Look Local Issue 1288 Thursday 21 September 2023

£20k reward for stolen horse

A woman has issued an emotional appeal to the thieves who stole her pony in an earlyhours raid, writes Victoria Scheer for BBC News.

Stacey Gill, 35, said her Chestnut Appaloosa stallion called Mr She eld was taken from the stables in Grenoside, She eld, on 11 August. Despite o ering a £20,000 reward, no information about the two-year-old pony's whereabouts has come to light.

Appealing directly to the thieves, Ms Gill said: "All I care about is him coming home, just bring him back."

e mum-of-nine told the BBC she thought her horse had been targeted for breeding purposes and said it was worth more than £100,000.

"In the way they've taken him, they knew what they were doing," she said.

" ere was a mare two stables down from him and mares in the eld, but nothing else was touched."

Ms Gill said the the had had a "massive" impact on her partner and children who shared a close bond with Mr She eld.

She said: "He is like a child to me, he is a cheeky little monkey. He's a baby stallion, so he might

have a little nip sometimes and he likes to play with his toys - it was just the little things he did.

"He was a family pony, he was just part of us. I just want them to bring him back. Once he's back, that's the end of it."

Ms Gill said the situation had been made worse by prank callers leaving upsetting messages.

"We've had a lot of people sending us on wild goose chases, saying they've seen him running down the motorway in Scotland," Ms Gill said.

"And I got one the other day saying, 'your horse is dead' - which we don't believe he is."

Ms Gill said she believed the thieves used a van-like vehicle which CCTV cameras picked up around Grenoside between 01:00 BST and 03:00 BST on 11 August.

South Yorkshire Police said o cers closed the investigation a er all available lines of inquiry had been "exhausted" and no suspects had been identi ed.

e force said it would reopen it should any new information emerge.

ONLINE CHILD SAFETY

Local MP Miriam Cates has claimed victory in her long-running campaign to improve safety measures for children online, describing new rules as "a turning point in protecting children from harmful and dangerous content".

e MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge has been leading a ght in Parliament to introduce much stronger rules for social media platforms and other sites as part of the Online Safety Bill. ese new rules are designed to prevent children from seeing illegal or adult content, and to ensure that tech companies take their new responsibilities seriously.

Amongst the new rules campaigned for by Miriam Cates and accepted by Parliament are: age verication requirements for sites that host adult content; making more types of harmful content illegal on sites that are accessed by children; and creating new criminal o ences for tech bosses who fail to

New Pete McKee

By Isabel Butler

enforce the new rules effectively.

Speaking about the changes being made, Mrs Cates said "I'm delighted that we have been able to persuade Parliament and the Government to introduce much stronger rules to keep children safe online. e internet is a wild west, with social media platforms failing to play their part in preventing children from seeing inappropriate and harmful content.

"Parents across the country are trying their best, but they are unable to take on the power of the massive tech companies. New rules will make the bosses of those tech companies personally criminally responsible for harm caused if they don't follow the new rules.

"We must do all we can to keep children safe from online harms, and these new rules will hopefully make a real di erence."

She eld Wednesday Football Support Trust is a committee, run by elected members, that has been running for the past four years. e board conduct regular meetings to discuss numerous agenda points covering football and the community.

Recently, the committee organised a mural painted by Pete McKee, the illustration can be seen on the side of Hillsborough’s Chinese Takeaway “Long Hing”. e mural shows ex-She eld Wednesday player Jose Semedo mid-celebration.

Two years ago talks of a She eld Wednesday Mural surfaced, something that could brighten up Hillsborough whilst spreading the locals' love for football. When starting the whole process, as with anything it took a lot of patience and research. e Trust received help from Leeds United Support Trust, as well as local businesses such as a gallery that provided names of di erent artists. A er securing a canvas, it was time to nd the artist.

e perfect artist for the rst mural was de nitely Pete McKee, a She eld Wednesday fan himself, who completed the project in his free time. Pete came up with his own design. With the mural being placed at such a height, the team also had to use li s enabling them to cover the whole area. e process was not all smooth sailing, the work had to be postponed twice due to weather conditions and the Tramlines Festival hosted annually in Hillsborough Park.

e main aim of the mural is to inspire others to give it a go themselves. Tom says how he hopes this can help spark some life into the area. e murals do not have to be football-themed. e project had two sides to it, to support She eld Wednesday and to

Mural brings Hillsboro’ to life:

also potentially set off a chain that can bring new landmarks to Hillsborough. The Trust is hoping to continue its artistic journey and add to Hillsborough with other murals, there are already plenty of young and upcoming artists ready and raring to have a go.

Why not get involved? Of course, as with anything, there are certain steps that must be followed to create your own project. For information on this and to find out how to create your own mural, email: Hello@swfctrust. co.uk.

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CATAPULTS GAMING CAREER TO NEW

A er spending 14 years honing his cra , Barnsley College student Jake Gould is preparing for a future career in Esports a er becoming a Social Media Intern for Endpoint CeX.

Jake a current Level 3 Esports, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship student will be responsible for generating, editing, publishing and sharing engaging content on their social media channels, live match reporting, delivering exceptional customer service, attending media days and events and much more.

Endpoint CeX are a UK-based Esports organisation striving to strengthen the UK’s position in the global scene. eir rapid growth is led by their extensive ex-

perience within the gaming and Esports market, specialising in CS:GO, Rocket League and Quake gaming.

Jake said: “I’m really looking forward to earning an income by doing something I love, plus being able to develop my editing and video content skills whilst gaining work experience. I started playing racing video games when I was four years old and now I’m an avid CS:GO, Apex Legends and Valorant gamer.

“I was really nervous during the interview process, but I received some positive feedback about how I was better than some more mature candidates. I believe this is down to the preparation and skills I developed at College.”

Enzo Guarini, Esports HE Pathway Leader at Barnsley College University Centre, added: “Jake, who diligently completed his rst year on the Level 3 programme, has been an incredible asset to our production team and content creation e orts throughout the year. His dedication is truly paying o ! Congratulations Jake in securing your internship, you are an inspiration to your tutors and peers.”

For more information about the range of Sport courses available at Barnsley College, visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/sport, email info@barnsley.ac.uk or call 01226 216 123. Alternatively, attend the Barnsley College Open Day on Wednesday 18 October, 4.00pm – 7.00pm. Visit www. barnsley.ac.uk/events for further details.

BARNSLEY MAN CONVICTED OF RAPING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL AS SHE WALKED HOME

A man has been convicted of raping a 15-year-old girl who he attacked and le in a eld as she walked home.

Paul Blackshaw, 43, followed the victim along Wentworth Road in Hoyland, South Yorkshire, as she returned from an evening with friends in September 2021.

Blackshaw le the girl "upset, frightened and alone" a er the attack, South Yorkshire Police said.

A jury found him guilty on ursday a er a four-day trial at Shefeld Crown Court.

During a police interview, Blackshaw denied the assault, but could

not explain how his DNA was found on the girl's clothing, the court had heard.

e jury took just over an hour to return their unanimous verdict. Blackshaw, of Kirk View, Barnsley, was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on 6 October.

Det Con Courtney Moorby praised "the bravery and testimony of this young victim".

"My thoughts remain with her as she attempts to rebuild her life following his incident."

Det Con Moorby added: "I am pleased the jury found Blackshaw

guilty of his actions and he now faces sentencing.

"I hope this sends a clear message that those who prey on the vulnerabilities of others are shameful and their behaviour will not be tolerated."

Get your Garage into Shape!

UP AND COMING RACING DRIVER TURNS COACH

Rowan Campbell-Pilling, a rising British motor racing star and Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity Ambassador, coached a lucky auction winner to develop their driving skills - reducing their lap time by 5 seconds by the end of the day.

The Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity raise millions of pounds through various sponsored events, auctions, and donations. They recently hosted an online auction with offers of training with Patron Jessica Ennis-Hill, motorbike memorabilia from Double World Superbike World Champion James Toseland and an exciting kart track day with UK Karting Champion Rowan Campbell-Pilling.

The 16-year-old Karting Champion delivered some on and off-track coaching at Parkwood Karting in Sheffield to help 12-year-old Rufus, the lucky winner, to improve their agility and resilience.

The Formula 1 and karting enthusiast joined Rowan at the very sunny Parkwood Karting, close to Sheffield’s former ski village, for a fun-filled but equally focused day to help him learn how to best navigate the 400m outdoor kart racing circuit.

Rowan said: ‘In between track sessions, we looked at track maps, made notes and talked about kart positioning, braking and throttle control to help improve speed and ultimately work towards a perfect lap time.

“We also tried some light fitness work and reaction tests to help Rufus understand the sport science that goes into racing. He has

really good agility and resilience and worked hard through the day to improve all aspects of his driving, really taking on board all the coaching he received.”

“It’s been a great day with Rufus at Parkwood Karting, thank you to him, his family and the circuit for supporting the charity auction. I look forward to seeing him on the track again one day.”

Rufus said: “It was great to race around the track with Rowan - we’ve completed over 75 laps and I’ve improved my lap time by nearly 5 seconds, it’s been so good. It may be a case of move over Lewis Hamilton from here on in!

As an ambassador for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, this is one of a long list of different fundraising activities Rowan has taken part in.

John Williams, Parkwood Karting Circuit owner, said: ‘It’s great to support The Children’s Hospital Chairty and the great work that Rowan is doing for them.

“We have seen Rowan karting here from a very young age and to see him now as a UK Junior Karting Champion passing on his skills with coaching – all while inspiring others in the sport is fantastic, he is a great ambassador for the Charity and the City as a whole’. Back in March, Rowan abseiled down Sheffield Hallam University’s 160ft Owen Building and only two months later he completed a 24-hour fitness challenge to help raise awareness for the Children’s Hospital.

Bolsterstone BELLS

Bolsterstone Bells will hold a special rededication service on Sunday at St. Mary's church.

In the next chapter of the church’s history, St Mary’s, Bolsterstone invites you to come and celebrate the special rededication service at 11am on Sunday 24th September celebrating the refurbishment and rehanging of the bells.

WEDNESDAY

20 Join Bolsterstone Archaeology and Heritage Group at 7.30pm for a talk by Bronwen Stone on her ‘Study of Monastic Glass’. We meet in the hall at Christ Church on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge, and the talk is also available on Zoom (members only)please contact bahgevent@ axelafa.com for the link. There is a small entry charge and refreshments are available. Don’t miss it - all welcome.

THURSDAY

21, The Upper Don Community Energy would like to invite you to their AGM and launch of their Community Warming Project. We will be sharing how we are going to help people in the local area who are in fuel poverty due to the enormous increases in energy prices. Anyone who already supports families in need is invited to attend.” at 6.30pm St Ann’s Church Hall, Deepcar. S36 2QQ

FRIDAY

22 10 30AM TO 12 NOON: COFFEE MORNING HOME MADE CAKES AT ST SAVIOURS CHURCH, MORTOMLEY LANE, HIGH GREEN, GOOD COMPANY, ALL WELCOME. ALL PROCEEDS TO THE MACMILLAN NURSES FUND.

SATURDAY

23, Wharncli e Side WI will hold their Macmillan Co ee morning - 10.00 - 12.00 in the Chapel, Wharncli e Side. £2

What’s EVENT

entry for co ee and biscuits. Stalls, ra e, company and chat. All welcome.

23 Magical Melodies: a concert to celebrate life in the natural world performed by some of our nest musical talent young and old. Green Moor Methodist Church, Saturday 23rd September, 3 p.m. £5 per ticket (includes refreshments), available from Samuel’s Kitchen Fox Valley, Oxspring Post O ce and on the door. Proceeds to Valley Wildlife projects.

23 Saturday 10am to 4pm at the NurtureNature Healing Garden Station House Wortley S35 7DH.Led by experienced Mindfulness leader, Dr Lauri Bower.Suitable for beginners and experienced people in writing and/or Mindfulness.Full cost £30 - a limited number of places subsidised by nurturenature registered charity which is organising the course. Further information and booking via nurturenature61@gmail.com or from Helena on 07831505624.

SUNDAY

24 St. Mary’s Church service. Special service to celebrate the refurbishment of the bells at St Mary’s, Bolsterstone, She eld S36 3ZN Bishop Pete of She eld will be rededicating the bells and Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir will be singing. The church bells were installed 130 years ago in 1892 and fully refurbished in 2022 with the help of local dona-

tions. All welcome 24 The service at Bullhouse Chapel on Sunday the 24th of September at 2.30pm , will be led by Andrew Mann. All are welcome to join us in this act of worship.

WEDNESDAY

27, Don Valley Probus will meet at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Martin Rowley, `She eld Gang Wars`. Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year, and we look forward to welcoming our regular members, visitors and new members. For more information, please call Stephen Clarke on 07593 792967.

27 Tara’s Co ee morning at the library 10.30 - 12.30 pm. If you let us know you’re coming, we’ll bring enough donuts!! 07957 206646 tarastockbbridge.ud@gmail.com AND we have complimentary tickets to Park Steel’s home league matches for levy payers -kids get in free!

27 St.Mary’s Church, Bolsterstone Macmillian Co ee morning on Wednesday the 27th of September 10am -1 pm. Co ee, Tea, Cakes, games, Ra es & Crafts. Come along & Enjoy a fun morning, for a worthwhile cause.

THURSDAY

28 September - Stocksbridge

Art Society. Evening Demonstration (7 to 9 pm). The Human Form by Sean Barry. Christ Church Community Hall, Stocksbridge, S36 1DY. All welcome: Members free; non-members £4 inc. refreshments.

FRIDAY

29, Heartwood Social Farming Centre CIC will be hosting ‘Felt Your Familiar’ a Bird puppet making residential weekend at High Leas Farm, Matlock in the Derbyshire Dales.

29 Macmillan Co ee morning on the 29th of September at Greenhead Church in Chapeltown, 10 until 12.

29 A Macmillan Co ee morning will be held at Christ Church, Stocksbridge on Friday 29 September 10-12noo. There will be a cake stall and an interesting green table. Please support this very worthy cause.

SATURDAY

30, Chapeltown WI will host a Macmillan Co ee Morning at Chapeltown Methodist Church 10.00am until 12:00 noon. Come and enjoy co ee and cake, ra e and tombola. Everyone welcome.

30 Art Round ‘Ere 10.00 –12.00. Meet at Don Field Deepcar. Paint, draw and sketch outdoors in our beautiful local countryside. Art tuition with a bit of local history and environmental education. Please bring basic kit, pencils and paper. Wear suit-

e bells have been ringing since 1892 when they were originally installed by Taylors of Loughborough.

According to the Parish Magazine from May 28th, 1892, the bells were transported to Bolsterstone with the help of two horses decorated with ribbons.

e bells, iron frames, girders, and other equipment were carried in a speci c order, belonging to individuals and organisations such as Mr. Macro Wilson, Stocksbridge Cooperative Society, Mr. Friend Scho eld, Mr. B. Webster, Mr. C. Booth, Messrs. J. Armitage & Sou, Mr. J. Charlesworth, Mr. J. Newton, and Messrs. J. G. Lowood & Co.

e frame was found to be in need of extensive restoration in 2022, exactly 130 years a er installation.

rough local fundraising e orts including concerts and events, as well as generous donations, the bells were taken down and transported back to Taylors’ foundry for refurbishment.

e restoration work includes returning, new metal headstocks and ttings, and a fully restored and galvanized metal frame.

e local bellringing band had the opportunity to visit the foundry and observe the ongoing work.

e service will be led by Bishop Pete of She eld the bells will be blessed and the Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir will be singing. Refreshments and cake will be served a erwards.

A booklet about the bells and a limited edition commemorative coin will be available, people can register their interest by emailing stmarystowerbells@gmail.com.

e bellringers will be holding regular ringing events if you wish to learn bell-ringing or return to bellringing – watch this space!

A special peal to celebrate the rededication of the bells, to mark Jean Barnaby’s 90th birthday and in fond memory of Maureen Tennant both dedicated members of the church and keen bellringers.

Heirlooms antiques

URGENTLY WANTED.

Vintage items, collectables, furniture, china figurines, military, tea sets, silver.

ANYTHING OLD, UNUSUAL & INTERESTING CONSIDERED.

“Give us a call, we buy it all. Top cash paid.”

PART / FULL HOUSE CLEARANCES wanted. Fully licenced local dealer. T: 07710 921335

On listings

able clothing, possibly something to sit on. Contact Jackie on 07562 113692

30 Local Artists at Samuel’s Kitchen Helen Hunt author and illustrator of “Steelosaurus” a children’s story book and Midpack Rider (Tom Faulkner) whose work celebrates his passion for outdoor sports and the city of Sheffield. Opening hours 7.30am – 2.00pm Drop into this fantastic little café to see the work of two talented local artists, stay and have a cuppa with Tracy and her lovely staff.

30, Home Grown Concert 7pm Christ Church Stocksbridge. Steel Valley Beacon Arts present a night to remember as local artists gather at Christ Church to provide an evening of entertainment. For more details visit steel-valley-beacon-arts.co.uk Tickets from Samuel’s Kitchen and 07792

142 545

30, Art Society Exhibition starts at Christ Church. It runs for the whole festival. Meeting Place Art Exhibition Throughout the festival, Christ Church. A wonderful display of painting, crafts, poetry and writing. Drop by have a cup of tea with these wonderful home-grown artists and makers.

30 Jumble Sale. 11.00-1 .00pm. Great bargains at rock bottom prices. Grenoside Scout and Guide HQ, Saltbox Lane, S35 8QS. 50p. Donations accepted from 9am or

contact grenosandg@gmail. com. No electricals thanks.

OcTOber

sunday

1, Makers Market 10am –3pm. Fox Valley Retail Park. Local artists and makers will be at Fox Valley selling their goods.

1, Pam Goodison Glass Art Workshop 10am – 3pm. 30 Pot House Lane.Make your own fused glass curve. £50 To book a place call 07511781322.

MOnday

2, Local Artists at Samuel’s Kitchen Helen Hunt author and illustrator of “Steelosaurus” a children’s story book and Midpack Rider (Tom Faulkner) whose work celebrates his passion for outdoor sports and the city of Sheffield. Opening hours 7.30am – 2.00pm Drop into this fantastic little café to see the work of two talented local artists, stay and have a cuppa with Tracy and her lovely staff.

2 Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir Open Rehearsal 19.30 – 21.30 Bolsterstone Village Hall. Gents – drop in to Bolsterstone Village Hall and see what’s involved in joining this wonderful choir.

2 Bradfield Historical Society - a talk, ‘The History of Henderson’s Relish’ by Mark Dawson, 7.30pm, Bradfield Village Hall, The Sands, Low Bradfield. 2337463

Tuesday

3, Stocksbridge Arts Society Class 10.30 – 11.30 Christ Church. Drop in, meet the artists, and have a go! Stay around and have a look at a display of their excellent work.

3, Story Time with Suzy Senior 10.30 – 11.15 Stocksbridge Library. Suzy Senior is an incredible storyteller; children adore her funny stories which have even been read out on Cbeebies. There will be stories and crafts from Suzy Senior and the library staff. All preschool children and their adults are welcome. Telephone 0114 273 4205 stocksbridge.library@ sheffield.gov.uk

3, Home Grown Proms –7.30pm – 9.30pm The Venue Main Hall. Concert with Waldershelf Singers and Deepcar Brass Band. Our own Home Grown Proms with songs from our local community choir, Waldershelf Singers, and some good tunes from Deepcar Brass Band. The bar will be open, and a good time is guaranteed. Tickets £8, bookable through TicketSource or choir members, or email waldershelfsingers@ gmail.com

3, Open Mic At The Pen Nook Deepcar. The Pen Nook. 8pm. Free Event. Fancy a sing or just enjoy hearing talented local singers/players do their thing? Drop into the Nook, you’ll be made welcome by a lovely bunch of local artists.

Wednesday

4, Local Artists at Samuel’s Kitchen Helen Hunt author and illustrator of “Steelosaurus” a children’s story book and Midpack Rider (Tom Faulkner) whose work celebrates his passion for outdoor sports and the city of Sheffield. Opening hours 7.30am – 2.00pm Drop into this fantastic little café to see the work of two talented local artists, stay and have a cuppa with Tracy and her lovely staff.

4, Reading Aloud with Lesley Gillott “Hercule Poirot” and Sophie Hannah. 10.30 am Stocksbridge Library. Free Re freshments.

4, Songwriters Showcase. 7.30pm – 10.30pm The Ven ue. A group of local singer songwriters present an eve ning to celebrate their music. Pop along to this wonderful free concert. Featuring Domino Effect, SatNav Pete, Jason Quincey and more.

4 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome, Local History Morning Round Walk in the Upper Agden Valley led by Malcolm Nunn, meet outside Old Horns Inn, High Bradfield at 10.30am return around 1pm.

Sunday

Events in the library

The Ecclesfield Village History Group is starting up again after a summer break on Monday 25th September . It will now be fixed for 2pm to 4pm on the last Monday of the month, apart from Bank holidays.

The group invite anyone with photos, reminiscences and items to come and share their information on old Ecclesfield. The library also has a Local History reference section as well as books to borrow.

As the weather is going to get colder, remember that the library

is a warm and welcoming place. If we should have yet another 'heatwave', then the library is the perfect place to cool down, chill out and read a book or a magazine. Drinks are free but donations are always welcome towards improvements in the building. There are other regular activities such as Knit and Natter, and some special School Holiday events for children. There is a printing and photocopying service as well as use of a computer too. Everyone is welcome to come and find out what the library can do for you.

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How to beat Str8ts –

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

Aeriated concrete

The current on-going scandal concerning reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) certainly puts a novel slant on the term schools breaking up. But I submit that such a debacle is nothing new; for I seem to recall back in the mid to late 1970s when studying refractories technology, learning about how the use of high alumina cement (HAC) had been adopted for use by the building industry in general in the form of pre-cast beams and slabs, for example, for use in buildings from the 1950s onward. With one Leeds University professor warning in the early 1960s that if not mixed properly HAC would be prone to reaction with water/water vapour and as a consequence would undergo “conversion” from a strong crystalline form to that of a weak powder variety; with potentially catastrophic implications for the stability (and hence public safety of those using) such structures. A warning that went unheeded with the result that by the 1970s there were a large number of buildings, especially in the public sector and NHS, that were in danger of falling down. Hence they would have to be repaired at vast expense or demolished and rebuilt; but that would take time; so how best to continue in the meantime?

There was the usual outcry, but by this time the perpetrators had long since moved on or died and present-day decision makers could not be blamed. Thus I don’t think anyone ended up taking responsibility either on a personal, government or corporate level. Hence, if memory serves correctly, it ended up, as usual, falling to the public purse to fund the recovery; rather than coming from dubiously made corporate profits.

Now, fifty years on, when reading of the (RAAC) debacle one gets a distinct sense of déjà vu. Whilst similar examples that come to mind, would be Grenfell Tower and the Covid period contract awards for such as useless protective equipment

and business lock down subsidies that proved to be a boon for fraudsters, to name but a few.

Thus begging the question as to why it is that chosen corporations at any one time appear to be allowed to maximise profit at the expense of the public purse and public safety. Where is the parliamentary/governmental scrutiny and the protective legislation backed up by watchdogs with effective teeth? Why are there no effective measures in operation towards the public good, thus allowing history to repeat itself?

Perhaps the politicians, senior civil servants and local government officers could explain?

Yours faithfully, Michael Parker.

Stoxbridge

With St. Andrews University now above Oxford and Cambridge in the University League tables, a new word is needed instead of OXBRIDGE, the Guardian Newspaper suggests STOXBRIDGE!

Mary Walker

Music matters

Music matters September is here, the time when we look forward to the creative delights soon to be showcased in various venues throughout the Valley in the up and coming Home Grown festival, which is happily now an annual event. A few people may still remember the series of Magical Melodies Concerts which were held in local venues during the 1990s. The last one, in 1998, was held in the Victory Club, the star performers being the Rugby Club Boys performing the Full Monty. The purpose of these early concerts was to give the opportunity for children and young people to perform in public often for the first time. We still have videos of some of these early performances which are treasured memories now. After 25 years Magical Melodies is returning to Green Moor Church on Saturday 23rd September at 3 p.m. This time the age range is from 8 to near on 87. The youngsters will play alongside and hopefully be inspired by seasoned, quality performers such as Jack Whitham (former Sheffield Wednesday footballer), Robin Morton (one of the internationally known Apex Singers soon to be performing in Manchester), our local Us Folk and Dave and Elaine Markham who inspired so many of us with their charismatic music making during this year at the popular Bolsterstone Folk Nights. With so many Government cutbacks in schools, musical education is not what it was. You only have to look online to see a long list of reasons why learning to play an instrument or to sing is good for mental health, happiness, well-being and can even help fight Alzheimer’s and dementia. Above all, it is FUN! So, please bring your children along to Magical Melodies, enjoy a cup of tea, be inspired and look forward to the delights of Home Grown for the next few weeks.

Julia Tomson

Tramlines

Dear Editor, I read with interest the article in your local paper re the question posed regarding the continuing of the Tramlines music festival. I think with respect that you missed quite a trick in terms of gathering opinions as you could have used your paper as a campaign tool for the ‘ for and against’ it would have been very interesting- it would also have been very helpful if you’d have provided an email address for the person/s responsible for Hillsborough park management.

Kind regards, Helen

Concrete savings

Dear Editor,

I have tried in vain to speak to the politicians and the media on the subject of ‘light’ cement used in buildings from 1960-1990.

This kind of cement replaced the very strong cement used until then. It is ‘light’ because there are hole in it, letting in air and rainwater. The guaranteed length of safety, ‘shelf-life’ was 60-90 years. Therefore every building built since 1960 needs to be searched to find this material. If present then it has passed its safety date.

Already theatres in this area are closed ‘just in case’

All public buildings are at risk!!

Yours sincerely Sheila Grant

ECO SCHOOL AWARD

Pupils at Stocksbridge Junior School earned an international accreditation at the end of the last academic year, recognising their amazing work in making their school more environmentally friendly and raising eco-awareness in fellow pupils.

The Eco-Schools programme was established in 1994 and is now delivered in more than 70 countries across the globe. More than 1 million pupils attended an Eco-School in England in 2022-23.

Pupils at Stocksbridge Junior School first formed an Eco-Committee, then collaborated with Mrs Saville, teacher And Eco-Schools Co-ordinator, to conduct an environmental review, assessing how eco-friendly their school is. They reviewed everything from biodiversity within their school grounds to how pupils and staff members travel to school. Building on their findings, pupils and Mrs Saville then planned a year of action designed to advance their school’s green credentials, improve their local environment, and protect our planet.

The Eco-Committee connected their work to 3 Eco-Schools topics: Transport, Energy and Biodiversity. They then planned a variety of projects including ‘Cut Your Carbon Week’, ‘The Big Battery Hunt’ and ‘Active Travel’ events.

Headteacher Samantha Gaymond said, "We are absolutely thrilled to have

achieved Eco-Schools Green Flag. This recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire school commu nity - pupils, teachers, parents, and staff. It's a testament to our commitment to environmental education and sustain ability. We believe that teaching our children to be responsible citizens of the planet, is just as important as their aca demic growth. Achieving Eco-Schools is not just an accolade; it's a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for our pupils and generations to come."

Eco-Committee member Tommy said, “Eco-Schools was amazing! We did so many things to make a difference – turned off lights where possible, un plugged iPads when fully charged and much more. We did loads of things to help and we are proud that we now have the flag to show for all our hard work.”

Eco-Schools England Manager, Adam Flint, said: “The Eco-Schools Green Flag award is an internationally recognised symbol of high environmental stan dards. The pupils and school staff that earn the award deserve immense credit for their hard work, determination, and creativity. Their passion for protecting our planet is an inspiration to us all.”

To learn more about Eco-Schools head to www.eco-schools.org.uk

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Runners take on final Shuffle

Thursday saw the final Silkstone Shuffle trail race of the popular summer series. This hilly off-road trail race of around 4.5 miles is a three part series event organised by Barnsley Harriers.

Twenty four runners from Penistone Footpath runners took part in the race. First back for the club in fifth place overall was George Parr in 30-53. George also picked up bronze in the men’s open age category.

First lady back for the club was in form Suzanne McGill in a time of 36-35.

Ray Brown had a strong run to place first in the men’s over80 age category in 51-07. In the ladies over70 age category Barbara Haigh took gold in 50-35.

Tuesday night saw the first of the club’s winter handicap series. Runners are set off at intervals based on their running ability. First over the line was Shaun Swallow followed in by Hannah Pedley and Chris Baldwin. Fastest lady on the night was Suzanne McGill in 33-18 and fastest man was George Parr in 2743. Age graded results are also generated with Barabara Haigh gaining the honours. On the parkrun scene there were first places for Suzanne McGill at Barnsley, James Mumford at Graves Park and Flynn Rogers at Hillsborough juniors.

Dawn secures England spot

Dawn Broom placed second over55 lady at the Coastal Half Marathon in Cleethorpes on Sunday in 1-37-48. This was enough to secure qualification to run for the England Masters in the Half Marathon match against Wales in May 2024. Sarah Walch took on the Hardmoors 60 on Saturday and despite struggling and being on the verge of quitting she managed to hang in and complete the ultraevent in 16-21-00. Damian Kilpin claimed first over45 man at the Fryup Frazzler Fell Race. Thursday saw the final Silkstone Shuffle trail race of the popular summer series. This hilly off-road trail race of around 4.5 miles is a three part series event organised by Barn-

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sley Harriers. Twenty four runners from Penistone Footpath runners took part in the race. First back for the club in fifth place overall was George Parr in 30-53. George also picked up bronze in the men’s open age category. First lady back for the club was in form Suzanne McGill in a time of 36-35. Ray Brown had a strong run to place first in the men’s over80 age category in 51-07. In the ladies over70 age category Barbara Haigh took gold in 50-35. Tuesday night saw the first of the club’s winter handicap series. Runners are set off at intervals based on their running ability. First over the line was Shaun Swallow followed in by Hannah Pedley and Chris Baldwin. Fastest lady on the night was Suzanne McGill in 33-

18 and fastest man was George Parr in 27-43. Age graded results are also generated with Barabara Haigh gaining the honours. On the parkrun scene there were first places for Suzanne McGill at Barnsley, James Mumford at Graves Park and Flynn Rogers at Hillsborough juniors.

Barnsley Parkrun

20, Suzanne McGill 22-33; 22, Alex Melhuish 22-47; 25, Oliver Found 23-30; 90, Susan Hall 2925; 91, Stuart Smith 29-26; 105, Daniel Batty 30-32; 117, Ray mond Brown 32-32; 126, Sarah Clough 33-21; 127, Lucy Clough

33-22; 150, Ruth Albaya Melhu ish 35-48; 170, Dianne Mcguin ness 38-43; 175, John Spencer 40-06; 177, Rianna Armitage

46-16

Church smash in four 2-4

Saturday 16th September 2023

Toolstation NCEL Premier Division

Knaresborough Town 2-4 Penistone Church

FC

Scorers for Church – Nathan Keightley 7, 25, Tom Charlesworth 8, Antony Brown 15 (pictured)

Scorers for Knaresborough – Nathan Cartman 5, Jack Carr 38

Attendance – 152

turn, rifle it home and four minutes into the game we were instantly deflated.

Then credit to the boys they rallied well and I don’t think we’ve ever responded in such a manner in my time at the club as a player, coach or manager and we managed to turn three quick goals in

Our attacking play today was really pleasing but there are still errors we can tighten up on. After the recent run we’ve been on it was a fantastic performance against a team that are currently lying second in the league.

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Church, nursing from a 2-0 midweek defeat away to Handsworth, raced into a 4-1 lead inside the first 25 minutes in their in Saturday fixture at Knaresborough.

The game was played on a grey breezy North Yorkshire afternoon which suggested that the big coats would be coming out soon.

We hope now we can kick on and use the momentum because the performance, how we’ve conducted ourselves and how we played our football has been really pleasing today.

Fixtures:

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There was good news in that defender James Stafford returned from injury, the bad news was he replaced newly injured defender Ryan Johnson. Defender Wayne Hughes was still unavailable due to his injury so reserve players Dale Brettoner and Reece High were recruited for the squad along with Sam Hackett from the under twenty-ones.

Church Co-manager John Whitehead

NCEL Premier Division v Garforth Town Kick off 3pm

Wednesday 27th September 2023 Toolstation

NCEL Premier Division Penistone Church v Rossington Main Kick off 7-45 pm

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Before we went out today at Knaresborough we had a long chat with the lads following our disappointing run and the defeat to Handsworth mid-week. Even though we lost the game at Handsworth two-nil we created the exact same numbers of opportunities all over park as them but we just weren’t as clinical. We felt that going back to basics by playing simply would benefit us and thankfully today we’ve proved that We started the game brightly we made two chances in the first two minutes but didn’t convert either of them and then with their first opportunity Knaresborough’s lad has managed to get a bit of space in the box,

Junior Football returns to Rugby WoRLd cuP

Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby are looking to secure their first league victory of the season as they entertain Richmondshire RUFC from North Yorkshire at Coal Pit Lane, kick off 3pm on Saturday.

Head Coach Andy Lawrence is hoping for a full playing roster to select from as the Yorkshire 4 Counties competition enters the 4th round.

‘This game is all about us’ said Lawarence, adding ‘We need to put into the game what we have been working on during the training sessions, and we will go well’.

After the game the Manchester Road Clubhouse will be featuring

England’s RWC2023 fixture versus Chile live on the big screen, with a 4.45pm kick off, all are welcome. The Club’s HQ will be showing all the World Cup games live, & has extended the opening hours to cover the busy playing schedule.

LocalSport

After a long time without a Junior football club, on a bright sunny day in September, a brand new Under 8’s team played their very first home game on a perfect pitch at the Memorial Ground in the heart of the Oughtibridge community.

The set-up of this new Junior team has taken a lot of hard work by coaches, parents, volunteers, and trustees of Oughtibridge WM Club.

Sam Barker, Assistant Manager WM Junior FC Under 8’s, said "None of this would have been possible without valuable support from the team sponsor Easy Bathrooms, parent fundraising activities and a generous donation from the funeral of John Stevenson." John, the grandad of one of the players, had been a keen supporter of the team over the last few years and will be missed by everyone. John’s wife Fran did a fantastic job for the first match running the tuck shop.

Family fun and enjoyment was the order of the day for the first home game with food, drink, and games for everyone. In terms of the match itself against Dodworth, Outighbridge ran out winners.

What Rob Hutchinson (Manager of Outighbridge WM Junior FC Under 8’s) had to say about the new team "A big thanks to all the Trustees and club volunteers for their support in getting things set up and their very warm welcome to the club. The people involved with this community club and the environment is probably the best Junior set up in Sheffield and a great place for our team and their families to build fantastic memories.

Pictured: Adam from Easy Bathrooms, the coaches and the Under 8s team after their win against Dodworth.

TIgeRs Lose cuP fInaL

SHEFFIELD missed out on the Premiership Knockout Cup after being beaten 55-35 at Ipswich.

It resulted in a 97-83 aggregate defeat after a disappointing second leg which saw the Tru Plant Tigers win just two races.

Guest No.1 Max Fricke made a super getaway to help him on his way to claiming the opener.

Sheffield then conceded a 5-1 in a dramatic Heat Two; the hosts gated on a maximum before guest reserve Kyle Newman split the home duo on the entry to lap three.

But Newman’s bike packed in on the final turn allowing Ipswich to close the gap to two on aggregate.

Four straight shared races followed though with Sheffield’s pairings tucking in for second and third in Heats Three and Four.

Another 3-3 followed in an allaction Heat Five - this time Fric-

WATSON INSPIRES STEELS 3-0

nied by a great save from former Steels goalkeeper Mikey Roxburgh.

In the second half, Steels had a shaky start as Brighouse looked to get back into the game. Stocksbridge settled down though and soon were able to make sure the three points were staying at Bracken Moor. Ben Townsend sent a long ball down the field and Luke Rawson was able to knock it on with a header to Watson who then beat his man and curl into the bottom corner, finishing the game as a contest.

ke worked his way from third to first, passing Erik Riss around the outside down the back straight of the final lap to make it two from two.

There was further drama in the sixth when home man Danyon Hume slid off whilst leading a 5-1 before the Witches levelled on aggregate with a 4-2 in Heat Seven.

Ipswich gated on another 4-2 in the eighth but Kyle Howarth battled his way past Joe Thompson to settle behind Jason Edwards as he picked up his first points of the night.

The Witches did move two ahead with a 4-2 in the ninth before the Tigers fought hard for their points in the tenth.

They were once again outgated as the hosts sat on a 5-1, but Chris Holder and then Josh Pickering worked their way by Hume for a 3-3.

That was the result of Heat 11 also as Jason Doyle extended his

winning run with Fricke beaten for the first time as he and Howarth kept the gap at two.

Disaster struck in Heat 12 though when Holder failed to get off the start line and the Witches moved six ahead with their second maximum of the night.

That soon became a third when Doyle gained an advantage by a quick getaway - and when he was joined out front by Emil Sayfutdinov it meant Tigers needed two 5-0s to force a Super Heat.

But Ipswich sealed the trophy mathematically with a 4-2 with a race to spare.

The Tru Plant Tigers now begin their preparations for their Sports Insure Premiership PlayOff Semi-Final against Wolverhampton.

The first leg takes place at Monmore Green on Monday, September 25 (7.30) with the decider at Owlerton on Thursday, September 28 (7.30).

Pitching In NPL East

Stocksbridge PS 3-0 Brighouse Town

Stocksbridge Park Steels got back to winning in the league with a 3-0 victory over Brighouse Town.

After withstanding some early pressure, Steels got off to a great start.

Jack Watson got onto a pass on the left hand side of the box and pinged a ball across the six-yard box. It was begging to be knocked in and Tomas Poole was on hand to do ‘justthat’ at the far post. There was some confusion as the linesman had said it was offside but the referee overruled that decision and gave the goal.

After this goal, Stocksbridge were the better team and there were no complaints when the second went in. A free kick on the left wing and Poole put plenty of zip on it. Ross Goodwin appeared to be the one that flicked it in though further video footage puts some doubt on it. He claimed the goal though and whoever got the last touch didn’t matter with the Steels being 2-0 up.

Stocksbridge were close to being 3-0 up before the break. It was Luke Rawson who won the ball high up the pitch on the right wing and put a low cross in. It got to Watson who tried to finish from close range but he was de-

There were some brief flurries of attacks from either side, but there wasn’t too much energy in the game afterwards. The one remaining big moment was Ollie Nowak coming on, making his senior debut after starring for both the reserves and the U18s. His best moment was a powerful cross from the left hand side but Goodwin couldn’t get a clean header onto it. It marked a positive note for the future in a great game for the team.

Next home fixture: Saturday 26 Sep vs Grimsby Borough, 3pm KO.

Photograph by Myra Little

Photos by Myra Little and Ian Revitt

Photograph by Ian Revitt