LOCKED UP: Serial rapist jailed for more than a decade
A She eld man who repeatedly raped a child and possessed the most serious category of child pornography, has been jailed for his sickening crimes.
Kevin Cox, 29, of Mowbray Street, She eld, appeared at She eld Crown Court on Monday (20 January), where he was sentenced for ve counts of rape of a 15-year-old child, two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child, and three counts of making indecent photographs/ pseudo-photographs of a child.
In May 2019, Cox was handed a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) after being convicted of possession of indecent images and voyeurism.
On 25 January 2023 ViSOR o cers attended Cox’s address and checked his devices as part of his management as a high-risk sex o ender.
In total, 39 indecent images of children were found on his device, more than half of which were Category A, the most explicit category.
O cers also discovered online communications between Cox and a 14-year-old girl, in which Cox had sent sexually explicit messages and images.
Further checks of his devices revealed a conversation between Cox and a girl in which she alleged he had raped her on several occasions between December 2017 and December 2018 when she was 15 years old.
O cers spoke to the girl who said that Cox had added her on social media and that they had arranged to meet in person, at which point Cox raped her.
Cox then used explicit photos which he had coerced her into sending him to pressure her into meeting him again, and he raped her on two further occasions.
On 15 March 2023 and 9 April 2024, Cox was interviewed in relation to the messages he exchanged with the 14-year-old victim. On both occasions he gave no comment to all questions.
He was interviewed on 26 April 2023 regarding the allegations of rape – he claimed that he had had consensual sex with the 15-yearold victim and that he had believed she was 16.
Cox initially pleaded not-guilty to the counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child, but changed his plea to guilty on 26 September 2024.
e following day he also changed his plea on the counts of making indecent photographs/ pseudo-photographs of a child from notguilty to guilty.
Cox maintained a not-guilty plea on the ve counts of rape, but a jury saw through his lies and he was found guilty of all counts following a three-day trial at She eld Crown Court on 21 November 2024.
On 20 January, Cox was jailed to a total of 14 years in prison for his horri c crimes, and given a lifetime SHPO and a lifetime restraining order against the victim who he had raped.
DC Amy Shore, of the Protecting Vulnerable People Team, said: “Cox is a depraved sex o ender who caused untold pain for his victims, and I am thankful that he will spend more than a decade behind bars for his string of crimes.
“His lifetime SHPO ensures that o cers can continue to monitor his online behaviour when he is released, and the restraining order provides further protection for the victim to whom he caused so much harm.
“I would like to pay tribute to the strength and bravery of Cox’s victims in providing evidence of his abuse, and I hope that this lengthy sentence provides them with a sense of closure.
“Although no sentence could ever undo the pain that Cox has in icted, I hope these two women are able to move on with their lives”.
£100m of Public money needed to re-open airport
More than £100m of public money will be needed to reopen Doncaster She eld Airport a er councillors failed to secure the necessary private funding writes Chloe Aslett for BBC News.
City of Doncaster Council said instead the site would be run by a new publicly-owned company called Fly Doncaster in partnership with an as yet unnamed “international operator”.
e airport has been closed since 2022 a er Peel Group said the site was not nancially viable.
According to a government report, FlyDoncaster would be set up with £105.2m of low-interest loans from the council.
e report, by the Subsidy Advice Unit, said £60.6m would cover start-up and other costs, while a further £44.6m would plug a shortfall caused by the deferral of rent payments by the leaseholder for 10 years.
It went on to say the council should explain to taxpayers why it had chosen to set up FlyDoncaster and why the operator would not have to pay rent for the rst decade.
Speaking to BBC Look North, Jones said there had been “several o ers” of investment but with the “amount of subsidy private sector [investors] were wanting it seemed inappropriate not to have proper control”.
She said: “I believe it is a good investment, medium to long term. It won’t happen overnight.
“It is not only good for Doncaster, it is good for South Yorkshire and wider a eld [and] we believe over time the private sector will want to come in, it’s the initial getting it o the ground.”
e council said last year the rst passenger ights could take o the airport by spring 2026.
In November, South Yorkshire Mayoral Authority (SYMCA) authorised £3m to be given to the council in support of the airport’s reopening.
It also previously agreed “in principle” to release £138m to the council to be used towards investments including reopening the airport, “subject to the right deal being struck with the right partner”.
Doncaster She eld Airport, previously Robin Hood Airport, was declared to be no longer nancially viable by Peel, who still own the former RAF Finningley base and would lease the land to the council.
In November last year, Doncaster Council suggested the rst passenger ights could take o by spring 2026.
A spokesperson for SYMCA said the mayoral authority would “carefully review” the SAU report’s ndings in line with its “responsibilities to taxpayers on both growth and spending.”
Ambulance Stations to be
Replaced
Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) has announced plans to close three ambulance stations in She eld and replace them with a single combined facility over the next ve years. e stations at Middlewood, Longley, and Batemoor will be decommissioned, alongside the relocation of the Wath station near Rotherham, which no longer meets operational requirements.
A report to She eld City Council highlighted that YAS’s existing estate is outdated for the current workforce, despite some recent improvements. e new facility will be supported by strategically placed ambulance response points across She eld to maintain e cient coverage. National targets require ambulances to respond to category 2 calls, such as strokes or chest pain, within 30 minutes. However, response times have worsened, with the national average hitting 47 minutes in December 2024. YAS’s average was better, at 32 minutes, but hospital handover delays remain a signi cant issue.
At She eld’s Northern General Hospital, handovers averaged 37 minutes, causing the loss of 48 ambulance hours daily—equivalent to ve ambulances on 12-hour shi s.
To address these challenges, YAS has recruited 67 paramedics, 49 ambulance support workers, and added 17 vehicles to its eet. Other improvements include senior nurses managing hospital handovers, telephone advice services, and a specialist mental health response vehicle for She eld.
e changes aim to enhance response times and patient care amidst increasing pressures on the healthcare system.
GOLF CAPTAIN SENTENCED TO COMMUNITY SERVICE
A man who shared an o ensive message seemingly mocking the death of an away fan at a She eld Wednesday game has been handed a community order, writes Tom Ingall for BBC News.
West Brom supporter Mark Townsend died a er su ering a medical episode at the Leppings Lane end of She eld’s Hillsborough Stadium last September.
In October, Richard Crisp admitted making the post on X which referenced the 1989 Hillsborough disaster which killed 97 Liverpool fans.
At She eld Magistrates’ Court on Friday, Crisp, 55, of Lennox Road in Hillsborough, received a 12-month community order
and was ordered to pay £200 in costs.
Crisp had earlier admitted sending a communication of an o ensive or indecent nature.
Police were alerted to the post by the manager of Hillsborough Golf Club, where Crisp was captain, the court heard.
e club received a phone call threatening to “burn it down”.
When arrested, Crisp said he regretted the comments and said he had been drinking.
e court was told there had been no speci c complaints from the family of Mr Townsend.
Magistrates heard Crisp had been expelled from his golf club, had lost his job
and had been banned for life by She eld Wednesday.
A letter read on his behalf to the court said:
“I made distressing, disrespectful and derogatory comments.
“I wish to apologise unreservedly for all the o ence I caused.”
under a great deal of stress a er his mother had been diagnosed with dementia and had taken solace in alcohol as a way of coping.
Mark Townsend, the West Brom Supporter, who died after suffering a medical episode at Hillsborough during the game between West Brom and Sheffield Wednesday on 28 September 2024.
His solicitor told the court he had been
Photo by: Mark Townsend’s family
Pictured:
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MP Tackling SEND Crisis
MP meets with over 40 constituents to feed in their view to the national SEND crisis inquiry
Marie Tidball MP heard the stories and potential solutions from over 40 constituents at St John’s Church in Penistone, to make a submission to the national ‘Solving the SEND Crisis’ inquiry on behalf of the Penistone and Stocksbridge constituency.
e inquiry is being held by the Education Select Committee, of which Dr Tidball is a member, and is currently open for evidence submissions.
During the event, everyone rotated around the 5 themes of the inquiry, prompted by various questions, covering issues including accountability, funding, and capacity of SEND provision. Marie summarised a key recommendation for each theme to end the event.
Marie will be drawing up a report based on the problems and solutions discussed at the event, which will then be submitted to the Education Select Committee inquiry as evidence on behalf of Penistone and Stocksbridge constituents.
Following the event, Marie Tidball MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said: “I’m so grateful to all the constituents who came to our meeting, to share
their experiences of barriers in the system for SEND children and young people, and their ideas about solving the SEND crisis.
As a former SEND statemented child myself, and now as a member of the Education Select Committee, I am determined to drive through improvements to SEND education. Having the input of young people, parents, carers, teachers, and school support sta is crucial if we are going to get this right, and the local input was extremely helpful.
e Labour government has already announced major reforms to SEND in December 2024. ousands of pupils are to bene t from the £740 million cash injection the Labour government has put in place. is will pave the way for more pupils with SEND to achieve and thrive, as part of Labour’s wideranging, long-term plans for reform to help more pupils with SEND to have their needs met in mainstream school.
If you weren’t able to make it but still want to make your voice heard, you can read the themes for the inquiry at the link below and submit your own evidence before 6th February here: https://committees.parliament.uk/ call-for-evidence/3517.”
MP SNOWED IN MP
calls for be er snow response resources in rural areas
Penistone and Stocksbridge MP, Marie Tidball, has urged the government to boost resources for extreme snow events in rural areas. Speaking in Parliament, she highlighted her constituency’s experience of the worst snow in 15 years, with nearly a foot of snow for a week.
Marie commended She eld Council sta who worked 24-hour shi s for eight days but noted that limited resources meant only primary and secondary routes could be gritted. She called on the government to improve national resilience by increasing gritting resources and providing specialist snow ploughs for schools and community services.
e Minister assured her that the Cabinet O ce, Department for Transport, and other agencies are working closely with local resilience forums to support a ected areas. ey also thanked Marie for her e orts during the crisis.
A erwards, Marie said: “I’ve spoken to many constituents a ected by the heavy snow, which le disabled and older residents, schools, and surgeries snowed in. I’m grateful to She eld Council for their hard work and welcome the government’s commitment to improving future responses. I’ll continue pushing for better support to ensure our communities can access work, education, and healthcare during extreme weather.”
No Wood Burning Fines Issued Despite Over 200 Complaints
She eld has seen no nes issued for wood burning, despite 208 complaints between September 2023 and August 2024, according to Freedom of Information requests from Mums for Lungs. e city council issued 135 warning letters but pursued no prosecutions, even though half of She eld is a designated smoke control area.
Wood smoke is a signi cant contributor to air pollution, with domestic combustion being the UK’s largest source of ne particulate matter (PM2.5).
ese particles pose severe health risks, including lung cancer and chronic bronchitis. Even modern ‘Ecodesign’ stoves emit six times the PM2.5 pollution of an HGV truck per hour. Research also shows that wood smoke is more toxic than cigarette smoke.
She eld’s air quality monitor recorded a PM2.5 peak of 55µg/m³ at Devonshire Green on January 11th, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended daily average of 15µg/m³.
Rachel Smedley, a She eld resident, said: “Wood smoke impacts our daily lives. It seeps into our home and a ects my child’s health every winter. e lack of enforcement leaves families powerless.”
Campaigners, including Jemima Hartshorn of Mums for Lungs, are calling for better government support to address this issue. “Wood burning emits far more pollution than tra c, yet councils lack the tools to act e ectively,” she said.
While DEFRA has regulations to ne o enders, enforcement remains minimal. Experts, including the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, have called for a phased ban on domestic wood burning in urban areas to protect public health and the environment.
Flood Management Scheme Nears End
A £130,000 Natural Flood Management (NFM) scheme by the Steel Valley Project is entering its nal phase with 92 leaky dams installed, 2,800 trees planted, and seven ponds created across local sites, including Glen Howe Park. e project aims to reduce ood risks amd enhance biodiversity through nature-based solutions.
Tom Newman, Steel Valley Project’s General Manager, recently hosted representatives from the Environment Agency, She eld City Council, and e Woodland Trust, to review the scheme’s progress. Focusing on managing water ow during heavy rainfall sustainably. Leaky dams, strategically placed in streams, allow water to lter slowly, reducing ow speeds and downstream ood risks. New
trees provide additional water retention and habitats for wildlife, while ponds o er natural water storage and support biodiversity. Key project members emphasised the importance of collaboration. e Environment Agency’s Julia James noted the value of shared expertise in identifying optimal sites for interventions. She eld City Council’s Roger Nowell highlighted the growing need for nature-based solutions due to climate change. While the scheme concludes its active phase, ongoing monitoring will ensure its long-term impact. e project is a model for future ood management initiatives, demonstrating the bene ts of working with nature to safeguard communities and the environment.
Welcome to Norton Lees Care Home
A New Chapter with Agincare
We’re delighted to announce that Norton Lees Care Home in Sheffield has joined the Agincare family.
Taking over this wonderful care home is a privilege, and we couldn’t be happier to bring our experience, dedication, and passion to the residents and their families.
Agincare has been delivering compassionate, personalised care since 1986, and we’re excited to continue that tradition here. As a trusted familyowned provider, we offer high-quality services, including over 30 care homes, home care, live-in care, and supported living.
Agincare’s trusted care now extends to Norton Lees, offering high-quality support for every resident. Now accepting new residents!
residents to unwind, enjoying peaceful moments or tea and cake with family and visitors.
At Agincare, we take the time to get to know every resident—their likes, dislikes, and life stories. This helps us ensure that they remain as active and independent as possible, while living with dignity and choice. Our aim is to make Norton Lees feel like home, for both residents and their families.
For those needing specialised support, our highly trained team provides 24-hour care in a dedicated dementia wing.
We understand the unique challenges that come with dementia, and we take a compassionate, personalised approach to ensure each resident feels supported and safe. From stimulating activities to nutritional meals, everything is focused on enhancing the quality of life for our residents with dementia.
garden with its tranquil pond is a perfect space for wit
Norton Lees is a residential care home providing 24/7 care in a welcoming, homely environment. With 80 ensuite bedrooms, comfortable lounges, and spacious dining areas, the home is designed for both relaxation and social connection. The beautiful garden with its tranquil pond is a perfect space for
If you’d like to know more about Norton Lees Care Home, we’d love to invite you for a visit. Call one of our expert care advisors today—they’re here to answer your questions and help you organise the care that’s best for you or your loved one.
Get in touch today
Towns Fund Update
e Stocksbridge Town Deal Board convened its rst meeting of 2025 this week, welcoming ve new members and reviewing the ambitious projects set to transform the area this year.
Key initiatives under the £24.1 million Town Investment Plan aim to rejuvenate the town centre, boost local skills, and create sustainable growth opportunities.
Hopper Bus Service: Plans for the long-awaited Hopper Bus are progressing, with funding approved by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and She eld City Council. e service is expected to launch following nal approvals in February.
Stocksbridge 519 Community Hub: Work on the agship community hub continues. Stocksbridge Library has temporarily relocated to IKON Church, while preparations for construction begin this summer. e stateof-the-art facility will house learning suites and open in 2026.
JANUARY
FRIDAY
31 Greenhead Church in Chapeltown will be holding their last co ee morning on Friday 31st of January 10am - 12. All welcome.
FEBRUARY
MONDAY
3 @ 2.30pm-Stocksbridge & Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting at Christ Church, Manchester Road. Speaker is Alan Kershaw--”The Anaesthetic Murders” Visitors and new members welcome. A ra e is to be held in aid of our Charity of the year-- Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
WEDNESDAY
5 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start time. We will be having a talk and demonstration from local water colour artist Alan Taylor. Visitors are welcome. Further details 07917021268
THURSDAY
6 High Green WI will be meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 6th of February in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church, on Wortley Road. The event is “Yorkshire Sculpture Park” with Louise Lohr. The competition is “A Sculptural Item”. Members and visitors warmly welcome.
THURSDAY
13 Chapeltown WI will hold
their meeting at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church. Dianne Fox will speak about “Queen of the Road”. The competition is for an Old Road Map. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
FRIDAY
14 Relax with a Poem – poetry for pleasure - Stocksbridge Library – now in Ikon Church, Manchester Rd. Listen to some poetry or bring a favourite poem to share in a warm hub with a hot drink
SATURDAY
15 St Leonards church Wortley are having a snowdrop festival on Saturday 15th of February from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm There will be tours of the churchyard, snowdrops for sale and craft stalls. Refreshments will also be available. For more information contact Joan on 01142 887435. All proceeds to church funds.
SUNDAY
16 Table Top Sale - Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre, Open To Buyers 10.00 am to 1.00 pm.
MONDAY
17 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Old Hillsborough, 1930s-1950s in lm a presentation by Jenny Moreton’. Jenny Moreton, of Hillsborough and Owlerton Local History Group, will be showing DVDs formatted from old, original lm of Hillsborough during the 1930s-1950s. This will include events such as Whit Walks,
days to the seaside, picnics and sports days. Wadsley Church, 7.30pm, £3.50 for members, £4 for non-members. www.walc. epizy.com or nd us on facebook 17 17th February: Inman Pavilion’s World Book Day Craft Club 10.00- 11.45 am Inman Pavilion, Moorland Drive S36 1EG No need to book. Only £2.00.
TUESDAY
21 Friends of Wortley Hall Gardens January meeting will be on Tuesday 21st at Wortley Hall and will be a talk by Chris Atkinson titled “Woodland Archaeology” New members welcome, admission is £2.50, free for friends of Wortley Hall Gardens. If you are interested contact Barry on 0114 2830056
SUNDAY
23 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Commoners Muck-In’ - regular conservation morning, probably clearing saplings but check on the website - www. walc.epizy.com, 10am-12pm, bring gloves, tools provided, families very welcome
TUESDAY
18 Friends of Wortley Hall Gardens February meeting will be on Tuesday 18th at Wortley Hall and will be a talk by Tower Captain Andrew Beever titled “The history of St Leonards Wortley and its bell ringing” New members welcome, admission is £2.50, free for friends of Wortley Hall Gardens. If you are interested contact Barry on 0114
Shopfront Improvements: A phased approach will allow businesses to access grants on a rst-come, rst-served basis, with plans to expand to additional properties if funding allows.
Oxley Park Enhancements: A £690,000 investment has delivered upgrades, including a new ‘All-wheels’ park, improved pathways, and EV charging points.
Sports Hub Grants: Stocksbridge Park Steels FC and Stocksbridge Rugby Club have bene ted from Phase 1 grants to enhance local sporting facilities.
New Board members, including experts in education, health, and community development, have joined to support these initiatives. Co-chair Marie Tidball, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said: “2025 marks an exciting milestone as work begins on transformative projects like Stocksbridge 519 and the Hopper Bus service.”
LISTINGS Plant a tree
2830056
WEDNESDAY
19 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 19th February at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Eric Songhurst, entitled “Maryland to Georgia”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings.
For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting.
Join us on our visit to the Holocaust Museum near Tuxford, on May 14th. £40 each incl. return coach travel, bu et lunch and guided tour. Email us via our website or call 07593 792967.
MARCH
WEDNESDAY
5 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 5th March at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by David Templeman, entitled “Some Ancient Suburbs of She eld”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting.
Join us on our visit to the Holocaust Museum near Tuxford, on May 14th. £40 each incl. return coach travel, bu et lunch and
guided tour. Email us via our website or call 07593 792967.
5 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start time. We will be having a talk from Andrew Baker who is a Gundog Club instructor. Visitors are welcome. Further details 07917021268
WEDNESDAY
19 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 19th March at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Paul Adey, entitled “History of the European Motor Industry”. Our relaxed meetings take place on alternate Wednesday mornings. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting.
Join us on our visit to the Holocaust Museum near Tuxford, on May 14th. £40 each incl. return coach travel, bu et lunch and guided tour. Email us via our website or call 07593 792967
ONGOING
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card
and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.
Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath rst! Contact 01226 764642 for more information
Baby and Toddler group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Mondays during termtime 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in anytime. Sponsored by T.A.R.A.
TUESDAYS
CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) Tea, co ee, cakes, dominoes and other games, and friendship. Every Tuesday 2-4 pm at St Andrew’s Church, High Street, Penistone. (Next to the library).For more details: 07903 628820
Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:00-3:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435
Thurgoland Community Choir, every Wednesday 7pm - 9:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Thurgoland.
THURSDAYS
The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, has opened a new Tree for Everyone Grant Fund which is available to everyone in the region who would like to plant more trees.
e new £50,000 Grant Fund is part of the Mayor’s Million Trees project, which aims to plant 1.4million trees in South Yorkshire. e new Grant Fund is for people in the region who would like to plant trees here, on land where planting rights are secured, and where the trees will provide a public bene t and enhance environmental sustainability.
A total of £50,000 has been allocated for the fund with grants awarded in amounts of between £250 and £2,500. South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) will work with the South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) to deliver the Grant Fund.
In contrast to the Free Trees for Communities scheme, which is only open to community groups and provides packs of 50 trees, the Grant Fund is open to everyone in South Yorkshire, and can o er a more exible number of trees, equipment, surveys or other professional support, provided applicants meet the criteria.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “I’ve made no secret of the fact that I want to plant 1.4 million trees, one for every person who lives in South Yorkshire.
“Trees enrich our lives, sustain our communities and provide countless environmental bene ts. at’s why I’m so proud to be opening this new Grant Fund to enable people in South Yorkshire to plant more trees.
“Trees are both our heritage and our future, so I’m looking forward to working with our communities across Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and She eld to create a healthier, wealthier, greener and cleaner South Yorkshire.”
e fund will be open for round one of applications between Friday 24 January 2025 and Friday 21 February 2025. is round will only be suitable for projects that intend to plant trees or develop tree planting initiatives in this tree planting season and all funds must be used by 31 March 2025.
For almost 40 years, South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) has invested millions of pounds in community groups and organisations to address critical social issues and improve lives across the region. Michelle Dickinson, SYCF’s head of philanthropy and programmes, said: “Planting trees is such a simple yet powerful way to help create a healthier and more resilient South Yorkshire.
“Utilising our strong relationships with community groups and networks across the region, we’ll work to drive participation in key target areas.
“We’re proud to partner with Oliver Coppard and his team on this unique project, which promises to leave a lasting, positive impact on our region - both now and for future generations.”
A subsequent round will be opened later in 2025 for projects that intend to invest in tree planting over the next 12 months and projects that will be complete by March 2026.
To nd out more information or to apply to the Grant Fund visit www.southyorkshire-ca. gov.uk/tree-fund or to nd out more information about other tree planting initiatives in South Yorkshire visit https://www.southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/
Death
Henry GILLESPIE
Passed away peacefully in hospital aged 94 years
Funeral to be held on Weds 5th Feb at 12.00 in Grenoside North Chapel Donations in lieu of flowers will be gratefully received for the benefit of residents in Belmont Care Home.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar S36 2RE Tel 0114 2885555
Trevor SELLERS
Passed away on 16th January 2025, aged 79.
A much loved partner and soulmate of Gillian Marsland.
You may have left us. But you will never be forgotten. Also much love and respect from all of your extended family. Rest in peace my darling.
This Valentine’s Day. Why not let that special someone know how much they mean to you with a message
I Love You
Express your love in our Feb 13 Issue.
From just £15
Please email or phone with your message enquiries@looklocal.org.uk
0114 283 11 00
Music Scholarship Announced in Memory of Sarah Nulty
e Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation has partnered with WaterBear – e College of Music, to launch a groundbreaking scholarship designed to nurture the next generation of musical talent. is partnership honours the legacy of Sarah Nulty who was instrumental in shaping the city’s cultural landscape as the driving force behind Tramlines Festival.
e WaterBear x Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation Scholarship will cover the full tuition fees for one exceptional student pursuing a BA (Hons) Professional Music degree at WaterBear’s She eld campus. Applicants can choose from a variety of industry-focussed courses, including Performance, Production, Electronic Music, Business, or Songwriting.
Speaking about the partnership, Sarah’s mother, Julie Voisey, said:
“We’re excited and honoured to team up with WaterBear to o er this scholarship award. Sarah was incredibly passionate about mu-
at Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481 New Road, Deepcar S36 2RS 0114 288 3169 info@dysonfunerals.co.uk www.dysonfunerals.co.uk
sic and supporting emerging talent, and this scholarship is a wonderful way to carry on that legacy. It gives someone the chance to pursue their passion with hands-on, industryfocussed education, and kick-start their music career.”
How to beat Str8ts –Like Sudoku,
Sarah was recognised not only for her organisational expertise but also her genuine commitment to supporting emerging talent and ensuring the music community was inclusive and accessible.
is scholarship re ects her ethos, o ering an aspiring artist access to high-quality education and take meaningful steps towards a career in music.
Applications for the scholarship will open on 1st May 2025, and candidates will need to submit a personal statement detailing their background, musical journey, and future aspirations.
e application process requires links to three recorded performances, live or studio-based.
e deadline for applications is ursday, 31st July 2025, with the successful candidate being announced on Friday, 15th August 2025.
is is a life-changing opportunity for one lucky recipient to study at WaterBear’s Shefeld campus, renowned for its cutting-edge approach to music education and strong industry connections. With exible, real-world learning pathways, WaterBear empowers students to build sustainable careers in music.
For more information and to register interest, please visit: https://waterbear.org.uk/scholarships/the-sarah-nulty-power-of-music-foundation/.
You’re the man that I loved I was proud to be your Wife
A helpful, local family business CHAPELS OF REST at Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481
And every day in some small way I celebrate your life
Thank you for your endless love It helps me through each day
And thank you for the memories That never fade away
New Road, Deepcar, S36 2RS 0114 288 3169 info@dysonfunerals.co.uk www.dysonfunerals.co.uk
All my love and Happy Birthday xxx Linda xxx
In Loving Memory Of
Are you not entertained?
Dear Editor,
Please find below the text of correspondence for your letters page:
“One cannot but concur with your co-respondent Mr Neil Wilson (Letters #1358) on the entertainment value provided by the frantic pseudointellectual responses of fellow corespondent Mr Steve Moxon. Who once again takes the bait with his latest flights of fancy full of unsubstantiated evidence free assumptions and straw man arguments which fail miserably to apply even his own criteria consistently to the terms and concepts he bandies about in his desperate attempts to lecture everyone on his favourite hobby horse.
With the latest alphabet soup offering of poorly constructed and disjointed buzzword bingo verbiage and sloganeering providing a veritable feast of self-parody which we have not enjoyed since Robert Lindsey’s portrayal of Walter ‘Wolfie’ Smith. It is just a pity that it is not possible to transfer our TV licence fee to such self-defined ‘intellectuals’ to continue the street entertainment.
However, on the evidence supplied to date, sufficient rope has clearly been supplied to allow Mr Moxon, via his singular knee-jerk obsessive reactions, to publicly undermine and discredit his own case”
Dave Hansell
Local Opinion
LONG COVID VARIENT SEVERE
COVID-19 THOUGH NEVER ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD SEEN,
PUT AN END TO THE DRIVE TO CONSTANTLY SHOP,
SOON, THE FACT THAT VICTIMS DIED IN THEIR MILLIONTH UMPTEEN,
SHOCKED THE BUSINESSES WHEN THE TILLS WERE EMPTY PLONKETY PLOP,
THIS PANDEMIC, MADE ALL AWARE THAT IN RISK THEY WERE EQUAL,
UNTIL A CURE WAS FOUND FILLING TILLS WAS A PREQUEL, MANKIND SHOCKED TO FIND THIS VIRUS THOUGH SPREAD WITH SPEED,
FOUND THAT AFFLUENCE GAVE POWER OF CHOICE OVER NEED,
“NO-ONE SAFE’ TILL ALL ARE SAFE” A MANTRA DECREED, BUSINESS, FULL TILLS, SERVICES, AND HOLIDAYS IN THE SUN,
TOOK PRIORITY OVER THE CURES DEMAND TO INJECT EVERY ARM, WHAT FUN!
THE POOR AGAIN ARE LAST IN THE QUEUE, EVERYONE IS TO BLAME WHO? ME? YOU? WHO!
SHEILA GENT
Cats Shelter’s Winter Campaign
Throughout history, the people of Sheffield have been closely linked to cats – the Attercliffe steel works kept cats to keep vermin down. For over 127 years, The Sheffield Cats Shelter has been helping cats and their owners.
As many cat-lovers know, cats hate the cold, so winter can be really tough for unowned cats. The Shelter, therefore, needs support to keep cats, specifically those less fortunate and without homes, especially as the electric bill creeps higher and higher.
The Sheffield Cats Shelter is hoping to raise £5,000 by the end of March to support with the cost of ongoing energy bills, upgraded heaters, the installation of a more energy efficient washing machine and an eco-hot water cylinder.
Sarah Smith, Charity Manager at The Sheffield Cats Shelter, said: “So many cats arrive at the Shelter this time of year, looking for support, food and a safe space to stay while they await their forever homes.
“Winter is hard for cats, those on the streets can struggle to stay warm in freezing weather and find it harder to access food and
Mum wants to legalise the drugs that killed her child
After the tragedy of losing her daughter Martha, Anne-Marie Cockburn is calling for legal control and regulation of the drug market so that other parents never have to go through the same thing. Anne-Marie is sharing her story alongside a panel of experts at a public event in Sheffield on 6th February. This event will face the reality of what drugs mean for local families and host an urgent conversation about how to save lives and protect the community.
There will be a striking memorial of 4,467 hand-made forget-me-not flowers for lives lost to drugs in the UK in 2023. Visitors can also view a demonstration Community Overdose Prevention Centre exhibited at the event.
When: Thursday 6th February, 7.009:00 PM
Where: Park Community Action, Samson Street Sheffield, S2 5QT
Speakers:
Anne-Marie Cockburn, founding member of Anyone’s Child: Families for Safer Drug Control. In 2013 her
only child Martha Fernback died at age 15 after swallowing half a gram of 91% pure MDMA
Daniel Ahmed, Clinical Partner Foundations, Clinical Director Cranstoun and founder of the groundbreaking treatment clinic for longterm heroin users in Middlesbrough
Vicki Beere, Vice Chair of Transform Drugs Policy Foundation and former Chief Executive of Project 6. Vicki has over 22 years of working in the alcohol and other drug sector and is a PhD candidate researching the impact of drug policy on women.
Beccy Rawnsley has been active in drug law reform for 16 years and is passionate about harm reduction, evidence-based policy surrounding illicit drugs, social justice and criminal justice system reform.
Chris Brady has volunteered for over 10 years with The Loop - The UK’s first charity delivering city centre and festival drug checking across the UK.
Anne-Marie Cockburn, founding member of Anyone’s Child whose
daughter Martha died, aged fifteen, from an accidental MDMA overdose.
“It’s too late for my daughter, but in order to protect other families, we need to remove drugs from the illegal market and establish a legal, regulated supply. As I stand by my only child’s grave, I don’t need any more evidence that it’s time to have a grown-up discussion about this.”
Jane Slater, Campaign Manager for Anyone’s Child: Families for Safer Drug Control.
“Making drugs illegal isn’t keeping our children safe, it is putting them in danger. We need to give control of the market to this government so that our families can be better protected.”
Vicki Beere, Chief Executive of Project 6.
“For over 20 years I have worked with people affected by drug use and more significantly by the harms that prohibition causes. It is time for treatment providers to stand up and say no more to the war on drugs. If we don’t, we are part of the problem, not the solution.”
Mike finds his voice again
When Mike Grayson was told he had asbestosis he thought he would never sing again…but with the support of St Luke’s Hospice, the sound of music has returned to his life.
water, as natural sources freeze or become scarce. They may also suffer worsened symptoms from ongoing illnesses or injuries.
“Every penny donated will help a cat to recover and find a new home.”
The Shelter is working to conserve energy, receiving Council funding from its UK Shared Prosperity Fund Low Carbon Project (UKSPF), aiming to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions within small and medium-sized organisations.
This funding will help reduce the Shelter’s environmental impact and its utility costs to further help support cats through this cold winter.
Sarah added: “We will always keep our cats warm. This campaign is to raise money to continue supporting Sheffield cats during this cold period.
“We know that times are hard for everyone, and we appreciate you thinking about helping the cats from our city.”
If you would like to donate please visit: https://thesheffieldcatsshelter.enthuse.com/donate or text COSYCATS to 70085.
Mike, who is 82 and lives with wife Sylvia in Hillsborough, was diagnosed with asbestosis, the chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibres, in 2019.
“Eventually my consultant said he had nothing else to offer me and asked if I would be happy to be referred for palliative care and that’s when St Luke’s Hospice came into my life,” he says.
His first contact was with St Luke’s Community Nurse Emily, who offered Mike a full package of support at home.
“I was a Senior Nurse manager so I know what good nursing is like and all I can say is that St Luke’s came in with such confidence, knowledge and care,” Sylvia says.
“If we mention anything at all Emily picks up on it and runs with it and what’s really important is that she doesn’t expect me to be the nurse - she’s the nurse and that’s really nice for both me and Mike.”
Mike also enjoyed physiotherapy sessions with St Luke’s Family and Patient Support Services at the charity’s Little Common Lane site and now he is also a regular user of facilities at the St Luke’s Ecclesall Road South site where he attends weekly art classes.
“I can’t say I’d ever been a really artistic person but I thought maybe now was the time to do some art work,” Mike says.
And it was Ecclesall Road too that Mike rediscovered a love for singing he thought he had lost as the illness increasingly affected his lungs.
He had been a member of the celebrated and award-winning Worrall Male Voice Choir, performing at the Royal Albert Hall in London and being part of the line-up that took first prize at the world-famous Eisteddfod in Wales,
where Worrall was the only English choir to take the top award in the face of tough Welsh competition.
“It just happens that on the same day as the art group there’s also the singing group so I signed up for that as well,” he says.
“It’s not doing too badly up to now - I’m alright with one or two tunes but then I can get a bit breathless.
“But the thing is that I am able to do it and that makes such a big difference to me because I’d thought singing would be out of the question.”
Singing, though, is just one of the many things that St Luke’s has given Mike and Sylvia.
“Apart from giving me help and advice on how to cope better with the situation I’m in, St Luke’s has also uplifted me,” Mike says.
“They’ve helped me realise that I’m not the only person in this position, that we’re not alone.
“A year or two ago I was thinking I couldn’t do this and I couldn’t do that but St Luke’s has given me ideas and hope and got me to look to the future and we are in a good place at the moment.”
Strongman to Join Sheffield Dippers for Chilly February Dip
Luke Stoltman, Europe’s 2024 Strongest Man, is set to join a She eld-based group of cold water enthusiasts for one of their weekly dips this weekend. Stoltman is rumoured to be stopping by just before competing in Britain’s Strongest Man at the She eld Arena on Saturday, 1st February.
e group, known as the She eld Dippers, was founded by two friends, Josh and Tom, who turned to hiking and cold water immersion to improve their mental health during tough times. Realising the bene ts of their new routine, they opened the group to others, encouraging men to join their weekly Saturday morning hikes and dips.
“ e response was incredible,” says Josh. “We’ve both been through di cult times and know how vital the right support can be. We wanted to create a safe, welcoming space for men to come together, improve their well-being, and enjoy the physical and mental bene ts of cold water immersion.”
e group has grown steadily, with regular members and occasional participation from women. Josh and Tom emphasise that She eld Dippers is open to all: “ ere’s no judgment here – it’s all about support and connection.”
With Stoltman’s rumoured return, the Dippers are excited to welcome the strongman legend back to She eld’s icy waters.
For updates follow She eld_Dippers on Instagram.
Grenoside Pantomime
Grenoside Pantomime are performing “Cinderella” from January 24th to February 1st 2025. e group have performed pantomimes every year since 1976, except 2021 due to Covid, at Grenoside Community Centre, making this their 49th Pantomime.
is year they are honouring former Dame and Chairman, Ross Crowe. Ross joined the group in 1990 for the production of Jack and the Beanstalk, playing Boris, one of the Squires Baili s. He quickly progressed to playing the Dame, appearing as Fatima Kebab in Ali Baba & the Forty ieves in 1992 and included mannerisms from Hilda Baker and Les Dawson. Sadly, Ross retired from the stage in 2017 a er appearing as Nurse Patty Potty in Beauty and the Beast. He made a brief appearance in Peter Pan in 2018 to hand over the “Golden Bra” to our current Dame. Ross didn’t leave the group altogether, he continued to help front of house then became Committee Chairman, a role he held until 2024. Ross remains a much loved group member and they are delighted that he has accepted the position of Honorary President.
Cinderella, or “ e Little Glass Slipper” is a folk tale with around 69 variants that are told throughout the world. e main character is a young girl living in forsaken circumstances who is suddenly blessed by a remarkable fortune, with her accession to the throne via marriage.
e story of Rhodopis, a Greek slave girl who marries the King of Egypt, is usually considered to be the earliest known variant of the Cinderella story which dates from around 7 BC to 23 AD.
But enough of the history lesson, go along and see the Grenoside pantomime version and join in the fun, boo the baddies, dodge a custard pie and sing along to the odd song or two. Tickets available on 07754 500874 (10am to 7pm) or email csy.333@hotmail.com. See their website or social medial for full info.
Photo Credit: Dean Stead Photography
Local Classifieds
BROOMS SWEEP UP MEDALS
Husband and wife John and Dawn Broom were in action at the British Masters Indoor Athletics Championships at the weekend in She eld and came away with medals.
Dawn earned bronze in the British Masters F60 3,000 metres and gold in the Yorkshire Veterans Championships over the same distance.
John picked up gold in the Yorkshire Veterans championships over 3,000 metres.
A large contingent of Penistone runners braved tough wintery conditions at the Meltham 10k. First lady back for Penistone was Lesley Parker in a time of 49-21. Lesley’s strong run gave her second place in the ladies over50 age category. First back overall for the club was George Parr with a top ten nish in 8th place. George completed the undulating course in a time of 38-20. ere were age category wins for Barbara Haigh (over75 ladies) and Keith Gordon (over75 men).
James Mumford made the trip over the Pennines to compete in the Stockport Da odil 10k. He dipped under 38 minutes recording a time of 37-59 which game James 25th place in a eld of over 1,000 runners.
Most Parkruns were back on at the weekend including Barnsley and Penistone. ere were second places for Suzanne McGill (Penistone), Jade Crosby (Barnsley) and Emma Stead (Ellesmere Port). Age-graded runners of the week were Julia Johnson (80.95%), Suzanne McGill (77.20%), Tony Wright (76.92%), Ian Neville (76.14%) and Rob Lees (73.03%).
Results
Barnsley Parkrun
6, Ian Neville 21-04; 23, Jade Crosby 22-21; 30, Alex Crosby 23-03; 46, Rory O’Sullivan 25-05; 50, Lucy Clough 25-24; 95, Stu Smith 29-15; 100, Lisa Hinchli e 29-30; 102, Sue Hall 29-34; 118, Heath Ramsden 30-15; 153, Sarah Clough 33-38; 169, Ray Brown 35-33.
Penistone Parkrun
5, Richard Cottam 19-00; 6, George Parr 1901; 10, Tony Wright 20-09; 12, Simon Pike 20-28; 18, Damian Kilpin 21-09; 19, Suzanne McGill 21-12; 22, Ashley Firth 21-39; 26, Shaun Swallow 22-28; 32, Dan Cooper 2314; 39, Lois Lopez 24-04; 49, Mark Graham 24-59; 50, Heather Simpson 25-11; 61, Paul Fryers 25-55; 81, Stefan Butler-Gillen 26-54; 97, Jen Holley 27-54; 123, Oliver Found 2945; 128, John Howsham 29-58; 132, Rebecca Parr 30-09; 138, Helen Midgley 30-37; 140, Pete Beever 30-46; 146, Michael Nicholson 31-16; 147, Chris Baldwin 31-19; 162, Danny Batty 32-45; 176, Adele Stenton 34-57; 178, Sara Wolstenholme 35-12; 179, Claire Watts 35-13; 182, Kim Rogers 35-49; 199, Dianne McGuinness 38-16; 200, Martyn Cartwright 38-29; 203, Jackie Howsham 39-11.
Meltham 10k
8, George Parr 38-20; 43, Damian Kilpin 4302; 119, Lesley Parker 49-21; 138, Michael Walsh 50-58; 167, Daniel Canetti 53-03; 201, Mark Graham 55-35; 207, Jill Scrivens 55-49; 216, Keith Gordon 56-48; 267, Emma Canetti 61-35; 271, Sarah Halstead 62-01; 297, Tracy Woodward 65-35; 305, Barbara Haigh 67-11. Stockport Da odil 10k 25, James Mumford 37-59.
Runners Enjoy LongAwaited Derwent Run
A er months of delays caused by icy and snowy conditions, the Valley Hill Runners nally completed their much-anticipated annual Derwent Run. e weather had previously made the scenic 10-mile loop unsafe, but a break in the cold snap allowed the event to go ahead at last.
Runners gathered in high spirits, embracing the crisp winter air as they set o into the picturesque woodland. While some tackled the full 10-mile circuit, others opted for a shorter route, ensuring everyone could enjoy the outing. Despite a few lingering icy patches, the conditions didn’t dampen the group’s enthusiasm or their famously social atmosphere.
Post-run celebrations took place at the Rivelin Inn, where runners warmed up with hearty
pub grub and a few well-earned drinks. e camaraderie of the club was evident, with members sharing stories and laughter, epitomising the social ethos of the Valley Hill Runners.
Elsewhere, club chairman Jonny Briggs showcased his competitive edge with an outstanding performance at the Concord parkrun. Briggs set a new course best for himself, clocking an impressive time of 19:49, a testament to his dedication and continued improvement.
Whether it’s a social outing like the Derwent Run or smashing personal records at parkrun, the Valley Hill Runners continue to demonstrate the perfect balance of tness, friendship, and fun.
Hutchinson’s
Tissington Trail PB
A strong week for Stocksbridge Running Club, with multiple members taking to the trails for both 10k and half marathon distances.
Rachel Howard continues to dominate by getting o to an extremely strong start for 2025, placing rst in her age category and smashing the club F45 record in tackling the notoriously tough Meltham AC Trail 10km, nishing in a speedy 46:56.
Amy Hutchinson, Heather Lindley and Nicola Heaton all travelled over to Tissington for a bucolic trail half marathon that took in beautiful views of Derbyshire: Hutchinson nished with a personal best time of 1:54:50, Heaton was only a minute or so outside of her PB with 2:07:42, and Lindley 2:28:03 and 4th in her age category.
Meanwhile we had 6 runner and volunteers taking place at various locations across Shefeld, and uno cial club doctor Nick Boxall running legs 3 and 4 in the Hereward Relay.
Photo: Rachel Howard
Church ‘lack-lustre’
PENISTONE CHURCH FC 1-2 CAMPION
It was a frustrating a ernoon for what was Church’s rst home game for four weeks, they were looking to build on last week’s away win at Pickering but it wasn’t to be.
ey didn’t start the game too well playing too many unsuccessful long balls and not exploiting the wide areas or the holding qualities of frontman Kieran Ryan. On twentynine minutes a er a defensive misunderstanding Campion striker Ewan Gregson headed the ball home from the resulting corner and Church found themselves one-nil down. Looking to step up a gear Church responded in the best possible manner when two minutes later full back Carlton Pownell (pictured) spotted the Campion keeper o his line and taking advantage of the glare from the setting sun he lobbed the keeper from thirty- ve yards out, the ball dropping in the far corner of the net to level the score. e stalemate continued through the second half until Church failed to deal with long ball and the resulting pass
was converted well by Aiden Kirby to put the visitors in the lead. For the een remaining minutes of the game the pack was shu ed, Church changed to a three-four-three formation and created several good chances, Sam Scrivens had a decent e ort saved and Nathan Keightley was put through to shoot narrowly over the bar.
Co-manager Steve Lenthall:
“It was a lack-lustre game from both teams, I don’t think there was a lot in it. I’m frustrated and disappointed that we’ve come away with no points I think a draw would have been a fair result. We need to do a lot more in regards to performance levels, so we’ll dust ourselves down and stick together as a group. We train on Wednesday and look forward to the game away at Tadcaster Albion next Saturday.“
Fixtures
Saturday 1st February NCE
Premier Division
Tadcaster Albion v Penistone Church FC Kick o 3-00 pm
‘Fox Valley Trophy decider’
Pomona Defeat
POMONA FC 1 DRONFIELD
TOWN 3
It was a tough outing for Pomona as they suffered a second consecutive league defeat, despite dominating the rst half against Droneld. e match highlighted their inability to capitalise on opportunities, a costly shortcoming in a game they largely controlled early on.
Pomona started strongly, pinning Dron eld in their own half and creating multiple chances. eir pressure paid o in the 16th minute when Tommy Fowler’s forward pass looking for Simon Bonnett missed its intended target but found le mid elder Simon Hawley, who red past the Dron eld goalkeeper for the opener. Despite their dominance, Pomona failed to extend their lead, with Bonnett’s ambitious overhead kick missing the mark, Simon Yeadon rattling the outside of the post and defender Mark Tyler twice ring over the bar.
e second half saw a complete shi in momentum. Pomona lacked the sharpness they displayed earlier, while Dron eld grew into the game. e visitors made their mark with two identical goals in quick succession, exploiting Pomona’s right ank to deliver crosses that were nished clinically in the 67th and 68th minutes.
Pomona pushed for an equaliser, with Nick Lowe missing from the edge of the box and Bonnett seeing his header saved. However, Dron eld capitalised on Pomona’s vulnerability in the closing stages, breaking away to seal the game with a third goal ve minutes from time.
Pomona will look to regroup as they shi focus to cup action next Saturday, 1st February. ey face Yorkshire Main in the quarter nals of the Ernest Walker Memorial Shield, hoping to bounce back and reignite their form in a high-stakes encounter.
is weekend sees the decider in the Fox Valley Trophy trilogy of matches as Globe Holidays-sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby entertain neighbours Wortley RUFC at the Coal Pit Lane Arena on Saturday with a 2.15pm kick-o . With the series tied at one game all & identical points scored, both sides will fancy their chances of taking the silverware, kindly provided by Fox Valley themselves. Last weekend’s Round 13 clash against basement club Knottingley RUFC was cancelled as the West Yorkshire side were unable to eld a full team. Stocksbridge had to be content with a 5-point walk-over victory & a jump to 4th in the Counties 4 Yorkshire South league ladder.
Stocksbridge were able to hold a much-needed training session with their 1st XV squad, where the club welcomed back happy hooker Mikey ‘vegas’ Hartley along with back rower Reece ‘Diesel’ Aspin after an injury lay o s.
‘Without a xture, we took the opportunity to work on some attacking shape & defensive structures in training’, said Club Captain Andy ‘clock tower’ Beal, adding ‘the lads all felt better for a good blowout, & a bit more clarity in our play will give us options on the eld’. With only 1 completed xture & training disrupted throughout the Month, the Club’s Coaching Sta have decided against awarding a Man of Steel for January due to a lack of action & opportunity.
Photo: Carlton Pownell
Steels Frustrated in Narrow Ashington Defeat
STOCKSBRIDGE PS 0-1 ASHINGTON
Stocksbridge Park Steels were left ruing missed opportunities in a 1-0 defeat to Ashington, despite dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances throughout the match.
The Steels almost made history straight from kick-off, with Jack Dolman’s close-range effort deflected narrowly wide in the opening seconds. However, their promising start quickly turned sour.
Ashington capitalised on a counterattack following a Stocksbridge corner, earning a set piece of their own.
From the resulting delivery, Ben Williams pounced on a knockdown in the six-yard box to prod the visitors into a 1-0 lead.
Undeterred, the Steels pressed forward in search of an equaliser. Jack Tinker came closest in the first half with a cross-turned-shot that forced a smart save from Ashington goalkeeper Dan Staples.
The second half saw Stocksbridge maintain their dominance, but luck
continued to elude them. Tinker was once again at the heart of the action, flicking an effort over the bar from close range. Elliot Owen squandered a free header, while Alex O’Connor’s powerful strike was blocked on the line by a resilient Ashington defence.
Despite their relentless pressure, the elusive equaliser never came. Ashington’s resolute defending ensured their early strike was enough to secure a hard-fought victory in what was the epitome of a “smash-andgrab” performance.
Stocksbridge will be left wondering how they didn’t find the back of the net but will look to regroup as they aim to turn dominance into points in their next outing.
Manager Ian Richards, after the game, said: “They defended really well, we had 26 attempts at goal and couldn’t convert one of them.”
Next fixture: Saturday 1st Feb Away to Bradford P.A. 3pm KO.
Photo by Myra Little
