The Mercury - Issue 1624

Page 1


Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

COUNCIL ISSUES WARNING ON VAPE BAN

The Council’s Trading Standards Team is highlighting the upcoming Government changes in the law banning the sale of single use vapes.

From 1 June 2025, it will be illegal for businesses to sell or supply, offer to sell or supply, or have in their possession for sale or supply all single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes. This applies to online sales and shops, and all vapes whether they contain nicotine or not.

Businesses will still be able to sell or supply reusable vapes.

The Trading Standards team is urging businesses to sell through existing stock before the changes come into force, to stop buying new stock of single use vapes and only buy vapes that meet the new regulations.

The team will continue to enforce the law around the sale of vapes and any business found in possession of vapes after this time may face fines of £200, and any single use vapes may be seized. Those who continue to break the law could also face an unlimited fine, up to 2 years in prison, or both.

Single use vapes that cannot be sold after 1 June must be disposed of by a registered vape recycling service. For advise on recycling vapes, visit https://www.gov. uk/guidance/single-usevapes-ban

“This is an important new law, and we welcome it in Sheffield. It will mean that the millions of single use vapes thrown away into

landfill or thrown away as litter every week will be off our streets. That can only be good for all of us in terms of improving our local environment.

“We will do everything we can to support businesses who need advice or who have questions about this new law so that they operate within the new rules.” - Councillor Joe Otten, Chair of Waste and Street Scene Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council

Disposable vapes are not only an environmental hazard due to the littering caused by people throwing disposable vapes away, but they also introduce harmful substances into the soil, rivers and streams, and cause harm to wildlife. They are also a fire risk if not disposed of correctly.

Vapes are an effective tool in helping adults to quit and those who smoke are encouraged to switch to reusable vapes and to access support services provided by Smokefree Sheffield. However, as vapes contain nicotine which is highly addictive, they are not recommended for use in children and young people there is increasing concern about the numbers of young people who are taking up vaping. Single use vapes are the most popular form of vape among young people.

Sheffield Trading Standards already enforce laws on illegal supplies of vapes across the city. Their work has led to a recent haul of 27,000 illegal vapes from a warehouse in the city. In addition, over the last

year the team has seized more than 8,632 illegal vapes from city retailers and have taken action against three businesses who were selling vapes to children, resulting in fines of £880 each for two businesses and £440 for one seller.

The Trading Standards Team works in partnership with teams across the council, including Public Health, Safeguarding and Licensing and external partners such as South Yorkshire Police and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Business Advisors can be contacted at Business Sheffield 0114 224 5000 or by email to businesssheffield@sheffield. gov.uk.

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PAUL WHITEHOUSE STARS AS DEL BOY & CO COME TO SHEFFIELD

comedy giant Paul Whitehouse is to reprise his West End starring role as the lovable Grandad in the UK and Ireland tour of the smash hit show only Fools and Horses The Musical, coming to Sheffield City Hall between 26-31 May 2025 for a massive eight shows!

Paul Whitehouse says

“We had four amazing years in the West End playing to packed out houses every night, so it’s an honour to take Only Fools on the road to towns and cities up and down the country from

September last year. I’m delighted to return to the role of Grandad once more – I’ve really missed him - and audiences will also get to see all the other hilarious characters they know and love from the television series live on stage at their local theatre. We can’t wait to see you. Mange Tout!

Mange Tout!”

Directed by the originating West End director Caroline Jay Ranger, and based on John Sullivan’s legendary record-breaking television show, this critically acclaimed home-grown

musical spectacular features cherished material from Britain’s best loved TV series. With a script and original score written by John’s son, Jim Sullivan and Paul Whitehouse, prepare to get reacquainted with Britain’s most lovable rogues and experience the classic comedy brought to life on stage through an ingenious script and 20 hilarious songs. This major UK and Ireland tour of Only Fools and Horses The Musical will feature Del Boy, Rodney, Grandad, Cassandra,

Raquel, Boycie, Marlene, Trigger, Denzil, Mickey Pearce, Mike the Barman, the Driscoll Brothers and all the gang. Further casting will be announced shortly.

Fans and critics alike praised Only Fools and Horses The Musical in their droves during its triumphant West End run: The Sun awarded five stars, hailing it “One Del of a show!”; the Daily Mirror said it was “a treat for Trotter fans” in their five-star review. The Sunday Times bestowed four stars and remarked that “Only Fools is a blast

21/5/2003 An earthquake hits northern Algeria killing more than 2,000 people.

22/5/1906 The Wright brothers are granted U.S. patent number 821,393 for their “Flying-Machine”.

23/5/1998 The Good Friday Agreement is accepted in a referendum in Northern Ireland with 75% voting yes.

24/5/1956 The first Eurovision Song Contest is

from our wide-boy past. A hearty stage adaptation of the 1980s BBC television comedy”. Evening Standard also awarded four stars, complimenting the “unashamedly British night out. A jubilant lovely jubbly!”. While the Daily Mail urged its readers to “raise a glass of ‘Tittinger’ to Del Boy and Rodney as Only Fools and Horses storms the West End!”

With musical contributions from the iconic Chas & Dave, the beloved theme tune as you’ve never heard it before, and an array of

across

7) Country festival (4)

8) Adversary (8)

9) Nap leather garment (5, 6)

11) Main performer (4)

12) Non-metal closure (5, 3)

13) South western county (8)

15) Proper (4)

16) There are back (5, 6)

18) Banquet perhaps (4, 4)

19) Water plant (4)

brand-new songs full of character and cockney charm, you’re guaranteed to have a right ol’ knees-up! Only Fools and Horses The Musical is a feel-good family celebration of traditional working-class London life in 1989 and the aspirations we all share. So don’t delay, get on the blower, and get a ticket for a truly cushty night out - only a 42 carat PLONKER would miss it!

Tickets are available now from the City Hall Box Office and sheffieldcityhall.co.uk

Crossword Clues

DoWN

1) Discount (9)

2) Chief (6)

3) Stock market indicator (3, 5, 5)

4) Gambling move (13)

5) Invisible (6)

6) Finish (3)

10) Two-tongued (9)

14) Sufficient (6)

15) Final wage (3, 3) 17) Gear tooth (3)

Last Week’s Solution

across: 7) Must, 8) Headlamp, 9) Receiver, 10) View, 11) Gorse, 13) Intrude, 15) Reverse, 17) Elude, 20) User, 21) Nail file, 23) Vestment, 24) Earn

DoWN: 1) Muse, 2) Stress, 3) Shave, 4) Gas ring, 5) Clover, 6) Embedded, 12) Overseen, 14) Asunder, 16) Egrets, 18) Lifter, 19) Tints, 22) Lure To sponsor our weekly Time Out page call our

held in Lugano, Switzerland.

25/5/240 BC First recorded perihelion passage of Halley’s Comet.

26/5/1969 Apollo program: Apollo 10 returns to Earth after a successful eight-day test of all the components needed for the forthcoming first manned moon landing.

27/5/1199 John is crowned King of England.

I don’t understand people who preserve four leaf clovers... They’re really pressing their luck.

I bought an Oasis GPS and now... ...all the roads I have to drive are winding.

A woman is on trial for beating her husband to death with his guitar collection. The judge asks her: “First offender?” She replies: “No. First a Gibson, then a Fender.”

I was in a restaurant in Paris and ordered the ‘Napoleon Chicken.’ When the dish arrived, I was surprised to find very little meat on it, and it was mainly carcass.

I asked the waiter why and he said: “We only use the Boneypart.”

What do you call bad breath that sneaks up on you?

Ninjavitis.

How does a flamenco dancer catch lots of fish. She castanets.

I bought a U2 GPS and it’s garbage. The streets have no name and I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.

My girlfriend just couldn’t accept my obsession with horoscopes. In the end it Taurus apart.

I told my wife she’d drawn her eyebrows too low. She just scowled at me.

1. Complete the following list of the 5Ws, : Who, What, When, Where, ?

2. Opened in 1937, which bridge held the title ‘longest suspension bridge in the world’ until 1964?

3. As of September 2017, in which country would you now find the world’s longest suspension bridge?

4. What colour is the rabbit that Alice follows down the rabbit hole in ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’?

5. Which Hollywood actor plays Botanist Mark Watney in Rudley Scott’s 2015 film The Martian?

6. Which ‘G’ is a hot spring which can shoot warm water into the air?

7. Which country won Gold in the women’s Volleyball competition at both the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympic Games?

8. The novel ‘The Sellout’ earned which American author the 2016 Man Booker Prize?

9. From which European country did the United States acquire the Louisiana territory in 1803?

10. According to a survey taken in 2016, which fruit sold most in the UK that year? Grapes or Strawberries?

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Living Area

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News, Information and Advice

summer heating advice

An expert is urging Brits to turn their boilers on this spring and summer to help them save thousands of pounds when colder months return.

While it may seem strange to switch the heating on during warmer months, he explains that this is the only way to know if there’s a problem that needs to be dealt with.

“Brits typically turn their heating off completely during the warmer months, a decision that could lead to repair bills of over £1,500 when systems fail in cold weather, as extended periods of inactivity can cause serious problems. Boilers left unused for months in a row are much more likely to develop faults when suddenly fired up in autumn. Just like a car that sits in the garage unused, heating systems need regular operation to stay in good working order. So, if you turn your boiler off in May and leave it off until September or October, you may have trouble bringing it back to life when you need it. This could affect your central heating, hot water for your shower, and even appliances such as your washing machine, as some can take hot water from the boiler.”

Boiler checks can take just minutes and could save you thousands of pounds

The expert explains that there’s nothing wrong with switching your boiler off when the weather starts warming up – after all, who doesn’t want to save energy and money. He advises, however, that you don’t leave it off for long periods of time.

“Boiler checks take just minutes but prevent major headaches. All you need to do is turn it on for an hour or so once every few weeks, and this will be enough to keep components moving and prevent seals from drying out when you need the system most,” observes the expert. The expert says this simple maintenance task also helps identify potential issues before they become emergencies. Finding a problem between June and August means you have time to fix it without freezing when the temperatures start dropping.

The cost implications of emergency winter repairs can be significant

for UK households.

Replacement parts for modern boilers often cost several hundred pounds, with major components sometimes exceeding £500 each. If a full boiler replacement is needed, the cost can rise above £1,000.

When emergency callout charges and labour are added, a single breakdown could end up costing between £1,500 and £2,000, or even more in complex cases.

Issues to keep an eye out for – and why you should get your boiler professionally serviced

Common problems with long-dormant boilers include seized pumps, blocked condensate pipes, and pressure issues that often appear only when systems are needed most.

The condensate pipe carries acidic water away from the boiler. During cold weather, this water can freeze if the pipe hasn’t been regularly cleared through use. This single issue is responsible for thousands of winter breakdowns every year.

The expert recommends having your boiler professionally serviced during warmer months, when heating engineers have more availability and often offer competitive rates. Summer servicing typically costs less than winter appointments and provides comprehensive checks that DIY maintenance can’t replace. Engineers will clean components, check gas pressures, and ensure everything is operating efficiently before the heating season begins.

He points out that this approach not only prevents breakdowns but improves energy efficiency. “A wellmaintained boiler uses less gas to produce the same heat output. Given current energy prices, the efficiency savings alone can cover the cost of summer servicing within months.”

Combi boilers and ‘summer mode’ can help you save money

If you rely on your boiler to heat your water, switching to combi boilers can be a good idea – they can be left on during the summer and not use any gas unless you need some hot water. All you need to do is set it to provide hot water when your household is most likely to need it, or simply turn it on an hour before you plan on using hot water.

residents to have say on local plan

Residents across Sheffield will be invited to have their say on the latest proposals for the Local Plan.

A six-week public consultation will be launched at the end of May and run until the middle of July with the responses being reviewed by independent Government Inspectors.

Proposed additional sites for development were approved by the Full Council on Wednesday 14th May and, together with sites already proposed by the Council, will see 38,000 new homes, 265 hectares of employment land and tens of thousands of new jobs created over the period of the plan up to 2039. Approval of the proposals allows the Local plan to progress to the next stage in the process which is a public consultation. Why do we need a Local Plan?

The plan, once adopted, will set out new standards for future development in Sheffield, such as higher environmental standards to reduce carbon emissions and better space standards for new homes. It will help the city deliver more affordable housing, support regeneration and new investment, preserve our heritage areas, and enable more coordinated delivery of infrastructure, including planning for future health and community services. Any site proposed within the Local Plan will have to pass several ‘golden rules’ before any housing can be built on it. These rules include sites having affordable housing included in them, 30% in the South, Southwest and Northwest of the city and 10% in all other areas, and new infrastructure must be delivered at the same time as the new homes and employment developments. Sites will also need good access to green spaces with developers expected to demonstrate an increase of 10% in biodiversity. Why parts of Sheffield’s Green Belt had to be considered?

In 2024, Independent

Government Inspectors held a series of public hearings looking into the detail of the Local Plan, which proposed continuing the Council’s Brownfield First policy, with the vast majority of all development on brownfield sites. It did not propose building on any greenfield Green Belt land. As a result of the hearings, the Council received a letter in February 2025 from the Inspectors asking for additional land to be found for a further 3,539 homes, above the 34,680 proposed, and an increase in employment land. The Inspectors accepted the Council’s rationale around the need to regenerate the urban areas and focus growth in the centre of Sheffield but also recognised that releasing some Green Belt land could help to meet a wider range of housing needs, including the need for affordable housing.

The Council has explored every option before considering the release of any Green Belt for development. However, it was determined that there are no more available brownfield sites left to allocate which means that in exceptional circumstances, a small number of green belt sites are being considered. The sites account for only 3.6% of the land currently allocated as green belt, which means that over 96% of the Green Belt will remain untouched and protected.

The public will now have a chance to have their say on the proposals. What happens next?

The public will be able to provide their views on the proposed new sites during the upcoming six-week consultation period (Thursday 29th May to Friday 11 July). All the consultation feedback will be considered by the Government Inspectors - the feedback will not come back to the Council again for consideration. More details about this consultation and how to get involved will be shared in due course. Those interested are asked to keep an eye on

social media for updates and where appropriate for them, attend inperson consultation events. There is also a mailing list that people can sign up to for information. Councillor Tom Hunt said “The Local Plan is a plan to ensure we have the homes and employment sites that the city needs, it’s a plan to ensure that new homes are supported by good local services, public transport and with access to green spaces. Without a Local Plan we are at risk of unplanned, speculative development. The vast majority of new development will be on brownfield land and having a Local Plan will provide better protection for our green spaces. It will also help the city to deliver more affordable housing, support regeneration of more brownfield land and bring in new investment. We now move to a really crucial part of the process, and I would urge everyone in the city to get involved in the sixweek public consultation. It’s a fundamental and important principle of our planning system that residents have their say and I encourage people to share their views. Later this year there will be a further round of public hearings, chaired by the independent Planning Inspectors, they will review all of the public submissions from the consultation before deciding on next steps.”

support available to victims of loan sharks

As part of national Stop Loan Sharks Week, City of Doncaster Council is highlighting the dangers of using illegal money lenders, while also promoting the trusted forms of assistance that are available to those who have been targeted by them.

City of Doncaster Council is highlighting the dangers of using illegal money lenders, while also promoting the trusted forms of assistance that are available to borrowers who have been targeted here, as part of a national awareness campaign.

Running from May 19 to May 26, Stop Loan Sharks Week is being coordinated by England’s Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT). Dedicated to both the identification and prosecution of illegal lenders — as well as to offering comprehensive support for those who have borrowed money from them — the IMLT was initially piloted in Birmingham back in 2004. Since then, it has grown into a reputable scheme that is run across the entire country. Its team of highly trained professionals (who collectively have experience in the police force, debt advice organisations, and various other relevant bodies) work closely in partnership with

local trading standards services, like the one run by City of Doncaster Council. Together, they investigate individuals who are suspected of improperly operating in the consumer credit market and also raise awareness of the telltale signs that can be used to spot them.

The theme of the 2025 campaign is “We’re Here Whenever You’re Ready”, with the emphasis being on promoting the compassionate, supportive approach that is taken whenever victims of illegal lending come forward to bravely report what is happening.

Speaking about this, Councillor Glyn Jones, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Housing and Safer Communities said: “We’re proud to work alongside the Illegal Money Lending Team to address this serious issue. Loan sharks prey on some of the most vulnerable people in our society and the impact of their crimes can be devastating; whether it’s by exacting a heavy toll on their victims’ mental health, using intimidation tactics to prevent them from seeking assistance, or getting them caught in a malicious cycle of further borrowing.

We understand that it can therefore be very

looked after families in the local communities of

Operating from branches in High Green and Sheffield Lane Top we

difficult, and takes a lot of courage, for people to come forward and report their experiences here.

“However, as part of both this national campaign and our continued efforts to make Doncaster feel safer, we want to offer reassurance to the people of our city that help is indeed out there for those who need it. You don’t have to suffer in silence and, by reaching out, can get access to confidential, nonjudgemental support.”

Hosted by Birmingham City Council, the Stop Loan Sharks team runs a dedicated, 24/7 helpline where trained staff are at hand to offer immediate support and guidance. This can be reached by calling 0300 555 2222. For those who don’t feel ready to speak on the phone, there are alternative ways of getting in touch. Victims can text 07860 022116, email reportaloanshark@ stoploansharks.gov. uk or visit www. stoploansharks.co.uk, where a reporting form and live text option are available.

More information can be found on the Your Life Doncaster Website. Meanwhile, specific advice and guidance about loan sharks can be found on the City of Doncaster Council website.

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THE LEADMILL FORCED TO LEAVE VENUE AFTER LOSING THEIR LATEST APPEAL

Sheffield’s iconic music venue described the news as a “heartbreaking moment” after announcing it must leave its premises following the rejection of its appeal against eviction.

The venue confirmed that it had lost its longstanding legal battle with landlord Electric Group and will need to vacate the building within three months. The Court of Appeal refused the venue’s request to challenge the initial ruling made in February. Electric Group, after winning the earlier case, stated that it would remain “a cornerstone of Sheffield’s live music scene.” The ongoing dispute between the venue’s management and Electric Group, which acquired the building in 2017, has spanned several years. In a statement issued after the hearing, The Leadmill expressed that the decision would lead to the loss of over 70 jobs and described it as feeling like “a betrayal of the cultural

fabric of our city.”

The venue’s team said, “This is a heartbreaking moment not just for us but for the entire Sheffield community. We’ve fought tirelessly to preserve this independent space that has supported countless artists, musicians, and creatives for more than four decades.”

They also emphasized their pride in their efforts and the community’s support, saying, “We walk forward with our heads held high, knowing we gave it our all.”

“In the coming weeks we will be hosting a series of farewell events and celebrations, providing supporters a final chance to experience the venue in its original home. Details will be announced shortly. While The Leadmill’s future at its current location may be coming to a close, we vow to continue fighting for independent music and culture in Sheffield.”

“We want to reassure everyone who

has purchased tickets for upcoming events: there is no immediate change to our schedule. We have plans in place to continue our programme of events at other venues across the city and will be in touch with all ticket holders in due course. All tickets remain valid and we are committed to ensuring clear communication and a smooth transition for every event. “

“We are devastated, but not defeated. This is not the end of The Leadmill’s spirit - it’s a call to action for everyone who believes in the importance of independent culture. We will regroup, rebuild and continue.”

Since opening in 1980, The Leadmill has hosted legendary acts such as Pulp, Coldplay, The Stone Roses, and Oasis. The venue’s significance has been recognized with a social media campaign—#WeCantLoseLeadmill— and support from prominent musicians who have pledged their backing.

& Stuart Welcome you to

tuesday 27th may 9pm trevor allen’s open mic night thursday 22nd may weightwatchers Friday 23rd may - 8pm quiz & open the BoX every wednesday - Free pool From 4pm!

sunday 25th may • karaoke

The Licensing Act 2003 (Premises and Club Premises Certificates) Regulations 2005 Notice is hereby given that We: EPWORTH MEADOWS LTD

Have made an application under Section 17 Part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises known as UNITS 5 AND 6 MERCHANTS COURT, 43 MOWbRAY STREET, SHEFFIELD S3 8EN

We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities:

1. OPENING HOURS;

2. THE PLAYING OF RECORDED MUSIC

3. THE SALE BY RETAIL OF ALCOHOL FOR CONSUMPTION ON AND OFF THE PREMISES

MONDAY - SUNDAY 08:00 - 23:30

4. THE PLAYING OF LIVE MUSIC

5. PERFORMANCES OF PLAYS AND DANCE

6. THE PLAYING OF FILMS

7. INDOOR SPORTING EVENTS

MONDAY - SUNDAY 10:00 - 23:00

Interested parties or responsible authorities can make representations to the Licensing Service at any time up to 30th JUNE 2025.

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensingforesidents

For full details and to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is unlimited.

Dated this 14th May 2025

The Licensing Act 2003

(Premises and Club Premises Certificates) Regulations 2005

Notice is hereby given that We: LETTERbOx GIFTS LTD

Have made an application under Section 17

Part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises known as UNIT 1, 76-136 EDMUND ROAD, SHEFFIELD, S24EE

We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities:

Sale by retail of alcohol from the premises for ONLINE sales only:

Monday - Sunday 00:00 - 24:00

24 hours per day, 365 days per year

Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to The Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 11th June 2025

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details & to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service. Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is unlimited.

THE LOFT, KELHAM

Have made an application under Section 34 of the Licensing Act 2003 to vary a Premises Licence for the Premises known as THE LOFT, PROSPECT HOUSE, 25 ALMA STREET, SHEFFIELD, S3 8SA

The details of the variation are as follows:

To EXTEND the opening hours for licensable activities to 12:00 - 23.30 on Saturdays

Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to Licensing Section, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 11th June 2025

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details and to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing General Section. Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield. gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for this offence is unlimited

TUESDAY

Coronation Street:

In intensive care, Lisa learns that Craig has swelling on the brain and when he regains consciousness, he tells Asha that he knows what happened to him. But as Jess tries to question him, his condition deteriorates. When Lisa takes a call from Jess from the hospital, she’s desperate for any news on Craig. But what will she make of the news they deliver?

Sarah lets herself into her flat but is unaware that Mick has followed her in. On barren wasteground, a desperate Bernie tells Mick Michaelis that if he thinks he can use her as a bargaining chip then he’s mistaken, as Kit doesn’t give a stuff about her. Mick sneers at her before getting Kit on the phone and summoning him, making it clear he’s to come alone. After a traumatic day, Lisa pluck up the courage and finally tells Carla that she’s determined to grab happiness where she can. What does she have in mind?

Emmerdale:

Having heard that Aidan has woken from his coma, John Sugden is terrified. What will Aidan remember about their past? Is his former fiancé about to spill some terrible secrets? In the wake of the catastrophic slurry leak, fraught Moira discusses the fate of the farm with Cain, admitting that she’s ready to jack it all in. Belle discovers that Nate never made it to Shetland where he’d been given a job on a wind farm. Having been told she might have cancer, Sarah’s struggling to cope. Mack and Ross come up with a new plan to boost their stash of stolen cannabis plants.

Eastenders:

Lauren is determined to get baby Jimmy examined at the hospital. The Consultant examines Jimmy and reveals a devastating diagnosis: Lauren and Peter’s new son is severely sight impaired... The couple share an emotional moment as Lauren tries to convince Peter that things are going to be alright despite their baby son Jimmy’s devastating medical diagnosis. Stacey leaves the house for the first time in weeks. Then she announces plans for a big family meal. But Kat becomes concerned that Stacey is trying to do too much, too soon.

MERCURYH LIDAYS

luxury

Fully

FOOTBALLR UNDUP

Follow Your Local Team Every Week In The Mercury Follow Your Local Team Every Week In The Mercury

Kieffer Moore expressed confidence in Sheffield United’s chances of winning the Championship play-off final, emphasizing the importance of replicating their semifinal performance.

Moore scored the opening goal in the second leg at Bramall Lane, which helped

Doncaster Rovers are delighted to confirm the arrival of midfielder Robbie Gotts as the first signing following promotion to Sky Bet League One. The 25-year-old has agreed a two-year deal with the option of an additional 12 months, with the contract coming into affect on July 1, subject to approval.

“I think it’s the perfect fit for me,” Gotts said. “I’ve

Anderson to leAve rovers

settle the team’s nerves following Bristol City’s energetic start. Following the match, Moore praised the team’s collective effort and the atmosphere, stating, “It was perfect - to a man, everyone was brilliant and the crowd was amazing. The whole atmosphere was unreal.” He highlighted

that the team’s first goal allowed them to showcase their best football and described their performance as professional. Moore also shared his excitement about reaching Wembley this Saturday, saying,

“We’re very much buzzing and looking forward to Wembley now. We’ve really shown

what we can do over these last two games. If we can bring that and more, we’ve a very good chance.”

Regarding his injury, Moore mentioned he jarred his knee after an awkward landing in the first half but assured that it wasn’t too serious, having been treated and withdrawn after an hour.

The Owls are pleased to announce that the club have once again been awarded Family Excellence status.

The award reflects our continued commitment to the engagement of families and future generations of Wednesdayites.

EFL clubs received two visits from family assessors across the season who evaluate the matchday experience for

families.

The assessment ranges from purchasing tickets right through to the moment families leave the stadium on matchday.

Assessors consider the quality of matchday activations and experience, accessibility and facilities and social media engagement with families and young supporters.

A record number of

clubs, including the Owls, have achieved the Family Excellence award this term.

EFL Chief Executive Officer Trevor Birch said:

“We are incredibly proud of the effort all our clubs put in to ensure the matchday experience is a welcoming and enjoyable one for all families.

“To see more clubs than ever before receive Family Excellence

recognition is testament to the unforgettable day out our clubs work hard to deliver for families up and down the country.

“The scheme is designed to support clubs and we have seen it help them to expand their ever-growing fanbases and attract the next generation of supporters.”

had talks with the gaffer and as soon as I spoke with him, it sounded perfect.

“I’m really excited about what they’re looking at doing here. It’s all happened really quickly which I’m thankful for. I’m really happy.”

Harrogate-born Gotts rose to attention as he came through the ranks at Leeds United, being named Academy player of the year and receiving high praise from then-

Rovers can also confirm that Tom Anderson has rejected the opportunity to sign a new contract and has departed the club. The centre half was offered a new twoyear deal with the option of an additional 12 months following

manager Marcelo Bielsa after working up to first team level.

He joined Barrow in 2021 and went on to make almost 170 appearances for the Cumbrian outfit. He arrives at Rovers following another impressive individual campaign and claimed the Fans’, Players’ and Supporters’ Club Player of the Year awards at Barrow.

Manager Grant McCann

the conclusion of the season but has opted to join a club in Sky Bet League Two.

Anderson was Rovers’ longest serving player having joined the club in 2018, initially on loan from boyhood club Burnley. He departs having made 251

said: “I’m delighted. Robbie is a player we’ve kept an eye on for a few years.

“He’s been excellent at Barrow with what he has brought to that team and I’ve been a big admirer of him - his energy, him as a person, his bite, his aggression to get after the ball and use it, and his ability to create and score goals.

“He’s going to be a massive help for us next season.”

appearances for Rovers, including starting the final 11 matches of the season on the run to the League Two title.

Rovers thanked Tom for his tremendous service to the club and wish both him and his family the very best for the future.

The Owls have confirmed their retained list following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season. Barry Bannan, Akin Famewo and Callum Paterson have been

Rotherham United boss Matt Hamshaw has confirmed that versatile operator Hakeem Odoffin will end his four-year stay at AESSEAL New York Stadium when his current deal expires this summer.

The news comes despite considerable efforts by both Hamshaw and the club to offer the fans’ favourite a new, improved contract in South Yorkshire but with an understanding from both parties of the player’s desire to pursue a new challenge.

offered new contracts, while Wednesday have exercised options to retain Anthony Musaba, Michael Smith and Josh Windass.

Stuart Armstrong, Ben Hamer, Ryo Hatsuse,

played a pivotal role in the Millers retaining their second tier status in 2022/23 – aiding that mission with the strike which kept them up against Middlesbrough.

Although it is with a heavy heart that we announce Haks’ decision to seek a new challenge at this stage of his career, we do so whilst being respectful of his decision and the fact that he has informed us in a timely manner to focus our recruitment efforts elsewhere.

Michael Ihiekwe, Marvin Johnson, Pol Valentin and Mallik Wilks are released following the expiry of their current contracts.

Loanees James Beadle, Ibrahim Cissoko and

we can rest assured that we tabled an offer and negotiated to a point which we felt as a football club represented how highly we think of Haks. A player of his talents will understandably have enticing offers elsewhere and his performances have been so good for a long time now that we absolutely don’t begrudge him whichever opportunity he decides to pursue.

Shea Charles return to their parent clubs.

The Owls have thanked thank all departing players for their services and we wish them the very best for the future.

while we saw a big future for Haks here, he leaves the club with our sincere best wishes for whatever comes next.

“We’re grateful too, that he has informed us of his decision early and been honest and transparent with us throughout the process.

FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL TEAM IN THE MERCURY

Odoffin made in excess of 100 appearances in Millers colours after arriving at the club from Hamilton Academical and garnered popularity for his committed approach to his work both on the pitch and in the community.

The now 27-year-old has tasted successes with Rotherham United including promotion from Sky Bet League One in a season during which the club were also crowned the Papa Johns Trophy champions, before he

Millers boss Hamshaw, who has made no secret of the fact that he was keen to continue working with the popular anchor man for the foreseeable future, said:

“We’re really disappointed that Haks sees his future away from Rotherham United, but we also understand it for all the reasons he has detailed in the many discussions we have had about his future.

“With the Chairman’s backing and his own desire to try and retain the player’s services,

“He has been first class for this football club both as a player and an ambassador in the community and I am 100% confident that you won’t find anybody who has encountered him throughout the last four years that says otherwise.

“Haks has been as big a champion in the community as he has a winner on the pitch.

“On behalf of all the players he has played alongside and the staff and supporters that he has represented, I want to say a huge thank you to him.

“I want to make it explicitly clear that

“The ruthless world of football means that as a manager and with the help of Rob Scott and his recruitment team, we now have to focus our attentions on the next target, but it is only through Haks’ authenticity that we are able to do that.

“It’s obviously not the outcome we would have liked, but I am really keen to keep our supporters in the loop as to where we’re at both on and off the pitch. I’ve always believed that honesty is the best policy and I’ll be doing everything I can to be transparent with the fans so that we are all singing from the same hymn sheet moving forwards.”

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