The Mercury Issue 1630 by Mercury Newspaper

The Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

mayor issues update on progress for dsa

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, has given an update to the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Board Annual General Meeting on the latest progress with Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Speaking at the meeting on Tuesday 24 June he said: “I want to take a moment to update the Board on where we are with Doncaster Sheffield Airport, and the significant progress we’ve made over the past few months. Back in February, we agreed as a Board to commission additional assurance work to support our consideration of the South Yorkshire City Airport investment proposal. That work is now well underway. We’ve brought in a leading

international aviation consultancy to take a fresh look at the traffic forecasts and financial modelling developed in 2023. Alongside that, we’ve engaged a top-tier development agency to help us shape a masterplan for the wider Gateway East development. It isn’t just about reopening an airport - it’s about unlocking the potential of that whole site as a hub for advanced technology and innovation as a means to creating thousands of jobs and opportunities.

The work is helping us understand the scale of that opportunity and the investment needed to unlock it.

“We’re also looking closely at the wider picture: how people

will get to and from the airport, the underlying headlease for the land, and the skills and employment opportunities it could create. An equalities impact assessment is part of that work too - because we absolutely want to ensure the project delivers for everyone in South Yorkshire.

We’re on track, and I can confirm that we expect to be in a position to make an investment decision in early September. While that assurance work continues to build confidence through the summer, we’re also working closely with the government through the DSA working group. The level of engagement we’ve had across our key workstreams has

been unprecedented; I think it’s fair to say. I’m really grateful to the government for that. We’ve had constructive conversations with the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority around the reinstatement of airspace for DSA. The Secretary of State’s decision not to call in the airspace application means the CAA can now move more quickly –which is welcome - and we’ve been assured that this won’t delay our plans. In April, we welcomed the Prime Minister to DSA, where he announced £30 million of newly available funds to support the airport’s reopening. He said: “We are backing the region as a sustainable aviation hub in South Yorkshire and

giving lift-off for growth here in Doncaster.” That commitment was reaffirmed in the Chancellor’s Spending Review. We’re working as hard - and as fast - as we can to build the strongest possible case for a positive decision in early September. I recognise people are frustrated by that timeline. I get that. But we have to get it right – it’s £150m of taxpayers’ money. We want to work through all the processes, protect taxpayers’ money and make sure the project succeeds. There are many opportunities that will be unlocked from jobs and growth that will allow people in South Yorkshire to stay near and go far. We have to make sure we get it right the first time.”

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• publishing enTerTainMenT news To souTh yorkshire & beyond fOr Over 20 yeArs

• free arTwork • friendly, professional and fair advice

We’re not asking you to swim the channel.

Raising money for those experiencing homelessness is just as important in the warmer months as it is in the depths of winter. This summer, if you can help raise funds please scan the QR code. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Charity number: 1064818

SHEFFIELD’S ‘MAN WITH THE GOLDEN VOICE’ RETURNS TO THE CITY HALL

Paul carrack known to many as ‘The Man with the Golden Voice’, returns to the road in the spring of 2026, playing 12 dates across the UK including a hometown performance at Sheffield City Hall on Thursday 16th April.

The legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics has an impressive backcatalogue of hits to his name; including “How

Long”, “Tempted” and “The Living Years”. Paul’s uniquely soulful voice is a must for his millions of fans around the world. Some of the biggest names in music including The Eagles, Diana Ross and Tom Jones have performed his amazing songs and he is constantly in demand as a session keyboardist, having recorded and toured with Elton John, Van Morrison, Roger Waters and BB King, and most recently with Eric Clapton.

Paul is undoubtedly a key figure in British pop history, an allrounded musical talent. Moreover, as his devoted fans know all too well, a Paul Carrack show is truly something very special.

The tour announcement coencides with the release this week (4th July) of Paul’s latest album ‘The Country Side of Paul Carrack.’

“I’ve always wanted to make a country album. A lot of people detect the influences

of soul in my music but I’ve also always loved country. Growing up, I was hungry for any kind of music but I would listen to people like Chet Atkins, The Everly Brothers, Hank Williams and I particularly loved Ray Charles, who is predominantly known for his soul and jazz stuff, but could also sing really great country.”

“Over the years, I’ve done little bits of country on different albums but then out

02/7/1937 Amelia Earhart and navigator Fred Noonan are last heard from over the Pacific Ocean while attempting to make the first equatorial roundthe-world flight.

03/7/1996 Stone of Scone is returned to Scotland.

04/7/1776 The United States Declaration of Independence is adopted by the Second Continental Congress.

05/7/1996 Dolly the sheep becomes the first

of the blue, a guy from North Carolina emailed me and said: ‘Hi, I’m Steven Wood, I’m a country artist and I’d like to cover your song, Lighten Up Your Mood. Would that be OK and if so, would you like to maybe play on it or sing a few lines?’

I agreed and he sent me all the files, I dubbed on some Hammond organ and sang a few lines and I think it turned out really well. I told him I’d always wanted to make a country album

and he said: ‘Well, why don’t we collaborate on something?’ So, that was the beginning of this record.”

You can get a taste of Paul’s country style on the single ‘Take These Chains From My Heart’ which is out now on all streaming platforms.

Paul Carrack Sheffield City Hall Thurs 16th April 2026 Tickets available from the City Hall Box Office and online via www.sheffieldcityhall. co.uk

Crossword Clues

across

7) Void (6)

8) Bureau (6)

9) Insect (3)

10) Prepared (5)

11) Chicken (3)

14) Budget priced (5)

15) Most perfect (7)

17) Forceful emotion (7)

19) Biblical song (5)

22) Number one (3)

23) Nymph (5)

24) Limb (3)

27) Japanese hostess (6)

28) Sung by choirs (6)

DoWN

1) Send forth (6)

2) Mathematical computation (3)

3) Golden yellow (5)

4) Gangster (7)

5) Not on (3)

6) Shriek (6)

12) Lawn flower (5)

13) Angry (5) 16) Plagiarist (4-3)

18) Arrow man (6) 20) Space to manoeuvre (6)

21) The ‘final frontier’ (5)

25) Donkey (3)

26) Policeman (3)

Last Week’s Solution across: 6) Gem, 7) Backtrack, 9) Arbitration, 11) Emery, 12) Albumen, 14) Oneself, 15) Elope, 17) World Record, 19) Periscope, 20) Sty.

DoWN: 1) Detriment, 2) Padre, 3) Skittle, 4) Ormolu clock, 5) Act, 8) Microscopic, 10) Temperate, 13) Old lace, 16) Drape, 18) New

mammal cloned from an adult cell.

06/07/58 Members of the Beatles are introduced to each other when Lennon’s band the Quarrymen performs at the St. Peter’s Church Hall fête in Woolton.

07/7/1985 Boris Becker becomes the youngest player ever to win Wimbledon at age 17.

08/7/1889 The first issue of The Wall Street Journal is published.

It’s a five minute walk from my house to the pub. It’s a 35 minute walk from the pub to my house. The difference is staggering.

I just got a new job as a street cleaner! Turns out there’s not much training involved, you just pick stuff up as you go along.

My wife says I only have 2 faults. I don’t listen - and something else...

Did you hear about the guy who lost his left arm and left leg in an accident? He’s all right now.

A writer approached me today acting strange and asked me to help him find his back garden… I think he’s lost the plot.

Me: I’m not saying a word without my lawyer present.

Cop: You ARE the lawyer.

Lawyer: So where’s my present?

Yesterday I spotted an albino Dalmatian. It was the least I could do for him.

My wife just accused me of having zero empathy. I don’t understand how she can feel that way.

At work, my colleagues have given me the nickname “Mr. Compromise.”

It wasn’t my first choice, but I’m ok with it.

I thought I won the argument with my wife as to how to arrange the dining room furniture...

But when I got home, the tables were turned.

My girlfriend - who is deafjust told me: “I seriously think we need to talk.” That’s not a good sign.

1. Which public inquiry held throughout 2011 and 2012 examined the ethics of the British press following the phone hacking scandal?

2. In Eastenders, a 2019 love interest for Jean Slater is played by which well known British actor known for his role in The Young Ones?

3. Which political leader was elected President of South Africa in 1994?

4. Which ‘A’ is a soft stone of type gypsum, commonly used for carving and decorative pieces?

5. In which year did Adam Smith publish ‘The Wealth of Nations’? a) 1660 b) 1776

Bathroom

Bedding Included Enclosed Veranda

News, Information and Advice

dad running for flynn

When Dom Smith’s son Flynn was born earlier this year, he and his partner Tess found themselves thrown into a world no parent ever expects to enter.

Flynn was born with a severe birth defect in his bowel. Just moments after his arrival, he was transferred to Sheffield Children’s Hospital where he underwent life-saving surgery and spent more than a week in the neonatal surgical unit.

While Flynn was receiving urgent care, Dom and Tess were supported by The Sick Children’s Trust, the charity that gives families with a seriously ill child a free place to stay, just minutes from the hospital. Their ‘Homes from Home’ provide emotional and practical support when families need it most.

Now, Dom is running 100 miles in June as part of the charity’s nationwide Home to Home Challenge, which encourages people to raise money through sponsored walks, runs, swims or cycles in support of its ten ‘Homes from Home’.

“Flynn’s arrival didn’t go the way we’d hoped,” said Dom. “He needed emergency surgery, and we suddenly found ourselves in this scary, uncertain situation.

Magnolia House, The Sick Children’s Trust’s ‘Home from Home’ at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, became our base and sanctuary. It meant we could be right by his side through it all. We’ll never forget that.”

Dom and Tess stayed at Magnolia House for eight days while Flynn recovered from surgery. Although they live in Sheffield, staying close by made all the difference.

“Even with the hospital on our doorstep, commuting every day while trying to process everything would’ve been exhausting — emotionally and physically. Magnolia House gave us peace of mind. It meant we could be with Flynn every step of the way. Without it, we’d have felt helpless and disconnected. No parent should feel that way when their baby is fighting for their life.”

The Sick Children’s Trust has supported over 80,000 families since it began in 1982, and it costs the charity £40 to support a family for one night. Families are never asked to pay, and the charity relies entirely on

voluntary donations to fund its vital service.

To say thank you, Dom is aiming to raise £2,000 — or £20 for each of the 100 miles he’s set to run during June. As part of the challenge, he’s also added a 20km trail race — the Round Sheffield Run — to his schedule later this month.

“It’s definitely been a challenge! Balancing work, home life, and caring for Flynn while running every day hasn’t been easy,” Dom said.

“But the motivation comes naturally when I think about the reason behind it. Most of the runs have been solo but some friends have joined me too, and that support means a lot.”

This isn’t Dom’s first challenge. Last year, he ran 5km every day in March to raise money for Sheffield’s Weston Park Cancer Charity following the loss of a close friend. Similarly, his challenge for The Sick Children’s Trust has a deep personal significance.

“The Sick Children’s Trust gave us so much. Their support during Flynn’s stay made such a difference and I want to help ensure other families get the same. Sharing our story and doing this challenge feels like a small way to give something back.”

Flynn, now five months old, is doing well; full of energy, smiles, and his trademark infectious laugh. Though his journey isn’t over — he will need two more surgeries in the next year — his progress continues to bring joy to his family.

“He amazes us every single day,” Dom added.

“He’s just welcomed a little cousin into the family and already seems to be loving his new role as the older cousin!” Dom is also keen to thank the team who cared for Flynn during those early days.

“The staff in the neonatal surgical unit at Sheffield Children’s Hospital were absolutely incredible. We’re so grateful to them, and to everyone who supports The Sick Children’s Trust. You don’t realise how vital their ‘Homes from Home’ are until you need them. If this challenge helps just one more family like ours, then it’s more than worth it.”

If you ‘d like to donate to Dom’s challenge, please visit: https://www. justgiving.com/page/ dom-smith-6

health is wealth report

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has welcomed a major new report that sets out a bold, ten-year vision to make our region the healthiest in the country.

The Health is Wealth report, launched today at a meeting of the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Partnership, chaired by the Mayor, lays out a clear and practical strategy for tackling deep-rooted health inequalities in South Yorkshire – many of which go far beyond the NHS. Commissioned by Mayor Coppard and developed by a panel of leading health experts, the Health Equity Panel - who’s independent chair is Emeritus Professor Alan Walker CBE, from the University of Sheffield’s Healthy Lifespan Institute. It sets out a four-part plan to improve health and wellbeing across people’s entire lives, from early childhood to old age. The goal? To close the health gap and give people in South Yorkshire longer, healthier lives. If delivered, the plan could mean, men in South Yorkshire living 15 more years in good health, while women could gain 11 more years. Overall life expectancy could rise by five years.

Oliver Coppard said: “For too long in this country, where we’re born has made a difference to how healthy we are, and how long we live. I refuse to allow a baby born here tomorrow to have any less chance of living their fullest life, than a baby born in the wealthiest parts of our country. That’s why I have made health central to my role as Mayor, why I’m determined to tackle the causes of that fundamental inequality, and why I’ve stated clearly my ambition for South Yorkshire to become the healthiest region in the country. And now, with this Health is Wealth report, we have a plan for getting there; a pragmatic but ambitious plan for change that makes the case for health to be both a platform and a catalyst for a wealthier, better connected, more resilient and happier South Yorkshire. With the right focus, investment and partnerships, with support from the NHS, the government and our local authorities, we can give everyone across our communities the chance to live the

sheffield energy hub open

same long, healthy life as anyone, in any part of this country. This is a pioneering report that gives us the opportunity to make South Yorkshire a national leader in transforming health outcomes, but most importantly to transform the lives of people across our communities.”

The report has outlined a bold four-point strategy to achieve the Mayor’s ambition:

• Radical Prevention –tackling the root causes of ill health, from poor housing to unhealthy food and catching issues early.

• Health Equity in all Policies – making sure health is considered in every decision, from transport to education.

• Proportionate Universalism – improving everyone’s health but putting the most effort where the need is greatest.

• An Inclusive Economy – making sure everyone, especially those left behind, can share in the region’s growth

The Health Equity Panel worked with Local Authorities and their Directors of Public Health, through their Health and Wellbeing Boards and the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Partnership to develop the report.

The report also highlights how improving health could ease pressure on the NHS and boost the local economy.

Emeritus Professor Alan Walker CBE said: “This is a once in a generation plan to transform health and wellbeing in South Yorkshire. Some of the practical steps proposed include:

• Investing in a strong early year’s workforce to give every child in South Yorkshire the best start in life.

• Helping all children in South Yorkshire be active every day.

• Reducing rough sleeping and hidden homelessness and ensuring that homelessness services are designed to mitigate health harms of it.

• Create a vision for safer, healthier streets where people of all ages can play, walk, wheel and cycle.

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Mayor Coppard will now consider the report’s recommendations in full.

It’s a building that, for nearly 200 years, has attracted worshipers, shopper and excited children eager to see the latest must have toy, but now Bethal Chapel is set for a new lease of life looking towards the future.

Located on Cambridge Street, as part of Sheffield City Council’s Heart of the City development, and dating back to 1835, the Chapel is being transformed into the Sheffield Energy Hub. A one-stop-shop where people can find help in making the transition to clean energy sources. The Hub, in a building once used by Cole Brothers as their toy and sport department and now owned by Sheffield City Council, is a voluntary collaboration between around 20 organisations and individuals. This has been brought together in a partnership with the Sheffield Community Energy, South Yorkshire Climate Alliance and Sheffield City Council. It will serve as the place where visitors can get information and support including on things like energy efficiency measures, retrofit grants, renewable technologies, community energy and more. The hub will house examples of renewable technologies and retrofit materials, giving even more people and business in Sheffield a chance to cut their energy bills and tackle climate change. Geoff Cox, who has been involved from the outset, said “It’s been incredibly encouraging

to see how private, public, community and voluntary sector bodies have come together to make this happen. Some have donated cash, others equipment, artwork, staff time – and indeed the building itself. We are all learning from each other, which results in a better offering to give the public.”

“The threat of climate change is all around us, we are starting to see the impact right across the world, but there are still things we can all do to make the transition to cleaner, greener energy and, for the people of Sheffield, this hub will be at the very heart of that, helping people and businesses to cut their energy bills and play their part in tackling climate change. It can seem rather daunting to think about renewable energy, transitioning to NetZero and what is actually meant by retrofitting and that is where the Hub steps in. The people who will work in the Hub will have all the knowledge and be able to answer any questions people may have to help them get in their energy transitioning journey and I would encourage everyone to go to the Hub and take a look at how they might be able to help, including finding out what support is available,” said Councillor Ben Miskell

warning - don’t buy used!

A multi-agency investigation has revealed a disturbing reality about the state of part-worn tyres being sold.

The operation targeted three garages selling part-worn tyres. Inspectors assessed 30 tyres, and every single one failed to comply with the Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations 1994.

These regulations require that all part-worn tyres:

• Be free from dangerous cuts, bulges, or exposed cords

• Pass an inflation test at the highest pressure at which it is designed to operate

• Have a tread depth of at least 2mm

• Be clearly marked “PART-WORN” in letters at least 4mm high

• Be properly puncture repaired to the current British Standard Shockingly, none of the 30 tyres inspected were properly marked or subjected to the mandatory inflation test. Serious safety risks were uncovered:

• Two tyres had screws embedded

• One tyre showed a severe structural defect

• Another had a sidewall

First established in 1865, Eric Eyre has personally looked after families in the local communities of Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham since 1955.

Operating from branches in High Green and Sheffield Lane Top we offer a bespoke funeral service upholding traditional values whilst progressing to cater for modern, personalised customer requirements.

A selection of the services we provide:

• Professional and sympathetic funeral arrangements in our office or in the comfort of your own home

• Pre-paid funerals • In-house catering • Floral tributes

Orders of service • Horse-drawn funerals • Private Chapels of rest

•

tear risking catastrophic failure

• One tyre was nine years old and showing signs of perishing

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe said “Not only were none of the tyres legally compliant, but several posed an immediate risk to life. Drivers buying partworns may think they’re saving money—but what they’re really buying is a ticking time bomb.” TyreSafe warns that selling unsafe, noncompliant tyres continues to undermine road safety nationwide, with part-worns often fitted without even the most basic checks. Road Safety Teams will now engage directly with retailers to improve awareness of their legal obligations around testing, labelling and safe repair standards. County Councillor Joshua Roberts said “Many of these tyres appear fine at first glance, but hidden defects can lead to catastrophic and potentially deadly failures on the road.”

brand new Mega beer haLL addS to city’S offeringS

Sheffield’s flagship Heart of the City development is to get a taste of the continent with the opening of the city’s largest ever beer hall and restaurant. Kapital, located at 14 Wellington Street, opened on Friday 27th June and is the latest venture from the independent, awardwinning team behind Two Thirds Beer Co. The 4,500 sq ft venue will focus on European beer, food and top-class service mixing continental cuisine, fresh tank beer, cocktails and live big band entertainment all in one huge city centre destination. It’ll be the second venue for the team and marks a major expansion, something that wouldn’t have been possible without help from Sheffield City Council.

Ben Stubbs of two Thirds said:

“We’ve had big ambitions to grow for a while, but nothing ever quite felt right - until the Council introduced us to this incredible site on Wellington Street, right in the heart of our hometown. The moment we saw it, we knew it had the potential to become something really special. The location, the scale - it was exactly what we’d been searching for to bring our modern beer hall vision to life here in Sheffield. Once we had secured the location though the Council’s help and assistance didn’t end there, they were fantastic in helping us navigate through the whole process right up to the point where we are preparing to open our doors for the first time

and share what we’ve built with the city we love.” Two Thirds Beer Co. will continue to trade out of their first venue on Abbeydale Road with the new Kapital Beer Hall & Restaurant giving them a presence in the city centre for the first time. Ben continued “We love our neighbourhood bar on Abbeydale Road - it’s where it all started for us, and it was so important that we didn’t have to give that up to take this next step. Thanks to the Council’s support, we’ve been able to grow without compromise - keeping our original home alive and thriving, while launching a huge new flagship venue right in the heart of the city. It really feels like the start of something special for us and for Sheffield. And

Councillor Ben Miscall observed “Our incredible Heart of the City development is continuing to attract big name businesses, both nationally and locally, wanting to have a presence in the city centre and the addition of Kapital is the perfect example of a local business putting their faith in Heart of the City to expand their business. For some businesses, making such a big move to a massive project like this can seem incredibly daunting but we have a brilliant and experienced team on hand to guide them through the whole process, just like they did in this instance. We want our city centre to be filled with incredible national, international and local businesses, offering residents

and visitors something unique, an experience you can only get in Sheffield. With the addition of

city’s largest ever beer hall and restaurant, we will be adding to that offering.”

STEVE ANDREWS

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

A57 AGGreGAtes LtD

B1 reDLAnD Business centre, 3-5 tApton house roAD, sheffieLD, s10 5By is applying to change an existing Licence as follows:

To keep an extra 1 GooDs vehicLe and 0 trAiLers at the Operating Centre at LAnD situAteD At sheffieLD roAD, sheffieLD s9 1rD

Owners or Occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice.

a Guide to making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

4s DistriBution t/A 4s DistriBution LtD of

Bhi house, centuriAn Business pArk, Bessemer wAy, rotherhAm s60 1fB is applying to change an existing Licence as follows:

to add an operating centre to keep 28 goods vehicles & 28 trailers at: unit 7, pArkwAy 1 Business pArk, pArkwAy Drive, sheffieLD s9 4wu

a Guide to making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

GrAnite & mArBLe imports of

179 forncett street, sheffieLD, s4 7QG is applying to change an existing Licence as follows:

to keep an extra 9 GooDs vehicLes & 19 trAiLers at the Operating Centre at: 179 forncett street, sheffieLD, s4 7QG

a Guide to making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAYTHURSDAY

Coronation Street:

Maria starts to worry as he reveals he’s heard nothing from Gary and reckons something’s happened. As the family gathers for Liam’s birthday tea we see an unconscious Gary in the hospital. When he takes a turn for the worse, a nurse rushes to his aid… Finding Carl at the garage with his feet up, Abi’s furious but he’s unrepentant, admitting he can’t stop thinking about her and knows she feels the same. Abi swears blind that she loves Kevin and she’s happy with her life. Meanwhile, a nervous Kevin meets the consultant, but will he get the results he’s hoping for? Dee-Dee assures James that she accepts his decision not to have Laila christened. However, when she asks Alya to be Laila’s Godmother, Alya realises she’s pressing ahead with the proposed christening. Will she agree to go behind James’ back? Bernie urges Brody to patch things up with his Mum, but he tells her that his Mum is dead to him.

Emmerdale:

Paddy has got into a terrible headspace following the dog attack and his dad Bear’s cruel character assassination. It’s left Marlon worrying that his best mate is descending into another bout of depression and decides a lads’ day is just the thing to lift his mood. But when Marlon’s zombie-killing efforts get him nowhere, he insists that he and Paddy need to talk…

Eastenders:

As Stacey continues to cover-up the truth about Zoe, Kat decides to contact Spencer and demand some answers. She soon discovers that Alfie is NOT Down Under and that both he and Stacey have been lying to her... Ravi and Priya are determined to teach Vicki a lesson. They have been led to believe by Bernadette that Vicki has stolen money from the Panesar family’s business accounts. But it was really Bernie who was the original thief! Felix is not impressed when Johnny seems more interested in spending time with Callum. Peter is helping his mum Cindy with the Pride party at The Prince Albert. When Lauren heads to the gay bar to support Peter, Cindy issues her with a stern warning... Is there a chance that Cindy knows what Lauren has been up to?

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MERCURYH LIDAYS

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life undeR RuBén Begins at home

The release of the fixture list for the 2025-26 campaign confirms that Sheffield United will begin life under new boss Rubén Sellés with a home fixture against Bristol City.

United’s Sky Bet Championship season will begin on Saturday 9th August with a hosting of the Robins in a repeat of last season’s play-off semi-final tie, in a clash that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football, set to kick-off 5.30pm.

Highlights of the fixture list sees the Blades away at Wrexham on Boxing Day, before welcoming recently relegated Leicester City to S2 on New Year’s Day.

The Steel City derbies are set to take place in November and February, with the meeting at Hillsborough coming first

RoveRs sign

BlackBuRn

defendeR

o’RioRdan

Rovers are delighted to confirm the signing of defender Connor O’Riordan on a season-long loan from Blackburn Rovers.

The 21-year-old already has more than 100 senior appearances to his name having come through the ranks at Crewe Alexandra before his switch to Ewood Park.

A Republic of Ireland age group international, the 6ft4in centre back provides threat in both boxes, with nine senior goals so far.

“I spoke with the gaffer a few times over the summer and he was keen to get me in straight away and that’s what you want to hear as a player, you want to go somewhere

this term followed by the return in 2026. The campaign will come to an end with a trip to Pride Park to tackle John Eustace’s Derby County, which is set to take place on Saturday 2nd May.

As with last season, following the launch of the new broadcast deal with Sky Sports, by Thursday 3rd July all matches selected for broadcast for the period to the end of September will be announced, and before a ball is kicked in the 2025-26 season all TV selections will be confirmed for the period up to the FA Cup third round on the weekend of 10th January 2026. This is up to five months’ notice provided to fans and clubs a significant increase on the previous deal, which had seen five weeks’ notice given

you feel wanted.

“Everytime I play against Doncaster I seem to score, hopefully I can continue doing that but for Doncaster.”

O’Riordan spent a decade in the youth set-up of hometown club Crewe and made his senior debut as an 18-year-old in the EFL Trophy against Rovers in December 2021, with a first league start following later that season.

A loan move to Raith Rovers in the Scottish Championship followed in 2022 before featuring regularly for Crewe on his return.

O’Riordan had scored six goals in 58 appearances for Alex - including bagging a brace against Rovers in a 3-2 win for Crewe in November 2023 - when Blackburn Rovers snapped him up in January 2024 with the Championship side paying a reported £500,000 for his services.

oWls kick off neW season at foXes

The 2025/26 Championship season commences in early August and the Owls will begin the campaign live on Sky Sports Football.

Wednesday travel to Leicester on Sunday 10 August, kick-off 4:30pm.

Wednesday’s first home game sees them host Stoke City on 16th August.

The first Steel City Derby pn the season will also be at S6 with the Blades travellling across the city on 22nd November, the reverse fixture at Bramall Lane being on 21st February.

Boxing Day sees a rare home fixture against Hull City whilst the Owls travel across the pennines to Preston on New Years Day. The last game of the season is a trip to the midlands to face West Brom.

The Owls will travel to League One side Bolton in the first round of the Carabao Cup.

The tie will take place in the week commencing 11 August.

As with last season, following the launch of the new broadcast deal with Sky Sports, by Thursday 3 July all matches selected for broadcast for the period to the end of September

will be announced, and before a ball is kicked, all TV selections will be confirmed for the period up to the FA Cup third round across the weekend of 10 January. Sky Bet EFL fixtures are broadcast via either an existing Sky Sports channel or Sky Sports+ with all televised fixtures also available on streaming service NOW.

cann joins the milleRs

Rotherham United are delighted to confirm that goalkeeper Ted Cann has joined the Millers on a deal until 2027, subject to EFL and FA ratification.

Cann joins following the expiration of his contract with Sky Bet Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion.

The two-year deal sees the potential for a further year in the club’s favour.

A part of the Baggies’ setup since 2017, the 24-year-old was on loan

at National League side Forest Green Rovers last season, making it to the National League play-offs whilst with the Green. Cann also boasts experience with Yeovil Town, AFC Telford United and Leamington.

“I’m delighted and really excited to have got the deal over the line.” Ted told www.themillers. co.uk.

“For it to have happened so quickly is great for me, to have a full pre-season.

“I got on the phone with

Andy Warrington and had a great conversation with him. His views and my aspirations aligned before I spoke to the gaffer, and it looks good.”

The towering 6-foot-7 shot-stopper will partner up with Cameron Dawson in the Millers’ goalkeeper union and provide our current number 1 with some healthy competition under the watchful eye of Andy Warrington.

“I’m here to push Cameron be in a competitive atmosphere

and push each other. I’m excited to meet all the boys and get going.”

First team goalkeeping coach Andy Warrington added: “Ted will come in and add to the GK department. He’s come in from West Bromwich Albion and probably not had the opportunity to showcase his talent as much as he would have liked.

“He’s an aggresive GK, who likes playing on the front foot and deals well with aerial balls. He should provide good

drive remains firmly in focus for the management staff at Roundwood.