Cllr Safiya Saeed has been inaugurated as the new Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Sheffield at Sheffield City Council’s Annual General Meeting. Attendees in the chamber included Safiya’s proud family who travelled all the way from her home country of Somaliland in support of her new role. During her time as a councillor, Safiya has held a number of positions and gained a broad range of experience. Over her career as a councillor, Safiya has taken on a number of important roles including Deputy Lord Mayor and Chair of the North East Local Area Committee. As a single mother of five wonderful children,
she has learned firsthand the importance of nurturing a supportive environment for the next generation, making this a core part of her work with Reach Up Youth, which is rooted in ensuring that young people in our community have the opportunities, guidance, and safe spaces they need to thrive.
A significant part of Safiya’s journey has been as the founder of Reach Up Youth, a vibrant initiative dedicated to empowering young people, particularly those from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds. Beyond Safiya’s community work, her hobbies including a love for travelling, connecting
with friends, and socializing. Her passions also lie with continuously learning, often attending workshops and networking events to broadening her horizons and bring fresh ideas back to the community. She said on her inauguration “I stand before you today in great pride and joy, it is more than an honour, I am honoured to be the first black woman wearing a hijab to take this role. Today, this gives me the platform to grow and give back to my community. I came to Sheffield in 1985, and this city has truly become my home – a place where I have always felt I belonged.”
Safiya’s theme for
the year is centered around what she loves most: networking and connecting people. She aims to turn Sheffield into a thriving hub where investors, entrepreneurs, charities, and residents can build partnerships and support each other, looking to gather Sheffield’s stories, amplify its voices, and proudly represent the spirit of our city. By
developing these connections, Safiya hopes to build a future of
and
Lord Mayor Safiya Saeed finished her acceptance speech: “I want every voice, no matter how quiet, to feel heard in the heart of this city.”
Simply
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COME ALONg AND ENjOY THE 21ST BAkEWELL DAY OF DANCE!
Bakewell is excited to be holding the 21st Day of Dance on saturday 28 June, filling the beautiful town again with music and dance from around the world.
Well Heeled Appalachian Dancers continue to host this event which draws so many people into the town and gives Bakewell a real buzz. It has been described as the best event ever held in the town.
It is a day not to miss - it heralds the start of Bakewell Carnival Week, has the monthly Farmers Market and there are
local well dressings on show. So join the several thousand people who travel from around the country to enjoy the dancing, colourful costumes and lively atmosphere.
This year there will again be over 30 groups displaying dance styles from around the world at six outdoor venues from 11.00am to 4.30pm. Come and watch the displays, then join in and have a go!
They are delighted to welcome back a group of Latvian dancers who last performed here in 2016.
They are also thrilled that Ardantzeta Dantza Taldea, a dance group, all the way from Pamplona in Spain, are performing here on the Day as part of their UK tour. On Broadway will be bringing lively upbeat dances from Hollywood shows; Well Heeled will display a more traditional style from the Appalachian Mountains and the very colourful Indian Beats will perform Classical and Indian Folk dances. The exuberant Jose Oliva is back with his Feel it and Dance group who are performing a selection of
Latin dances including, Salsa, Bachata and Meringue. The Belrobics and Ballroom will be on offer along with a taste of Salsa in a circle from the Rueda Academy. Rock and Roll will be provided by the fun loving Hopfrogs Dance School. Old favourites such as Black Pig Border Morris are performing and Timberline Steve who has drawn in the crowds for years comes with his precision line dancing group. To add to the colour of the whole day, traditional British dances will be well represented
04/6/20012 The Diamond Jubilee Concert was held outside Buckingham Palace.
05/6/1977 The Apple II, one of the first personal computers, goes on sale.
06/6/1984 Tetris, one of the best-selling video games of all-time, is released.
07/6/1982 Priscilla Presley opens Graceland to the public.
with plenty of Morris and clog dancing. Back again are Sheffield Steel Rappers, a young female team who will impress you with their acrobatic style and precision footwork, Derby Tappers and The Silver Swans, an adult ballet group from Matlock are making a welcome return after their first very successful visit last year. There will be something for everyone! Bakewell Day of Dance is very much a community event involving local groups and interests. There will be opportunities to join
across
7) Immature (8)
8) Far off (4)
9) Flat fish (5)
10) Commissioned serviceman (7)
11) Cut throat (5)
13) Cover (7)
16) Foot holder (7)
17) As yet (5)
18) Obligatory payment (7)
20) Sailing boat (5)
23) Canteen (4)
24) Physical jerks (8)
in and learn a few basics of the individual dances or you can just relax and enjoy the performances. The outdoor venues are all free! Don’t be put off if it rains as there will be an alternative wet weather programme in Bakewell Town Hall from 12.00 pm. For more information, visit wwwbakewelldayofdance and our Facebook page: Bakewell International Day of Dance.
Crossword Clues
DoWN
1) Boar’s tooth (4)
2) Neighbour’s home (4, 4)
3) Outfit (3)
4) Prosperity (7)
5) Hireable conveyance (4)
6) Goodbye (8)
12) Lawyer (8) 14) Meagre allowance (8)
15) Cattle thief (7) 19) Foundation (4) 21) Quiet (4) 22) Church seat (3)
Last Week’s Solution across: 7) Data, 8) Instinct, 9) Rib, 10) Tune, 11) Diet, 13) Thread, 14) Supper, 15) Credit, 18) Grease, 20) Arch, 21) Prim, 22) Law, 24) Stand out, 25) Amok DoWN: 1) Lavish, 2) Dab, 3) Liquid, 4) Assess, 5) Big dipper, 6) Scheme, 12) Lend a hand, 16) Rarity, 17) Top dog, 18) Guilty, 19) Stay on, 23) Wad To sponsor our weekly Time Out page call our Sales Team on 0114 276
08/6/1042 Edward the Confessor becomes King, one of the last Anglo-Saxon kings of England.
09/6/1924 In the second attempt to climb Mount Everest, George Mallory and Andrew “Sandy” Irvine disappear, possibly having first made it to the top.
10/6/1829 The first Boat Race between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge takes place.
A man tried to sell me a coffin today... I said: “That’s the last thing I need.”
My ex left me because, according to her, I’ll never amount to anything. 15 years later, I have one thing to say to her. Lucky guess.
I threw a party for all the workers who helped build my house. The door guy showed up late... ...but he really knew how to make an entrance.
I asked my wife to rate my listening skills and she said, “You’re an 8 on a scale of 10.” I still don’t get why she wanted me to urinate on a skeleton.
I just saw my wife walk by with her sexiest underwear on, which can only mean one thing. It’s laundry day.
Why doesn’t any man need more than one rooster?
A cock a dude’ll do.
Man: “Doctor I feel like a supermarket” Doctor: “How long have you felt like this?” Man: “Ever since I was Lidl.”
I recently took an airline to court after my luggage didn’t turn up... I lost my case.
I quit my job as a mailman when they handed me the first letter to deliver. I looked at it and thought: “This isn’t for me.”
1. In which country did the sport of Badminton originate?
2. In the British Honours System, which award is higher in ranking? The Victoria Cross or the George Cross?
3. In which year did the USA enter World War II?
4. In Scrabble, how many points is the letter K worth?
5. True or false, Swede Anders Celsius invented the Celsius temperate scale?
6. The Duffer Brothers created which Netflix series starring Winona Ryder and Finn Wolfhard?
7. St Anthony of Padua is the patron saint of what?
8. How many feet are in a fathom?
9. Which British theoretical physicist and author who died in 2018 said ‘Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet’?
10. Prue Leith, Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood serve as judges on which British TV show
1
Fully Equipped
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News, Information and Advice
south yorks music hub
Thousands of children and young people across South Yorkshire will be supported in developing their talent and excitement for music, as the South Yorkshire Music Hub (SYMH) takes another step forward with the announcement of its Lead Schools.
A total of nine schools across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield will support the SYMH, which was formed by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and the four local Music Hubs to lead a South Yorkshire approach to developing music education.
Led by SYMCA and funded by Arts Council England (ACE), SYMH is part of an ambitious national programme to provide high-quality music education for all children and young people and to give them more opportunity to learn a musical instrument and develop a love of music.
The nine South Yorkshire SYMH Lead schools for the 2025/26 academic year are:
(supporting special schools across South Yorkshire)
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “From Pulp to Self Esteem, Yungblud to the Arctic Monkeys, South Yorkshire’s musical talent punches above its weight. It’s so important to keep nurturing that talent. That’s why I’m so excited to see our South Yorkshire Music Hub take its next steps in announcing the nine Lead Schools for
South Yorkshire, whose job will be to inspire a love and talent for music at an early age. Singing, learning to read music and playing an instrument are all skills that help make our lives richer; both for those who learn and those who listen. These new Lead Schools will help even more hugely talented, committed and inspiring children get and give joy through the music that they make.”
Lead schools will support other schools in their area by establishing local networks at the start of the next academic year. In partnership with the SYMH they will also:
• Arrange and host CPD opportunities and events
• Foster and develop a culture of sharing resources
• Support schools to develop their School Music Development Plan (SMDP)
• Support Key Stage 4/5 accreditation for secondary schools
• Collaborate with the Music Hub on its annual music education conference
As active members of the South Yorkshire Music Hub Board, they will share their expertise and information on provision gaps to ensure the voice of schools is heard as they contribute strategically to the Board’s future plans. The creation of the South Yorkshire Music Hub is part of a major investment in a new generation of the nationwide network of Music Hubs. This investment will help to deliver the Government’s National Plan for Music Education and give all children and young people the opportunity to develop their musical interests as far as they wish, including helping them to begin careers in the music industry. More information about the South Yorkshire Music Hub is available at: https://www. southyorkshire-ca.gov. uk/sy-music-hub
radar keys on platforms
Customers travelling with Northern can now ask members of staff for a Radar key if they need it to use an accessible toilet.
The train operator is providing thousands of conductors and station staff across the North of England with the keys. Customers can use them to open more than 10,000 accessible toilets across the UK, including ones in various railway stations. Northern is hoping the initiative will make it easier for people with disabilities and limited mobility to travel by train.
Mark Cutter came up with the idea to make the keys more readily available.
He chairs Northern’s Accessibility User Group (NAUG), which represents people with a range of disabilities.
“I have always made sure I have a spare key on me, because so often people can find themselves searching an entire station to find the one member of staff who has the key,” he said. “By giving Radar keys to customer-facing staff, Northern is reducing barriers to access for everyone who needs to use the accessible toilet facilities.”
After sending the Radar keys out to depots and stations, Northern is now encouraging staff to take one with them on each shift so they can offer it to a customer who needs it. They are also being provided with sunflower lanyards which they can give out to customers. The lanyards are worn by people who want to let others know they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent and may need a helping hand.
Alex Hornby, Northern’s commercial and customer director, said:
“We’re working hard to make it easier for everyone to travel across our vast network, and to ensure taking the train is as comfortable and trouble-free as possible.
Our conductors and station teams are always on hand to provide
single-use vapes warning
Councils are warning vapers of the potentially life-threatening dangers of stockpiling disposable vapes as the ban came into force on 1st June. It comes amid concerns some people are stocking up on single-use vapes before they are banned for sale.
consultation showing overwhelming support for restricting their sale and supply. Disposable vapes are a hazard for waste and litter collection and cause fires in bin lorries.
assistance and support to people who are travelling with us. We would always encourage our customers to ask if they need any help throughout their journey. This commonsense initiative is another example of the great work of our NAUG team of experts, and us ensuring that we capture such useful feedback that can drive accessibility improvements across our network.”
It comes after new facilities designed to give disabled customers the confidence to travel by train were installed at dozens of stations run by Northern.
Passenger Assistance Points have been introduced over the last year at 31 stations. Each point is located close to the ticket office, where customers should check in first. They are then invited to take a seat in the designated area so a member of staff can meet them when it is time to go for the train.
As part of a trial, another nine Meeting Points have been installed at unstaffed stations, including Headingley and Hornbeam Park.
Disabled customers can wait in the marked area so they can be seen by a conductor when a train arrives and then be offered assistance.
Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,650 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.
Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with nearly 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.
In total, more than 100 million passenger journeys are made on our network each year and we employ more than 7,000 people across the length and breadth of our network.
Our vision is to make a positive impact for the North, in all we do and for all we serve.
Our purpose is to get customers to where they need to be, safely, affordably and on time.
According to new research, 82 per cent of disposable vape users are planning to stockpile ahead of the ban. People wishing to get rid of their disposable vapes can return the products to the place of purchase. Shops selling vapes are required to offer a “take back” service where they accept vapes and vape parts that customers return for recycling, including single-use vapes returned after the ban has come into force.
High street shops and convenience stores are also reminded they risk being fined if they do not comply with the ban.
The LGA, which represents councils and fire and rescue authorities, warns the lithium batteries contained inside disposable vapes, could cause a fire and risk to life if not stored correctly.
From Sunday 1 June, it will be illegal for businesses to sell or supply, or have in their possession for sale all single-use or disposable vapes.
The LGA led calls for a ban two years ago due to environmental and health concerns.
Legislation for a ban was laid in Parliament last year, with a government
Single use vapes are designed as one unit so batteries cannot be separated from the plastic, making them almost impossible to recycle without going through special treatment
The lithium batteries inside the plastic can sharply increase in temperature if crushed and can become flammable.
This comes at a cost to the council taxpayer through fire damage to equipment and the specialist treatment needed to deal with hazardous waste.
Councils are also concerned about the appeal of disposable vapes to children and young people, and the risk of nicotine addiction.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, said “With 8.2 million vapes now thrown away, or recycled incorrectly, every week, single use vapes blight our streets as litter, are a hazard in our bin lorries, and are expensive and difficult to deal with in our recycling centres. We want to remind businesses to ensure all remaining stocks of disposable vapes are sold, and only buying vapes that follow the new regulations.”
oddfellows news release
Friendship group, South Yorkshire Oddfellows is inspiring local retirees to give their retirement a ‘glow-up’ by switching from a ‘To Do’ to a ‘To Be’ mindset.
The Society, made up of over 700 mostly older and retired members, says it’s easy to get stuck in a rut once initial ‘things to do’ lists are ticked off. But retirees shouldn’t miss out on living a more fulfilling and authentic life, explaining how its regular events held aroundSouth Yorks are great ways to get a retirement that glows. This message is backed by ‘Doctor of Happiness’ Dr Andy Cope, who has spent two decades studying the science of positive psychology. He explained: “With retirement, you can fall into the trap of only creating ‘To Do’ lists and they are often quite mundane tasks. But if you make the switch to asking yourself what you want ‘To Be’ today, it’s incredibly powerful and rewarding.” Dr Cope added: “Everyone’s ‘To Be’ list is different. Thinking about what kind of person you want to be gives you focus. For example, if you want to be a nice person, then you need to be kind, compassionate and
First established in 1865, Eric Eyre has personally looked after families in the local communities of
and Rotherham since
Operating from branches in High Green and Sheffield Lane Top we
present for those around you. If you want to be more adventurous, spend the day focusing on being curious and bold.” Social Events Organiser for South Yorkshire Oddfellows, Julie Davis, added: “Our local friendship group is here to help you explore what’s possible in retirement – at your own pace and in your own way. You’ll find friendly faces, interesting events, chances to volunteer, and group holidays to look forward to. No matter what you need to help you flourish, we can help you glow in retirement.” South Yorkshire Oddfellows has a busy schedule of events planned for the summer months. These include a visit to Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster on Thursday 12th June (£25.00 per person), a day trip to Cleethorpes on Thursday 19th June (£17.00 members, £23.00 guests), and Alpaca Trekking in Tickhill, Doncaster on Friday 27th June, £25.00 per person, to name just a few! To find out more about South Yorkshire Oddfellows and its upcoming events, get in touch with Julie Davis on Julie.Davis@oddfellows. co.uk or call 01709 838673.
We’re not asking you to swim the channel.
A simple bake sale will do nicely.
Raising money for those experiencing homelessness is just as important in the summer as it is in the depths of winter. This summer, if you can help raise funds, please scan the QR code. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Charity number: 1064818
A Lincolnshire holiday park offering holiday cottages, touring, camping and caravan holidays near Skegness. Relax, unwind and escape to the country with a stay at our Lincolnshire holiday park. Set in 14 acres of countryside, we offer a range of accommodation options, including static caravans, holiday cottages, touring and camping pitches - so there’s something for all tastes and budgets.
Chalk Lane, Burgh Le Marsh, Skegness PE24 5HN
The Fringe at Tramlines returns to Sheffield city centre from 25 to 27 July, offering a packed weekend of music, DJs and culture across more than 40 venues.
Supported by Sheffield BID, Sheffield City Council and Tramlines Festival, The Fringe has become one of the most important and accessible events in the city’s cultural calendar. In 2024, the event attracted over 45,000 people and generated an estimated Ј1.86 million for the local economy.
The Fringe Stage at Devonshire Green, the centrepiece for the event, is programmed by Tramlines co-founder, Alan Deadman (aka Papa Al). Devonshire Green offers a place for audiences of all ages to meet, dance and enjoy the weekend’s atmosphere.
The stage is headlined on Saturday 26th July by Fringe favourites
Jungle Lion who return with their full ska orchestra, while Sunday’s headline set comes from reggae pioneer Macka B and the Roots Ragga Band.
Alongside many other acts performing will be Ed Sheeransupported artists from Tracks music project.
Headliner Macka B is a legend of the UK reggae scene whose career spans four decades. Known for his conscious lyrics, witty wordplay and deep roots in Rastafarian culture, he has built a following that crosses generations. In recent years, Macka B has also become a viral figure on social media, where his freestyle series promoting healthy eating have gained millions of views. Tracks like ‘Cucumba’ have been shared by global stars including Alicia Keys and Naomi Campbell. His appearance in
Sheffield will celebrate 40 years since the release of his first record.
Papa Al said, ‘Macka B is an inspirational performer who mixed ska, reggae and ragga. He has a big following in Sheffield and we can’t wait for this totally free performance for people of all ages and backgrounds in the heart of the city.’
Saturday’s line up also includes Shanghai Treason, The Tivolis (selected by WaterBear Music College), Blue Street Brass and Highway Child, with DJ sets from DJ Myna, DJ Kom and DJ Issa Dancer. Sunday’s programme features Soul Battalion, an authentic dance showcase from Ripton Lindsey, and performances from Tracks, a Sheffield music development project for 14 to 25 year olds. Run by Sheffield Music School, Following a visit to Tracks
in 2024, Ed Sheeran appeared in Sheffield city centre last weekend for an impromptu performance alongside the young talents from Tracks and acclaimed rapper, JME. Papa Al will also perform throughout the weekend with his trademark global selections.
The Devonshire Green stage is just one part of a much wider weekend of events taking place across Sheffield’s pubs, bars, shops and public spaces.
New venues joining the Fringe for 2025 include Department, formerly Kommune, and a large event hosted in New Era Square. Organisers are encouraging anyone planning a Fringe event to submit their listings to the official website via Welcome to Sheffield.
Diane Jarvis, Head of Business Operations at Sheffield BID, said: “As we mark a decade of Sheffield
BID in the city centre, we’re rightly proud of our continued association with The Fringe at Tramlines weekender. The event plays an important role in the annual events calendar, driving footfall into the city centre over the three days of The Fringe, bringing welcome dwell time and most importantly
additional spend into our city centre business community. The Fringe at Tramlines has been one of the BID’s signature festivals since our inception and we look forward to continuing to play our part in delivering a welcoming and vibrant experience for city centre visitors.”
ITV1
TUESDAY
Coronation Street:
Carl tells Abi it’s time to be honest and as he moves in for a kiss, how will she react? Sean wants to celebrate Dylan’s release with a lunch at the bistro but he suggests a low-key lunch at the café instead. Todd introduces Theo to Summer and Asha but how will Theo react when Asha enquires whether they’re together? Eileen tells Jason that as tempting as it sounds, George would never move to Thailand. Eileen tells Steve and Tim that she’s going to take Jason up on his offer, invest in his bar and move to Thailand. But will George be joining her? Sally confides in Glenda about Tim wanting to foster a child but is worried they’re too old. Can Glenda talk her round?
Emmerdale:
When the police pitch up in Emmerdale looking for Nate’s ex, Tracy, is she about to find out the shocking news and have her world blown up?
Ruby meanwhile, is down at the police station ready to confess - is she about to expose her crime unnecessarily? Cain doesn’t mention his row with Nate to the police – but Tracy does and all too soon the Dingle dad is hauled in for questioning… Is Cain about to get fitted up for John’s crime? Kerry visits Pollard who has Parkinson’s and suffered a scary fall. He can’t remember anything about it but is still refusing to accept he needs help. It’s Sarah’s birthday but things are far from celebratory over at Jacob’s Fold.
Eastenders:
Alfie decides to go for it and asks Kat to marry him... again! WHAT will she say? Could it be THIRD time lucky? Can Peter and his fiancee, Lauren put their differences aside for the sake of their baby son, Jimmy? Cindy is getting ready for the grand re-opening of The Prince Albert. She happily reveals to Elaine that Elaine’s husband/her ex-husband, George, helped her out and even paid for extra bar staff to make sure the night was a success! Elaine storms off to drown her sorrows in the barrel store back at the Vic. And when George arrives, it looks like he is going to have to seriously talk his way out of TROUBLE! Kat’s happy bubble is burst when she makes a worrying discovery on the family computer at the Slater house... Just what has Alfie been up to?
MERCURYH LIDAYS
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Follow Your Local Team Every Week In The Mercury Follow Your Local Team Every Week In The Mercury
Sheffield United can now confirm their retained list following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
The club are in discussions with Rhian Brewster, whilst the rest of the first team squad remain under contract.
Defender Jack Robinson met the criteria of appearances which automatically triggered a one-year contract extension.
Loanees Alfie Gilchrist, Rob Holding, Harry Soutter, Jesurun RakSakyi, Harry Clarke, Ben Brereton Diaz and Hamza Choudhury return to their parent clubs.
First Team players under contract
Anel Ahmedhodžić, Oliver Arblaster, Andre
Brooks, Harrison Burrows, Jefferson Cáceres, Tyrese Campbell, Tom Cannon, Michael Cooper, Adam Davies, Tom Davies, Ivo Grbic, Gustavo Hamer, Sam McCallum, Kieffer Moore, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Christian Nwachukwu, Callum O’Hare, Sydie Peck, Jack Robinson, Femi Seriki, Jamie Shackleton, Vini Souza. First Team players out of contract and in discussions
Rhian Brewster First Team loan players returning to parent clubs
Alfie Gilchrist, Rob Holding, Harry Souttar, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Harry Clarke, Ben Brereton Diaz, Hamza Choudhury. Development Squad
under contract
Sam Aston, Alfie Atherton, Jamal Baptiste, Jevan Beattie, Billy Blacker, Jili
Buyabu, Sam Curtis, Evan Easton, Luke Faxon, Marshall Francis, Miguel Freckleton, Antwoine Hackford, Owen Hampson, Louie Marsh, Ryan Oné, Lennon Patterson, Jayden Prunty, Dovydas Sasnauskas, Sai Sachdev, Zain Tahir, Jay Tinsdale, Jack Waldron. Development Squad released Harry Boyes, Ethan Cummings, Mekhi Haughton-Parris, Henry Molyneux.
sufc retained list rip graeme crawford
Sheffield United is deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of former goalkeeper Graeme Crawford, aged 77.
Born in Scotland, he joined United after a spell with East Stirling in September 1968 and was used as an understudy to regular number one Alan Hodgkinson.
He made two senior appearances, keeping a clean sheet as United beat Norwich City
1-0 in a Division Two clash at Bramall Lane in September 1969. He then played again the
Portsmouth as United won 5-1, in a campaign where the Blades earned promotion from the second tier.
He moved on to York City in 1971, making over 250 appearances across six years. During this time, he jointly held the league record for consecutive clean sheets (11), which has since been broken. He joined Scunthorpe United in 1977, returning to York in 1980, going on to play for Rochdale, Scarborough and Goole Town.
owls blow as staff go unpaid again
Sheffield Wednesday players have yet again been left without timely payment of their May wages, which could precipitate a transfer embargo extending over three windows if the issue isn’t resolved promptly. The Owls squad and certain staff members experienced either non-payment or partial payment on Friday. This is not the first instance of financial irregularity at the club, mirroring a similar occurrence in March, marking the second failure to pay on time in recent months. With sanctions looming from the EFL, the club risks hitting the critical 30-day default period that would prevent them from engaging
oldest miller found
Having asked supporters to get in touch to let the Millers know who they believe or the oldest Millers still with us, they have arrived at 91-yearold, Colin Longden, as the former player most advanced in years to have pulled on our famous red and white.
Local lad Colin was born in Rotherham on 21st July 1933 and represented England schoolboys as a youngster before making his senior Millers debut aged just 19 on 1st September 1952. Still based in Rotherham and
still in good spirits, Colin was recently paid a visit by Club Historian Garry Bray, who showed that the former winger was still immensely proud of his association with the Millers. As Centenary celebrations continue, they felt it fitting to publicly celebrate Colin’s contribution to Rotherham United and his continued longevity. Colin and his family will also be presented with a framed Centenary shirt, including a plaque which commemorates his achievement.
in transfer or loan dealings. In response, Sheffield Wednesday has communicated with the affected individuals via letter, offering assurances that missed payments are expected to be sorted by the coming Monday. The clarity regarding whether the club will avoid sanctions hinges on the exact timing of these payments. “We anticipate outstanding payments will be made in full during the course of this Monday and sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.” It also emphasizing the club’s readiness to provide necessary support to anyone facing financial strain because of the delay. We understand that such delays create
financial pressure and want to reassure our staff that the club is here to support you and ensure that no one suffers any financial hardship... If you are facing any immediate financial difficulties as a result of this delay, please don’t hesitate to contact your Line Manager or Department Head, who will aid the access of emergency funding we have in place.”, reports the Mirror. Some supporters are now urging the EFL to intervene, fearing that the Owls could follow in the footsteps of Reading who were hit with transfer embargoes, points deductions and further trouble before finally being rescued from the
roVers want help!
The Owls have confirmed the date for the “Owls in the Park 2025”.
Our hugely popular free community event will takes place on Saturday 28 June, as always in Hillsborough Park, directly opposite the main stadium. Running time is 11:00am to 5:00pm, with activities throughout the day and something for all members of the Wednesday family. The regular range of activities remain, including:
• Football Tournaments
• Speed Gun Challenge
• Giant Inflatable Rides
• Funfair
• Go-Karts
• Basketball
• Dance Workshop
• Sea Cadet Activities
• Soft Archery
• Food stalls and licensed bar areas
• SWFC Pop-Up Retail
Store & Kitman’s Sale
• Charity Stalls & Independent Traders
• SWFC Esports Arena, PlayStations & FIFA
• Live stream podcast with Owls Network
content creators
• CyberpowerPCUK
Cyber Bus with gaming
PCs for fans to enjoy
Rovers are seeking qualified tradespeople and volunteers to help with a range of projects at the Eco-Power Stadium this summer.
With the Dons taking a break from home action as pitch renovation work takes place, there is the perfect opportunity to freshen up areas of the stadium for the start of the new football season. Work is planned to take place from July 7-10.
Volunteers are asked to meet at the stadium at 9.30am for a 10am start and a 3pm finish. Tasks on the agenda range from stadium cleaning and maintenance to grounds activities.
Those who are able to volunteer their time will be rewarded with tickets, merchandise or special club experiences such as training ground visits. They are particularly seeking qualified tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, joiners and decorators. And they are also looking for people who can help with other tasks such as cleaning, litter picks and grass cutting.
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact operations manager Chantelle Haigh on chantelle.haigh@ clubdoncaster.co.uk.
abyss caused by Dai Yongge. “We are once again appalled to hear reports that employees of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, have reportedly not been paid again,” stated the club’s Supporters’ Trust. “We reiterate our firm belief that Dejphon Chansiri must sell the club without further delay. His continued ownership is proving catastrophic for Sheffield Wednesday and everyone connected with it. If these reports are accurate, this is simply unacceptable. We demand that the club immediately provides a clear and transparent explanation of the situation. Silence and ambiguity are no longer tolerable.” Wednesday
have been placed under a registration embargo in each of the past two seasons amid financial problems and were deducted six points in 2020-21, a season where they were relegated from the second tier, for breaching spending rules.
In a further blow to fans, it has emerged that Chansiri recently turned down two takeover bids from a US-based consortium for Hillsborough. The consortium, based in Florida, is believed to include professional athletes among its investors.
donnyfest takes oVer ecopower
Donnyfest is taking over the Eco-Power Stadium this Saturday (June 7) with big name acts set to entertain crowds on an unforgettable day of music.
The Askern Music Festival has grown in popularity to such an extent that it needed a new venue for its 2025 iteration - and with a new host comes the new nameDonnyfest. The event on Saturday, June 7 will see the main stage housed inside the stadium bowl with the Owston Acoustic Stage located outside, with food and drink stalls across the site.
Headlining the main stage will be singer-songwriter James Bay, who enjoyed global success with his hit Hold Back The River.
He has won BRIT awards and earned multiple Grammy nominations.
Former Kasabian lead singer Tom Meighan will also play a main stage set. The unmistakable voice on the likes of Fire, Shoot The Runner and Club Foot, with the band Meighan claimed five number one albums and four top ten hits.
Another iconic voice set to hit the main stage is Heather Small, who has enjoyed tremendous
solo success following her time with M People. Along with the stirring Proud, Small is known as the vocalist on Search For The Hero, Moving On Up and Don’t Look Any Further. Mercury Music Prize-nominated Scottish indie rock band The View, best known for their hit single Same Jeans, will also appear inside the stadium bowl, as will The Farm, with their anthem All Together Now. Upand-coming Manchester guitar band Afflecks Palace round off the lead names on the main stage. The Owston Acoustic Stage will be headlined by Simon and Oscar.
Former members of Britpop icons Ocean Colour Scene, singer Simon Fowler and drummer Oscar Harrison will perform an intimate acoustic set of their big hits including The Day We Caught The Train and The Riverboat Song. Starsailor frontman James Walsh is also set for an acoustic set covering his solo work and career with the band, best known for Silence Is Easy.
With plenty more acts and entertainment across both stages, Donnyfest proves to be an incredible event.
