NEARLY £2B TOURISM BOOST TO CITY ECONOMY
Sheffield’s visitor economy reached new heights in 2024, generating a recordbreaking £1.85 billion – a 10% increase on the previous year and a full recovery from the impact of the pandemic.
The city welcomed 17.4 million visitors, up 4.8% from 2023, with tourism now supporting 15,806 full-time equivalent jobs across the city. The latest figures, compiled using the Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Model (STEAM), show that day visitors continue to make up the majority of Sheffield’s tourism, accounting for 15.4 million visits and contributing £1.4 billion to the local economy. Meanwhile, 1.98 million
overnight visitors stayed in the city, generating £445 million in economic impact and spending an average of 2.4 nights in local accommodation.
“Tourism continues to be a powerful driver of Sheffield’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and bringing in over £1.85 billion in 2024 alone.”
“These figures reflect not just the strength of our visitor offer – from major events and cultural attractions to our stunning natural surroundings – but also the resilience and innovation of our local businesses.”
“As we look ahead, we’re committed to building on this momentum, ensuring that tourism continues to benefit communities across the city and plays a
central role in Sheffield’s growth.” said Councillor Mohammed Mahroof, Chair of the Economic Development, Skills and Culture Committee at Sheffield City Council
The data also shows that Sheffield’s visitor economy is a major contributor to the wider South Yorkshire picture. Tourism has brought more than £3.7 billion to the region in total.
Locally, while Sheffield’s serviced accommodation offer, such as hotels and B&Bs, remained stable, non-serviced options such as self-catering and camping saw an incredible 34% increase in visitor numbers –reflecting changing travel preferences and a growing supply of alternative stays. Spending patterns reveal
that shopping remains the top expenditure category, followed by food and drink, transport, and accommodation. The tourism sector’s ripple effect also benefits local supply chains, with £606 million of the total impact coming from indirect and induced spending. Sheffield’s appeal as a destination continues to grow, thanks to its blend
of urban culture and outdoor adventure. From world-class events like Tramlines and the World Snooker Championship to its proximity to the Peak District, the city offers something for every type of visitor. With tourism now 1.3% above pre-Covid levels (adjusted for inflation), Sheffield’s recovery is not only complete – it’s thriving.
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SHEFFIELD CHILDREN’S UNIVERSITY’S SUMMER FESTIVAL OF FUN RETURNS
The Sheffield Children’s University Festival of Fun is returning for an action-packed summer – and parents and youngsters can start planning what activities they want to take part in.
The Sheffield Children’s University (CU) Festival of Fun, which is celebrating its 11th year, is a programme of free taster activities funded by Sheffield City Council for children and young people, running right across the summer holidays. It allows them
to try something new and perhaps discover a new passion.
It is accessed with a CU Passport to Learning –available from the city’s libraries – with all the Festival of Fun activities free at the point of access.
This year’s action-packed programme includes climbing, circus skills, woodland adventures, sports, music, dance, drama, and much more.
Any child can join in the fun this summer, as long as they:
• Currently attend a Sheffield school (under
Sheffield City Council), or be a subscribing member of the CU Home Education group
• Hold a CU Passport to Learning, which can be bought from any Sheffield library for £3.50 and are used to collect CU credits both during and after the CU Festival of Fun to claim CU credits towards special CU award certificates
“This summer, children can enjoy crafting and art sessions to learning to climb and circus skills, the Festival of Fun has something for everyone.
“You can enrol your child into an array of activities taking place across the city as part of this, starting on Wednesday 23rd of July.
“We can’t wait to see you all get involved and
have the best summer so far with us!” - Cllr Toby Mallinson, Chair of the Education, Children’s and Families Committee.
Parents and carers can sign up to the mailing list to be kept up to date when this will happen by emailing CU@sheffield. gov.uk. You can also follow Sheffield CU on Facebook and X, formerly Twitter, by searching their name for announcements for activity announcements.
16/7/1377 Coronation of Richard II.
17/7/1955 Disneyland is dedicated and opened by Walt Disney in Anaheim, California.
18/7/1925 Adolf Hitler publishes his personal manifesto Mein Kampf.
19/7/1553 Lady Jane Grey is replaced by Mary I of England as Queen of England after only 9 days reign.
20/7/1903 The Ford Motor Company ships its first
Crossword Clues
across
7) Pop group (4)
8) Inherited treasure (8)
9) Hell, perhaps? (5, 6)
11) Send out (4)
12) Belongings (8)
13) Remain cool (4, 4)
15) Smile lecherously (4)
16) Lie undisturbed (4, 2, 5)
18) Common discomfort (8)
19) Portent (4)
DoWN
1) Monstrosity (9)
2) Grieve (6)
3) Dubious dealings (5, 8)
4) Air Force Officer (4, 9)
5) Niche (6)
6) Tied ribbon (3)
10) Body carrier (9)
14) Products (6)
15) Keep quiet (3, 3)
17) Not many (3)
Last Week’s Solution
across: 4) Spelter, 8) Lender, 9) Average, 10) Shorts, 11) Manage, 12) Envelope, 18) Interval, 20) Hustle, 21) Scarce, 22) Poverty, 23) Trauma, 24) Trample
DoWN: 1) Glasses, 2) Involve, 3) Rental, 5) Pavement, 6) Larynx, 7) Engage, 13) Oriental, 14) Overdue, 15) Illegal, 16) Rumour, 17) Stream, 19) Escort
car.
21/7/356BC The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is destroyed by arson.
22/7/2005 Jean Charles de Menezes is killed by police as the hunt begins for the London Bombers responsible for the 7 July 2005 London bombings and the 21 July 2005 London bombings.
If you don’t have a TV licence, you could get sent to prison... Where you can watch TV all day, without needing a licence.
Took the shell off my racing snail.. Thought it might speed him up.. If anything, it made him more sluggish.
What’s got 8 eyes and 8 legs? 8 pirates.
Went to an Indian restaurant last night and had a pelican curry. Food was ok, but the bill was enormous!
Mum: What’s the lion and witch doing in your wardrobe?
Son: It’s Narnia business.
The urge to sing “the lion sleeps tonight” is only ever a whim away.
I’m fed up with my mates, three times now they’ve agreed to go to a Whitesnake gig with me & then not showed up. Here I go again on my own!
And for our next band, would you please welcome the bailiffs. Take it away boys.
We call our grandad “Spiderman”. He hasn’t got any super powers - he just finds it difficult to get out of the bath.
A man died today due to his obsession of taking photos of himself next to a boiling kettle. We believe he had serious selfie steam issues.
I was asked by someone to post one of my fantastic fish in herb sauce recipies But I’m not sure if this is the Thyme or the Plaice.
1. Bells Beach, Margaret River and Byron Bay are Australian towns best known for which sport?
2. Who recorded the 1965 album ‘Bringing It All Back Home’?
3. Which biblical prophet has a name which means ‘who is like Yah’ in English?
4. Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is a fear of which number?
5. Along with partner Hal David, who wrote the songs: “What’s New Pussycat?” and “Alfie”?
6. What is the surname of the British singer Adele?
7. Which ancient Greek temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, sits on the hill of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece?
8. What is the first name of the Coronation Street character played by Samia Ghadie?
9. The books of which Venetian merchant traveler introduced Europeans to Central Asia and China?
10. What is the name of the branch of mathematics which can be used to work out the length of sides and sizes of angles of right-angled triangles?
Bathroom
Bedding Included Enclosed Veranda
News, Information and Advice
how to keep out flies!
A house buying expert has shared effective ways to keep flies out of your home this summer using items most people already have in their kitchen cupboards.
Paul Gibbens, property expert at housebuyers4u. co.uk, has shared hacks using common household items to help stop the seasonal invasion of flies that peaks during warmer months. With ‘flying ant day’ on the horizon, these tips come at the perfect time for Brits hoping to keep their home pest-free. While this is not a date in the diary, ‘flying ant day’ refers to the mating season for flying ants that typically happens during July or August, whereby swarms of these insects emerge in the UK. The season is triggered in the hot, humid weather of the summer, and with this year’s heatwaves, there has been speculation that swarms could be around longer than usual.
Gibbens commented, “The summer heat creates perfect conditions for flies to multiply rapidly. What most homeowners don’t know is that simple items already in their homes can help deter flies better than expensive products.”
1. Essential oils can make a natural repellent
A simple spray can be made using common kitchen ingredients that repels flies without harmful chemicals and an unpleasant scent. To create this deterrent, mix equal parts water and white vinegar with 10-15 drops of essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, or lemongrass in a spray bottle. This solution can be sprayed around windows, doors, and other entry points without damaging surfaces or posing risks to children and pets, unlike some chemical alternatives. These scents not only deter flies but will keep your home smelling fresh, too.
2. Apple cider vinegar and cling film
Apple cider vinegar can be used as an effective way to attract flies, where a clever use of cling film can then stop the flies from flying freely around your home. To do this simple hack, fill a glass with apple cider vinegar, cover it with cling film, and poke small holes in the top. Flies get drawn to the sweet, fermented scent, enter through the holes, but can’t find their way out. This mixture
works best when placed in areas where flies gather most frequently, such as near fruit bowls or bin areas.
3. Grow fly-repelling plants
Certain plants act as natural insect repellents. Basil, mint, lavender, and rosemary not only add fresh herbs to your cooking but also actively repel flies from your home. These plants contain natural compounds that flies find offensive, but humans find pleasant. Place these plants on windowsills and near doorways where flies typically enter homes.
4. Citrus peels
Most people throw away lemon, lime, and orange peels, but they contain d-limonene, which naturally repels flies. Before discarding any peels, rub the peels along windowsills or leave them in small bowls around the house to create a barrier that flies won’t cross. This method works particularly well for house flies and bluebottle flies, which are among the most common household fly types in the UK.
5. Direct fans towards open windows
A simple hack you can do without any prep, whether you’re in bed or working at your desk, is to direct your fan outside your open window instead of into the room. In the summer heat, many keep fans on in the house in addition to opening windows. But for those concerned about flies getting inside, they can make the perfect aid for banishing these pests. As small insects, they do not have the strength to fly against the wind created by household fans, so directing fans out of an open window will divert flies away, keeping them from getting in.
Paul concluded, stating: “The key to keeping flies out is consistency. Use these methods together for best results, particularly during July and August when fly populations reach their peak in British homes.” Stressing the importance of basic hygiene, he added: “Keep food covered, clean up spills immediately, and empty bins regularly. These simple habits make your home much less attractive to flies in the first place.”
mayor hits back at rail plan
Mayor Oliver Coppard has raised his concerns after the government announced it is pausing the electrification of the Midland Main Linedelaying faster, greener rail services between Sheffield, London, and the wider North.
While other parts of the North received new investment in rail infrastructure including new stations and improved signalling, South Yorkshire was left out of new rail funding and the government also confirmed that electrification of the Midland Main Line, a long-standing priority for the region, is being put on hold. The decision means Sheffield will remain the only major UK city without electrified rail services, relying instead on older, more polluting diesel trains that are slower, less reliable, and worse for the environment. The pause runs contrary to the ambitions set out in the White Rose Agreement and Lord Blunkett’s Yorkshire’s Plan for Rail, which calls for faster, cleaner connections between Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester, and London. The region previously missed out when HS2 to Sheffield was one of the first legs to be cancelled which would have reduced the journey time from Sheffield to London from 120 minutes to 87 minutes, with additional seating capacity on brand new electric trains through electrification of Midland Main Line. Coppard has called on the government to think again and reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for South Yorkshire’s transport priorities, including:
• Electrification of the Midland Main Line
• A new station at Rotherham Gateway
• Upgrades at Doncaster
• Faster services from Barnsley to London and between Sheffield, Manchester, and Leeds
• Investment in Supertram expansion
hosepipe ban in yorkshire
Yorkshire has experienced both the driest and warmest spring on record this year with only 15cm of rainfall across the region between February and June, less than half what is expected in an average year. The sustained hot weather has driven higher demand for water across the region, and as a result, Yorkshire’s reservoirs are currently at 55.8%, which is 26.1% lower than they would normally be at this time of year.
Activities that are not permitted while the temporary restrictions are in place include:
· Using a hosepipe to water a garden
· Using a hosepipe to clean private vehicles or boats
· Watering plants with a hosepipe on a domestic or other non-commercial premises
· Filling or maintaining a domestic swimming, paddling pool, hot tub or cold-water plunge pool with a hosepipe
· Using a hosepipe for domestic recreational use
· Filling or maintaining a domestic pond or ornamental fountain using a hosepipe
· Cleaning walls or windows of domestic premises using a hosepipe
· Cleaning paths or patios using a hosepipe
· Cleaning other artificial outdoor surfaces using a hosepipe
People can still wash their car and water their gardens without using a hosepipe if they use tap water from a bucket or watering can; or use water that is not sourced from taps such as grey water, rainwater from a water butt, or a private borehole.
Businesses will be allowed to use a hosepipe if it is directly related to a commercial purpose. There are restrictions on using a hosepipe if not for those essential commercial needs – so using a hosepipe to clean a path outside a business property, for example, would not be allowed.
Blue badge holders, those on Yorkshire Water’s Priority Services Register or WaterSure tariff for medical reasons, are also excluded from the restrictions.
is your fan costing too much?
An electrical expert says cooling fans can use more electricity than many households realise during hot weather. Chris Madikian said many households underestimate the energy consumption of cooling devices, particularly when used for extended periods during heat waves. “Most people don’t realize that a fan left running can add between £10 to £20 to monthly electricity bills during summer,” Madikian said. “The actual cost depends on the fan’s power rating and how many hours it runs each day.” Madikian explained that older fans typically use more electricity than newer models. “A fan manufactured before 2018 often lacks the energy-efficient motors found in current models. This means your old faithful fan from the attic might cost twice as much to run as a newer equivalent. The wattage of the fan directly affects energy consumption. Small desk fans use around 25-45 watts, while larger pedestal fans can use 50-100 watts, and tower fans up to 110 watts, depending on the model,” he said. According to Madikian, speed settings on fans make a huge difference. “Many people don’t know that running a fan on its highest setting can use up to 40% more electricity than on the lowest setting. Often, for the best sleep, the lowest setting will be enough for sufficient air movement. When
shopping for a new fan, look at its energy rating label. The difference between models can be substantial, with the most efficient fans using less than half the electricity of inefficient ones,” The expert advised checking whether fans have timers or sleep modes. “These features can cut energy use by turning the fan off after you’ve fallen asleep, saving hours of unnecessary operation.”
Research from the UK Government’s Energy Survey shows that 43% of UK households use portable fans, with approximately 17% using them daily during summer months. UK regulations say that cooling appliances must display energy efficiency information to help customers make the right decisions.
“Leaving multiple fans running around your home can easily add £40 or more to monthly electricity bills during hot weather,” Madikian warned. “Things like setting timers, choosing appropriate fan speeds, and using fans only in rooms you are using can help maintain comfort without excessive costs.”
For households concerned about rising energy bills, Madikian says you should rotate fan use rather than running multiple units simultaneously. “One carefully placed fan can often cool a larger area more efficiently, especially if positioned to create air circulation through doorways.”
dementia heat warning
As temperatures are set to rise across the UK, the Alzheimer’s Society has warned that people living with dementia are more vulnerable to hot weather. People living with dementia face several challenges:
1. Reduced heat awareness – Dementia symptoms can mean that people don’t recognise signs that they’re too hot or realise they need to take cooling measures like seeking shade or removing clothing.
2. Hydration issues –People with dementia may not always recognise that they are thirsty, and may forget or be unable to drink water regularly. This can lead to dehydration.
3. Clothing and environment – People living with dementia may not dress appropriately for hot weather, forget how hot it is outside, or forget to use sunscreen or wear a hat.
4. Medication interactions
– Some medications and dementia-related illnesses can make dehydration worse. Top tips to keep people with dementia safe in the hot weather Dress appropriately –Ensure the person living with dementia is wearing light-coloured, loose-
First established in 1865, Eric Eyre has personally looked after families in the local communities of Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham since 1955.
Operating from branches in High Green and Sheffield Lane Top we offer a bespoke funeral service upholding traditional values whilst progressing to cater for modern, personalised customer requirements.
A selection of the services we provide:
• Professional and sympathetic funeral arrangements in our office or in the comfort of your own home
• Pre-paid funerals
In-house catering
Floral tributes
Orders of service
Chapels of rest •
fitting clothes made from natural fibres help prevent overheating. A hat or cap for outside is essential.
Keep homes cool – Close the curtains and blinds during the day, especially in sunny, south-facing rooms. Open windows in the evening to let warm air out and cooler air in. Avoid the midday sun – Make sure they stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm). When outdoors, seek shade, wear a hat and apply high-factor sunscreen regularly.
Find ways to cool off – Try putting a frozen bottle of water or ice pack next to a fan for DIY air-conditioning, or place a washcloth and iced water nearby. Combat dehydration – Leave jugs of water within easy reach, share a drink with the person, leave reminders to drink, and provide high water content foods. Ask others to help – If you don’t live near the person or are worried about someone, ask a friend or neighbour to check in.
If you’re worried about dementia, Alzheimer’s Society is here to help. Call Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
Resin Bound
Decorative Surface Dressing Systems
Rounds aRe out a PuB a daY to CLose In tHIs YeaR
A recent poll has found that almost half of people prefer to opt out of buying drinks in rounds.
A poll conducted by YouGov asked the question: ‘When having drinks as part of a group, do you prefer to buy drinks just for yourself, or for each of you take it in turn to buy a round of drinks for everyone?’
The results found that 48 per cent of respondents said that they preferred to buy drinks just for themselves while 38 per cent said that they preferred to buy drinks in rounds. A total of 14 per cent opted for ‘I don’t know’.
When broken down into regional results, the top areas for buying drinks in rounds were London and Scotland, both scoring 43 per
cent in favour of rounds, while Wales had the highest percentage of respondents saying they preferred to buy drinks just for themselves (58 per cent).
In terms of age profile, those aged 65 and over were most likely to want to buy drinks in rounds (46 per cent) while 61 per cent of 18-24 year olds were most likely to buy drinks for just themselves.
The study also found that women were more likely to buy just themselves a drink (54 per cent) in contrast to men, 45 per cent of whom were more likely to buy drinks in rounds.
TheYouGov poll conducted the study amongst 6,587 people.
One pub is set to close every single day in 2025 across Great Britain, according to latest figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The industry body, which represents more than 20,000 pubs, estimated that 378 pubs will close this year across England, Wales, and Scotland, which would amount to more than 5,600 direct job losses.
The BBPA said “it is not too late” for Government to solve the issue by swiftly reforming business rates for the sector, which is amongst the most highly taxed industries in the UK.
The trade association said reducing the cumulative tax and regulatory burden would help more pubs stay open, leading to
more investment and jobs while also protecting spaces that, for many communities, are the only places left to gather.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Pubs are trading well but most of the money that goes into the till goes straight back out in bills and taxes. For many it’s impossible to make a profit which all too often leads to pubs turning off the lights for the last time.
“When a pub closes it puts people out of a job, deprives communities of their heart and soul, and hurts the local economy.
“However, it’s not too late to change this sad state of affairs. We know Government recognises the economic and
social value of pubs and we’re not asking for special treatment, we just want the sector’s rich potential unleashed.
“We’re calling on Government to proceed with meaningful business rates reform, mitigate these eye-watering new employment and EPR costs, and cut beer duty.”
With the beer and pub sector pouring more than £34 billion into the economy in one year alone and supporting more than a million jobs, the BBPA says Government must remain committed to supporting the sector.
The projected 2025 figures compare to 350 closures in 2024.
For every three pounds spent in a pub, one pound goes straight to
the tax man, the BBPA stressed. The BBPA warned that pub closures will have a further impact on those who are part of the supply chain, including farmers, brewers and other industries who form part of the sector’s wider eco-system.
GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE
gRANiTe AND MARBLe iMpoRTs of
179 foRNceTT sTReeT, sheffieLD, s4 7Qg is applying to change an existing Licence as follows: to keep an extra 9 gooDs vehicLes & 19 TRAiLeRs at the Operating Centre at:
179 foRNceTT sTReeT, sheffieLD, s4 7Qg
Owners or Occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 Days of this Notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice.
A Guide to making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.
Have
We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities: Provision of late night refreshment ON & OFF the premises:
Monday - Thursday 23:00 - 01:00 Friday - Saturday 23:00 - 03:00 Sunday 23:00 - 00:00
Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to Licensing Services, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield, S9 3HD about this application by 24th July 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 Service.
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 Licensing Act 2003 (Premises and Club Premises Certificates) Regulations 2005
Notice is hereby given that: BRuNo espResso BAR LTD
Have made an application under Section 17 Part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the
known as BRuNo espResso BAR LTD 99 eccLesALL RoAD souTh, sheffieLD, s11 9ph
We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities:
Sale by retail of alcohol: Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 23:00
Provision of regulated entertainment, namely;Playing of recorded music, performance of live music Monday - Sunday 12:00 - 23:00
Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to Licensing Services, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield, S9 3HD about this application by 11th August 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 Service.
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.
MOtOrHOMe Hire
TUESDAY
Coronation Street:
Kit Green is facing life-saving surgery following his confrontation with Mick. Sarah and Bernie sit at his bedside, but will he pull through? Lauren invites Aadi to join her and Frankie for tea, explaining it’s her way of apologising for her recent behaviour. Aadi agrees, unaware of Lauren’s growing feelings towards him. A furious Debbie tells Ronnie that they’ve lost out on No.6 to Carla. Will Debbie set out to get revenge? Ronnie confides in Kevin that Debbie is determined to buy No.6 as she wants to be nearby to support him through his cancer treatment. Feeling guilty, Kevin spells out to Debbie that he doesn’t want her to make any rash decisions because of him. Carla quizzes Lisa, wanting to know why she didn’t arrest the robber and let him run off with the cash. But she’s clearly troubled when Lisa refuses to discuss the incident.
Emmerdale:
Charity and Cain discuss her shock offer to be their granddaughter’s surrogate. Cain warns his ex that she needs to tell her husband Mack about it. As Nate’s funeral day dawns, Cain, Tracy and John brace themselves. With emotions and anger thick in the air, the tension soon erupts into argument. In a bid to restore order, John appeals to them all to stop fighting and them finds himself being asked to deliver the eulogy! Paddy’s told Mandy he can more than handle running the place on his own in spite of the recent dog attack he endured. But when a client arrives with her massive mutt in tow Paddy loses it. In the wake of the stress of Nate’s funeral, secret killer John reaches out to his helpline volunteer.
Eastenders:
Phil is not happy to discover that Callum has cheated on his son Ben, who is currently in America. So he lunges for the other man and starts to strangle Johnny! Will Callum, Jay and Billy manage to stop angry Phil before he goes too far? Stacey is spooked when she spies a mystery man outside the Slater house. She is worried that he could be a bailiff. However, Stacey and Eve later discover that Mr Whitecroft works for an insurance company. But why does he want to talk to someone in the Slater family? Ravi is at the Arches to collect his money and instruct garage mechanic Harry about his next drug dealing job. However, Harry starts to feel uncomfortable when ruthless Ravi suggests they can take advantage of Kojo and use his flat to stash their illegal drugs... Will Harry take a stand to protect his mate Kojo and risk getting on the WRONG side of Ravi?
MERCURYH LIDAYS
luxury
Fully
FOOTBALLR UNDUP
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THREAD THE NOISE OWLS FAN GROUP RAISES MONEY TO PAY STAFF
Sheffield United unveils
its 2025/26 third kit - the first release of the new season.
Presented in a striking lilac base with lighter purple accents drawn from the club’s iconic blades crest, the design marks a fresh takeone that celebrates individuality, creativity, and a deep connection to Sheffield’s cultural roots.
The campaign for the 2025/26 third kit, Thread Through the Noise, begins at one of Sheffield’s most storied cultural landmarks: The Leadmill. A cornerstone of the city’s music scene since 1980, The Leadmill closed its doors on June 27th after a final headline performance by Miles Kane. The choice of location is deliberate: a tribute to Sheffield’s rich sonic legacy and the spirit of reinvention that defines both the venue and the city it belongs to. Over the years, The Leadmill has hosted a wide array of artists who have gone on to shape popular music - including Pulp, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, Coldplay and many more. This campaign recognises that heritage while acknowledging the present moment: change is constant, but identity remains.
More than just a design shift, the third kit also represents a step forward in sustainable innovation.
Manufactured by Errea using their pioneering FUTURE fabric, the shirt
is constructed from 100% recycled polyester.
Analysed by sustainability consultancy ACBC, the production process for this kit delivers a 25.4% reduction in carbon emissions compared to a standard football jersey - a meaningful stride in the club’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.
Sonically underscoring the campaign is an original track by rising Sheffield DJ and BBC Introducing artist Soph, whose breakout single ‘4everr’ reflects the bold, high-energy aesthetic of the new kit and the scene that inspired it. Her heavy-bass electronic sound, rooted in Sheffield’s underground, adds further depth to a campaign built around authenticity and edge. Thread Through the Noise
This third kit is the first in the series of releases that will weave Sheffield’s iconic spaces into the story of the club. Visually distinctive and environmentally progressive, it’s more than a shirt - it’s a statement of identity. One that stands out on the pitch and resonates off it. Further information on how to order your kit will be available soon at www.sufc.co.uk
The situation at Sheffield Wednesday highlights the ongoing financial crisis affecting the club, leading to unpaid wages for staff and players, and resulting in a transfer embargo.
In response, Owls fans, through the Sheffield Wednesday Supporters’ Trust, have raised £5,000 to support the club’s lower-paid staff who have yet to receive their wages.
Ian Bennett, chair of the supporters’ trust, described the situation as “appalling” and emphasized the importance of community and solidarity.
“We’re hoping we can announce something and get it to the people that deserve it,”
“Wednesday are a massive, massive fan base and part of the community and the people who work at the club are part of that.
“The ones who are really affected are the ones who are lower paid and that’s who we are going to try and help to prove that we’re all in it together.” He said.
Mr Bennett, who is chairman of the supporters trust, said they wanted to show staff they were “all in it together”
He has been into the club shop and told one staff member who worked there about their efforts to raise money and “she was in tears”.
“How can this happen in this day and age where someone has got people working for nothing?” he added.
“Staff are so upset because they feel part of the club, it’s not just their job.
“It’s appalling and shouldn’t have happened.”
The crisis has drawn criticism from figures like Maheta Molango of the
Professional Footballers’ Association, who called the situation “shocking” and “not tolerable.”
Sheffield South East MP Clive Betts also voiced concern, stressing the importance of the club to the city and condemning the possibility of the club’s collapse due to ownership issues.
Owner Dejphon Chansiri has publicly acknowledged the crisis, taking “full responsibility” and apologizing for the inability to meet current obligations, while stating he is committed to resolving the situation.
ANTHONY MUSAbA LEAVES OWLS
The club has yet to issue an official comment on the developments.
Anthony Musaba has left the Owls, signing for Turkish side Samsunspor for an undisclosed fee. The Dutchman joined Wednesday in the summer of 2023 from French outfit Monaco. The forward made 80 appearances, scoring 12 goals in blue and white. The Owls thanked Anthony for his services and wished him all the very best for the future.
MCGRATH SIGNS NEW ROVERS CONTRACT
and staying for the long term - Rovers are delighted to confirm that Jay McGrath has signed a new contract at the club. The Doncaster-born defender has agreed terms on a three-year deal with the option of an additional 12 months ahead of their return to Sky Bet League One. It comes shortly after the club rejected a £500,000 from a fellow League One side for the 22-year-old’s services and represents a continued determination to retain and develop Rovers prized assets.
“I’m delighted, absolutely over the moon,” McGrath said. “I think it’s right for me and the club. I’ve thrived here in the last year and a half since I signed.
“I love working under the staff and love playing for this club. At the end of the day it’s my club so it was a no-brainer when the offer was brought forward to sign here for another three years.
“It’s signing for my hometown club and doing what I love best. When you’re happy playing your football, that’s when you play your best football.”
Formerly a player in the Rovers Academy, McGrath made his return to the club in January 2024 as a senior professional and signed a two-and-a-half year contract.
Since then he has made 47 appearances for Rovers, including 30 league starts last term as we secured the League Two title.
Manager Grant McCann said: “Jay is a big player for the football club.
“When he came back to the club on trial, we knew after three or four days that there’s serious potential in Jay.
MILLERS FANS TO RECEIVE REFUNDS
Rotherham United would like to wholeheartedly apologise to supporters regarding a miscommunication on their part pertaining to the price of physical season cards for the 2025/26 campaign. The club are keen to take full ownership of an error which has understandably created confusion for supporters who had opted to use a physical season card for the upcoming campaign and had been publicised previously as being free of charge.
“He had to wait patiently because of the form of others but in this season just gone, his performances have gone from strength to strength.
“He’s matured. He’s become a real leader in the changing room. He’s a Donny boy and he knows what it takes to play for this club, with his dad playing here.
“For us to get him on a three-year contract plus an option in the club’s favour, it’s tremendous business for us and it sets a real intent for what we’re looking to do.”
While they continue to concentrate efforts on encouraging fans to go digital with their Season Tickets in an attempt to reduce queuing times on matchday, they are also very much aware that some supporters within the fanbase prefer to have a physical season card on their person and we would like to make it explicitly clear that this was a mistake on their part, and was not intended as a deliberate method to deter those people from choosing that option. Due to the costs associated with the production of said physical cards, it had been the case that a £1.50 fee was asked of supporters
wishing to obtain one for the 2025/26 campaign, but regrettably, an error has created uncertainty, and has understandably elicited a frustrated response the club’s previous communication.
The Millers can now confirm via the issue of this statement that supporters who have opted to receive a physical season card for the 2025/26 campaign will do so free of charge. No further action will be required for those same supporters. Supporters who wish to receive a physical card for next season must ensure that they’ve opted in via the Ticket Office. To opt in, please visit: www.eticketing.
co.uk/rotherhamunited/ EDP/Event/ Index/125?position=1. Fans who have been in touch to pay the £1.50 will have that amount refunded upon collection of their physical season card. Millers fans who live further afield and had planned on having season cards posted to their home address are asked to contact the club on supporterservices@ rotherhamunited.net to arrange their refund. The club hope that their supporters recognise that in issuing this statement, we take full responsibility for the error as explained above and offer their sincere apologies to fans for this issue.
ECKINGTON SELF STORAGE
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