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The Mercury - Issue 1667

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The Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

MAYOR REVEALS NEW SY TRANSPORT BRAND

South Yorkshire’s

Mayor Oliver Coppard

has unveiled the South Yorkshire People’s Network – a bold new vision and brand for the region’s public transport, marking a ‘once-in-ageneration’ change.

The Mayor’s Vision for the region’s new transport network is clear: a joined up, sustainable transport system, that serves every community. One that’s reliable, affordable, welcoming and easy to use, and one that puts people at the heart of every decision.

South Yorkshire once had a world-class public transport system. But for too long, people have been let down by rising fares, routes that don’t take them where they need to go, and cuts to services.

The Mayor is changing that

by taking back control of South Yorkshire’s future and putting people firmly in the driving seat.

The new South Yorkshire People’s Network will be built around six key principles:

• Freedom and Choice –connecting people to where they want to go

• Prioritising people

• Matching our growth ambitions – creating jobs, opportunities and investing in communities

• Fit for the future

• Safe and easy to use

The transformation is already underway, backed by £1.5bn of investment to start us off – including £630m towards the major renewal and enhancement of our tram network and £350m to reform South Yorkshire’s buses.

Trams are back under

public control, and starting next year, buses will be too, allowing decisions to be made in the interests of people, not profits. Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) is being reopened, major investment has been secured for rail through Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), and more funding is going into walking, wheeling and cycling and road safety.

The South Yorkshire People’s Network brand reflects South Yorkshire’s pride in taking back control and the determination to build something better.

Colours of molten orange, grey and asphalt black speak to the region’s history of industry, Northern grit, and resilience.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said:

“Transport isn’t just about getting from A to B. A proper public transport network gives people real freedom and choice about how they travel and move, connects people to opportunity and opens up new horizons.

“But public transport in South Yorkshire has been broken for too long. I promised to make change happen, to give South Yorkshire back the world class public transport system we once had, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“That’s why we’re putting in a huge investment to fix our public transport system, backed by even greater ambition, so that we can build something that truly works for all of us across South Yorkshire; a real People’s Network.”

In the coming months, people will begin to see the new brand across bus stops, shelters and interchanges, on frontline tram staff uniforms and on a new South Yorkshire People’s Network website, replacing Travel South Yorkshire by the end of the year. From next year, the brand will appear on the buses that come under South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) control, on bus driver uniforms, across the tram network, the Mayor’s South Yorkshirewide E-bike subscription programme, and Sheffield City Council’s E-bike hire scheme.

Delivering the full Transport Vision for South Yorkshire will take time and longterm investment.

SEvENTY-FIvE MILES, FOUR FRIENDS, FOUR BRICkS, AND ONE FUNDRAISER

Four lifelong friends from Sheffield are taking on a 75-mile walk from Hillsborough to Hull, carrying bricks every step of the way, to raise money for the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity £2 million capital appeal.

James Michalowski, Carl Hessell and Ashley Beighton will complete the full three-day challenge, walking an estimated 140,000 steps each, with friend Gary Zielosko joining them on the final day. The route was carefully chosen not just for its scenery, but because the number of steps

closely mirrors the 142,000 bricks that will be used to build the new National Centre for Child Health Technology (NCCHT) in Attercliffe.

Each walker will carry a brick throughout the challenge to symbolise the building, donated by HBC Construction from the NCCHT site itself, and once the walk is complete, those bricks will be returned to the centre and used in its construction, meaning their fundraising effort will quite literally become part of the building.

HBC Construction and Sheffield Children’s are working together to

develop the purpose built, world leading, research and technology centre which will connect global clinical expertise with cutting-edge innovation to revolutionise children’s healthcare.

James, who came up with the idea after completing a walk for the charity from Sheffield to Derby last year, said: “When we found out the number of steps we’d be walking was so close to the number of bricks going into the building, it just felt right. If we can help put even one brick into the National Centre for Child Health Technology, then this fundraiser will be

worthwhile.”

The walk begins at Hillsborough Stadium and follows canals and rivers through Sheffield, Doncaster and Goole, before finishing in Hull.

The group, who have been friends since the 1990s and are all Sheffield Wednesday season ticket holders, will complete the challenge together from 18-20 March, before attending the Wednesday vs Hull City match on 21 March.

While the physical challenge is significant, covering around 25 miles a day over long, 12-hour stretches, the

18/3/1971 In Peru a landslide crashes into Lake Yanahuani, killing 200 at the mining camp of Chungar.

19/3/2003 United States President George W. Bush orders the start of war against Iraq.

20/3/1916 Albert Einstein publishes his general theory of relativity.

21/3/1965 Martin Luther King, Jr. leads 3,200 people on the start of the third and finally

group say one of the most meaningful parts of the walk is the time spent together.

James said: “As you get older, life gets busy and you get less time to really connect. When we’re normally together it’s at the football, with five minutes to talk about life before complaining about formations. The training walks, and the actual walk itself, are giving us proper time, long conversations, catching up, talking about everything. That time together honestly means the world.”

Carl agreed, adding: “We’ve grown up together,

been part of each other’s lives for decades, and this felt like a really special thing to do. It’s very different from 20 years ago, but that friendship is still there, and doing something meaningful together makes it even more special.”

The group is aiming to raise £3,000 towards the charity’s capital appeal and hope their challenge will inspire others to support it too.

To support the team, you can donate via their JustGiving page at www. justgiving.com/team/ hillsboroughtohull

Crossword Clues

ACROSS

7) Wheel spindle (4)

8) Unrealistic theorist (8)

9) Thoughtful (11)

11) Knock out (4)

12) Arrange (8)

13) Horseless carriage (5, 3)

15) Masticate (4)

16) Acute awareness (11)

18) Railway station (8)

19) Dry (4)

3) Royal Residence (7, 6) 4) Cold keeping (13) 5) Cereal protein (6) 6) Demand (3) 10) Assess (9) 14) Key (6) 15) Beware (6) 17) Torn shred (6)

Last Week’s Solution

ACROSS: 6) Mix, 7) Harlequin, 9) Therapeutic, 11) Sweep, 12) Pelican, 14) Creator, 15) Crepe, 17) Conspicuous, 19) Hairpiece, 20) Pin DOWN: 1) Light work, 2) Happy, 3) Albumen, 4) Equilibrium, 5) Rip, 8) Freemasonry, 10) Tarpaulin, 13) Worship, 16) Winch, 18) Yak

successful civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

22/3/1888 In England, The Football League,the world’s oldest professional Association Football league, is founded.

23/3/1888 In England, The Football League, the world’s oldest professional Association Football league, meets for the first time.

24/3/1923 Greece becomes a republic.

I was at a restaurant and said to the waitress ”Excuse me, can I ask you something about the menu please?” She kicked me out and said “The men I please are none of your business!”

I have just finished interviewing a young man for a job at my workplace. I asked, “Can you perform under pressure?” “I’m not sure, but I do an amazing Bohemian Rhapsody!” He replied.

I always told my dad his pride would be the death of him. And sure enough, today he was eaten by his favourite lion.

Two windmills are in a field. One asks, “What kind of music do you like?” The other one says, “Well, I’m a big metal fan.”

A man goes to a costume party with nothing but a naked woman on his back. “What are you supposed to be, then?” the host asks. “I’m a turtle,” “How can you be a turtle when all you’ve got is that naked woman on your back?” “Oh her?” He smiles. “That’s just Michelle!”

My wife thinks she is funnier than me and she keeps making bird puns! I told her Toucan play at that game!

I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather did. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his taxi.

Two chickpeas are walking down the street when one chickpea starts to vomit. The other chickpea asks, “Are you okay?” The chickpea answers, “No, I falafel.”

What’s the difference between a dirty bus stop and a lobster with breast implants? One is a crusty bus station and the other is a busty crustacean.

1. The book ‘Our Man in Havana’ is by which author?

2. According to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, which is the most popular destination for visitors outside London?

3. Which board game, invented by American architect Alfred Mosher Butts, was originally called “Criss-Crosswords”?

4. In the Royal Navy which ranks higher? a) Midshipman b) Chief Petty Officer

5. The 2017 winner of the Costa Debut Novel Award was Gail Honeyman for which novel?

6. ‘Do geese see God’ is an example of a what?

7. What does the A stand for in the acronym ASCII?

8. Florence Nightingale featured on which British banknote?

9. Who has sold the most number of records for a solo male artist?

10. What ancient weapon can be described as having a heavy head on a solid shaft and is used to bludgeon opponents?

News, Information and Advice

mothers’ day - alzheimer advice

Mother’s Day can be a joyful celebration for many, while for others it may be a difficult and emotionally complex day. Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer from Alzheimer’s Society offers some tips for carers on relationships ahead of Mother’s Day. Around one million people are living with dementia in the UK and about two-thirds are women. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It affects memory, problem solving, language and communication.

Dementia can affect the relationship between the person and those closest to them. For example, as a person’s dementia progresses, their children may feel that the relationship changes from being the child of the person to being one of their carers. This can cause a lot of different emotions for everyone involved, including confusion, grief, and anger. While caring for your mother can be rewarding, it is common for it to sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re working, studying or have other caring responsibilities. If you’ve always spoken with your mum about your life and any problems you are facing, this can also be especially difficult to cope with.

It’s important to look after yourself and find meaningful ways to connect with your mum if you can, Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer from Alzheimer’s Society offers some tips for carers on relationships:

• Try to focus on the relationship as it is now, rather than thinking of how it used to be.

• Think about ways you have always connected with your mum, and whether you can adapt some of those things to the present. For example, you might not be able to go out to the shops, but you might be able to look online and choose things together.

• Consider ways to support you relationship, such as finding ways to reminisce. For example, talking about old memories through life story work.

• Think about any creative activities your mum might like that you can do together, such as art or music therapy. Even just listening to favourite songs together can be a good way to connect.

• Sensory experiences such as smelling a certain fragrance of food cooking can help spark memories and positive feelings.

• If things feel overwhelming at times, try to find opportunities to take some time for yourself. This may mean asking other people to help or arrange respite.

• Try to find people you can talk to about the changes in the relationship and the way this is affecting you. This could be a friend, another family member or a professional (such as a counsellor). Carers’ support groups and online forums could also be helpful.

• Be kind to yourself. Remember that you are doing your best to care for your mum in what is likely to be a very difficult, complicated and emotional time. Try to take breaks and access the support that you need.

This Mother’s Day may be different, but it can still be meaningful for you both. When someone is living with dementia, the positive feelings they experience during an event or interaction can stay with them, even if the details fade. Your mum might not remember a day out or a visit later, but she may still carry out the feelings of being happy and loved.

If you’re stuck about what to buy this Mother’s Day, Alzheimer’s Society’s online shop has a range of thoughtful and practical gift ideas for people living with dementia.

mayor unveils “once in a generation” transport change

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has unveiled the South Yorkshire People’s Network – a bold new vision and brand for the region’s public transport, marking a ‘once-in-ageneration’ change.

The Mayor’s Vision for the region’s new transport network is clear: a joined up, sustainable transport system, that serves every community. One that’s reliable, affordable, welcoming and easy to use, and one that puts people at the heart of every decision.

South Yorkshire once had a world-class public transport system. But for too long, people have been let down by rising fares, routes that don’t take them where they need to go, and cuts to services.

The Mayor is changing that by taking back control of South Yorkshire’s future and putting people firmly in the driving seat.

The new South Yorkshire People’s Network will be built around six key principles:

• Freedom and Choice

– connecting people to where they want to go

• Prioritising people

• Affordable

• Matching our growth ambitions – creating jobs, opportunities and investing in communities

• Fit for the future

• Safe and easy to use

The transformation is already underway, backed by £1.5bn of investment to start us off – including £630m towards the major renewal and enhancement of our tram network and £350m to reform South Yorkshire’s buses. Trams are back under public control, and starting next year, buses will be too, allowing decisions to be made in the interests of people, not profits. Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) is being reopened, major investment has been secured for rail through Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), and more funding is going into walking, wheeling and cycling and road safety.

The South Yorkshire People’s Network brand reflects South Yorkshire’s pride in taking back control and the determination to build something better. Colours of molten orange, grey and asphalt black speak to the region’s history of industry, Northern grit, and resilience.

Oliver Coppard said:

“Transport isn’t just about getting from A to B. A proper public transport network gives people real freedom and choice about how they travel and move, connects people to opportunity and opens up new horizons. But public transport in South Yorkshire has been broken for too long. I promised to make change happen, to give South Yorkshire back the world class public transport system we once had, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. That’s why we’re putting in a huge investment to fix our public transport system, backed by even greater ambition, so that we can build something that truly works for all of us across South Yorkshire; a real People’s Network.”

In the coming months, people will begin to see the new brand across bus stops, shelters and interchanges, on frontline tram staff uniforms and on a new South Yorkshire People’s Network website, replacing Travel South Yorkshire by the end of the year. From next year, the brand will appear on the buses that come under South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) control, on bus driver uniforms, across the tram network, the Mayor’s South Yorkshirewide E-bike subscription programme, and Sheffield City Council’s E-bike hire scheme.

Over the next five years, people will see the brand on 25 new trams and across our network and wayfinding signs. Delivering the full Transport Vision for South Yorkshire will take time and longterm investment. The Mayor has set out plans to keep fighting for the bold funding the region deserves so everyone in South Yorkshire can stay near and go far, living in communities that are healthier, happier, safer and more prosperous. What’s coming next

In the next few years, South Yorkshire will see:

• Magna Tram Train Station opening to the public imminently

• Refurbishment of stops and shelters beginning this year, as well as new bus and tram shelters with an iconic design that reflects our ambition and sets a new benchmark for user-led design, innovation and beauty

• Bus franchising starting in Doncaster and

Sheffield in September 2027 and covering all four of South Yorkshire’s boroughs by 2029

• Simplified tickets that are available on franchised bus services with new integrated tram and bus tickets. Ensuring that tickets enable people to use both franchised and non-franchised bus services while the transition takes place

• New E-bike subscription and hire schemes launching next year

• Passenger flights returning to DSA in 2028

• Exploration of tram extensions, supported by £7.5m from government to develop plans

• Free travel for all under-18s will extend from Barnsley to Sheffield, with a wider ambition to introduce it across the whole of South Yorkshire by Summer 2027.

• Starting the process of improving the bus network with initial improvements from Day 1 of bus franchising, focusing on getting more buses running on time and improving links to hospitals and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre In the 2030s, the Vision aims to deliver:

• Northen Powerhouse Rail phase 1: four fast train services per hour between Sheffield and Leeds

• Capacity upgrades to Sheffield and Doncaster stations

• Rotherham Gateway train station and tram stop

• Waverley train station

• A full fleet of 25 new

trams

• Further improvements to the Penistone Line

• Expansion of our tram / Tram-Train network

And in the 2040s, the ambition includes:

• Northen Powerhouse Rail phase 3: four fast trains per hour between Sheffield and Manchester

• All rail stations in South Yorkshire becoming step-free

Have your say

The Mayor wants people to help shape how the People’s Network feels in practice. While the name, colours and purpose of the brand are set, the way the brand shows up across the network is still being finalised. There will be opportunities for the public to provide feedback to help guide improvements and support more reliable journeys for everyone. How you can see the brand in action this week You’ll be able to see the new South Yorkshire People’s Network brand across all four boroughs in South Yorkshire and speak to staff about how the new brand and Transport Vision will improve experiences across the transport system, as a branded bus goes on tour. Lord David Blunkett said: “For too long, South Yorkshire has been held back by a public transport system that hasn’t matched the needs or ambitions of our communities.

“I’m pleased the aims set out in my Yorkshire Plan for Rail are now reflected in the wider vision for public transport.”

new recruit for support dogs

The son of a former police inspector has named a Support Dogs pup in a lasting tribute to his late father.

It was a tear-jerking moment when Sheffield businessman Tony Dent met young India at Support Dogs’ training centre for the first time.

Tony and his business, B&B Vehicle Contracts, have been long-running supporters of the Sheffield-based national charity, which trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to help people living with a variety of challenging medical conditions, including autism, epilepsy and physical disabilities.

Tony and his business partner Steve Barker, have raised more than £15,000 over the past seven years, including taking part in a sponsored virtual Marathon, Great North Run, supporting race days and other events, collaborations with Paul Gosney from taxi and private hire firm Veezu and also providing the good cause’s branded fleet of vehicles.

“I developed a real hunger to do more for Support Dogs,” said Tony. Now Tony has gone a paw further, following his fundraising efforts, to have the honour of naming Red Fox Labrador, India, who is now six months old.

Tony’s father, Craig Dent, was a police officer with South Yorkshire police for 37 years, from the age of 20, rising to the rank of Inspector before retiring at 57. He passed away in 2023, aged 79.

Craig’s call sign – his unique police identifier number used when communicating over radio – was “India 57”, so Tony thought India would be the perfect name for a Support Dogs puppy.

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

Tony, who met India with his wife, Katey, said: “It feel amazing to have met India and to have been able to name her. I’ve been really looking forward to it, having heard so much about her. She’s absolutely beautiful. It’s a huge honour personally and for our business to name her in my father’s memory and as a lasting legacy. It makes me quite emotional. My dad’s ethos was about always being kind and to do whatever he could to help people. Knowing India is going to train to help someone and be their lifeline is just fantastic. It’s very humbling – we have raised some money, but what the team does here and the amount of time and dedication the volunteers give is incredible.”

Katey added: “It’s a really special gesture, because Tony’s father loved dogs – we took on the care of his black Labrador, Isla. He was a massive dog person. We are very much looking forward to seeing India’s progress –she’s a cracker.”

Danny Anderson ofSupport Dogs, said: “We can’t thank Tony and the team enough for their ongoing-support – our work wouldn’t be possible without the support of businesses like this. Not only do they help to keep our charity on the road, as we transport our dogs and staff around South Yorkshire and further afield, they have gone above and beyond, immersing themselves in fundraising and now naming one of our pups. We know India is going to do them proud.” To find out more about Support Dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.

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Safety Partnership Wins National Award for Tackling Antisocial Behaviour

City of Doncaster Council, South Yorkshire Police and the Frenchgate Shopping Centre have received national praise for their joint efforts in cracking down on antisocial behaviour (ASB).

Organised by Resolve — leading experts in the field of community safety — the ASB Awards took place in February, shining a spotlight on those organisations from around the country that are helping to make local places feel more welcome and more secure. A total of eight trophies were handed out during the ceremony, with accolades celebrating the most effective police initiatives, the best individual projects, and exemplary partnerships. It was the latter accolade that was scooped up by partners from Doncaster, in recognition of all their hard work to tackle youth antisocial behaviour in the Frenchgate shopping centre. Notable milestones here include the continued success of the EPIC youth hub (which had record levels of attendance over the summer), the recent opening of a new policing base within the centre, and a focussed programme of business engagement. In addition to this, there has also been the introduction of new opportunities for the police, alongside the council’s city centre engagement officers and neighbourhood response teams, to speak with the public as part of their ongoing Safer City initiative.

Speaking about the award win, Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “We know that addressing antisocial behaviour in the city centre is a top priority for residents and businesses, and it is good to see all of our hard work and investment in this area paying off.

“I’m proud of the progress that we have made, and of this recent award win, and look forward to building upon this momentum further, to work with our Team Doncaster partners, tackling crime and antisocial behaviour, as we strive to deliver for the residents and businesses of Doncaster. With that said, I encourage everyone to visit our city centre, support our local high street businesses and see for themselves what it has to offer.”

Doncaster Central Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Lisa Bird added: “We’ve listened to people’s concerns around antisocial behaviour in Doncaster city centre and have worked to significantly increase our policing presence and improve our partnership working through the Safer City campaign.We will continue to carry out regular patrols of the city centre and work alongside our partners to tackle antisocial behaviour and contribute towards making the area as safe as it can be.

"This award is testament to the work of the city centre policing team over the past year and I want to thank them for all their efforts. Please continue to report any crime and anti-social behaviour to us or the local authority so we can take appropriate action and make our city centre safer.”

The award-winning work being carried out in the Frenchgate is part of a much wider scheme to make Doncaster a more secure and welcoming environment for everyone. Known as the Safer City initiative, this collaboration has seen South Yorkshire Police and City of Doncaster Council joining forces to crack down on crime and antisocial behaviour, to provide a reassuring presence, and to invest in new resources that help people stay safe while enjoying everything that our city has to offer.

You can find out more about the scheme by heading to www.yourlifedoncaster.co.uk/safer-city

Forget about the rustle of spring….STOS Theatre Company

are already looking forward to some Festive fun as they prepare for their 2026 show.

The acclaimed Sheffield theatre company will be back on stage at the city’s Lyceum Theatre from November 17 to 21 with a new production of Nativity: The Musical.

And with tickets going on sale from March 14, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about an early Christmas gift for theatre lovers!

Inspired by the 2009 movie hit, the stage version of the family favourite features all the hits from the film - including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment and She’s the Brightest Star - along with a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas!

It’s the sparkling story of the

children of St Bernadette’s School and their attempts to stage a nativity to top the annual show by their rivals at Oakmoor, the posh private school that always takes top honours for their Christmas show.

But things get really complicated when teacher Mr Maddens promises that a top Hollywood producer will come to see the St Bernadette’s show and turn it into a film.

What follows is a crazy race to opening night, supported and hindered by classroom assistant Mr Poppy, a gang of unruly children and a lot of Christmas spirit as Mr Maddens struggles to overcome a broken heart and to make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.

“We are truly delighted that after celebrating our 125th anniversary in 2025 we are able to bring this

wonderful feel good family show to the Lyceum stage,” said STOS Chair Mark Harris.

“This is a story that has become a firm seasonal favourite with audiences and we know that everybody will love seeing a new take that captures the spirit of the original but then adds so much more magic into the mix”

And alongside a cast of familiar South Yorkshire community theatre faces, the show will also feature the next generation of stage talent playing the children of the rival schools.

STOS Theatre Company produces the world’s top musicals at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre, made for and by the people of South Yorkshire.

STOS draws on the very best local talent, employs hugely experienced professional creative teams and invests more than

THE ULTIMATE SMASH-HIT IRISH MUSIC SHOW IS BACK! Get ready for a night of laughter, love, music and mischief as One Night In Dublin returns with a brand-new show bursting with Irish charm. Meet Danny Muldoon, a whiskey-loving fisherman with the voice of an angel and his straight-talking wife Rosie. From the cobbled streets of Dublin to the cosy corners of Murphy’s Tavern, follow Danny as he dodges obstacles (including Rosie!) on his return home from sea in search of a pint and a grand night of craic with his friends.

Featuring renowned Irish singer Danny Muldoon (Seven Drunken Nights, Fairytale of New York, Paul Heaton’s ‘Small Boats’) and backed by a band of award-winning musicians – including live fiddle and accordion - One Night In Dublin delivers two hours of high-energy Irish music and feel-good fun. Covering all of your favourite sing-along Irish classics including Galway Girl, Tell Me Ma, The Irish Rover, Dirty Old Town, Whiskey In The Jar, The Wild Rover, Galway Shawl and with songs by The Pogues, The Saw Doctors, The Dubliners, The Fureys, Flogging Molly, Nathan Carter, and The Dropkick Murphys, to name just a few, One Night In Dublin is a must-see for anyone who loves Irish music.

£100,000 on each show to ensure the production values are without equal, performing exclusively at the Lyceum.

The STOS production of Nativity: The Musical will be directed by Keeley Kilby, assisted by James Bell, with choreography by Katie Granger, musical direction by Dominic Ridler and production management by Rosie Choppin. Recent acclaimed productions from the STOS team have included My Fair Lady, Gypsy, Sunshine on Leith, Shrek: The Musical, Elf: The Musical, Barnum, Crazy for You and The Band.

For Nativity: The Musical tickets visit www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/ whats-on/lyceum

For more information about STOS - including details of how to get involved - visit stos.org.uk

hop to it with a host of easter treats at Crystal Peaks

Crystal Peaks has announced three days of free family fun in the run up to the Easter holiday.

Wednesday April 1 will see a special craft session in the awardwinning shopping mall’s central atrium from 11am to 3pm, with a chance to decorate wooden bunny hanging decorations.

A glitter tattooist will also be offering young visitors a range bunny and Easter designs.

There’s a bunny bag workshop on Thursday, a chance to design and create individual tote bags, while a face painter will be providing seasonal designs.

Finally, on Good Friday, April 3, there will be a special guest appearance by a very famous rabbit, with three special 30 minute Easter themed shows scheduled throughout the day.

For young crafters, there will also be the chance to decorate recyclable pots and plant some water cress, while face painting will also be on offer again.

“We always want to make Easter very special for all our visitors,” said centre manager Lee Greenwood.

“This year we have some great activities that all the family can enjoy for free and look out too for our special Easter trail, an extra seasonal treat to make a shopping visit even more fun for children

and the Monkey Man, Heading for the Light, Only the Lonely and many more.

ThIRD TIME LuCKY

BALL INN

Every Sat - Bingo is Back! Jackpot on First House!

THIRd

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

PENNY BLACK

Vicky & The Team are Ready to Welcome you

FRIDAY 20th Mar /// KARAOKE WITH JOHNNY • Spin The Wheel! • From 6pm

SATURDAY 21st Mar ///Motown & Soul Night with DJ BEN

SUNDAY 22nd Mar /// KARAOKE WITH BARRY FROM 3PM Open the Box • 7pm Start

TUESDAY 24th Mar /// KARAOKE from 5PM - free hotdogs!

saTuRday 21sT maRcH fROm 8.00 Pm karaoke • fuN GamEs • open the box chinese bingo • Play yOuR caRds RIGHT fROm 5.00 Pm suNday 22Nd maRcH - 8Pm dIscO & KaRaOKE fROm 9Pm dJ ryan all the hits

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GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

aston, sheffield s26 2Bs is applying for a licence to use: junction 31 secure parking, mansfield road, aston, sheffield s26 2Bs as an Operating Centre for 1 goods vehicles & 1 trailers

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 at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/a-guide-to-makingrepresentations-objections-and-complaintsgoods-vehicle-operator-licensing

NOTICE UNDER SECTION 27 OF THE TRUSTEE ACT 1925

to memBers and others claiming under the Wm gunstone & sons limited “Q” scheme (the “scheme”), notice is hereby given, pursuant to section 27 of the Trustee Act 1925, that northern foods trustees limited (the “trustee” of the scheme) is finalising its winding up and wishes to trace any persons who were or are a member of the Scheme or who believe that they may have an interest or entitlement in the Scheme or a claim against the Scheme.

The Trustee believes it has identified everyone who has a right to benefits under the Scheme.

If you were a member of the Scheme and consider that you may have been entitled to benefits from the Scheme, or have a claim against the Scheme, please write to paul smith, secretary to the trustee of the Wm gunstone & sons limited “Q” scheme, paragon pension services limited, the firs, 100 reading road, finchampstead, Wokingham, rg40 4ra with full details of your claim and any benefits that you think you are entitled to, including your full name, address, NI Number, dates of employment and copies of any relevant papers, within 2 months of the date of publication of this advertisement.

After the 2-month period from the date of publication of this notice, the Trustee will proceed with the winding up of the Scheme and may have regard only to those claims, entitlements and interests of any nature of which it had prior notice and will not be liable to or in respect of any person whose claim or entitlement has not been so notified to it within the said 2-month period.

If the Trustee has already been in contact with you (for example if you have received correspondence from the Trustee in the last year or are receiving a pension) please do not reply to this notice since your interest has already been noted.

town and country planning

(development management procedure) (england) order 2015 notice under article 13 of application for planning permission

Sheffield City Council has received applications for Planning Permission listed below.

proposed development at: 10 Warminster Close, Sheffield S8 9BH

Take Notice that application is being made by claire Wright

For Planning Permission to:

Erect a two storey side extension and single storey rear extension

Copies of the application(s) can be viewed on the planning pages of the website at www.sheffield.gov.uk Sheffield City Council Planning Department, Howden House, 1 Union Street, Sheffield S1 2SH. Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application should write to the Council within 21days of this notice. claire Wright 16/3/26

statement of owners’ rights: The grant of planning permission does not affect owners’ rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless the some provision to the contrary in an agreement or lease.

statement of agricultural tenants’ rights: The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants’ security of tenure

“owner” means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest, the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years

“tenant” means a tenant of an agricultural holding, any part of which is comprised in the land

MOtOrHOMe

TUESDAY

Coronation Street: Eva is horrified when Sam collapses unconscious on the pavement. Eva races to Sam’s side while Megan calls for an ambulance. Megan’s past comes back to haunt her as Daniel demands answers from Megan about the future of their relationship. Sarah tries to lift Todd’s spirits by taking him to lunch but her plan backfires when Todd sees Theo with another man. Theo plays with Todd’s emotions by telling him that he’s considering taking a job in Belfast and having a clean break. Adam tells Alya that a potential client is ready to sign and he’s delighted that they have managed to poach one of Fabian’s biggest clients.

Adam and Alya attend a meeting with Rich, and the warring law firms arrive at a deal. Adam is horrified to later realise that someone has hacked into the firm’s internal email.

Emmerdale:

Under interrogation Bear deliberately lies to protect Paddy’s name when he falsely claims that he killed Ray deliberately, but might have condemned himself to a life sentence. Desperate to free Bear, knowing he spent months held in captivity on the farm, Paddy and Dylan decide to hand themselves in to the police. Kim’s heart hardens when it comes to Graham, so he steps up his attempts to turn Joe against her. Will Graham be able to change Joe’s mind and convince him that Kim is pure evil?

Jacob is left feeling even more defeated when the feedback he receives from Dr. Todd is brutal in its criticism. After getting wind of Kerry and Jai’s fling when gossip is rife around the village, Eric becomes suspicious that the rumours are true.

Eastenders:

Mark has a business proposition for Lauren, promising to give her luxury cars to sell. Lauren accepts, unaware of Mark’s dodgy motives… After some encouragement from Alfie, Jean reaches out to Zoe and the pair finally make amends. Denise and Kim go on the defensive when they get word that a woman called Sandra is asking questions about Jasmine. But the situation changes as Sandra is revealed to be the adoptive mother of Zoe’s son Josh. But Josh storms out after insisting he doesn’t want a relationship with his biological mum. Suki doesn’t react well to Vinny’s big news, and she comes to blows with him and Penny over the pregnancy. Max, having been evicted from No.45, gets into another row with Linda. Later in the week, he makes an effort with her and apologises for his actions – and forgiving Linda asks Max to spend the day with her and Annie as a result.

FOOTBALLR UNDUP

WILDER HAILS DESERVED POINT IN INCIDENT PACKED GAME

Chris Wilder hailed United’s hard-fought point at Birmingham City as ‘well deserved and huge’ in the circumstances.

Patrick Bamford cancelled out Marvin Ducksch’s opener after Femi Seriki had been harshly red carded and Sydie Peck had seen a penalty saved and the Blades boss hailed his players following another all in performance, despite disappointments in previous results. Wilder also spoke honestly and openly about where United find themselves at the present time, calling for some perspective after he inherited a group that were winless and rock bottom of the division.

Specifically commenting on a ‘bonkers game’, Wilder reflected ‘fabulous performance’ against the odds and thanked the sold out away end for their

contribution from the terraces in the face of adversity.

“The game is not always celebrated by wins or draws, but I feel it’s a huge point for us and an absolutely fabulous performance,” said Wilder to BBC Radio Sheffield.

“A bonkers game, an absolutely nuts game. I can get questioned on tactics if I don’t get it

right, or team selection.

“If we put it out there and had a poll about who should be playing, I get all that.

I’ve been through all that situation and I understand negativity towards performances.

“We weren’t good enough in the second half and turned the ball over cheaply. That’s a technical thing, not an attitude thing.”

OWLS GIVING EVERyTHING THE y CAN

Three game weeks are a challenge at the best of times but even more so in the Owls’ current predicament.

Henrik Pedersen was pleased with how his side competed against Ipswich but said his players just lacked the energy in the closing stages owing to a hectic seven days in the Championship.

A trip to Derby last Saturday, a midweek clash with Watford and finally, a home game with promotion-chasing Ipswich has stretched his side to the limit. Ultimately, two late goals

ROVERS CLAIM BIG WIN

Doncaster claimed a big win in the lower reaches of League One as they triumphed against Blackpool. Goals from Owen

MILLERS LET SOLID LEAD SLIP

Bolton battled back from two goals down to earn a draw in their League One game with Rotherham at the New York Stadium.

Two goals in three minutes from Sam Nombe put Rotherham in front at the break but Bolton rallied to earn a point and extend their unbeaten streak to 12 games.

A 60-year wait for a win at Rotherham goes on as a late onslaught failed to find a winner.

Rotherham snuck ahead after 39 minutes when

a Joe Powell cross fell kindly to Nombe who tucked the ball beyond Jack Bonham.

The same man struck again in the 42nd minute as he was found in space by Ar’Jany Martha and lashed low past Bonham. Bolton got one back in the 51st minute with Chris Forino poking in from close-range following a corner.

The visitors pushed for a leveller with Johnny Kenny forcing Tedd Cann into a diving save after breaking from the halfway line.

LA PLATA S.C.

The leveller came after 83 minutes with Sam Dalby nodding in from Kenny’s cross to the near post.

“The players went off the game plan a little bit and that’s frustrating,” MIllers Boss Hamshaw said. “We were naive defensively.”

“When I woke up this morning, if someone

had said that I was going to get a point, I’d have probably snapped their hands off, to be honest,” he said.

““We knew we couldn’t drop points, and we have. That makes it even more difficult. We have played well enough to win the game but haven’t.”

ORCHARD PARK

settled the contest as the Tractor Boys ran out 2-0 winners.

But Pedersen, as always, is pleased with the mentality and character of his players to give everything in the face of adversity.

“I think we played against the best team in the Championship today,” Pedersen said.

“They have top individual players and you could also see the bench they brought with them.

“But as well as top individual players, they have a top manager and you can see how

Bailey and Hakeeb Adelakun gave Rovers a deserved comfortable margin, though the visitors pulled a goal back late on through Ashley Fletcher. It was a scrappy affair overall with Doncaster always having the edge, and Elliot Lee and Neill Byrne drew good saves from Bailey PeacockFarrell in the early stages.

Rovers then took the lead after 29 minutes when captain Bailey headed home from Robbie Gotts’ delivery to claim his 15th goal of the season.

The game evened out after the break but Blackpool struggled for clear-cut chances until Josh Bowler lashed a strike off the upright.

well organised they were offensively and defensively.

“It’s a good cocktail what they have and I think it is a team who will get promotion.”

On a tough threegame week, the gaffer continued:

“We knew today was the third game in a week and we know how much we have to invest to stay in each game.

“We saw after the final whistle in all these games that the players have left absolutely everything on the pitch.

“Until 78 minutes we

Doncaster looked to have made sure of the points after 82 minutes when substitute Adelakun’s angled drive beat Peacock-Farrell at his near post. However, Fletcher flicked in from close range two minutes from time to set up a nervy finish until Fraser Horsfall was sent off for a second bookable offence to see the Seasiders finish the game with 10 men. Grant McCann praised his players for sticking to the plan as they handled difficult conditions to beat Blackpool. McCann instructed his side to take no risks on the unpredictable playing surface at the Eco-Power Stadium

were really very well in the game, but the boys give everything as they always do.

“We competed against a top, top team from the Championship.

“I hate to lose but seeing the faces of disappointment in the dressing room shows

how much they want more. We knew today we didn’t have the freshness for offensive transition.

“This freshness was big for us against Watford but it was missing today, we missed the energy to play those offensive transitions on a high level.”

and adopt a more direct approach.

Speaking to the media post-match, McCann said: “It wasn’t the prettiest of games, but given the nature of the pitch at this moment in time it’s not conducive for playing on, particularly in your own half, because you’re asking for trouble.”

”I think you’ve seen us play against two footballing teams in the last two games, Luton and Blackpool, and they’ve adapted the way they play because of it, so credit to the players for sticking to what we tried to do today. We wanted to play in their half, we wanted to make it scrappy and ugly and I thought we did that

better than them. We picked up more second balls, we looked more threatening, and we’ve won the game. It’s not a game of football that I’m sure Ian Evatt (Blackpool boss) would like to watch. It’s definitely not a game I’d like to watch back! I can’t tell you how hard it is to pass the ball on that pitch. Until you go on there and pass the ball to each other, you probably wouldn’t understand what I mean. It’s difficult. It’s kicking up. It’s slow, bobbly. They’re used to playing on good pitches, the boys, and when it’s like that, it’s tough.”

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