leg 6: 8, Andy Shelbourne 1-43-09; Leg 7: 22, John Howsham 1-14-32; Leg 8: 22, Steve Storey 1-05-23; Leg 9: 7, Phil Shaw 1-21-38; Leg 10: 6, Mark Law 30-53.
Penistone Ladies Open
Leg 1: 21, Heather Graham 51-36; Leg 2: 21, Jill Scrivens 1-33-25; Leg 3: 16, Valentina Wright 1-04-33; Leg 4: 27, Emily Duckett 1-11-15; Leg 5: 3, Jade Crosby 40-12; Leg 6: 11, Suzanne McGill 1-45-53; Leg 7: 6, Josie Smith 58-39; Leg 8: 8, Jemma Williams 52-06; Leg 9: 12, Hannah Shaw 1-27-22; Leg 10: 5, Emily Freeman 30-39.
Penistone Ladies over40
Leg 1: 20, Helen Turner 49-30; Leg 2: 24, Emma Stead 1-37-32; Leg 3: 23, Jen Holley 1-14-33; Leg 4: 14, Mandy Mallinder 1-0221; Leg 5: 27, Lorraine Mackie 1-02-00; Leg 6: 23, Adelle Marsden 2-03-03; Leg 7: 29, Kirsty Rogers 1-24-43; Leg 8: 28, Barbara Haigh 1-14-29; Leg 9: 29, Claire Watts 2-18-13; Leg 10: 22, Becky Parr 42-16.
Penistone Mixed
Leg 1: 30, Ray Brown 1-05-06; Leg 2: 18, Andy Sheil 1-29-15; Leg 3: 24, Luke McGuinness 1-14-55; Leg 4: 23, Kim Rogers 1-06-21; Leg 5: 29, Steve Dommett 1-08-04; Leg 6: 29, Harriet Drouin 2-35-16; Leg 7: 21, Coby Nicholas 1-12-51; Leg 8: 24, Amelia Cottam 1-05-42; Leg 9: 24, Chris Deacon 1-52-27; Leg 10: 27, Sarah Clough 44-35.
Mike Mallen Memorial Round Latrigg Fell Race
27, Steve Sanders 39-36.
Penistone Parkrun
21, Richard Cottam 22-31; 81, Dan Cooper 26-15; 134, Kate Rushforth 28-58; 135, Sara Wolstenholme 28-59; 136, Gordon Watts 2902; 145, Jon Hallam 29-26; 153, Laura Bartholomew 29-47; 165, Amber Stenton 30-58; 215, Danny Batty 34-07.
Barnsley Parkrun
35, Lee Hopkins 24-10; 50, Heather Simpson 25-26; 89, Sue Hall 28-22; 90, Keith Gordon 29-21.
Impressive Start to Season continues
Stocksbridge Cricket Club enjoyed another successful weekend as both the 1st and 2nd XIs recorded important victories to maintain their strong starts to the season.
Doncaster Town 3rd XI 151-7 (Joe Hibbert 3-21, Liam Grayson 1-14)
Stocksbridge 1st XI (Joe Hibbert 38, Joe Goddard 25)
The 1st XI claimed a comfortable win over Doncaster Town 3rd XI at Lucas Wheels Bracken Moor after restricting the visitors to 151-7 from their allotted overs.
The visitors started aggressively after winning the toss, but Stocksbridge gradually took control thanks to a disciplined bowling display. Joe Hibbert was the standout performer, producing excellent figures of 3-21 from 13 overs as his spin bowling tightened the screw during the middle overs. In reply, Stocksbridge made a positive start through Dave Smith and Joe Goddard, who shared an opening partnership worth more than 40. Goddard top-scored early with 25 before Hibbert continued his fine day with an attacking 38 from just 34 balls. Although wickets fell regularly, Stocksbridge remained in control and reached their target with plenty of overs to spare thanks to the efforts of Liam Grayson and Jake Vickers.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI 199-8 (J Pickford 69*, P Tawade 34)
Higham 2nd XI 153 all out (A Siddall 3-15, J Musgrove 3-80, J Taylor 2-27)
Meanwhile, the unbeaten 2nd XI continued their impressive run with a 46-run victory away at fellow high-flyers Higham 2nd XI. After being put into bat, Stocksbridge posted 199-8, thanks largely to an outstanding un-
beaten 69 from Jon Pickford. Coming to the crease with the innings finely balanced, Pickford anchored the batting effort with a superb knock containing six fours and five sixes. Parag Tawade provided valuable support with 34 as the pair helped build a match-defining partnership.
Higham’s reply got off to a steady start before Stocksbridge ripped through the top order. Joe Taylor and John Musgrove both claimed two wickets, while Ant Siddall delivered an excellent spell of off-spin to finish with 3-15. Despite a late counter-attack from Luke Woodhouse, Higham were eventually bowled out for 153, with a run out sealing victory.
The results leave the 1st XI sitting fourth in the table, while the 2nd XI maintain their 100 per cent record and continue to set the pace in their division.
Race for Cakes
High Green Harrers social runners headed over to Rother Valley to run in the race Run for the Cakes.
First Chris and Jayne Grayson and Gordon Fiander volunteered at Rother Valley Parkrun as there Saturday’s wouldn’t be the same without a bit of park run action.
The Race for the cakes was a 7 and half mile trail race around the woodlands of the RV area.
Hardwick Hobble
The weather was great for the event the rain held off, its a tough slog at the end with a very long gravel path that climbs and climbs.
Chris was first back followed by Jayne then Gordon.
As the name suggests the runners were rewarded with a vast array of cakes at the finish line.
A lovely social morning with running friends from across the running community.
Action stations at Stocksbridge Running Club this weekend, with members staying close to home and participating in a plethora of races and events. A massive well done goes to the club’s Rachel Howard for her hard work in whipping together a team for the infamous ‘Barnsley Boundary Relay Race’, an event that sees a team of 10 take on some serious trail routes that trace the geographical location of Barnsley. Given than a number of SRC members had other racing commitments, Rachel pulled on her extensive list of Stocksbridge contacts and drummed up support from local runners and fitness enthusiasts to help put forward a full team of 10. Big thanks to Michael Currie, Tina Graham, Kirsty Damms, Janine Hirst, Richard Shaw and Lee Hible for helping to complete a team for Stocksbridge, and club members Jenny Elsegood, Rachel Howard, Rachel Vernon and Helen Kellar for putting their best feet forward! Silverware was in order as the troops took home the trophy for a team comprised of predominantly nonclub members; ‘Stocksbridge and Friends’ triumphed!
Over in Derbyshire club secretary Narni Fulford and Amy Hutchinson took on the ‘Hard-
wick Hobble’, an event set in the grounds of Hardwick Hall that involved as many laps of nearly 6km trail and hills as runners cared to complete in 6 hours: Fulford almost missing the start owing to being waylaid by a rogue herd of cows on the route up to the stately home. Completing the first lap together before settling in for their own goals, Fulford and Hutchinson completed 5 and 6 laps respectively, and flew the club colours with big smiles.
Sunday saw Mother-Daughter duo of Cathy Steel and Kate Fewkes storm around Roche Abbey in a 10k time trial as part of the ‘Roche Abbey Ramble’; a multi-distance offering that saw race distances offered from 6.7 miles all the way up to marathon distance. The well-preserved Gothic ruins make for a dramatic backdrop for our dynamic pair, as they shuttled round trail, road, woods and grassland to finish in times of 1:02:58 for Fewkes and 1:08:21 for Steel.
Well done to all SRC athletes and Stocksbridge guests for their exploits this week.
STEELS GEAR UP FOR NEW SEASON
By Andrew McMath
The World Cup may be at the forefront of most football fans minds at the moment but league football is never far from making a return. Stocksbridge Park Steels are spending June and July readying themselves for life back in Step 4 following last season’s unlucky relegation.
July will see five friendlies take place for the Steels as well as an additional one in early August, three away from home and three at Bracken Moor.
Away
10 July - the Steels travel to the Skye Direct Stadium to face GOLCAR UNITED at 7:45pm.
15 July - the Steels travel to the Memorial Ground to take on PENISTONE CHURCH at 7:30pm.
20 July - the Steels head to the HE Barnes Stadium to battle with DRONFIELD TOWN FC at 7:30pm.
Home
24 July - the Steels host CHESTERFIELD FC at Bracken Moor at 7:30pm.
28 July - the Steels host GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY at Bracken Moor at 7:30pm.
04 August - the Steels host HULL CITY at Bracken Moor at 7:30pm.
The Steels have also released season ticket prices for access to their 21 NPL East home fixtures. Adults: £160, Concessions £100 Under 16s.
Additionally, the club have unveiled their new kits (as can be seen in the image), the shirts pay tribute to the clubs 40th anniversary.
The pictured shirt is the away, whilst there is the traditional yellow and blue home shirt and a white third shirt for this season. All three were on display at Bracken Moor on Saturday.
In first-team news, defender Paul Iggulden has left the club to join former manager Ian Richards’ Guiseley AFC after making over 70 appearances for the Steels.
CHURCH READY FOR PRE-SEASON
By Andrew McMath Penistone Church are just over a month away from the start of their 2026-2027 season. With the first fixture set to be played on Saturday the 25th of July.
In preparation for it, the club have announced six preseason fixtures, kicking off with two away ties before four friendlies at the Memorial Ground.
Away
8 July - Church travel to WORSBROUGH BRIDGE ATHLETIC FC for a 19:30 kick off.
10 July - Church travel to SHELLEY FC for another 19:30 kick off.
Home
13 July - Church host ROUTE ONE ROVERS at 19:30 at the Memorial Ground.
15 July - Church take on the STEELS at 19:30 at the Memorial Ground.
17 July - Church host EMLEY AFC at 19:30 at the Memorial Ground.
22 July - Church finish their preseason hosting a BARNSLEY XI at 19:00 at the Memorial Ground.
Away from the first-team, the club’s U21s are hosting trials at Penistone Grammar School on the 23rd of June and 25th of June, those taking part must have a birthday no later than August 31st, 2005. Call 07802289291 or 07760994678 to get involved.
Bladerunner II back-to-back wins
Game 1
Bladerunners 6-10 Wragby Warhammers
Game 2
Bladerunners 7-11 Wragby Warhammers
Sheffield Bladerunners I continued their recent slump with two disappointing defeats at Wragby Warhammers. Losing 6-10 and then 7-11, the two games followed a similar storyline with the Sheffield side unable to find rhythm at the plate and the Warhammers rock solid in defence when the hits did come. There were silver linings despite the losses, with outfielders Brett Holmes and Alex Miles making excellent plays in left and right field, respectively. However, the defeats see Bladerunners I slip to 4-8 for the season. With three weeks until their next fixture against Bootle Trojans, they will hope the break gives them the time they need to recover their form and get their season back on track.
Game 1
Bladerunners II – 16-12 Halton Trojans
Game 2
Bladerunners II – 15-9 Halton Trojans
Following the sweep of local rivals last week, Team II were looking to build momentum going into the second half of the season and establish themselves as a contender for the Division 4 playoffs, 2 wins would put them in second place, 1 or more losses, and they risk falling back down.
In the first game, Halton battled; they too were trying to fight their way back up the league table. The game was very evenly matched until a 3-run home run from Sam Cook started the Bladerunners’ major rally. Strong opposition from the Trojans kept the score even, the strong defence from the Bladerunners in the top of the 6th stopped the Trojans from pulling enough runs back to force the bottom of the inning. The ball game ended with the Bladerunners winning by 4 runs.
The second game saw Halton fly out of the gate, 4 runs by the visitors, forcing Pitcher Will Harris to throw 50 pitches in a single inning. The Bladerunners, however, carried the momentum from the now 3-game winning streak, tight defence, and dominant offense ended the game in favour of the home team, a 15-9 victory, and 4 straight wins have now placed the Sheffield Bladerunners Team II in a firm Second place in Division 4 North at the Halfway point of the 2026 season.
Game 1
Bladerunners III – 9-4 Newark Nationals
Game 2
Bladerunners III – 10-10 Newark Nationals
Another strong outing for Sheffield Bladerunners Team 3 as they won and narrowly lost in their double header versus old rivals Newark Nationals
Game one saw the Bladerunners take a decisive 9-4 win, despite a late rally from the Nationals in the third innings, with Moises Talemantes-Silva stealing the show with incredible play controlling the infield.
A narrow 11-10 defeat followed for the Bladerunners. Despite the slow start, two grand slams from Toby Steadman and Lewis Taylor provided a nervy end to the game which saw the Nationals edge out winners to end the day with both sides claiming a victory.
Next Games
Sheffield Bladerunners I & II will take a few weeks off the field. Sheffield Bladerunners III however will return to the field on Sunday 21st June in a home double header with Long Eaton Storm Chasers.