Plans to create 150 jobs
Sheffield manufacturer unveils multimillion-pound investment
MP backs Assisted Dying Bill
Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Dr Marie Tidball has renewed her support for assisted dying after co-sponsoring legislation that would give terminally ill adults the legal right to choose an assisted death.
The proposed law has been reintroduced to Parliament after previous legislation failed to complete its passage through the House of Lords, reigniting debate over one of the most sensitive and divisive issues facing MPs.
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill would allow terminally ill, mentally competent adults, with a prognosis of six months or less, to have the choice of an assisted death.
Lauren Edwards MP has reintroduced the bill to Parliament, which Kim Leadbeater MP sponsored in 2024. Dr Tidball MP previously sat on the Bill Committee for over 90 hours last year, and was reassured by its safeguards, many of which she drafted as amendments –including those to strengthen protections for disabled people.
During a Westminster Hall debate on ensuring Bills backed by MPs and public opinion are not blocked by the unelected House of Lords, Marie Tidball told Parliament:
“The filibustering in the Lords and the inability of them to deal with the Assisted Dying Bill within reasonable time, actually fetters us as backbenchers and has a chilling effect in bringing a number of issues of conscience as Private Members’ Bills.”
Dr Tidball also added in a statement outlining her position:
“For me, the essence of assisted dying is about choice. As a disabled woman, too often I see that control is taken away from disabled people in all sorts of circumstances. I passionately believe in inclusive healthcare for disabled people and ensuring they have a strong voice in advocating for themselves on that healthcare.”
“My constituents have also continued to share their stories about the need for access to an assisted death, where an adult is terminally ill and only has six months left to live. This is about completion and bringing clarity and certainty for terminally ill people across our country.”
...continued on page 11
100ft Down for 4,000 Miles Across:
Penistone Girls Take on Peak District Abseil Challenge
A group of young footballers from Penistone are preparing to take on a dramatic 100ft abseil as they continue their ambitious fundraising journey towards an international football tour in the United States.
The Penistone Church Girls Under-16 Whites will scale the Millers Dale Viaduct in August, taking part in what is described as the highest abseil in the Peak District.
The challenge is the latest event in a two-year fundraising campaign being undertaken by the team, as they work towards travelling more than 4,000 miles to Orlando, Florida, next Easter.
The girls are hoping to take part in a collegiate football tour at the home of women's football, visiting leading American universities and representing Penistone, Yorkshire and England on an international stage.
As well as playing football, the tour will give the players the opportunity to learn more about university life in the United States, including the opportunities available through sports scholarships.
The team is now appealing for support as they continue their fundraising efforts.
Anyone wishing to encourage the girls in their abseil challenge, or help them get closer to their fundraising target, can donate any
amount through the team's designated JustGiving page or by scanning the QR code accompanying the appeal.
The team said: “Thank you for helping us turn our grassroots girls into England Lionesses.” www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/liam-harding-2?utm_medium=CF&utm_ source=CL
Mayor calls for First Class to be opened up as EMR cuts services
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has called on East Midlands Railway (EMR) to temporarily scrap First Class designations on its trains while reduced services continue to leave passengers facing overcrowding.
The Mayor wants all available seats to be opened to passengers, meaning people would not be left standing in crowded carriages while seats remain unused in First Class.
The call follows EMR’s announcement of significant service reductions on routes linking Sheffield with the East Midlands and London.
It was announced earlier this week, following the Mayor’s call, that the managing director of East Midlands Railway, Will Rogers has stepped down.
The operator has been experiencing ongoing reliability and maintenance problems affecting its train fleet, with
the disruption resulting in cancelled services, shorter trains and an increased risk of overcrowding for passengers travelling into and out of South Yorkshire.
Train managers can currently choose to declassify First Class carriages when services are busy. However, Mayor Coppard is calling for a blanket agreement across all EMR Intercity services for the duration of the reduced timetable.
He said: “Because of the problems on EMR, too many people are facing cancelled trains, overcrowded carriages and longer journeys because of problems completely outside their control.
“At a time when too many passengers are being left standing, squeezed into carriages and crowded around doors and toilets, it simply makes sense for the whole of the train’s capacity to be used as a matter of course.
“For as long as EMR are operating a reduced timetable, they should make every seat available by declassifying their First Class carriages.
“We all have a right to expect a safe, comfortable and dependable journey when we travel by rail.”
Mayor Coppard added that passengers should be able to use empty First Class seats while services remain disrupted.
“Until services are back to normal, common sense should prevail,” he said.
“If there are empty seats available in First Class, people should be able to use them. Protecting the profits of EMR can’t be a good enough reason for them not to take a sensible, pragmatic decision that would give more people peace of mind.”
The call comes as passengers continue to face disruption on key rail links serving Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
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Should Disposable BBQs Be Banned During Extreme Hot Weather?
With Sheffield and surrounding areas facing a prolonged spell of hot, dry weather, a growing question is being asked: should disposable barbecues be banned during periods of extreme wildfire risk?
The debate comes after yet another fire in the local area, with fire crews called to a blaze in Grenoside Woods on Friday, July 24.
While the cause of that fire has not been confirmed, it comes during a period when dry vegetation and tinder-dry ground have created ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly.
It also follows the devastating fire in Foxhill last week, when a blaze believed to have started in a garden waste area spread to nearby homes in the early hours of the morning. Residents were forced to evacuate in what was described as a life-or-death situation, with several properties badly damaged or destroyed.
A 59-year-old man arrested following the Foxhill fire was questioned on suspicion of arson, although no conclusion should be drawn about the cause of the fire until investigations are complete.
Meanwhile, the A628 Woodhead Pass was closed for more than a week after a car fire spread to surrounding moorland, with emergency services tackling the resulting wildfire alongside another unrelated fire in the Tintwistle area.
The incidents have highlighted the growing risk posed by fire during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather.
Disposable barbecues are often used in parks, beauty spots and woodland areas. But once lit, they can remain extremely hot for a considerable period of time, and even apparently extinguished coals can potentially ignite dry grass or vegetation.
So, should they be banned temporarily when the wildfire risk is high?
And should the same apply to fireworks?
Fireworks can send burning material and sparks into the air and, while they are generally associated with organised events and Bonfire Night, some people use them at other times of the year.
A temporary ban during extreme conditions could, supporters argue, prevent fires before they start. Others may say that banning responsible people from using BBQs or fireworks would be unfair, particularly when many fires are deliberately started or caused by irresponsible behaviour rather than the products themselves.
There is also the question of enforcement.
Would a temporary ban actually stop people from lighting disposable BBQs in the countryside? Or would it simply make responsible users criminals while those intent on starting fires ignore the rules?
With the UK experiencing increasingly hot and dry summers, this may not be the last time communities face the risk of fast-moving wildfires.
The question is now whether stronger restrictions are needed before the next major blaze – or whether education, warnings and en-
forcement of existing laws would be enough.
What do you think?
Should disposable BBQs be banned during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather?
Should fireworks also be banned when wildfire risk is high?
Or would such restrictions go too far?
As the weather warms up again this week South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue give the following advice so please help your local firefighters:
- Report arson anonymously to Firestoppers on 0800 169 5558
- No garden bonfires. The conditions are totally unsuitable for having a fire in your garden.
- Leave the BBQ at homethey aren’t allowed in parks and moorland
- Take rubbish with you. Glass and plastic magnifies sunlight and causes fires
Photo above left: Grenoside Woods, Friday 24 July.
Photo above right: Foxhill house fire, Thursday 23 July.
SPRINGFIELD CARAVANS
Show Annniver sar y Cupola’s 3 355th
178-178a Middlewood Road Sheffield, S6 1TD
Tel. (0114) 285 2665 info@cupolagallery.com WWW.CUPOLAGALLERY.COM
35TH ANNIVERSARY
They said it would never last! 1991 – 2026! Established between a betting shop & a launderette in a recession in Hillsborough in 1991, Cupola Gallery celebrates 35 years trading this August. Blimey!!
CUPOLA GALLERY
35th Anniversary Open exhibition
Dates: 11 July – 5 September
Venue: Cupola Gallery, 178-178a Middlewood Road Sheffield S6 1TD Tel: 0114 2852665
Email: karen@cupolagallery.com
website: www.cupolagallery.com
Opening times: Mon – Sat 10-6pm
“It’s been one hell of a journey! Recession, Supertram works, Financial crash, Covid pandemic, flood, structural building disaster, etc but also fantastic diverse shows from artists of national and international repute from almost every country in the world alongside locally based talent. In the 35 years of trading we have shown the work of more than 10,000 artists across every conceivable medium. Not only have we shown painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, glass, ceramics, textiles and jewellery, but we have showcased automata, installations, conceptual art, performance art, sound art, film, video, a fashion show and even wheelchair dance! We have hosted, on aver-
age, a breathless turnover of approximately 10 gallery exhibitions per year across our four exhibition spaces and our award winning sculpture garden. It was and continues to be a rather crazy ride!”
Karen Sherwood, Curator and Director.
Although Cupola cannot possibly celebrate 10,000 artists in one show we are doing what we can to try to celebrate the incredible diversity and talent of artists by hosting a salon type show, think Royal Academy Summer Show, with over 150 artists representing the diversity for which Cupola prides itself. Well known, regularly represented, artists will sit alongside those who are exhibiting for the first time. It will be a
busy show, bursting with life and creativity. It aims to be a celebration of artistic talent. All works are for sale and visitors, of all ages, are always welcome.
“Herding Cats! Artists are always a challenge to wrangle into an exhibition and this one even more so. That’s part of the fun and joy of working here. Despite the frustrations you are always challenged and surprised at the creativity of the wonderful people who’s work we have the privilege of showing.”
Graham Shapley, Curator and Manager
Artists taking part include:
A. Rosemary Watson, Alexander Johnston, Alice Baxter, Alice Kin,
Alison Dunne, Alison Young, Amarajyoti, Amy Marks, Andy Cropper, Ang Brown , Angela Hogan, Anne Atkinson, Anne Menary, Anthony Bennett, Ben Bucki, Ben Snowden, Bing-Chi Wu, Bren Head, Brett Biedscheid and Tracey Welch, Brian Holland, Caroline Hallett, Cath Dunn, Catherine Morris, Charlotte Ashbourne, Charlotte Roseberry, Charlotte Willoughby-Paul, Christy Burdock, Claire Allam, Clare Hill, Clee Claire Lee, Clinton Chaloner, Corrina Rothwell, Corinna Button, David Kenney, David Lucas, David Mayne, Dom Blower , Eli Cunniff, Emily Grzesiek, Emily Turton, Emma Drohan, Errol Sweetland, Evelyn Albrow, Fierce Fine Art, Fiona Kemp, Fran
Farrar, Freya Foster, Fumi, Geoffrey Howe, Geraldine Hughes, Gwenda Jones, Hannah Ferreira-Allen, Hanne Westergaard, Harriet Carter, Helen Smith, Hilary Cartmel, Hilary Mee, Jack W Weller, Jackie Lunn, Jacqui Tory, James Green, Jamie Frost, Jane Blake, Jane Upstone, Jennie McCall, Jenny Marshall, Jenny Smith-McOnie, Jessica Briggs, Jessica Heywood, Jin Eui Kim, Jingyi Li, Jo Brown, Jo Wade, Johanna Tomczak, John Brokenshire , John Sutcliffe, Jonathan Oakes, Judy Musselle, Julia Harwood, Julie Cole, Julie Cross, Karen Sherwood, Karoline Rerrie, Kate Fallon-Cousins , Kate Jacob, Katharina Klug, Katherine Rhodes, Kathryn Watson, Keith Nichols , Laura Garcia
Martin, Lin Cheung, Liz Toole, lllolllie, Lois Palframan, Louise Goult Textiles, Louise Waller Ceramics, Louise Wiseman, Lucy Baxendale, Lyn Hodnett, Lynne Bingham, Mandy Lock, Marie Helene Bosc, Mariel Borst Pauwels, Martin Pearson, Mary Barratt, Michael Borkowsky, Michael Carter, Mick Kirkby Geddes, Milena Makani, Mushh. studio, Myfanwy Williams, Nadia Boulaaich, Nicola Rawnsley, Nicola Watson , Pat Shenstone, Paul Dearden, Paul Evans, Pauline Rignall, Petar Tica, Puyi Guo, Rachel McDonnell, Rachel Mills, Rob Moore, Ron Crichton, Ryoko Minamitani, Sal Jones, Sam Groom, Samuel Clews, Sana Obaid, Sarah Coleman, Sarah Gilling Taylor, Sean
MP ‘Proud’ to back Conversion Therapy Ban
“ LEGISLATION WILL HELP PROTECT LGBTQ+ FROM HARM” - MP TIDBALL
Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Dr Marie Tidball has voiced her support for new Government plans to outlaw abusive conversion therapy practices, saying the proposed legislation will help protect LGBTQ+ people from harm and ensure everyone is treated with "dignity and respect".
The draft Bill would create a new criminal offence for carrying out abusive conversion practices and could see offenders face prison sentences of up to five years.
Marie Tidball, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, has backed draft legislation to block conversion therapy practices against LGBTQ+ people. The practices set to be banned include people being subjected to sexual, economic, physical, and psychological abuse.
The Labour Party manifesto included a commitment to deliver a trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices. The Bill includes safeguards so that only the acts that are abusive, seeking to change someone’s identity, and create real harm to the person, will be in scope.
Healthcare professionals, therapists, and counsellors also have protections to ensure that they can continue their important work.
The draft legislation includes new Conversion Practice Protection Orders to protect victims and those at risk of abuse. These have been designed in a similar way to orders on forced marriage and female genital mutilation.
Someone found guilty of conducting abusive conversion practices could face an unlimited fine, a custodial sentence of up to 5 years or both.
Marie Tidball, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said:
"These conversion practices are abuse. These abhorrent practices are still happening today, with people being subjected to abuse to “cure” them, when there is nothing to cure.
"Our existing legislation leaves gaps that can be exploited, and a lack of a legal definition of conversion practices makes it difficult for police to take action. The only way to ban these practices for good is through this new law introduced today, which creates a new criminal offence against anyone carrying out abusive conversion practices that cause serious harm, alarm or distress to the victim.
"This is a major step forward, particularly as this ban is trans-inclusive, to ensure that every person in our communities is treated with dignity and respect."
SHOW
Williams, Simon Raines, Stephen Carley , Stephen Horsted, Stephen Todd, Steve Slater, Sue Lancaster, Timothy Copsey, Tracey, Keeping, Trevor Fearnley , Trish O’Shea, Tristan Felix , Umar Abdulrasheed, Victoria Plaunova, Viv Owen, Wendy Ellen Tate
“Rather than try to describe what will be in this anniversary exhibition we simply invite you to come and enjoy!”
For further information or high quality images please do not hesitate to get in touch om 0114 2852665 or email karen@cupolagallery.com
http://www.cupolagallery. com
Knurr and Spell returns for Yorkshire Day
The 3rd Thurgoland Yorkshire Day Championship has moved this year and is going to be played at Thurgoland Cricket Ground. The competitors are slowly getting better and we are having to use a bigger field. We’re still a long way off getting anywhere near the biggest hit in Knurr and Spell history - Henry Mollart of Grenoside still holds the record of 353 yard in the 1940’s. The modern day record stands at 100 yards this was hit by Dean Warden of Dodworth at the Dodworth Miners Welfare last Christmas. Last year’s Thurgoland Champion Jordan Lee won with a hit of 91 Yards. We aren’t able to use the long sticks of the old times, so the chance of beating Mollard’s record is a slim one.
Yorkshire Day’s game on Saturday 1st August starts at 1pm on Olapa Cricket Ground, Thurgoland. The first hour is for people to have a practice and the contest starts at 2pm. Anyone can come and play or just watch. All the equipment is provided.
AUGUST
SATURDAY
1 Summer Coffee Morning 10— 11.30 am Zion Church Hall Langsett Road South Oughtibridge Raffle Gifts Refreshments Everyone Welcome
1 Coffee morning St.Mary’s Church Ecclesfield (10am - 12pm) Celebrate 150 years of Mother’s Union.
THURSDAY
6 Caravan Beetle Drive in St.Nicholas’ Church, Bradfield at 7pm raising money for families who have not had a holiday for several years.
WEDNESDAY
12 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Centre on Main Street for a 10 am start. We have a friendly informal club environment for retired men to build and maintain companionship and social contacts. We will be meeting next on Wednesday the 12th of August when our guest speaker Mr Paul Addy will give a presentation on “ Engineering Oddities “. Paul always gives a good and interesting talk. After the meeting some members continue the fun at Wortley Hall for lunch. For more information please contact our secretary Trevor Winslow 07966317258 or look at our website for meetings and social events.
THURSDAY
13 Chapeltown WI will hold their summer meeting at 7.30pm in
Chapeltown Methodist Church. This will be a social event with Tonic tasting. The competition is for a decorative bottle. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
13 Stocksbridge & District history Society - Grand Day Out (Members Only) Coach provided 11:30 am ,meet Bus Stop outside Old Library, Manchester road.
SATURDAY
15 Stocksbridge Christian Centre on Cedar Road are holding an Afternoon Tea on Saturday 15th August from 3-5 p.m. £10 each. Please phone 07532425641 to book your place.
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.
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. Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to their social bowling afternoons on their greens at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green,S35 3HZ at 1:45 pm. Coaching is available 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
On LISTINGS
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.
Second Thursday of every month, Penistone WI meet at St Mary’s Church, Talbot Road, Penistone S36 9ED at 7pm. An opportunity to meet and socialise with other women in your local area, listen to guest speakers, watch demonstrations, and the option to join additional craft and games groups. Refreshments and raffle are also available. Come and try it out for £5 and if you like it - join us!
FRIDAYS
Stocksbridge Community Care Group’s Friday Drop In Service for elderly residents is once again being held weekly at The Venue, between 10am and 3pm. For a small charge visitors can enjoy a hot drink, company, games, talks and a light lunch. For further information contact Dave Owen on 0114 2864426.
Start up of Hatha Yoga Class at Stocksbridge Christian Centre, Cedar Road.Fridays, 10.00 am11.15am. All abilities welcome. Just come along to meet Holly - 07462 568 723 - Bring a mat please.
SATURDAYS
Thorncliffe Bowling Club invite you to their afternoon Shuffles Bowling Session at 1:45 .The greens are at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green,S35 3HZ. Coaching can be given if you have never played before. The cost is £3 with a cup of tea or coffee.
SUNDAYS
Join us at 9.30am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Grenoside, S35 8RL Salt Box Lane crossroads (not 1st Sunday in April or October)
(SHANE) Stuart HOLLINGSWORTH
Aged 74.
Sadly died Thursday 23 July. Funeral arrangements to be announced.
Popular ice cream shop diverts
footpath
An ice cream producer will pay to have a footpath diverted because the number of visitors was disturbing neighbours, a council heard, writes Julia Armstrong for BBC News.
A report to Sheffield City Council said Our Cow Molly in Dungworth saw a surge in popularity during the Covid pandemic, with owners opening an additional route away from neighbouring homes off Cliffe Hill.
The planning and highways committee heard the alternative footpath had proved popular but the entrance was extremely muddy because of the frequent herding of cattle to and from the field.
The report said a new public path would be constructed from crushed stone, away from the cattle entrance, with the owners footing the bill.
It said: “On numerous occasions walkers would linger around the cottages, even stop-
George CROWTHER
Passed away peacefully in hospital on 3rd July aged 84.
Dearly loved Husband, Dad, Granddad and Great-Granddad. Service to be held at Grenoside Crematorium, South Chapel, on Tuesday 4th August at 11:30am.
Family flowers only please but donations gratefully appreciated for The Dog’s Trust.
Afterwards, we will share stories, memories, and refreshments at Stocksbridge Rugby Club, 634 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge S36 1DY.
ping to sit on a garden bench owned by one of the residents, to consume ice cream.
“To help the residents, the dairy owner (the applicant for this diversion) provided an additional permissive route to encourage walkers away from the two cottages.
“This has proved a popular alternative, particularly during the summer.
“Following discussions with the dairy owner it was agreed that to alleviate this issue the new public path would be constructed from crushed stone and moved away from the cattle entrance/exit.”
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
out.
Dear editor,
Peter Morton writing in Look Local on 23rd July reminds us that the best things in life are free and bemoans the cost of the newspapers. He may be pleased to know that all newspapers can be accessed free of charge with a Sheffield library card via www.libbyapp.com . Those not familiar with or lacking internet access or a device to access this can obtain free WiFi, computer use and advice on now to access newspapers and magazines at the excellent Stocksbridge library or any other branch library. Libraries are one of the best things in
life and they are free. In addition radio is free and is much better (not to mention cheaper) than streaming music. I like something with a personality on so it's usually Greatest Hits Radio with what is essentially the old Radio 2 lineup including the national institution which is Ken Bruce on mornings, stop for Popmaster! Also nice to see that local radio is making a comeback - I am rather enjoying Sheffield Essentials online, wish they could get the dire DAB coverage sorted so people without internet can enjoy former Hallam FM alumni Emma Scott and Darryl Denham and former Radio Sheffield star Howard Pressman on Sundays.
Yours faithfully Mr Smith
MP backs Assisted Dying Bill
..CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
“During the Committee Stage when this Bill was first introduced to the House of Commons, I personally brought three amendments, which were unanimously supported by the Committee and are now part of the Bill, to introduce stronger safeguards for disabled people and strengthen our voices. These amendments introduced two New Clauses. The first established a Disability Programme Board, made up of disabled people and our organisations, to embed a long-term and iterative structure in law to report on the Bill's implementation and impact on disabled people. The second New Clause established provisions to put in place independent ad-
vocates for people with autism, and mental health conditions enabling them to effectively understand their options around end-of-life care.”
“My friend and incredible assisted dying campaigner, Nathaniel Dye, passed away last year. He squeezed every last drop of joy out of life and taught me so much about why living a good death matters. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is about ensuring those who are terminally ill are given the dignity, choice and compassion to live a good death.”
“I am proud to support this Bill being brought back to Parliament again.”
MIDDLEWOOD: A CENTRE OF INNOVATION LOCAL HISTORY UNEARTHED
Valium: Professor Frederick Alec Jenner (1927–2014) was a prominent biochemical research psychiatrist working out of Middlewood Hospital Sheffield. He is best known for conducting the first double-blind clinical trials in the UK for Valium (diazepam), which was launched globally in 1963.
by Steve Moxon
Few will be aware that Middlewood Hospital was central to the history of breakthrough novel drugs and procedures for such as depression and mania. Ironically, the out-patient or ‘community’ care this allowed (or excused) had a lot to do with Middlewood’s eventual closure.
As part of the West Riding Lunatic Asylum group, from the outset research was carried out here for publication in the very first journal of neurology, WRLA Medical Reports. An 1872 paper, ‘The electric treatment of the insane’, was reckoned to prefigure electro-convulsive therapy [ECT], albeit it concerned the mildest shocking, not strong to induce seizures.
This earlier electro-therapy was not unreasonably conjectured to jolt patients out of their cognitive doom loops or torpor: the nervous system is electrical after all. It surely worked as a placebo in recipients imagining themselves better, notwithstanding its being otherwise of no use. ECT, on the other hand, worked very well indeed, except it was too dangerous, producing severe convulsions and thrashing about sufficient to break limbs, and with sometimes serious memory loss.
to test on anxious patients. It was at Middlewood that efficacy and safety were established by conducting the necessary ‘double blind’ trials – when neither the subject nor experimenter knows which doses are of the drug and not just water, to avoid possibly biasing recorded results. The benzodiazepines formed a new group of drugs known as minor tranquillisers (to distinguish from the major variety that tackled schizophrenia), the first of which was launched in 1963 as Valium
Also working to develop new drugs in the 1960s (& 1970s) was Middlewood Consultant Psychiatrist Roger Kerry. He conducted pioneering clinical research on the use of lithium for manic-depression (now termed bipolar disorder), and wrote important papers on the use of then new anti-depressants, such as imipramine, and tranquillisers like chlordiazepoxide (Librium).
Paradoxically, the very treatments that arose at Middlewood contributed to why in time it closed, as often they could be done on an outpatient basis or completely outside of a hospital setting: the ‘community care’ model, the biggest champion of which was none other than Middlewood’s Alec Jenner himself, as he came to advocate social psychiatry.
Enter Dr George Tewfik, a Middlewood assistant psychiatrist. In the 1950s he introduced a muscle relaxant, suxamethonium, on top of general anaesthesia. Refinement to minimise or optimise the electrical stimulation addressed side-effects. ECT was and is most effective against major depression, and formerly it was pretty much a cure-all – to put into remission anyway – not least for madness (psychosis). Nowadays it’s still used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (after the failure of two courses of anti-psychotic drugs), catatonia – the extreme expression of major depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis – and, as Middlewood Superintendent Fred Thorpe published, mania.
As for addressing extreme anxiety, in the early 1960s Alec Jenner (latterly of Manor Farm, Brightholmlee) was the first to demonstrate the effectiveness of a drug that could calm without inducing sleepiness. It had long been easy to heavily sedate inmates to control them, but such a ‘chemical kosh’ was warehousing, not healthcare. Jenner had read about a new chemical class being used by a circus trainer to help handle his nervous, agitated tigers, so he approached the drug company for a supply
However, the phased run-down over a long period in favour of ‘community care’ has the ring of a distraction from the finding of problems in mental healthcare in Sheffield in a 1971 report by the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association. Availability of beds per head was only half the national average, and often were packed fifty-plus to a ward. Surveying local GPs uncovered an astonishing lack of in-patient care, and although ‘day-care’ was available it was “extremely poor”, “inadequate” or “mediocre”. The report authors concluded: “there are many people suffering from mental illness in Sheffield who have no chance of being admitted for in-patient treatment”. We’ve become used to community actually indicating its absence. Was ‘community care’ invoked to justify sidelining mental health? Middlewood was conceived of as a helpful community (usefully contrasting with the one in which the patient got ill), and it could have been with a good patient-to-staff ratio. Even profoundly under-staffed, costs were deemed too great, prompting its shut-down, perhaps little heeding a shortfall in what else was or could be put in its place.
Sheffield manufacturer unveils multimillionpound investment plans - set to create 150 jobs
A Sheffield manufacturer has unveiled plans for an investment of tens of millions of pounds in a growth programme that is expected to triple revenue to more than £300m by 2031, while creating 150 skilled jobs across the wider region, writes Stephen Farrell for Insider Media.
Special Melted Products (SMP), which has roots in the discovery of stainless steel, has announced Project Vulcan, which aims to establish the UK's first large-scale super alloy forging capability, helping to reshore strategically important aerospace and defence manufacturing that is dominated by US suppliers.
The business, which currently generates about £100m in revenue and employs 260 people across two sites, is one of the few UK manufacturers to produce high-integrity alloys and components. These are used for critical applications in aerospace, energy and civil nuclear industries, with high-profile clients including Rolls-Royce.
Through Project Vulcan, SMP plans to help establish UK sovereign capability in nickel-based super alloys used in the high-temperature sections of jet engines.
The company has secured a £28.5m working capital facility from Lloyds to support ongoing operating requirements, alongside £2.2m funding to acquire a 31,000 sq ft industrial building close to its existing operations.
The additional premises are set to provide flexibility as the business installs new machinery and reconfigures production, enabling a phased expansion without disrupting day-today operations.
In the short term, the site will act as a blank canvas to allow people, processes and equipment to be moved around while new kit is installed. Over time, SMP plans to develop the building into further processing or production capacity, including potential additional melt or manufacturing operations, with a new R&D facility also planned later in the programme.
Further help for traders after cockroach closure
Sheffield City Council has extended a support scheme for traders after a cockroach infestation forced a two-week closure of Moor Market.
The market closed on 26 June due to the pest problem and reopened on 13 July after an "extensive programme of treatment, deep cleaning and monitoring", the authority said.
Moor Market is home to more than 90 independent traders, with a support package after its closure including one month of free rent and no service charges.
On Thursday, the local authority said the support would be extended to a further month of rent and service charge relief and a one-off "discretionary recovery payment" of £500 for each eligible trader.
Councillor Mark Rusling, the council's chair of the environmental services and regulation policy committee, said: "We know the temporary closure of Moor Market had a significant impact on traders and their businesses.
"We recognise that traders have experienced lost trading opportunities, disruption to their businesses and additional costs during this period so this package is intended to provide meaningful and immediate support that can be implemented quickly, fairly and consistently across the market."
The market reopened after no pest activity was detected for two consecutive days.
The source of the outbreak has not been disclosed, but the council previously said the recent period of "extreme and sustained hot weather" had created conditions that can increase pest activity.
Andy Richardson, chief executive at Special Melted Products, said: "It's rewarding to see a company with SMP's heritage continue to play a key role in the city's manufacturing story. We're proud of our past, but focused on what's next: evolving with the needs of British manufacturing. The shift towards UK sovereign capability in nickel-based superalloys is increasingly important for both supply chain resilience and the long-term strength of the UK's advanced manufacturing base.
"While much of our growth is driven by our team's hard work, having Lloyds as a strategic funding partner makes a real difference. The working capital gives us headroom to keep the business moving as we invest in new capability through Project Vulcan. Our new premises will ensure we continue delivering for customers, supporting our people and maintaining momentum, while building the infrastructure for our next phase of growth. That ability to operate while we evolve is critical to delivering the programme safely, efficiently and on schedule."
Lee Bloodworth, relationship director at Lloyds, said: “Special Melted Products exemplifies the high-value, high-skill manufacturing that underpins Sheffield's 'Steel City' reputation. The team has a clear, ambitious plan through Project Vulcan to invest in capability, strengthen UK supply chain resilience and create skilled local jobs.
"Our funding package is designed to support both day-to-day operations and the realities of expansion. We're proud to back a business with deep heritage and a forward-looking strategy, and we look forward to supporting SMP's continued growth and investment in the region."
With Project Vulcan currently in its build phase, SMP is targeting full operation by 2031, with a long-term ambition to grow annual revenue from about £100m today to more than £300m.
Former Journalist sentenced for Child Sexual offences
A former Sheffield journalist has been given a suspended prison sentence after admitting a series of child sex offences.
Martin Dawes, 80, who worked as restaurant critic and diary editor for The Star before retiring in 2014, pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, making and distributing indecent images of children, and possessing an extreme pornographic image.
Sheffield Crown Court heard Dawes was caught sending sexual messages to an un-
dercover police officer posing as a 13-yearold girl. During the investigation, officers also found 27 indecent images of children on electronic devices seized from his home.
Judge Jeremy Richardson KC described Dawes’ online messages as “vile” and said he had brought shame on himself and his family.
Dawes, of Nether Edge, received a sixmonth prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. He will also be placed on the sex offenders register.
Local Classifieds
BRENT COMPLETES LAKELAND CHALLENGE
Brent Lindsay produced an outstanding endurance performance by completing the demanding Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge in the Lake District. Brent covered 48 miles, climbed 30 summits and tackled around 16,000ft of ascent, completing the challenge in 22 hours 12 minutes.
The achievement was made even more memorable when Joss Naylor’s daughter, Sue, congratulated him at Greendale Bridge. Brent undertook the challenge in support of Parkinson’s UK and was assisted throughout by a dedicated team of supporters.
There was further success for Penistone Footpath Runners at the MSport 5K, held on the test track at Dovenby Hall near Cockermouth.
Nichola McNally produced an excellent run of 20-01 to finish 24th overall, third female and second in the ladies over50 category. Damian Kilpin demonstrated his versatility by competing on both fell and road during a busy weekend.
On Saturday, Kilpin tackled Alderman’s Ascent, part of the English Fell Running Championships, finishing joint 104th overall and 10th in the men’s over45 category in 48-45. The testing 8.5km course featured 400 metres of climbing. Kilpin returned to action the following day at the Easingwold Community 10K, where he finished 29th overall and ninth in the men’s over40 category in a chip time of 39-14.
At Saturday’s parkruns, 75 Penistone seniors represented the club across 26 venues. Josie Smith led the successes by finishing first female at Barnsley in a personal-best 21-21. Suzanne McGill was second female at Yarborough Leisure Centre in
21-00, while Flynn Rogers took second place overall at Jesmond Dene in 18-48.
Dawn Broom finished third female at Brackenhurst Campus in 23-26, with Simon Pike third at Ganavan Sands in 20-49, Sean Pitt third at Grovelands in 17-28 and James Fryers third at Waverley Lakes in 18-56.
Oliver France led the club at Penistone, finishing third overall in a personal-best 18-19, while Robert Lees placed fourth at Meadowmill in 20-01.
Jon Hallam also recorded a personal best of 19-33 at Lee-onthe-Solent. There were category victories for Jane Cockerton, who was first lady over60 at Concord in 30-25, Dawn Godley, who topped the ladies over65 category at Sandal Park in 2459, and Sue Hall, who was first lady over65 at Glen River in Cork in 28-51.
Keith Gordon placed second in the men’s over75 category at Windy Nook, while Stephen Lavender was second over70 at Galup Reserve in Australia.
The weekend’s leading age-graded performance came from Dawn Broom with 84.00%, followed by Dawn Godley with 82.39%, Suzanne McGill with 79.84%, Ian Neville with 76.04% and Jon Hallam with 74.85%.
Results
SSAFA Cardiff 5K
182, John Broom 19-40.
MSport 5K
24, Nichola McNally 20-01.
Easingwold Community 10K
29, Damian Kilpin 39-14.
Alderman’s Ascent
104, Damian Kilpin 48-45.
Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge
Brent Lindsay 22-12-00.
Penistone Parkrun
3, Oliver France 18-19; 7, Ryan Duckett 19-56; 28, Steve Stead 21-48; 37, Shaun Swallow 22-30; 48, Michael Nicholson 2309; 60, Michael Walsh 23-38; 76, Fay Nicholls 24-36; 77, Dan Limb 24-37; 94, Ashley Firth 25-38; 105, Edward Holley 2604; 106, Dave Lindop 26-08; 124, Oliver Found 26-52; 125, David Arthur 26-54; 141, Ash Howlett 27-42; 142, Hannah Shaw 27-43; 163, Jen Holley 28-34; 168, Trish Mellor 28-41; 178, Paul Sammon 29-06; 194, Heather Graham 29-37; 202, Olivia Clough 29-47; 204, Andrea Lee 29-50; 211, Gordon Watts 29-10; 215, Nell Law 29-53; 224, Rebecca Parr 30-50; 226, Joanne Sammon 30-55; 240, Hannah Sammon 31-53; 246, Claire Watts 32-10; 253, Chris Baldwin 32-50; 263, Ann Lindop 33-23; 292, Danny Batty 36-27.
Barnsley Parkrun
13, Ian Neville 21-17; 14, Josie Smith 21-21; 65, Martyn Goodwin 27-25; 143, Ray Brown 35-43; 144, Rianna Armitage 3551; 147, Karen Schofield 36-19.
18-YEAR-OLD SIGNS FIRST PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT WITH PREMIER LEAGUE CLUB
A former Penistone Grammar School pupil is celebrating after signing his first professional football contract with Leeds United.
Academy forward Jacob Render, 18, has agreed a one-year deal with the club, which will see him continue his development at Leeds United’s Thorp Arch training ground throughout the upcoming season.
The versatile attacker made 17 appearances across all competitions last season, including nine outings for Scott Gardner’s Under-21 side.
Render, who can play across the front line as well as in midfield, also
gained valuable experience in senior football.
He scored in Leeds United’s 3-0 National League Cup victory over Gateshead and also started against League Two side Accrington Stanley in the Vertu Trophy.
The club congratulated the young player on signing his first professional contract and said it was looking forward to seeing his continued development within the Academy.
The news will be welcomed by those at Penistone Grammar School, where Render was previously a pupil, as he continues his journey towards senior professional football.
BACK TO WINNING WAYS
Pledwick 1st XI 138-8 (Josh Stevens 3-23, Rob Taylor 2-29, Joe Hibbert 2-34)
Stocksbridge 1st XI 139-6 (Dave Smith 36, Jack Murfin 34, Rob Taylor 24)
The 1st XI made their first trip to picturesque Pledwick aiming to return to winning ways in the league. The hosts won the toss and elected to bat on a hard wicket.
Bowling first, the Green Army found good assistance from the pitch. Openers Josh Stevens and Jake Vickers kept it tight, with Vickers removing the dangerous Marshall cheaply. Stevens then ripped through the top order for three quick wickets, supported by three catches from skipper Andy Hirst, reducing Pledwick to 43-4. Joe Taylor bowled a few tight overs before spin duo Rob Taylor (2-29) and Joe Hibbert (2-34) controlled the middle overs across 12 overs each. As Pledwick tried to accelerate late on, wickets tumbled. Hirst claimed a fourth catch and a stumping to finish with five dismissals, while Stevens finished as the pick of the bowlers with 3-23, restricting the hosts to 138-8 from 46 overs.
Facing a tough chase against a strong attack featuring Division 4’s leading wicket-taker Eastlake, opener Dave Smith hit early boundaries before Joe Goddard fell to Marshall for 9. Smith and the in-form Jack Murfin took the score to 70-1 before Eastlake removed Smith for 36. Leith then dismissed Joe Hibbert for 8, leaving Bridge at 79-3. Murfin and Rob Taylor (24) built another strong partnership to edge
closer to the target. After Taylor fell and James Tevendale was out LBW for a quick 10, Murfin was dismissed for 34 with just four runs needed. Jon Pickford and Andy Hirst safely guided Stocksbridge over the line to secure a four-wicket victory with plenty of time to spare.
This excellent victory in testing conditions keeps the Green Army in third place, just two points off the top. Next weekend, they host league-leaders Whiston Forge at Lucas Wheels - Bracken Moor.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI 88-1 (M Price 44*, J Hague 24)
Darfield 2nd XI 87 all out (R Brearley 4-23, R Cogger 3-35)
The title-chasing 2nd XI hosted Darfield, bowling them out for just 87. Openers Lowe (2 wickets) and Cogger (3-35) struck early to leave the visitors 19-3. Rowan Brearley then dominated with 4-23 off 6.2 overs as Darfield collapsed, with only one batter passing 7. John Musgrove took a late wicket, while 12-year-old Oliver Perry impressed behind the stumps.
‘Bridge executed a professional chase, powered by an imperious 74-run opening partnership between Price and Hague. Price finished unbeaten on 44* from 42 deliveries. Though Hague fell just short of the target, Steve Perry came in to score the winning runs.
The victory secures another crucial 12 points for the 2nd XI, with Doncaster Town up next.
SHEFFIELD came up with a solid team display as they beat champions Ipswich 51-39 at Owlerton on Thursday.
With no joy in securing guest cover at No.1 for injured star Jack Holder, each of his six Tigers’ team-mates contributed at least one paid victory each as they ended their run of three fixtures without a win.
The Steel City side started on a bright note with Leon Flint and Jye Etheridge heading successive 4-2s.
But after a shared race in the third, the visitors then pulled back level with a 5-1 in Heat Four when skipper Josh Pickering had to come off the throttle with his potential run blocked off bend two.
That was followed by a defining section of the fixture though as Sheffield registered four heat advantages in the space of five races.
First, Chris Holder and Leon Flint combined for a 5-1 before a fired-up Pickering made it back-to-back race wins - one with Etheridge in third for a 4-2.
Anders Rowe and Luke Killeen then made light work of another big 5-1 in Heat Eight before Flint held off a hard-charging Tobiasz Musielak for a 4-2 with Chris Holder as the Tigers led 33-21.
Rowe made it two wins in a row to take the flag in a shared Heat Ten before drama in Heat 11.
SCB Referee Chris Durno put the red lights on after Pickering was deemed to have moved at the start - but as the Sheffield skipper began coming to a halt down the back straight, Ipswich captain Danny King failed to take evasive action, clattered into Pickering forcing both of them off their machines.
Pickering was laid on the track for over five minutes yelling in agony - but after another five minutes sat up talking to paramedics he walked back to the pits feeling a bit second-hand.
But that didn’t stop him dusting himself off to come back out in the re-run and add another race win to his chart with a ride that brought the loudest, admirable, cheer of the night.
Chris Holder then took the win a third straight 3-3 before the visitors kept the meeting alive with the 5-1 they required in Heat 13.
And whilst Scott Nicholls claimed Heat 14, the minor placings secured by Etheridge and Flint was enough to secure victory with a race to spare before Holder and Pickering rounded off with a fine 5-1 to seal a 12 point margin ahead of the return at Foxhall at the end of August.
Tigers’ team manager Simon Stead said: “I’m relieved to get a win on the board to be honest with you.
“We’ve been in a bit of a sticky patch since losing Jack at No.1 so I felt like it’s been a long time coming to get another win.
“So I’m pleased we’ve got this one over the line because Ipswich are a strong opposition - we saw that when they put in a good performance at their place against us last week.
“But this was a gutsy performance from the lads and the commitment from them all really shone.”
Parkrun vibes Tigers Roar once again
Sheffield are now two points ahead of King’s Lynn in fourth and are back in action on Thursday (July 30, 7.30pm) when they host Northampton at Owlerton.
ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP R2
SHEFFIELD 51: Josh Pickering 12+1, Chris Holder 12, Leon Flint 10+3, Anders Rowe 8, Jye Etheridge 5, Luke Killeen 4+1, Jack Holder R/R.
IPSWICH 39: Richard Lawson 10, Tobiasz Musielak 9+3, Scott Nicholls 5+2, Danny King 5+1, Tom Brennan 5, Jason Edwards 3, Nathan Ablitt 2.
FREE ENTRY
SHEFFIELD Speedway are offering free admission to all aged 17 and under for the sixweek summer holidays. The Tigers are further trying to encourage the next generation of supporters onto the terraces by getting rid of the standard admission prices for those categories for the next five meetings at Owlerton. The offer will be valid for the remaining regular league fixtures against Northampton (Thursday, July 30), Leicester (Thursday, August 6), King’s Lynn (Monday, August 17) and Belle Vue (Monday, August 31).
High Green Harriers maybe a running club around the S35 area but there’s nothing nicer than giving up your Saturday run so others can run the 5k at Concord Parkrun.
Photo by Ian Revitt
Steels draw with Chesterfield
Stocksbridge
Park Steels managed a draw against a Chesterfield XI at Bracken Moor on Friday.
Reece Clegg scored the two goals for the Steels in the 2-2 draw.
Assistant manager Joe Tomlinson spoke after the match:
“The lads who’ve played today have done really well. Valuable minutes and there’s key players in the side that needed to get 90 minutes.
“Reece is and everyone says it, he’s hard-working off the ball. He’ll run and run but and he won’t mind me saying this he’s got to stay fit and keep himself busy.”
Stocksbridge hosted Gainsborough Trinity on Tuesday evening.
CHURCH LOSE LEAGUE OPENER
Penistone Church lost their league opener at home to Campion AFC.
Manager Brett Lovell spoke after the game: “We got out of the traps well and I thought we looked a really good organised side in the first 45.
“I didn’t expect to be having this interview on the back of a 3-2 loss
dominated the first half and went 2-0 up.”
Penistone Church continued their start to the league season travelling to Goldthorpe to face Dearne & District on Tuesday night. Their next fixture is a home match against Parkgate kick off is 3pm at the Memorial Ground.
Penistone DEKA debuts in Manchester
Eight local fitness enthusiasts produced impressive performances after forming two mixed teams for their first DEKA IGNITE event at Manchester Central Convention Complex.
The competitors, who are mainly from the Penistone area, train together through ODJ Lifestyle & Fitness at Quest Taekwondo Centre under the guidance of former Barnsley footballer Kayode “Kay” Odejayi.
DEKA IGNITE is a team fitness challenge involving ten demanding exercise stations, with 500 metres of running between each station. Each four-person team consists of two men and two women, who must work together to divide the running and exercise workload effectively.
Team ODJ, comprising Robin Clough, Simon Lovidge, Katherine Smith and Natalie Thorpe, completed the challenge in 49 minutes 46 seonds to finish an excellent sixth overall out of 33 teams.
Team Quest’s Michael McKenzie, Lynne Crisp, Daniel Rushforth and Joanne Briggs also performed strongly, finishing 15th overall in 54 minutes 06 seonds. Both teams therefore placed comfortably inside the top half of the field on their competitive debuts.
The Manchester event represented the latest stage in the development of the fitness classes held at Quest Taekwondo Centre.
McKenzie, a professional Taekwondo instructor who runs the centre, initially joined ODJ Lifestyle & Fitness to improve his conditioning ahead of attempting his 8th Dan at Kukkiwon next year.
He was already familiar with Odejayi’s qualities as an instructor but said he had been particularly impressed by the commitment, fitness and supportive nature of the other class members.
The range of training available at the centre has also been enhanced by specialist Absolute Performance equipment provided with the support of Olympic Taekwondo silver medallist Caden Cunningham.
Despite having his own preparations disrupted by a knee injury and a recent trip to America, McKenzie completed the event as a team member rather than in his usual position as head coach. He said he had loved being part of a team again and thanked the other members for supporting him throughout the challenge.
For Joanne Briggs, completing DEKA IGNITE marked a particularly significant personal achievement. Eighteen months earlier, she did not believe she was fit or confident enough to join a circuit and high-intensity training class. Encouragement from Natalie Thorpe persuaded her to take the first step, and Briggs credits ODJ Lifestyle & Fitness, Quest Taekwondo Centre and the friendships she has made there with improving her fitness, motivation, self-confidence and mental wellbeing.
She said she was proud of how far she had come and delighted that both Team ODJ and Team Quest had completed the challenge together.
The group regularly trains through a mixture of circuit sessions, high-intensity exercise and running.
Their preparation proved effective in Manchester, where both teams adapted well to the unusual demands of repeatedly switching between running and strength-based exercise stations.
The event was the first fitness competition the group had entered, but their performances and enjoyment of the occasion have encouraged them to consider taking part in further challenges.
Results
DEKA IGNITE Manchester
6, Team ODJ – Robin Clough, Simon Lovidge, Katherine Smith and Natalie Thorpe 49-46; 15, Team Quest – Michael McKenzie, Lynne Crisp, Daniel Rushforth and Joanne Briggs 54-06.
Photo by Myra Little