Teenager
after
James Kelland, 14, from Deepcar, has been described as a “lifesaver” after taking
Mum’s
New Council Leader promises... Stability, Action and Real Change
Labour and Green councillors have agreed to work together to form a progressive administration for Sheffield City Council in 2026/2027.
They will work on an issue-by-issue basis and will split Committee Chair responsibilities proportionally.
Since 2021 the council has been under no overall control, meaning no party has an outright majority.
Despite being part of the administration for the last three years the Liberal Democrats have chosen to be in opposition.
At last week’s AGM meeting Cllr Fran Belbin (Firth Park ward) was elected as the new Leader of Sheffield City Council.
She has experienced this city as a child, a student, a volunteer, as a care worker, as someone surviving on benefits, as an employee in one of our universities and our voluntary sector. Since 2021
Fran has served as a local councillor for Firth Park. Throughout her life she has been a champion of community action.
Labour Councillor Zahira Naz (Darnall ward) was elected deputy leader, the first Muslim elected to this position in Sheffield. Cllr Naz was previously the chair of the finance committee, and has over recent years successfully ensured that the council set a balanced budget.
Labour and Green councillors have agreed to form a progressive leadership arrangement focused on stability, delivery and acting in Sheffield’s best interests.
Priorities for the year ahead
In her first speech as Leader, Cllr Belbin stated at the meeting that she has heard the message from voters that people want to see visible change in their neighbourhoods. She highlighted her priorities for delivering
action on the cost of living, potholes, fly-tipping, parking, support for young people, cleaner and safer streets, and the need to involve communities more closely in decisions about the future of the city.
Cllr Belbin also reaffirmed Labour’s commitments made during the election in their Plan for Sheffield, including free bus and tram travel for under-18s, more affordable homes, stronger rights for renters and better local services.
Cllr Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council:
“People in Sheffield sent a clear message at these elections. They want a Council that listens, works together and delivers visible change in every part of our city.
“Our focus now is on the priorities people raised with us on the doorstep. Including more help with the cost of living, cleaner and saf-
er neighbourhoods, better roads, tackling fly-tipping, supporting young people, and delivering the pledges Labour made - including free bus and tram travel for under-18s, more affordable homes, stronger rights for renters, and better local services.
“We have listened to what people have told us matter most. Now our job is to get on with it and deliver for Sheffield.”
“Sheffield cannot afford drift, division or chaos. We will work with anyone who genuinely wants to improve people’s lives and act in the best interests of our city.
“But we will always stand against division, hate and attempts to pit communities against each other. Sheffield is a city of many communities, many faiths and many backgrounds - and we are at our best when we work together.
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.
Sound of Drums and Waves of Colour: Local School Brings Pentecost
Joy to the
Streets
of Stocksbridge
Celebrating 10 years of Ponti’s
Yorkshire Heart
Ponti’s Italian Kitchen at Fox Valley is marking its 10th birthday celebrations in style this June with two spectacular evenings of food, music and entertainment.
Known for bringing authentic Italian hospitality to the heart of Stocksbridge, Ponti’s has announced a pair of special events designed to celebrate their milestone anniversary and bring the community together.
The celebrations begin on Friday 12th June with “A Night at the Opera”, presented in association with the Valley Music Festival. Guests will enjoy a delicious three-course Italian dinner while being entertained by a selection of popular Italian opera classics in the elegant surroundings of Ponti’s first-floor Perini & Perini room. Tickets are priced at £65 and the evening begins at 6.30pm.
On Sunday 14th June, the award-winning Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir will perform at Ponti’s for the very first time as part of the anniversary festivities. The special event includes an evening of outstanding live music and Ponti's Antipasti Misto for £20 per person.
As part of the Valley Music Festival, Ponti's are also hosting 'Pint N Half' on Tuesday 9th June from 7pm for an evening of sing along show tunes and comedy with former Everley Pregnant Brother frontman Shaun Doane and local performer Charlotte Proctor.
For tickets and enquiries, contact Ponti’s Italian Kitchen on 0114 288 7475 or email fv@ pontis.co.uk
Did you hear the sound of drums on the streets of Stocksbridge?
Did you see school children waving flags?
Passersby and residents were treated to a vibrant display of joy and community spirit as the children of St. Ann’s Catholic Primary School took to the streets to share the Good News.
The lively parade was held to celebrate Pentecost— the Christian festival marking the time when Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to his disciples, giving them the courage to go out into the world and share his teachings.
Bringing the Story to Life
The children marched proudly through the local area. The rhythm of the drums filled the air, drawing residents to their doors and windows, while the children waved handmade flags and banners carrying messages of peace, love, and community unity.
"Pentecost is often called the birthday of the Church," said Sarah Eady, Headteacher. "Instead of keeping that celebration inside the classroom, our children wanted to bring that flame of joy and hope right out into the heart of Stocksbridge. We are so proud of how beautifully they represented the
school and shared such a positive message with our community ."
A Warm Community Response
The parade certainly succeeded in brightening the morning. Local residents smiled, clapped along to the beat, and cheered the children on as they passed.
For St. Ann’s, the event was a perfect way to connect with the wider neighborhood, turning a powerful religious milestone into a shared moment of local celebration.
SUNDAY 14TH JUNE
Dear Customers,
It is with deepest regret that we relay the very sad passing of our friend and colleague Mrs Sue Martin.
Sue joined us in January 2008 and she dealt with several thousand customers who walked through our door every Saturday for more than 18 years. She was kind, thoughtful, considerate, helpful, honest, caring and an all-round special human being and a major part of the showroom’s success across the years.
Her untimely passing has left her partner of many, many years Kevin, as well as a massive raft of friends, with a huge void in their hearts but we will always remember the huge and heartwarming smile she had for everyone she met and knew.
Lee, Helen, Gary, David, Jon & Steve of Sheffield
Flames Of Sheffield, Unit 18-19, Upper Mall, Hillsborough Barracks Langsett Road, Sheffield S6 2LR 0114 2313366
Teenage Hero
...continued from front page
James also helps care for his 12-year-old brother Luke, who has severe complex learning disabilities and autism. As well as assisting with his brother’s intensive personal care, James supports Luke emotionally and helps coordinate with his team of personal assistants when his mum is unwell.
He also provides reassurance and stability for his sister, who also has autism, showing a level of compassion and responsibility far beyond his years.
Despite the pressures he faces at home, James continues to give “110 per cent effort” to his studies and has now been nominated for a Young Champions award in recognition of his outstanding care and maturity.
Speaking to Look Local, James’s Dad Mike recalled one particularly frightening incident during the school holidays when James’s quick-thinking actions proved lifesaving.
Mike said: “James has managed numerous medical emergencies, but a critical moment occurred during the school holidays when his mum, Emily, suffered a major seizure while eating dinner and began choking.
“With me working away from home at the time, James immediately took control. He kept his siblings calm, coordinated with me over the phone, and executed critical first aid by clearing Emily’s airway and administering emergency seizure medication.
“His swift intervention stabilised her condition and prevented a severe choking episode before paramedics arrived. At just 13 years old, he avoided panic and acted with the precision of a trained first aider.”
James’s incredible dedication to his family has earned admiration from everyone around him, with many describing the teenager as an unsung hero. James has been nominated for Young Carer of the Year by the Barnsley Chronicle.
Why we’re backing Stocksbridge’s small businesses
— and how you can be part of it
By Sam Tarff, Chief Executive, STEP
A few weeks ago in these pages I wrote about what STEP has learned from running employment support across Stocksbridge, Deepcar and the wider north of Sheffield. It clearly struck a chord locally, and the conversation has continued in coffee shops, council corridors and our own reception. Thank you for that.
This week I want to talk about the other side of the same coin. If we want more local people in good work, we also need more strong local businesses — and we need to make it easier for small firms to start up, settle in and grow here.
That is exactly what STEP Works was created for.
Based alongside the River Don in Deepcar, STEP Works offers offices and workshop units for start-ups, sole traders, established local firms and growing teams. It is not a glossy serviced office in the city centre. It is a practical, affordable business space run by a local charity, for the community it serves — and every pound spent on rent helps support STEP’s wider work with families, children and people looking for a route into employment.
We know taking on business premises is a big step. Upfront costs, broadband setup, meeting
space and the simple uncertainty of whether the move is the right one can all feel daunting.
So we have introduced a straightforward move-in package to make things easier:
• One month rent-free on a new tenancy
• Business-grade broadband included from day one
• Four hours of free meeting room use every month
The offer is available now on selected offices and workshop units, with flexible terms, onsite parking and a supportive business community included as standard. Availability is limited, and once these units are gone the package goes with them.
If you are thinking about your first proper workspace, outgrowing the kitchen table, or looking for premises that better fit your business, come and have a look around. Walk-ins are welcome, although calling ahead is always helpful.
Stocksbridge has always been a place where people built things, started things and backed each other. STEP Works exists to keep that spirit alive, and we would love to welcome more local businesses into the building.
The Valley Music Festival Set for Grand Return: Local Talent Raises Funds for Children's Music Education
The Valley Music Festival is set to return for a week of performances from 8th to 14th June 2026. The event showcases local performers working together to raise vital funds to support music education for children in the area.
Following what organisers called a "bumper year" in 2025, the festival was able to make a significant contribution to local schools, which included funding sensory equipment, a class set of ukuleles, and a year group's trip to experience the Halle Orchestra. The Festival's initiatives also extend to running a weekly group at The Venue following the 'making a noise' holiday workshop at the high school, and offering assistance to young people by paying for music lessons or arranging free tuition in specific cases.
Organisers are preparing a "fabulous week" of local musical talent, promising entertainment for all tastes, from nursery and infant school choirs to fine dining and opera.-----Festival Highlights
Kids Make Music – The Venue
The Festival kicks off at The Venue with the Kids Make Music events on Tuesday 9th and Wednesday 10th June, running from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Children from seven local schools will perform, showcasing their musical abilities at a young age. The event has a minimum donation of £3 per adult (children are free) to ensure wide family access. Generous donations are encouraged via collection buckets in the lobby.
Pint
n Half – Ponti’s
On Tuesday 9th June, Pint n Half will perform selections from music theatre at Ponti’s. The extraordinary duo, Charlotte Proctor and Shaun Doane (formerly of the Everly Pregnant Brothers), will mix "good music with good humour". Doors open at 6:30 pm for the 8:00 pm start. Tickets are available for £12 from Ponti’s or Eventbrite.
A Night at the Opera – Ponti’s Restaurant
Friday 12th June features A Night at the Opera at Ponti’s Restaurant, beginning at 6:30 pm. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal and Italian opera, with excellent soloists backed by the Tyre Mill Singers as the chorus. The evening is described as one for "lovers of the very beautiful things in life". Tickets are available from Ponti’s.
Music in the Piazza – Fox Valley Shopping Centre
Saturday 13th June brings Music in the Piazza to Fox Valley Shopping Centre. Local musicians will entertain the crowds from 11:00 am until 5:30 pm. This event operates on a donations-only basis.
Celebration of Choirs – The Venue
The day concludes with the Celebration of Choirs at The Venue at 7:30 pm. Local choirs will share their love of singing at this licensed, café-style event. A minimum donation of £3 per adult is requested.Volunteers and Fundraising Appeal
All technicians, musicians, and crew involved in the Festival are volunteers. Organisers stress that every penny raised is dedicated to music education for young people in the Valley, funding essential school equipment and scholarships for individual children. The Festival has recorded "remarkable success stories" of young people who were supported and went on to study music at university and pursue music careers.
The public is encouraged to give generously when they see crew members—easily identified as "hopeful, friendly looking people in purple shirts"—holding donation buckets, particularly at the Kids Make Music events and Music in the Piazza.
FREE KIDS BUS TRAVEL
Responding to the government’s announcement on free bus travel for children throughout August, South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said:
“A month ago, I shared the evidence of the Barnsley free travel pilot with the government and told them they should follow our lead. So, I’m really pleased the government have taken this step and will be funding free bus travel for kids this summer.
“We already know it will make a massive difference, helping families who want to make the most of the adventures on offer across
Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and Sheffield this summer.
“But I want to go further. My ambition is to build on what we’ve started in Barnsley and extend that support across the whole of South Yorkshire, all year round, starting in Sheffield next year, so every young person has freedom and access to opportunity, and every family has a little bit more money in their pocket.”
SUMMER’S HERE, AND THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR…
‘MUNCH & MINGLE’
A long-running local art group is preparing to showcase its work in Grenoside for the first time later this month.
The Original Monteney Art Group will stage an exhibition at St Mark’s Church Hall on Main Street, Grenoside, on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, from 10am until 4pm each day.
The exhibition will feature a wide variety of artwork created using different media, with many pieces available to purchase. Entry to the event is free and visitors will also be able to enjoy light refreshments while viewing the displays.
Members say they are excited to be bringing the exhibition to Grenoside for the first time and hope it will prove to be a popular venue for local residents and visitors alike.
The group meets every Wednesday morning at Grenoside Scout and Guide Headquarters on Salt Box Lane and has a long history within the local community.
Originally, the group formed part of the Monteney Workshop on Parson Cross, which was established by former Sheffield MP David Blunkett. When the workshop later closed, members decided to continue independently, securing grants and becoming self-sufficient — something the group has successfully maintained for many years.
Today, the Original Monteney Art Group continues to provide a welcoming and creative environment for artists of all abilities.
Members describe the group as a friendly gathering of like-minded people who simply enjoy being creative, whether experienced artists or complete beginners.
The upcoming exhibition is also being seen as an opportunity for anyone interested in joining the group to meet current members and find out more about taking part.
Organisers say new members are always welcome and hope it will encourage more people to get involved in art and creativity.
ART GROUP TO HOLD FIRST VILLAGE EXHIBITION
A long-running local art group is preparing to showcase its work in Grenoside for the first time later this month.
The Original Monteney Art Group will stage an exhibition at St Mark’s Church Hall on Main Street, Grenoside, on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, from 10am until 4pm each day.
The exhibition will feature a wide variety of artwork created using different media, with many pieces available to purchase. Entry to the event is free and visitors will also be able to enjoy light refreshments while viewing the displays.
Members say they are excited to be bringing the exhibition to Grenoside for the first time and hope it will prove to be a popular venue for local residents and visitors alike.
The group meets every Wednesday morning at Grenoside Scout and Guide Headquarters on Salt Box Lane and has a long history within the local community.
Originally, the group formed part of the Monteney Workshop on Parson Cross, which was established by former Sheffield MP David Blunkett. When the workshop later closed, members decided to continue independently, securing grants and becoming self-sufficient — something the group has successfully maintained for many years.
Today, the Original Monteney Art Group continues to provide a welcoming and creative environment for artists of all abilities.
Members describe the group as a friendly gathering of like-minded people who simply enjoy being creative, whether experienced artists or complete beginners.
The upcoming exhibition is also being seen as an opportunity for anyone interested in joining the group to meet current members and find out more about taking part.
Organisers say new members are always welcome and hope the exhibition will encourage more people from the local area to get involved in art and creativity.
THE POINTING SPECIALISTS
JUNE
WEDNESDAY
3 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We are having a presentation by South Yorkshire Street Cats about how they were formed and the work they are doing in the community. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
THURSDAY
4 St.Nicholas’ Church, Bradfield celebrates 100 years of Mothers’ Union on Thursday, 4th June at 11am. Service followed by buffet lunch in the Church. Contact Pauline on 07763189684 to book lunch. Everyone welcome.
THURSDAY
11 Chapeltown WI hold their next meeting at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church when a representative from Baby Basics Charity will come and speak to them. The competition is for a vintage toy. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
FRIDAY
12 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Proms Concert To be held at the Newton Hall Chapeltown on Friday 12th June 2026 at 7.30 pm Tickets from Margaret and Peter on 0114 2460983 or 07812425387 or Julie and Paul on 07876472246 or 07926377410
SUNDAY
14 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - This is our regular
4-weekly day of active conservation work. During the summer it is mostly bracken that keeps us occupied because it threatens to shade out the young shoots of heather and bilberry. We also have an area newly-cleared of brambles last winter which will continue to need attention, so it stays away. Check on www.walc. epizy.com
SUNDAY
21 On the 21st June we will hold our AGM at Bullhouse Chapel after the service to which anyone interested in the future of worship in this chapel are invited.
Wednesday
24 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 24th June 2026 at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, when our speaker will be Mike Ogden, presenting “the Slow Road. Please check our website for more details Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings, for more information about our group and activities, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus. co.uk
SATURDAY
27 St Ann’s Catholic Primary School’s Summer Gala has returned! 12 - 4pm FREE ENTRY!
Come along and join our amazing school for fun, games, a licenced bar, children’s rides, stacks of entertainment and hopefully some sun! Our Reception/Year 1 classroom will also be open for a meet the teacher for any children wishing to join us and wanting to have a look around. We look
forward to seeing you for what is always a fantastic day!
JULY
WEDNESDAY
1 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start. We will be having a presentation from South Yorkshire Swan & Wildlife Hospital. Visitors and new members are welcome. Further details 07917021268
ONGOING
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games 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
On LISTINGS
Oxspring No experience needed, equipment supplied. Everyone welcome. Gentle fun exercise.
MONDAY ART GROUP at STEPS, The VENUE, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge.
Every Mon 10.00 - 12 noon. £8 per session. Excellent tutor - watercolour, acrylics, pastels etc. Beginners upwards. Just come along and try a free taster session!
TUESDAYS
CAMEO (Come And Meet
Each Other) Tea, coffee, cakes, dominoes and other games, and friendship. Every Tuesday 2-4 pm at St Andrew’s Church, High Street, Penistone. (Next to the library).For more details: 07903 628820
Deepcar Drop-In every Tuesday from 10am - midday at St John’s Church, Deepcar. All are welcome for drinks, cake and company.
From 14 April - Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to their Over 50s afternoons on their greens at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green,S35 3HZ at 1:45 pm. Coaching can be given if you have never played before. The cost is £3 with a cup of tea or coffee
Stocksbridge Bowling Club, on Linden Crescent, will be holding crown green bowling sessions for non members (followed by refreshments) twice weekly. Tuesdays starting at 1.30 pm and Thursdays starting at 5.30pm. Your first session will be free. All equipment and training will be provided. Please come along and enjoy.” This starts on 14th April.
WEDNESDAYS
Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:00-3:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435
Thurgoland Community Choir, every Wednesday 7pm - 9:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Thurgoland.
Enjoy Scrabble? Why not come along to our friendly Scrabble Club We meet between 12noon and 3pm on Wednesdays at the British Legion Club, Chapeltown £1 per session Everyone welcome St. Marys Church, Bolsterstone - Wednesdays from 10am to 12.30pm. Please come along for a chat to our popular Wednesday coffee morning for tea or coffee alongside our delicious homemade cakes in a warm friendly atmosphere. Do join us, it is open to all.
THURSDAYS
Open House Community Café Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com
The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m.
High Green Fitness and Fun Aerobics and Activities Paces campus, High Green Thursday 10am-12:30pm £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 am - 11.15am. All abilities welcome. Just come along to meet Holly - 07462 568 723Bring a mat please.
RAF BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL
FLIGHT ADDS DRAMA TO KRAZY RACES
Competitors in Sheffield’s Krazy Races may be keeping their eyes on the road…but spectators will be looking to the skies as a special extra attraction adds to the spectacle.
Sheffield welcomes its inaugural Krazy Races Soapbox Derby on Father’s Day, June 21, when thousands of spectators are expected to line city centre streets to cheer on creatively-themed, gravity-powered soapbox racers, all competing to raise money for South Yorkshire youth homelessness charity Roundabout.
And it has now been confirmed that an extra attraction will add to the day’s excitement - a flypast by the celebrated RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
The flypast will feature one of three historic planes - either a Spitfire, a Hurricane or a Dakota - with exact timings yet to be announced. Krazy Races teams will be made up of local businesses, schools, and community groups, making it a true city-wide celebration.
Beyond the races, visitors will also enjoy a full day of family fun, including fairground rides, food and drink stalls, and live entertainment.
“We are absolutely delighted to be able to add this very special extra attraction to what already promises to be a memorable day,” said Roundabout Events Fundraising Manager Mhairi Jamieson.
“It’s a brilliant opportunity to see a genuine piece of aviation history take to the skies over Sheffield and it’s just one more fantastic reason come along and support Roundabout.”
More than 20 teams have been selected to build and race their own soapbox karts, competing for Fastest Kart, Best Design, Best Performance, and the Public Vote.
All money raised will go towards Roundabout, the charity that provides shelter, support, and life-changing opportunities to young people in Sheffield and Rotherham who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, supporting them on their way to independence.
Elma BRUCE
Aged 91
Passed away 25th April 2026
A much loved Mother, Grandmother and Aunty.
Funeral Service to be held on Wednesday 3rd June 2026, 2pm at Bradfield Church.
Donations to NSPCC or Alzheimer’s Society (Sheffield) in lieu of flowers can be sent c/o G & M Lunt Funeral Directors, 1-13 Camping Lane, Sheffield S8 0GB, 0114 2745508 or may be given on the day.
Graham GODLEY
Sadly, passed away on 17th May 2026, aged 83.
Beloved Husband of the late (June) Diane.
Dearly loved Father of Dean & Greg and Grandfather of Henry, Hugh and Ella.
Funeral service to take place on Friday 5th June, 1:30pm at Green Moor Methodist Church.
Followed by a celebration of his life at Wortley Men’s Club.
Sandra TAYLOR née HORTON
Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandma, Sister and Auntie.
Taken from us too quickly, too soon, but peacefully in the end.
Spread your wings Sis & fly high. Service at Grenoside Crematorium, 1 June at 1pm.
Family flowers only please with donations if desired to British Heart Foundation.
Malcolm and family welcome Sandra’s friends present and past to attend.
DYSON FUNERAL SERVICE
A helpful, local family business CHAPELS OF REST at
Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481
New Road, Deepcar S36 2RS 0114 288 3169 info@dysonfunerals.co.uk www.dysonfunerals.co.uk
DYSON’S Funeral Services
A helpful, local family business CHAPELS OF REST at Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481
New Road, Deepcar, S36 2RS 0114 288 3169
info@dysonfunerals.co.uk www.dysonfunerals.co.uk
Allen Bethel Dear Editor,
Yesterday, Tuesday 19th May, we were pleased and proud to attend St Mary’s, Bolsterstone, for the funeral service of Allen Bethel. We were amongst the hundreds of people, ex-players, workmates and members of the Stocksbridge Park Steels Football Club. This was an opportunity to pay tribute to Allen and offer our further condolences to Janet and the family.
After the fine ceremony many of the friends gathered outside the church, each paying their own personal tribute and sharing memories of one of Stocksbridge’s finest, selfless men who had given so much of his life to helping children gain work ethic, teamwork, discipline and friendships that will last them over the years.
Conversations also bordered on a suitable tribute or memorial for this man. For instance, would the Chairman and Committee of Stocksbridge Park Steels consider a name change of Bracken Moor, and give a fitting and lasting tribute to Allen by renaming the stadium to ‘The Allen Bethel Stadium at Bracken Moor’. We feel that this could also be good for the sponsors who could feel part of this tribute. We can think of no finer tribute to his selfless service to the Club, children of the Valley over the last 40 odd years and to his family.
I would hope, in the near future, that I would be able to work with Janet on Allen’s extensive archive and incorporate that into our digitised archive based at Stocksbridge Town Hall, thereby making his name and works a forever part of Stocksbridge’s fantastic heritage.
Yours graciously Dennis & Matthew Pindar.
Buses
Dear Editor,
Much has been made about discussions regarding local bus services. However, these have all been about Stagecoach’s 57 & 57A services. We’ve known for ages what the problems there are - the ageing vehicles allocated to Ecclesfield & the continuing link with service 2 Sheffield - Barnsley. The 57 driver who picked me up 25 minutes later at Shalesmoor put the delay down to congestion at Alhambra island in central Barnsley!
Nothing has been said about South Pennine’s local services, in particular the 201, StocksbridgeChapeltown. This had a regular clientele of elderly & mobility impaired Commercial diners, Asda shoppers & patrons of Chapeltown’s excellent fully staffed First Point. I myself have what’s known as a “granny walker”, lots more have sticks. Not anymore!
Actual buses disappeared in favour of van conversions, with a door the passenger has to open & a “retractable” step which works when it feels like it. I recently sat on a 23 (proper bus!) watching the driver of a “van” 24 in Thurgoland put a caravan step on the pavement & help two elderly ladies off the bus. I couldn’t help wondering what that poor driver’s legal position would be if one of them fell. What’s damning is that these vehicles have a fullblown wheelchair lift at the back, but no-one’s been shown how to use it! The one driver who DOES know how to use it isn’t allowed to, on the tenuous ground that he was trained while with another operator----
25% of Stocksbridge is over 65, of whom a fair proportion have mobility problems. Us regulars have been boycotting the 201 since the false start, when we got a “proper” vehicle for a day! We were promised our little red bus back in weeks. Instead, it got poached by Honley & painted white. It’s been months now, & enough’s enough!
I understand that the 201 is a “tendered service”. Mayoral Authority please take note!
Roger A. Capel
FLOOD PROTECTION
On 24/3/2026, I submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Act, to Sheffield City Council (SCC) to discover more about SCC’s flood protection plans, after Look Local reported that the Upper Don Valley Flood Protection Scheme will receive £2.169 million (see Issues 1418 & 1425, online). I received a response on 30/4/2026. You can view the full response online, at: https:// www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/request_for_ information_about_sh
Selected extracts from the SCC response are provided below, along with selected extracts from a previously ‘confidential’ report, published by Arup: the company that was tasked with designing Sheffield’s flood protection schemes and drafting recommendations.
This letter contains public sector information obtained from Sheffield City Council and licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
SCC: “The funding announced for the Upper Don Valley Flood Protection scheme is for Phase 2, which will protect over 200 commercial properties and around 100 homes in the communities of Neepsend, Shalesmoor and Kelham. This phase does not extend as far upstream as Oughtibridge. We note that you have already found the high-level information about the phasing of our Upper Don Flood Scheme as published on our website: ‘Flood protection schemes’
https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/public-health/floodprotection-schemes
Further to the information on the website, we can now update that the Outline Business Case for Phase 2 has been submitted to the Environment Agency for approval of funds, we are awaiting a decision following which we will update the website.” ‘High-level’ appears to be a management euphemism for conceptual or vague.
Commenting on what happened following the public consultation’ events in 2016, SCC informed “The high-level preferred options were published shortly after on the SCC website and remain available for public view…”
The options displayed on the current SCC webpage (link provided above) are slightly different to those presented in 2016. The options on the original flood protection website were NOT updated following public consultation. The original website was not hosted by SCC and was discontinued and deleted at some point between March & May 2019. The original website contained much more information, including details about public consultation events that were held in various parts of the city. It stated “Sheffield’s Flood and Water
Funeral Services
Management programme has six capital schemes… The schemes are all registered on Government’s national programme to receive grant funding from 2015 to 2021.” Some of the original online content has been archived and can be accessed online, if you visit web.archive.org and search for floodprotectionsheffield.com
For the Upper Don and Sheaf Catchments, original website stated “We have to follow a set process to secure the funding we need. Your views will help us to select the best options for your community and the city and put together the project business case. When we have secured funding, planning permission and environmental consents, we can start to build the flood measures. This could be as soon as 2019.” It also informed that tree felling “will likely be required” for Wharncliffe Side flood storage area (FSA); River Rivelin FSAs; River Loxley FSAs; Oughtibridge Defences; Hillsborough Defences & Neepsend to Kelham Island Defences.
Following the consultation events, Arup published a report: ‘Upper Don and River Sheaf Catchment Flood Alleviation Schemes – project appraisal outcomes and next steps’. The report dated, 30/10/2017, was provided to Sheffield City Council and the Environment Agency. Selected extracts from the Executive Summary within the report:
“BACKGROUND. The Council’s primary objective for both the Upper Don and the River Sheaf Catchment Flood Alleviation Schemes is to protect communities from the impacts of a 1 in 200 year flood, taking climate change impacts into consideration. The schemes are included in the government’s national flood and coastal erosion risk management capital programme. Detailed appraisals have now been completed for the two projects in line with Environment Agency guidance. This work has included a comprehensive public engagement exercise. As a result, a preferred option for achieving the Council’s objectives has been identified for each catchment from a wide range of possible alternatives.”
“Improvement Options Identified
SLOWING THE FLOW: 1) Use of Yorkshire Water’s (YW’s) existing compensation reservoirs that are currently used to regulate low flows during drought conditions, 2) implementation of a catchment-wide programme of natural flood management (NFM) measures and 3) construction of new flood storage areas (FSAs).
CONTAINING THE FLOW. Maintenance activities will not achieve the Council’s objectives. A wider range of improvement options has been consulted on and a shortlist of viable options was published earlier in 2017. These fall into the following three flood protection categories: Slowing the flow: 1) Use of Yorkshire Water’s (YW’s) existing compensation reservoirs that are currently used to regulate low flows during drought conditions, 2) implementation of a catchment-wide programme of natural flood management (NFM) measures and 3) construction of new flood storage areas (FSAs). Containing the flow: 1) Removal of pinch points, 2) CONSTRUCTION OF FLOOD DEFENCES ALONG THE RIVER TO CONTAIN FLOODWATER, WHERE THIS CAN BE DONE without increasing flood risk downstream and WITHOUT DAMAGING VISUAL AMENITY.”
“The capital cost of these measures is estimated to be £53m on the Upper Don and £40m on the Sheaf. £22.5m of these costs would be covered by flood and coastal erosion risk management grant-inaid (FCERM GiA) (£8.6m on the Upper Don and £13.9m on the Sheaf). These costs mean that the scheme has an overall benefit cost ratio of over 10.”
To quote SCC: “This report set out the phased, risk-based priority approach to the development of improved flood defences in the Upper Don Valley that has been followed since. The first phase on the River Loxley was completed in autumn 2023 and phase 2 (referred to above) is currently at business case review stage. Detailed development work has yet to progress on ‘Phase 3’, upstream of Hillsborough and we do not have any firm plans for upstream interventions currently as the national flood programme is under review.”
“…Funding allocations for National Flood Risk Grant in Aid are agreed and published via the Outside bodies - Yorkshire Regional Flood &
Local Opinion
Coastal Committee | Sheffield City Council.” The named Sheffield Representative on the committee is Councillor Douglas Johnson (Green Party Councillor for the City ward; Chair of the SCC Housing Policy Committee; Spokesman of the SCC Charity Trustees Sub Committee).
The SCC response informed “Early proposals for a ‘formal’ engineered flood storage area in Coronation Park were rejected following the findings of the 2017 report and the highlevel concept proposals for flood defences in Oughtibridge shown indicatively on the ‘map of preferred options’… THIS WOULD NOT AFFECT ANY OF THE RIVERSIDE TREES WITHIN THE PARK and every effort would be taken to protect any mature trees in the area. NO DETAILED DEVELOPMENT OR SURVEYS HAVE BEEN CARRIED OUT HERE so any further impacts have yet to be assessed, they would be part of a ‘Phase 3’ of the Upper Don Scheme if this can be justified.
The indicative solution would be to provide a line of defence along the north of Station Lane (probably by waterproofing and enhancing the existing walls) wrapping around the first properties into the higher ground to prevent flood waters spilling over the road into Waterside Gardens. A further defence may be required to the rear of the riverside gardens of Waterside Gardens down to the Cricket Ground. Although this first option shows the defences continuing down alongside the Cricket Field subsequent flood zoning policy would have us leaving a sports field to flood and turning a defence along the rear of the residential properties back into higher ground.”
On 29/9/2016, at the public consultation event in Oughtibridge, an engineer from Arup (Adam) informed me that severe flooding is expected to occur roughly every 100 years. He said that was based on meteorological data for rainfall, going back as far as the 19th century, and on data collected over recent decades for rivers (I think he said 80 years). Adam then contradicted himself by saying that Arup predict that severe flooding, such as occurred in 2007, to occur as frequently as twice every five years. I informed Adam that no such flooding had occurred during the eighty years prior to 2007 and that, as a Sheffielder, I had not met anybody that could remember such flooding. I pointed out that flooding like that had not occurred in the period since 2007. Adam said that Arup had records of the occurrence of such flooding on the southern side of Sheffield in 1991. I pointed out that using data that only spanned a relatively short period of time (<200 years) to make predictions of what was likely to occur within the next five to one hundred years would give a skewed, invalid result of little significance, if any. Adam agreed that I could be right but said that as that data is all that Arup had available to make their predictions that is what they would be working with.
A Sheffield Libraries Archives and Information document– ‘Sources for the Study of Floods and Flood Management’ (2021) - states “The River Sheaf reached its highest level ever recorded at the Sheaf recording site. Extensive flooding impacted the lower Sheaf Valley including Sheffield Station which was inundated. A tree branch left behind on platform 5 was left in situ with a small plaque attached to commemorate the event.”
David Long (Upper Don resident) S35
Taxis
Only 16 out of 33 taxis passing the tests when stopped by police is a disgrace especially with some so bad they were taken off the road. Does not a 50% failure rate say something about taxi licensing and the safety of the public? what are the council saying about this? what are the council doing about this?
It is clear that far more scrutiny needs to be given to taxi drivers in Sheffield and I have long watched with amazement their complete disregard of no right turns and other traffic restrictions with seemingly total immunity but now we are taking about safety . Time for the council to make it clear that taxi drivers must comply with the law both with regards to the condition of their taxi and compliance with road signage.
Alistair
LOCAL HISTORY UNEARTHED
A REAL SURVIVAL IN CASTLETON’S GARLAND DAY
By Steve Moxon
Along with a lot of Mayday custom elsewhere, the Castleton Garland ceremony resurfaced following Government ban, moved to much later in the month: Oak Apple Day. It was an available holiday and enforced after the Observance of 29th May Act 1660.
Officially commemorating the Restoration (of the monarchy), its name alludes to the tree in which Charles II hid from Parliamentarian soldiers. The two figures fronting the procession in the annual Castleton event do wear regal costume – since 1897, that is. An extremely belated afterthought.
Previously dismissed as no older than 18th century ‘rush-bearing’ – the ritual carting to the church of rushes to lay on the bare earth floor – this was an extension of ‘bringing in the May’ foliage and flowers. So it was an elaboration, not an origin, and usual Christianisation.
Folklore historian Ronald Hutton – often disdainful of claimed ancient roots – concedes it “incorporates very accurately one of the last of the frameworks of flowers which descend directly from the ‘Mays’ once carried through the streets of medieval towns”.
The Garland Day starts with maypole erection in the Market Place. A bit of a giveaway, that … unless its appearance in the Edwardian era was addition rather than reinstatement. The chief participants are a man led on horseback known as the king, and behind him, likewise on a horse, the consort. They first ride the village bounds before pausing at an assembly point to head a retinue of dancers – girls in all-white, and, recently, also boys.
Great play has long been made that the consort is not called the queen, and formerly was a man in comic female clothing, dubbed The Lady, until from 1957 the role was taken by a woman. What is named the queen is an ‘oak posy’ that pointedly is atop and separate from the garland, a beehive-shaped frame covered with oak branches and flowers that completely encases the king’s upper body. The queen is laid on the town war memorial ahead of the garland being hoisted up the church tower to be placed on a pinnacle and left there to decay.
Why the queen? It’s from Gaelic caoin, “kween”, ‘funeral elegy, lament’; caoineadh, “kween-ah”, ‘lamenting over the dead’. The posy appears to be a wreath memorialising a death; presumably of the (old) king, representing the old year (winter) – killed by the ‘new king’, standing for the new year (spring/summer), on behalf of the deity (goddess: the pan-’Celtic’ Brigid). This old/new king shenanigans was a concrete way to present the deity’s change in the cycle of seasons from the hag to the nymph.
The consort’s ambiguity – explicitly so – as to being man or woman probably is down to confusion as to whether he/she is the ‘new king’ or the goddess herself. Is he/she the human or demi-God causing the deity to morph from winter form to spring/summer guise? Or is he/she him/ herself instead one or the other aspect of the deity (goddess, Brigid)? A human agent or ‘new king’ would be considered male; on the contrary female if embodying the goddess.
This is a standard mix-up in mythology arising from trying to make the spiritual more earthly; more understandable. Deity made human-like, or human agents brought in to alter something about the deity, might render things easier for folk to grasp, only to introduce muddle.
The consort indeed could be the ‘new king’. He was said to be “given to making course remarks”. Consort may be from connsachair, ’a disputant’: the combatant who kills the (old) king.
As for the garland, it could well be from geilleadh, ‘homage’ – to the goddess and/or new king. [Garland supposedly is French, to mean ‘badge of the fullness of joy’ -- which likely is rooted in Gaelic gàire’, ‘laugh’/’laughter’ & lan, ‘full’ – but this may be seemingly the same though actually a different word.].
As far as can be gathered, the Castleton ceremony is a symbolic funeral cum Christening (as it were). The ‘old king’, the ‘winter’ form of the deity, is honoured by a wreath, while the ‘new king’, the spring/summer form of the deity, is honoured by a wreath of a festive kind. Yet this too in effect is a funeral wreath. As the ‘new king’ in turn dies, the wreath just as surely withers; such is the perpetual wheel of nature.
The King and Consort, Castleton Garland Ceremony
LATE SPRING INTO EARLY SUMMER IN NORTH SHEFFIELD: LONGER DAYS, WARMER STREETS
As late spring slips into early summer, North Sheffield begins to change pace. The mornings feel softer, the evenings stretch further, and suddenly there’s a sense that the city is fully waking up after winter’s hold. From Deepcar to Ecclesfield, Chapeltown to Grenoside, daily life starts to drift outdoors in a way that feels effortless rather than intentional.
Local parks and green spaces become the centre of activity. Parks, with open lawns and tree-lined paths, are filled with walkers, runners and families making the most of the improving weather. Nearby woodland walks and trails towards the edge of the Peak District offer quick escapes into open countryside, where the landscape is increasingly green, vibrant and alive with seasonal growth.
At home, this is the time when the “spring clean” evolves into something more substantial. Windows are thrown open, rooms are refreshed, and attention turns to reorganising living spaces for the months ahead. It’s not just a tidy-up — it’s a reset for the season. Cupboards are cleared, redecorating projects begin to take shape, and homes are prepared for a summer of hosting, relaxing and enjoying brighter days.
Gardens across North Sheffield are now firmly in focus. Lawns are being cut more regularly, flowerbeds are bursting into colour, and outdoor spaces are being reshaped for use rather than maintenance. Whether it’s small terraced gardens or larger suburban plots, residents are making the most of every inch — planting, pruning, and preparing for barbecues, gatherings and long summer evenings outside.
This shift in season also brings a wave of home improvement activity. Furniture stores across Sheffield see renewed interest as people look to upgrade both indoors and outdoors. Sofas and beds are refreshed for better comfort, while outdoor furniture becomes a priority — garden tables, loungers and seating areas designed to turn backyards into extensions of the home. The aim is simple: make life more comfortable, social and suited to the warmer months.
Cafés and pubs spill further onto pavements, parks become informal meeting points, and
evenings are no longer rushed but enjoyed. Even the simplest routines feel different — a walk after dinner, a drink in the garden, or a trip to a local green space becomes part of the rhythm of the season.
Late spring into early summer in North Sheffield isn’t just about weather. It’s about momentum. A quiet shift in how people live, use their homes, and connect with their surroundings — a reminder that the city, like its gardens and parks, is always ready to grow again.
Teacher Goes Viral For Turning Times Tables Into K-POP Hits
Learning times tables might not be the most thrilling part of the school day for primary pupils - so a Sheffield teacher has given maths lessons a musical twist, writes Grace Parnell for BBC Yorkshire.
Chris Walker, year five teacher at Ecclesfield Primary School, has set multiplication to K-pop hits, saying it was “absolutely crazy” to see his songs go viral.
Walker had the idea six years ago when he shared a Viking song on YouTube so children could practise at home ahead of an assembly. He said his K-pop times tables were having an impact on learning, with children “100%, absolutely” improving.
Nine-year-old Kelaine said: “He’s the one who made me love maths, because I love my times tables and listening to these songs.”
Her classmate Sidney, also nine, added: “If you play the actual song, you end up singing the times table song, because you just can’t get them out of your head.”
K-pop originated in South Korea and has evolved to a global phenomenon, thanks to the success of bands such as BTS and Blackpink and animated movie KPop Demon Hunters.
Walker has amassed millions of views on social media with followers in Indonesia, South America and the US as well as the UK.
“It just blew up,” he said. “I had four million views on my last Katseye one which was absolutely crazy.”
WOMAN DEAD AFTER CITY CENTRE SHOOTING
A woman has died following a shooting outside a Sheffield city centre bar during the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday.
Emergency services were called to West Street at around 2.45am after reports of a firearms incident outside One Four One bar.
A 30-year-old woman was found with serious injuries and was treated at the scene by police officers and paramedics before being taken to hospital, where she later died.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed three people have since been arrested in connection with the incident.
A 30-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were detained near Stockport in the early hours of Monday morning, while another 30-year-old man was arrested in Sheffield. All three remain in police custody for questioning.
While the woman has not yet been formally identified, officers say her family have been informed.
Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane said: “This is a devastating incident which has resulted in the death of a young woman while on a night out during the bank holiday weekend in Sheffield.”
He said officers would continue to maintain a significant police presence in the West Street area while enquiries continue.
ACC McFarlane said: “Now is not the time to stay silent.
“Bank holidays are one of the busiest times of the year, and we know that there were people in the area around West Street and Eldon Street who saw what happened or know who is responsible.”
South Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime Kilvinder Vigurs also appealed for information from the public.
She said: “Everything possible is being done to protect our communities.
“It is important that members of the community come forward with information to prevent innocent members of the public becoming victims of senseless violence of this nature.”
She added that people should be reassured South Yorkshire Police was “working at pace” to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
He said he wanted to make learning more memorable and engaging and to introduce more music into the classroom.
“What’s really nice is walking down the corridor and hearing the other classes singing it,” he said.
“Our year fours at the moment are getting ready for a big times table test - you hear them singing them all the time, and good luck to them.”
Walker said he had always played in bands and made music, and was always singing in the car on his way to work.
“If something comes to me, I’ll go home and turn it into a song and try it out at school,” he said.
Walker said being a primary school teacher was just “really, really fun”.
“You can get the children singing songs and you can do fun stuff like this, so that’s really nice,” he added.
He said there had been a big positive reaction from parents, and he thought it worked because it was “just another way of remembering times tables” rather than by repetition.
“Just having that tune in your head I think just helps you remember them,” he said, adding that music should be used in all schools.
“I think back to when I was at school and what I remember is songs and I can remember lyrics from years and years ago.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact South Yorkshire Police.
Pride of Yorkshire
Families across Sheffield are invited to unleash their creativity and explore The Moor this May as the Craft Workshop & Paw Trail arrives for a free fun-filled, charity-focused event.
Taking place on 28th and 29th May from 11am to 3pm, this exciting two-day event promises interactive activities, creative workshops, and a trail adventure designed to entertain children and families alike.
Get Creative with Craft Workshops
Children can take part in hands-on craft sessions where they’ll design their very own lion mask or create a unique Pride of Yorkshire
masterpiece. These workshops are perfect for sparking imagination and giving little ones something special to take home.
Follow the Paw Trail
Visitors can also join the Paw Trail, exploring The Moor to find hidden lion paw prints. Those who complete the trail will be in with a chance to win a prize, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.
Meet Scales & Tails
Adding to the experience, Scales & Tails will be hosting interactive reptile encounters, giving visitors the chance to get up close with fascinating creatures in a safe and engaging environment.
Supporting a Great Cause
The event will also be raising money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, helping to support the incredible work they do for children and families across the region.
This vibrant event is part of the Pride of Yorkshire celebrations and offers a perfect day out for families looking for free entertainment in the city centre.
For more information, visit: moorsheffield. co.uk
Photo Credit: BBC Yorkshire
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Sport
Penistone ladies relay success
Penistone Footpath Runners enjoyed an excellent week of racing, led by a superb category victory at the Rother Valley Relays.
The ladies over50 team of Rachael Mayston, Julia Johnson and Heather Simpson produced the standout club performance of the evening, winning their age group and leading a strong set of Penistone relay results.
There was further veteran success, with the men’s over60 team of Andrew Pearson, Robert Davies and John Howsham finishing second in their category.
The men’s over50 quartet of Martin Ball, Jonathan Bentley, Phil Hinchliffe and Matt Robinson also made the podium, placing third in their age group.
Penistone were well represented throughout the event, with Flynn Rogers, Sean Pitt, George Parr and Oliver France leading the senior men home, and Jade Crosby, Hannah Shaw and Josie Smith producing a strong run in the women’s race.
The club followed that with another excellent showing at the Silkstone Shuffle, the opening race in Howesy’s Harriers’ Hat-Trick series organised by Barnsley Harriers. Richard Cottam led the charge, finishing second overall in 27-26, while Sean Pitt was fourth in 29-16 and George Parr eighth in 29-56. Martin Ball claimed first over50 in 32-25, with Matthew Robinson close behind in 32-34, while Ian Neville added another category win by taking first over60 in 33-34.
The women also impressed, with Rachael Mayston first over50 in 36-13, Jade Crosby first senior woman outside the top three in 36-32, and Jemma Williams continuing her strong form with 36-55. Alex Crosby also earned unofficial family honours as “first Crosby” in 35-34.
Gemma Nutton produced one of the standout individual performances of the week at the Edinburgh Marathon, battling through heatwave conditions to finish in under four hours and record a huge 14-minute personal best. With runners struggling in the heat, Nutton adjusted her expectations and focused on get-
BOXALL SHUFFLES IN THE HEAT
Stocksbridge Running Club members have once again demonstrated their dedication and skill with impressive performances both on home turf and further afield this past week.
Locally, Nick Boxall and James Oldham took on the ever-popular Silkstone Shuffle—a picturesque 4.5mile trail race renowned for its challenging opening hill that certainly gets the legs pumping. With the course winding through scenic trails and both starting and finishing at the Silkstone Sports Pavilion, Boxall put in a fantastic run to finish in 35:06, while Oldham followed close behind with a strong time of 38:06.
ting safely to the finish, but still came home in an official chip time of 3-58-39.
She described the final 10K as especially tough, with trail sections, uphill running, a strong headwind and blistering heat all adding to the challenge.
The Edinburgh weekend also became a family affair, with three-year-old Rosa completing her first-ever race at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, clocking an official chip time of 7-30 for the 1K.
Dawn Broom enjoyed age-category success at the Egdon Easy MT 10K in Dorset. Returning to the event where she ran her first ever 10K, Broom finished 121st overall in 49-29, placing 19th female and first in the ladies over60 category.
On the fells, Penistone were represented at Totley Moor, where George Parr produced a fine run to finish ninth overall in 49-49. Damian Kilpin followed in 27th in 54-15, while Lesley Parker was fifth in the ladies over50 category in 1-08-34. Jill Scrivens and Mandy Mallinder also completed the challenging route.
At the Castleton Great Ridge Race, Brent Carlin led Penistone home in 27th place in 50-56. David Lovatt finished in 59-37, Rebecca Timms was fourth in the ladies over40 category in 61-42, Martyn Goodwin placed fifth in the men’s over60 category in 62-10, and Lesley Parker was fifth ladies over50 in 62-50.
At parkrun, 68 Penistone seniors represented the club across 24 venues. Richard Cottam took second place at Phoenix in 17-26, while Sean Pitt was second at Penistone in a personal best of 17-50 and Ashley Firth third in 17-52. Michael Walsh completed his 300th parkrun at Penistone, and Dawn Godley produced the run of the weekend with an 84.19% age grading, running a personal best of 24-27 at Endcliffe and finishing first over65. Other leading age-graded performances came from Richard Cottam (80.11%), Suzanne McGill (76.70%), Ian Neville (76.34%) and Sue Hall (75.59%).
Meanwhile, in Manchester on Sunday, club secretary Narni Fulford represented Stocksbridge at the ‘Mind the Lap’ event hosted by Phoenix Running. This unique race took place
alongside the tranquil River Mersey on a flat, lapped course. Undeterred by rising temperatures, Fulford completed 5 laps—covering an impressive 16.4 miles in 2:27:40—before the heat proved just too much to continue.
Congratulations to Nick, James, and Narni for flying the flag for Stocksbridge Running Club and showcasing the
club’s spirit and determination across a range of events. Stocksbridge Running Club continues to welcome runners of all abilities at their club run on a Monday evening.
GRAYSON BAGS
2ND PLACE ON THE COMEBACK TRAIL
High Green Harriers made a successful trip to the Silkstone Shuffle, a popular fixture in the local running calendar, on a very nice warm evening.
The race, which covers just over four miles, is notorious for its challenging opening. Runners faced a “horrendous” start involving a nearly two-mile ascent up a very long, steep hill, but were eventually rewarded with a long descent on the route back.
Grayson, who is coming back after a bad injury, bagged second female place. The successful outing concluded on a lovely Barnsley evening, where the running friends celebrated their efforts with cakes and blackcurrant juice.
Club stalwart Gordon Fiander was again amongst the winners, taking home the Male Vet 70 prize and adding more wine to his ever-growing collection. In the Women’s Vet 50 category, Jayne
TIGERS ROAR BACK ON DOUBLE RACE DAY
SHEFFIELD ended rivals Belle Vue’s unbeaten start to the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership campaign and claimed three league points on Bank Holiday Monday.
The Tigers missed an opportunity in Manchester on Monday afternoon as they slipped to a 50-40 defeat away to the Aces, despite racing into an early six point lead and despite their opponents tracking a patched-up side.
And whilst Belle Vue’s makeshift line-up again made the Steel City side work hard for it, the Tigers produced another super strong finish
at Owlerton to clinch the aggregate point in the very last race and a 54-36 win on the night.
Sheffield got off to the perfect start in front of their home supporters as Anders Rowe and Jack Holder combined for an opening 5-1 before five shared races followed.
The action sprung into life in Heat Seven as captain Josh Pickering flew around fellow Aussie Zach Cook at the end of lap three and with Jye Etheridge getting the better of Belle Vue guest Justin Sedgmen, the 4-2 extended the Tigers lead to six,
The visitors bounced back with a 4-2 of their own in Heat Eight before the hosts bagged another result of that scoreline from Leon Flint and Chris Holder.
That prompted a tactical substitute from Aces team manager Mark Lemon - but Jack Holder charged his way to the front on the opening lap with Belle Vue No.1 Brady Kurtz having to settle for second ahead of team-mate Cook.
Kurtz did lead a 4-2 to bring the gap back down to four going into the interval - but the Tigers came out fired up to produce yet another blistering finish on home shale.
Chris Holder and Etheridge delivered the maximum goods in Heat 12 before a wonderful opening lap from Jack Holder and Pickering secured a second successive 5-1 to secure the meeting win and also put them ahead on aggregate.
Flint and Etheridge then linked up for a 4-2 to put the Tigers in the driving seat for the extra point knowing they needed to avoid a 5-1 to disregard a Super Heat.
And whilst it was Kurtz who initially hit the front, there was no stopping Pickering and Jack Holder as the pair both came storming by the world No.2 as the latter secured an unbeaten paid maximum after a frustrating afternoon in Manchester.
Tigers team boss Simon Stead said: “We were disappointed not to take advantage of Belle Vue’s situation in the away meeting with them missing three of their regular line-up - but we headed back to Sheffield knowing we’d got an opportunity to put things right quickly.
“Fair play to Belle Vue and their patched-up team, they didn’t really give us any chance to pull away in the first three quarters or so of the meeting.
“But full credit to our lads who continued to get stuck in, they dug deep and came up with another big finish to earn us three league points which was the minimum requirement from us over the two meetings.
“It was another big crowd at Owlerton, the lads served up some outstanding passing moves and it’s another home win so we can’t ask for too much more really!”
Sheffield head to Leicester this Thursday (May 28, 7.30) as they await news on the fitness of Rising Star Luke Killeen who was withdrawn from the action in Manchester after aggravating a rib injury in Heat Eight.
ROWE MOTOR OIL PREMIERSHIP R1
BELLE VUE 50: Jaimon Lidsey 10+2, Brady Kurtz 10+1, Zach Cook 10, Kye Thomson 8, Tate Zischke 8, Justin Sedgmen 4+3, Will Cairns 0.
SHEFFIELD 40: Chris Holder 16, Josh Pickering 9, Jack Holder 4+1, Luke Killeen 4, Anders Rowe 3+1, Jye Etheridge 3, Leon Flint 1.
SHEFFIELD 54: Jack Holder 14+1, Josh Pickering 12+2, Leon Flint 9+1, Jye Etheridge 8, Chris Holder 6+2, Anders Rowe 5, Freddy Hodder 0.
BELLE VUE 36: Zach Cook 9+1, Brady Kurtz 8, Niels-Kristian Iversen 6+1, Kye Thomson 5, Tate Zischke 4+1, William Cairns 4+1, Justin Sedgmen 0.
Sheffield win the aggregate point 94-86.
PARAG’S KNOCK KEEPS 100% RECORD
Stocksbridge endured mixed fortunes across another busy weekend of cricket, with the 2nd XI and Stocksbridge Foxes celebrating impressive victories while the 1st XI were left frustrated after a dramatic collapse against Sheffield University Staff.
Sheffield University Staff 1st XI 146 all out (Josh Stevens 4-17, Jake Vickers 3-43)
Stocksbridge 1st XI 116 all out (Joe Hibbert 53, Jack Murfin 33)
The 1st XI travelled to Warminster Road looking to bounce back to winning ways and made the perfect start after skipper Andy Hirst elected to bowl first. Jake Vickers struck in the opening over before Andy Hibbert removed the other opener LBW as Stocksbridge quickly took control.
Josh Stevens then produced a superb spell, taking two wickets in his opening over to leave Uni Staff struggling. Tom Perry also chipped in with the key wicket of Choudhury for 32 just as the hosts were threatening to rebuild.
Despite some late resistance, Stocksbridge’s bowlers kept chipping away, with Stevens finishing as the standout per-
former with excellent figures of 4-17, while Vickers claimed 3-43 as Sheffield University Staff were bowled out for 146.
Stocksbridge’s reply got off to a difficult start at 12-2 before Jack Murfin and Joe Hibbert steadied the innings superbly. The pair looked in complete control during a fine partnership, with Hibbert striking an impressive half-century and Murfin adding 33 as the visitors cruised to 93-2.
However, the game turned dramatically as both set batters fell in quick succession. From a commanding position, Stocksbridge suffered a remarkable collapse, slumping from 93-2 to 116 all out as Tanveer ripped through the middle order with 6-38 to hand Uni Staff a 30-run victory.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI 162 all out (P Tawade 48, S Perry 34, J Pickford 26)
Rockingham Colliery 101 all out (R Cogger 4-27, J Musgrove 3-16)
There was better news at Bracken Moor where the unbeaten 2nd XI made it six wins from six with a convincing 61-run success over Rockingham Colliery.
After being asked to bat first, useful contributions from Steve Perry (34), Jon Pickford (26) and Parag Tawade, who top scored with 48, guided Stocksbridge to 162 all out after recovering from early setbacks.
Rockingham replied steadily and reached 69-2 before Stocksbridge’s spin attack took complete control. Rowan Cogger claimed 4-27 and Jack Musgrove added 3-16 during a devastating collapse which saw the visitors tumble to 89-9 before eventually being dismissed for 101.
Foxes’ Delight
Meanwhile, the Stocksbridge Foxes women’s softball side also enjoyed success with a 22-run victory away at Oughtibridge.
Excellent bowling from Amanda, who claimed two wickets, alongside disciplined spells from Cordelia and Fenella helped restrict the hosts to 269. The Foxes then responded confidently with strong batting contributions throughout the order as they finished on 291 to seal another encouraging team performance.
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Photo
Ian Revitt