council urGes doG owners to follow the rules in public
Doncaster dog owners are being reminded of the rules they need to adhere to, following the renewal of an order that sets out their responsibilities when out and about in Doncaster.
Since 2017, a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) has been in place across Doncaster, making clear what people in charge of dogs must and must not do. For instance, it requires them to ensure that their pets are wearing leads in certain parts of the city, identifies those places that dogs cannot be taken for safety reasons, and stipulates
that they must always pick up after their dog when they are in a public area. Furthermore, the order specifies that the person in charge of the animal must be able to produce a suitable means of picking up after it (such as a disposable bag) when asked to do so by a relevant council officer.
If a dog owner is caught breaching any of the rules enforced by this order, then they could be hit with a fine of up £100.
Over the past three years alone, City of Doncaster Council has issued 324 of these fixed penalty notices for dog control offences.
Officers will continue to be vigilant for breaches going forward, now that the dog control PSPO has been extended for another further three years. As such, the council is encouraging members of the public to familiarise themselves with the rules here and to be responsible pet owners at all times.
Speaking about this, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Housing and Safer Communities, Councillor Glyn Jones, said: “We are pleased to announce that the dog control PSPO has been renewed, following a
consultation earlier in the year that evidenced strong public support for its various prohibitions. The measure enables us to really crack down on certain unwanted behaviours, including dog fouling, and prevent people from spoiling our neighbourhoods and beautiful outdoor spaces.
“On that note, if you are walking your dog anywhere in our city, please make sure that you are following the rules. Keep your dogs on leads where required, don’t take them into prohibited areas, and make sure you have the means to pick up
after them and that you take your bags to the bin once they’re filled.”
City of Doncaster Council consulted the public on the dog control PSPO renewal earlier in the year, and is now seeking their views on proposals to extend another order that covers antisocial behaviour in the City Centre. More information about this can be found here.
Meanwhile, for a breakdown of the prohibitions enforced by the dog control order, please visit the City of Doncaster Council website.
LEE MEAD STARS AS THE WORLD’S GREATEST SHOWMAN
Step right up and enter the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum, where imagination and ambition know no bounds. Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights.
West End favourite and TV star Lee Mead will take centre stage as the legendary 19th century showman P.T. Barnum and will grace the stage of the Lyceum
in Sheffield at the end of this month.
Lee shot to stardom with his breakout win on Any Dream Will Do and acclaimed performances in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wicked, and Legally Blonde. This spectacular production directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Oti Mabuse will feature an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actormusicians, acrobats and amazing circus acts.
Audiences are certain to delight at every sight, wonder and miracle that the name Barnum stands for!
Barnum first took the UK by storm when it played the London Palladium, with Michael Crawford making theatrical history with a death-defying nightly tightrope walk across the stage. And now, Lee Mead steps into Barnum’s shoes and on to the tightrope! Come follow the band with the glorious music of multi-award-winner
Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart’s lyrics and Mark Bramble’s book.
Barnum features a whole host of classic show tunes including Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All.
Barnum - The Circus Musical Lyceum TheatreSheffield
Tuesday 28th AprilTuesday 2nd May
Tickets available from sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
22/4/2000 The Big Number Change takes place in the United Kingdom.
23/4/1661 King Charles II of England, Scotland and Ireland is crowned in Westminster Abbey.
24/4/1953 Winston Churchill is knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.
25/4/1792 Highwayman Nicolas J. Pelletier becomes the first person executed by guillotine.
Crossword Clues
1) Write briefly (3) 2) Fighter pilot (3) 3) Sing (5)
4) Tote about (5, 3, 5)
5) Frighten (5)
7) Hostile (10)
10) Blond (4-6)
11) Join (7)
12) Swarming (7)
17) Bisect (5) 18) Big artery (5) 21) Sharp fixer (3) 22) Era (3)
Last Week’s Solution
ACROSS: 6) Lots of money, 8) Tub, 9) Wen, 10) Tetanus, 12) Treat, 13) Stole, 14) Acute, 15) Claws, 16) Stout, 19) Power, 20) Mansion, 21) Rob, 23) Leg, 24) Namedropper.
DOWN: 1) Mob, 2) Asset, 3) Offal, 4) Bonus, 5) Few, 6) Lubrication, 7) Yellow fever, 10) Tantrum, 11) Stilton, 17) Taper, 18) Usury, 19) Poppy, 22) Bay, 23) Leo.
26/4/1964 A Rolling Stones concert in London, Ontario is shut down by police after 15 minutes due to rioting.
27/4/1992 Betty Boothroyd becomes the first woman to be elected Speaker of the British House of Commons in its 700-year history.
28/4/2001 Millionaire Dennis Tito becomes the world’s first space tourist.
My boss said, “I find it highly suspicious that you are only sick on weekdays.”
I said, “It must be my weekend immune system.”
You know there’s no official training for binmen? They just pick things up as they go along.
I invented a car that moves only when the driver is silent.... It goes without saying.
What starts with T, ends with T, and is full of T? Teapot.
There I was this morning, sitting and drinking Coffee in my slippers , and I thought to myself....I really need to clean a few mugs around here.
How do you tell the sex of an ant? You drop it in water. It sinks: girl ant. It floats:... Boy ant.
Freddie Mercury, Bruno Mars, and Venus Williams all walk into the same bar. But they didn’t planet.
I have a fear of speed bumps.
I’m slowly getting over it.
I’ve just written a book about falling down a staircase. It’s a step by step guide.
I told my wife she drew her eyebrows too high... She seemed surprised.
As I handed my Dad his 50th birthday card, he looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, “You know, one would have been enough.”
My therapist says I have a preoccupation with vengeance. We’ll see about that.
People say I’m a plagiarist, their word not mine.
My doctor says I’ve beaten arthritis, fingers cross...aaargh!
My father was a roofer, so dad, if you’re still up there..
1) Which Irish actress played Hanna in the 2011 film of the same name?
2) How is London’s Victoria & Albert Museum better known?
3) Which British Prime Minister sat as the MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath?
4) Which UK racecourse traditionally holds The Royal Meeting in June?
5) In which year did The Battle of Hastings take place?
6) Which BBC children’s tv show centres around The Squirrel Club?
7) Which ‘C’ is both a brand of perfume and a character from the Rocky film franchise?
8) Which ‘T’ is a Greek dish made from cured fish roe?
9) Which avenue is generally considered to be the heart of London’s West End?
10) Which name links Coronation Street character Barlow and radio presenter Bruce?
new surgical robot cuts its own ribbon as Sheffield unveils latest advance in cancer care
A major step forward in cancer care in Sheffield and beyond has been marked with the official unveiling of the new cutting-edge surgical robot and technology at the Northern General Hospital.
The arrival of the new dual console da Vinci Xi surgical system has been made possible thanks to a generous £1.45m donation from Sheffield Hospitals Charity, the largest single donation from the Charity. Its introduction was celebrated in unique style as the robot and surgical system was used to perform the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, using its advanced precision controls to snip the ribbon and officially mark its debut at the hospital.
How does it work?
The state-of-the-art technology lets surgeons work in hard-to-reach areas using robotic-assisted arms with flexible, tiny wristed instruments and a high-definition 3D view allowing for fewer and less invasive incisions, faster recovery and shorter hospital stays. These benefits could enable hundreds of patients to return to normal life sooner.
The advanced technology is controlled by the surgeon who sits at a console with hand and foot controls and a magnified high-definition 3D view of the surgical site.
It will be used for a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures, including general, thoracic (lung), colorectal cancer, hepatobiliary (pancreas/liver), upper gastrointestinal (oesophagus/stomach), and endocrinology and to treat cancerous tumours in the lung, oesophagus, stomach, bowel, liver, and pancreas.
The first procedures performed on the brand-new robotic-assisted surgical system took place last week.
The first of these included three gall bladder operations, led by consultant surgeons Mr Clive Kelty and Mr Martin Trotter on the first day and a further three later in the week. The thoracic surgery team, led by Mr Luigi Ventura, performed the first thoracic procedures using the new surgical robot on Tuesday and Thursday. This included a lung lobectomy and a lung segmentectomy for the treatment of patients with lung cancer.
Beth Crackles, Chief Executive at Sheffield Hospitals
Charity, said: “Sheffield Hospitals Charity is proud to have contributed £1.45 million to bring this robot to the Northern General Hospital. It is the largest single donation we have ever made and one that reflects our confidence in the life- changing impact this technology will have for patients and the NHS.
“Made possible by the generosity of thousands of supporters, this robot is a gamechanger for those undergoing cancer surgery in Sheffield. Moreover, it will enable more people to access minimally invasive surgery closer to home, helping patients recover faster, and return to everyday life sooner.
“It is a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its NHS.”
Kirsten Major, Chief Executive for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We were an early pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery in the UK, with the first procedures for bladder cancer patients performed at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in 2013. So, it’s fantastic to now have the new da Vinci Xi robot at the Northern General Hospital thanks to the incredible generosity of Sheffield Hospitals Charity and their supporters. Expanding access to robotic-assisted surgery is one of the key ambitions of the NHS Ten Year Plan, so the introduction of this newest robot and surgical system represents another significant step forward in advancing patient care for those in Sheffield and beyond. It also reaffirms our commitment to innovation.”
News, Information and Advice
james’ marathon fund-raiser
James Badger, a fatherof-three will climb the UK’s three highest mountains, cycle from Snowdon to London and run the London Marathon – all in five days – to fund vital blood cancer research.
James, who lost his wife Philippa to an aggressive blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), just two days after her diagnosis, is preparing to take on his toughest challenge yet to raise money for lifesaving research.
James, his wife and their three young children were visiting Robin Hood’s Bay in the spring of 2022 when Phillipa said her legs were feeling a bit tired. James said: “We did not think too much of it, but that evening she felt a bit worse so she rang our GP. She had blood tests and was told she had acute myeloid leukaemia. After receiving a blood transfusion, she was transferred to a hospital in Leeds but died shortly afterwards. It was such a sudden shock for my family, for us all. Going from being a normal healthy person and a normal family to dealing with this in less than two days. The hardest thing I ever had to do was tell my three children that Mummy had died.”
Between 21–26 April, James, a director at the food store chain Morrisons, will attempt “Peaks & Pedals to the Palace”. He will begin by completing the National Three Peaks Challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours. As soon as he finishes, he will get on his bike and cycle from Snowdon to London, before completing the London Marathon.
Since Philippa’s death, James has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Blood Cancer UK to support research into AML, one of the hardest to treat blood cancers. Just one in three people diagnosed with some of the hardest to treat blood cancers survive, and for AML that is as low as one in five people surviving for five years. Research is urgently needed to change the outlook.
James said: “Philippa was an incredible person and an amazing mum to our three children. After losing her so suddenly, I wanted to do something positive
in her memory and help fund the research that could stop other families going through the same heartbreak.”
His previous challenges include cycling 1,600km from Land’s End to John O’Groats in eight days, and completing an “Everest” cycling challenge in the Yorkshire Dales by riding up the same hill 90 times, passing the churchyard where Philippa is buried on every climb, with friends supporting him along the way. And last year he cycled 500km over three days on a vintage tandem bike from Harrogate to London arriving in time to run his first-ever London Marathon!
The fundraising has already enabled Blood Cancer UK to fully fund a research project into AML at Cardiff University and James now has his sights set on fully funding another project at the University of York. James said: “It’s incredible to see people’s money going to researchers who are working so hard to find better treatments. It makes every mile, every climb and every challenge feel worthwhile.”
Along the cycling route from Snowdon to London, James will also be stopping at several Morrisons stores, where volunteers will be supporting the challenge with bucket collections to raise further funds. The ultimate goal is to fully raise £300,000 to fund a full three-year research programme into AML. Matthew White, Director of Fundraising at Blood Cancer UK, said: “What James is doing in Philippa’s memory is incredible. Acute myeloid leukaemia is one of the toughest blood cancers to treat. Just one in three people with the hardest to treat blood cancers survive five years after diagnosis, and for many patients, treatment options are still very limited. The research James is helping to fund could lead to the next generation of treatments for AML and that’s why challenges like this matter so much.”
James will document the challenge on Instagram through the account Team Badger Blood Cancer, where supporters can follow his progress throughout the five days.
new road closures
As work continues to transform how people get around the city centre, offering more choice and making it easier, safer and reducing congestion, the Council is advising people on how to get around as two roads are due to temporarily close. The improvement work is part of the Council’s Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project and has already seen parts of Surrey Street and Pinstone Street regenerated into fantastic, pedestrianised areas.
Between Tuesday 21 April and Tuesday 1 September, we will need to temporarily close a section of Pinstone Street and a section of Charles Street to vehicles. This is so that we can replace the paving and carriageway in these areas to make them more accessible for everyone. What is changing and how will I get around?
Pinstone Street will be closed from Charles Street to Cross Burgess Street. We will reopen the section between Furnival Gate and Charles Street now that we have completed work in this area.Traffic will be able to travel along Pinstone Street from Furnival Gate towards Charles Street, and will then need to turn right into Charles Street and into Norfolk Street or Union Street. This is a reversal of the current traffic movements on Charles Street.
There will still be access for loading at Norfolk Street and St Paul’s Place from Charles Street too.
Charles Street will be closed from Arundel Gate to Union Street, but you will still be able to access the Q-Park and loading bays in this section. Access to Cross Burgess Street and Cambridge Street
We will temporarily reverse the one-way system on Burgess Street so traffic can travel towards Cross Burgess Street. This will help drivers access Cross Burgess Street, Cambridge Street and the surrounding areas during the works.
The project team will continue to engage with the local community throughout the construction phase you can also find out more by going to the Have Your Say page on www.sheffield.gov.uk.
primary schools
Parents and families across Sheffield today learned which primary school their children have been allocated when they start in reception this September.
Overall, 98.92 per cent of pupils were allocated one of their three preferences. While this saw a slight decrease from the 99.6% that were allocated one of their three choices for 2025/2026, the number of children being allocated one has increased from 5,434 to 5,464.
The following outcomes are reported for Sheffield Local Authority based on the position at the national allocation date of 16 April 2026:
• First Preferences met95.04% (5,250 pupils)
• Second Preferences met - 3.46% (191 pupils)
• Third preferences met0.42% (23 pupils)
• No preferences met1.08% (60 pupils)
The number of preferences met remains very high. Yet it is unfortunately not always possible to accommodate all catchment area applicants because places are limited by the size of the school.
If a pupil has not been offered a place at one of its three preferred schools, a place will be offered at the nearest available school.
Appeals
Parents of pupils not eligible for a place at any of their preferred schools have the right to appeal against the refusal to an independent appeal panel. The deadline for submitting your appeal forms is Friday, 15th May, 2026. Further information will be sent to parents about the appeal procedure. Appeals are normally held between June and July. Sheffield City Council holds waiting lists for pupils who didn’t get a place at a school that they ranked higher than that which was allocated. Parents should be aware there is no guarantee of obtaining a school place from the waiting list but to bear in mind that there is always movement between March and September.. The waiting list will come into operation from Thursday 16th April and will be maintained until July 2027.
keep fit with support dogs
Being a volunteer puppy socialiser for the national Support Dogs charity has helped Craig Hodgson to improve his fitness.
Depending on the age of the dog in their care, Craig and his wife, Carole, could walk for anything from 15 minutes to two hours daily.
“We could walk eightand-a-half miles no problem,” says Craig, who turns 68 this Saturday – which is also National Exercise Day. The day promotes the health benefits of regular physical activity, and serves as a reminder to prioritise wellbeing in our daily lives.
Retired sales manager Craig, and Carole, of Wingerworth, Chesterfield, have looked after eight dogs for the Sheffield-based charity, which trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to help autistic children, as well as those living with epilepsy or a physical disability, to live safer, more independent lives.
In a recent survey of Support Dogs’ 200 volunteers, 89 percent said that since becoming a volunteer, they had become more physically active, and 78 percent felt they had more purpose and feel healthier.
Before volunteering for Support Dogs, Craig had kept fit through cycling, as two major knee operations meant he avoided walking for leisure.
But with dog-walking, he has committed himself to getting out and about –
and it has actually helped his knees to improve, and he finds that his knees no longer ache.
“It’s certainly got me walking more,” said Craig. “I’d say 90 percent more. By building it up, it definitely helps my knees, whereas in the past, I would have been in agony.”
Craig and Carole like to venture around their local area, as well as the town centre, where the pups get to experience various sights and sounds. They also like to explore the Peak District.
“We are also meeting people while out and about, which is good for your mental health. It’s good for your heart, it’s good for your weight, it’s good for stress. If you’re walking a little pup, you might only be able to walk them for about 15 minutes three times a day, but with an older dog, you can walk them up to an hour twice a day. Even if the pup is in a sling and may not have had their injections – carrying them around is good for your arms. You might also be in the garden and just play ball with them, or things like tug-of-war – it’s using your arms and chest.
People might be counting their steps – by walking the dogs, we quite often do over 10,000 steps a day, without evening knowing, and it’s certainly not boring.”
To find out more about the work of Support Dogs, and volunteering opportunities, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
swfc legend visits school
Birley Primary Academy, based on Hayfield Crescent and part of L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, held its annual Aspire Day for pupils from Early Years through to Year 6, encouraging children to raise their ambitions and think about their future careers.
The event gave pupils the opportunity to explore the world of work in a fun and meaningful way. Children arrived dressed as the professionals they aspire to become, transforming classrooms into a showcase of ambition and imagination. From doctors and police officers to cheerleaders and astronauts, pupils proudly shared their goals and spoke confidently about their future plans.
Throughout the day, the school welcomed a wide range of visitors from the local community, including medical experts, musicians, journalists, councillors, the Lord Mayor and local MP Clive Betts. Visitors delivered engaging presentations about their roles, sharing their personal career journeys, the skills and qualifications needed for their jobs and what they enjoy most about their work.
To further bring their careers to life, many visitors also introduced pupils to real equipment used in their professions, including musical instruments, handcuffs and even prosthetic limbs. These hands-on experiences added an interactive element to the day, helping pupils to better understand different pathways.
A standout moment of the day was a visit from Sheffield Wednesday Club legend Barry Bannan, who hosted
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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.
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sessions for pupils in years 3 to 6. Sharing his journey to becoming a footballer, Barry spoke about the challenges he has faced, and the dedication required to succeed as a professional athlete. Pupils were given the opportunity to ask questions, with many leaving the sessions feeling inspired and motivated to achieve their own ambitions.
Dawn McAughey, Headteacher at Birley Primary Academy, said: “At Birley Primary Academy, we are passionate about giving our pupils the experiences and knowledge to help them fulfil their potential.
“It was fantastic to welcome so many visitors from our local community to share their experiences with our pupils – we are so grateful for everyone’s time. These real-life stories make a lasting impact and help children to understand the many different paths they can take in the future.”
Barry Bannan, Sheffield Wednesday Club legend, said: “It was fantastic visiting Birley Primary Academy and to be part of their Aspire Day. The school’s ethos really stood out, and the children were polite, respectful and a credit to their community. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing my journey to becoming a professional footballer and I hope it inspired them to recognise the importance of education alongside hard work, self-belief and determination in achieving their goals.”
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Some of Sheffield’s toughest hills to test the elite of women’s cycling as Tour de France route revealed
The route that the cream of women’s cycling will take on when they head to Sheffield next year for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift has been revealed.
The Strines, High Bradfield, Worrall, Oughtibridge, Grenoside, Shirecliffe and Brightside will all provide different tests for riders as they wind through Stage Two of the 2027 Grand Départ after coming from Manchester and through Derbyshire into the city on Saturday, 31st July next year.
Entering the area along Manchester Road past Ladybower Reservoir, the riders will then head north up Mortimer Road through The Strines and climbing many tough hills. Turning onto Penistone Road, they then head through High Bradfield and Worrall before heading north again into Oughtibridge where they will take on the mighty challenge of Jawbone Hill. Leaving the countryside behind and heading into the city through Grenoside, they head down Halifax Road before riding through Shirecliffe and past Parkwood Springs. Then comes Burngreave and into Brightside, where another tough climb sees them negotiate the infamous Jenkin Road climb. Both the Côte d’Oughtibridge and the famous Côte de Jenkin Road were used when the men’s Tour de France finished in the city in 2014.
To finish, they will then weave past Meadowhall and into the Lower Don Valley before looping back around through Attercliffe and finishing on Attercliffe Common outside the Utilita Arena. It is the same finish line where Vincenzo Nibali won the men’s Tour de France stage when it passed through Sheffield in 2014, but approached from the opposite direction. Altogether on the day, riders will have tackled nearly 3,000m of climbing.
Please note that the route may change before the event takes place.
Last week saw the unveiling of the full routes for the first two stages of the race, which will take
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the peloton from Leeds to Manchester and then Manchester to Sheffield, delivering two challenging and visually spectacular days of racing across Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, and the Peak District. Then, the riders head south to London which will host a landmark moment in women’s cycling when the first-ever team time trial in the history of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift takes place on the streets of the capital.
Together, the stages form the opening chapter of a historic moment for cycling. In 2027, both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will begin in the United Kingdom. This will be the first time both Grand Départs have taken place in the same country outside France.
“The premier cycling event in the world is returning to Sheffield after taking to our streets back in 2014, and we cannot wait!
Next summer, Sheffield - and our famously challenging 7 hills - will welcome the elite of women’s cycling to the city. Residents and visitors can now start planning their favoured vantage points to cheer on the competitors and get inspired. Sheffield is a city of sport. We're the birthplace of football and remain the global home of snooker; having another top level sporting event coming to the city shows the standing of Sheffield on the world stage.” said Kate Josephs, Chief Executive Officer at Sheffield City Council
Marion Rousse, Race Director of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift stated “The United Kingdom has already shown its passion for the Tour, and these stages will once again showcase the energy of the crowds, the beauty of the landscapes and the growing importance of women’s cycling on the world stage.”
Paul Bush, Managing Director Grand Départ GB 2027: “Revealing the first two stages today and confirming London as the host of the first ever team time trial in the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is another exciting milestone on the road to 2027. From the climbs of Yorkshire and the Peak District to the streets of London, these stages will deliver incredible racing and unforgettable moments for fans.”
To find out more and stay up to date with the 2027 Grand Départs, including opportunities to volunteer at both races, visit www.letourgb.com
Meet MeL C aS She CaLLS in to SheFFieLd hMV
Before she became Mel C of the Spice Girls, Melanie Chisholm was discovering rave culture in the early ’90s, an experience that still fuels her today. That energy drives Sweat, her ninth studio album, released May 1 via Virgin Music Group — a euphoric, club-ready record celebrating movement, connection and pure joy.
To celebrate the release, Melanie C will be at Sheffield HMV for a signing on Monday 4th May.
Decades later, she reconnects with those roots on Sweat, her ninth studio album, released May 1, 2026 via Virgin Music Group, a euphoric, high-energy record that captures the freedom, unity and escapism of the dancefloor.
Led by the electrifying title track “Sweat,” an irresistible electrohouse cut sampling Diana Ross,
the album is a celebration of movement, joy and community.
New single “Attitude” builds on that momentum, bold, playful and empowering, it’s a confident anthem about stepping fully into your power and embracing self-belief. Together, the tracks showcase a vibrant new era for Melanie C, blending her chartdominating pop sensibilities with her evolution as a globally respected DJ.
Recorded between London, Stockholm and Los Angeles, Sweat is both a return to her earliest influences and a reflection of where she is now, an artist unafraid to push forward while honouring her past. Alongside its club-ready highs, the album also carries emotional depth, exploring resilience, heartbreak and renewal, reinforcing Melanie’s reputation for pairing honesty with uplift.
The album release will be celebrated with a series of UK in-store signings across Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Glasgow, Birmingham and Brighton, offering fans an intimate chance to meet Melanie and experience the new era up close. Later this year, she takes Sweat worldwide with The Melanie C World Tour, a global run of shows set to bring her signature energy to stages across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. The UK leg lands in October, including dates in Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham and a major London headline show at O2 Academy Brixton. Renowned for her dynamic live performances, Melanie seamlessly bridges underground club culture and arena-sized pop, delivering sets that move effortlessly between euphoric dancefloor moments and
the iconic hits that have defined her career.
From global pop phenomenon to credible club DJ, Melanie C has continually evolved while staying true to herself. With Sweat, she brings every part of her journey together celebrating individuality, resilience and, above all, joy.
Everything you need to know about Roundabout Quizmay
Test the brain cells and support a great cause as youth homelessness charity Roundabout’s Quizmay returns for spring 2026.
Inspired by the charity’s muchloved Quizmas, the evening - open for teams of up to eight people - will start promptly at 6.30pm at Crookes Social Club in Mulehouse Rd on May 28, following on from the success of a similar event last May.
“Your team can include your
friends, family or colleaguesanybody who wants to put their knowledge to the test across a range of trivia rounds,” said Roundabout Events Fundraising Manager Mhairi Jamieson.
“Alongside the quiz, guests will also be able to enjoy a pie and pea supper and there will be an exciting raffle with fantastic prizes to be won.”
Tickets cost £15 each, including pie and peas - with vegetarian and vegan options available - or £10 for the quiz alone.
To book or for further information visit www.roundabouthomeless. org/event/quizmay/
FuNKY MOON ROCKS
25th
BALL INN
dJS Jt & rik playing your favourites!
Play yOuR caRds RIGHT fROm 5.00 Pm suNday 26TH aPRIl - 8Pm dIscO & KaRaOKE fROm 9Pm
Licence for the Premises known as Lucy pAsToRELLI dIsTRIbuTIoN, uNIT 8 LoNgAcRE wAy, hoLbRook INdusTRIAL EsTATE, hoLbRook, shEFFIELd s20 3Fs
We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities: Sale by retail of alcohol for consumptiom OFF the premises (remote sales only): Monday - Sunday 00:00 - 24:00
Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to The Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 11th May 2026.
For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents
For full details & to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service. Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is unlimited.
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GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE
shEFFIELd TANk & dRuM coMpANy LIMITEd oF
uNIT 5, EccLEsFIELd 35 INdusTRIAL pARk, sTATIoN RoAd, shEFFIELd, s35 9yR
is applying to change an existing Licence as follows:
to add an operating centre to keep 8 goods vehicles & 8 trailers at: uNIT 5, EccLEsFIELd 35 INdusTRIAL pARk, sTATIoN RoAd, shEFFIELd, s35 9yR
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
application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence.
TUESDAY
Coronation Street: George warns that he won’t be responsible for his actions if Theo goes anywhere near Todd or Summer again. Kit warns the Driscolls that the CPS have decided not to pursue a case against Megan due to a lack of evidence. Carl ruthlessly blackmails Debbie into signing over the hotel. Debbie has her own idea and makes it clear to Carl that he can’t have her business. When she offers him some cash on the condition that she’ll never see him again, will Carl take the deal? With George now determined to keep going at the funeral parlour, Christina pitches an idea to get the business back on track. Towards the end of Carla and Lisa’s wedding day, a scream can be heard in the distance. It’s the start of the Street’s big new murder mystery, in which either Carl, Jodie, Maggie, Megan or Theo is killed. Which villain has taken their last breath?
Emmerdale:
Ross spots that Jacob isn’t his usual self and asks what’s going on. Jacob opts to keep Sarah in the dark over his plans to report Dr Todd to the HR department. Car trouble leaves Mack & Charity stranded – just as Charity’s waters break. Fortunately, Ross drives past and reluctantly agrees to give the couple a lift to the hospital. Belle gets excited after arranging a date with Kammy. Paddy learns that Bear has been moved into solitary confinement after fighting with another prisoner. Paddy expresses his relief that Mandy has the salon, which will provide financial security if he’s sent to jail. Mandy seems worried by his comment – what is she hiding?
Eastenders:
Priya decides to take Ravi to the hospital, where he is assessed. Will Ravi accept the help that he needs? When Alfie mentions a supplier of cheap vintage cars, Lauren sees an opportunity to show Max up in their competition for the car lot. Nugget confronts Will and his friends over a video that they recorded and shared of him having a seizure. At a council gala, Elaine struggles to fit in, while Ian moves confidently around the room. Midway through the event, Elaine ends up in a tense exchange with another guest, before she and Ian agree to end their messy feud. What encourages Ian and Elaine to make amends? In the immediate aftermath of the crash, Max secures Jimmy and Cindy’s safety. Relieved, Max and Cindy share a moment, before heading to hospital. Is this the start of a proper romance?
FOOTBALLR UNDUP
WILDER’S DELIGHT WITH WIN
Manager Chris Wilder said the performance United produced in victory over Watford was exactly what was needed after the Blades won 2-0 at Vicarage Road.
Two goals in the second half from Patrick Bamford allowed United to make it back-to-back Championship wins after a good all-round display in Hertfordshire.
After the game, Wilder said: “We needed that type of performance. They’ve got some good players at the top of the pitch that can hurt you. Some, arguably, are the best in the division. The left winger, the right winger. The ten, Louza in midfield. They’ve got some real technical players that can open you up, so we had to defend properly.
“I thought we started the game pretty well. They had a couple of moments that most people would
be disappointed with, but getting the first goal and quickly, Pat’s second, was fabulous, and it was really important psychologically for me that, not saw it out, but we made really good, intelligent, experienced decisions, and we did. Went a little bit early to a back five. I didn’t really want to go that early, but I thought we need a clean sheet, and they were chucking it in the box. No chances, really, I thought the subs came on and did really well. Sydie came on and did well. Chongy, Blaster, Tyler coming on, and Danny. Great effort and it was important that, I talked to them about it before, that we’d don’t, sunny day, down south, long journey, overnight stop, that we didn’t have a slow game. We didn’t have a passive game and we wanted to show everybody that there’s still something in our season, and most
certainly they did, and rewarded yet again.”
With United now up to 12th, Wilder is determined to make the most of the three remaining games.
He added: “Getting the first goal here today was really, really important, and to double it up pretty quickly after that was great. Made some really good decisions, put our bodies on the line when we had to. Made tackles when we had to. Made recovery runs when we had to and made really good decisions with the ball. I’d never felt a threat from them in the last 15 or 20 minutes. Quietened the crowd. Couldn’t quieten our crowd, which I don’t want to, and clean sheet, 2-0 away from home. Two wins on the spin with two home games to go. We’ve got to get something out of this season, and so determined to do that.”
OWLS NOW UNBEATEN IN THREE
Owls boss Henrik Pedersen was full of praise for Wednesday’s attacking performance against Charlton as they extended their undefeated run to three games.
“I think it’s the strongest offensive performance we’ve had this season, and most control on the ball.
“We knew before the game it would be a game with all the basic things in the Championship.
“There was a lot of long balls, a lot of direct play, there’ll be a lot of set pieces and we have to match them today to get anything.
“They score from a long ball and then a second ball in the box and then they had one more chance from this but we also score from these phases in the game.”
Gabriel Otegbayo earned Wednesday a deserved point against Charlton at Hillsborough.
WELL WORTH THE WIN TODAY
The Millers Assistant Manager Peter Leven spoke to Radio Sheffield after their two-nil away win at Leyton Orient last weekend.
“It was the first time that I saw the points we’d been trying to get across to the players come into fruition. The defensive work to make sure they don’t play central, I thought the wingers played very well and in transition we were really good and could have scored more.”
“It was so important to get that first goal and I thought we were well worth the win today.”
“The average age was twenty-two with young Harrison Duncan making his debut and it was just young Cohen Lee’s second game and there are a lot of positives to take from today.
You have to bring the young players through the academy and then you have to give them a chance. Lee is growing again and has composure, taking the ball under pressure.
Clarkey (James Clarke) as well bringing energy and did well for the second goal. You’ve got to give players opportunities and they took it today.”
“But most importantly it’s a good win away from home and I thought our supporters were great as well. Credit to them for coming down with the situation the club have been in for the last week and this win was for them today.”
“We’ve got a duty which is why we came here to win as many games as possible and we’ll keep going to the end no matter what.”
LA PLATA S.C.
Sadly Manager Lee Clark had suffered a family bereavement on Friday and had gone home to Newcastle before making his way back to London for the game.
“The character of the man to make sure he was here for kick-off after the trains were delayed then
cancelled saw him jump in a taxi and arrive here just before kick-off. And he’s gone straight back up there after the game. The character of the guy shows he wants to be here to do well for the players and the club and it was good to have him here.”
The young centre-back cancelled out Matty Godden’s opener to leave the Addicks glancing over their shoulder on the Championship home straight.
The Londoners arrived in S6 relatively secure and left in a similar standing, although not completely safe with three games left to play.
For the Owls, it was a frustrating afternoon until the equaliser, with plenty of eye-catching football but little to show.
Otegbayo’s second goal in blue and white gave the result better balance, although Charlton could rightly point to twice hitting the woodwork. Wednesday were more enterprising as the first half progressed but the
Addicks had the first shot on target, Pierce Charles diving low to beat out Gregg Docherty’s longranger. Then came a big talking point as Tayo Adaramola wriggled his way past two challenges from the left flank and was felled by Reece Burke, who took a yellow card for his team. More pertinent for the Owls was whether the foul was committed inside the box but despite protestations, a free-kick was given right on the edge.
Charlton came within a whisker of breaking the deadlock just before half time, Godden executing an improvised overhead kick that struck the top of the crossbar.
But five minutes into the
second half, the Addicks’ striker went one better as his side took the lead.
A long punt upfield was nodded on in the box by Lloyd Jones to Godden, who controlled with his back to goal and swivelled before prodding home.
The visitors’ tally was almost doubled on the hour when Sonney Carey advanced in the area and rattled the inside of the post.
But from that moment on, Wednesday put Charlton right under the cosh for an extended period and were rewarded with 15 minutes to go.
The Addicks’ backline failed to deal with a deep Sean Fusire cross and Otegbayo was on hand to calmy slot into the Kop net.
The Owls are pleased to confirm that, following exceptional demand and with almost every available seat already sold, additional tickets are now available for the final home match of the season against West Brom (Saturday 2 May, 12:30pm). An extra 1,750 seats are on sale now, located in the West Stand Lower Tier and the far lower section of the North Stand. These tickets will be available online only. The final game at Hillsborough is set to be the highest-attended Championship fixture of the season.
“We just tweaked a couple of things at half-time” - McCann hails second half Rovers performance at Northampton
Grant McCann was delighted as three ‘quality’ goals took Rovers to a deserved victory at Northampton Town.
McCann felt his side were sloppy in attack during the first half but heeded his calls for more composure at half time with Elliot Lee, Hakeeb Adelakun and George Broadbent all netting in the 3-1 triumph at Sixfields.
“I was pleased with the second-half performance, not so much the first half,” McCann said. “We just tweaked a couple of things at half-time. I thought we were better second-half and the players were picking up the movements and the runners. But I wasn’t happy at half-time. I just felt we just gave the ball up too easy in the top half of the pitch.”
“We weren’t clinical
enough and I’ve said it all season. It’s something we have to get better at for next season, for sure. We have to get better from an attacking point of view because it’s gone on for too long now. We haven’t scored enough goals.
“But in the second half, we were better. Hopefully, that gives us something to build on for the rest of the season.
“It’s difficult when you play against a team that’s
already been relegated because you don’t quite know what you’re going to get. Will they play with freedom? Will they play with fear? It’s one of those ones. I thought Northampton did play with freedom throughout the game, which always makes it difficult. I was disappointed to see them score at the end, but I thought it was a professional performance.”
FORTHCOMING FIXTURES
