Look Local issue 1316 Thursday 4 April 2024

Offering total peace of mind for 60 years

is year, Eric Stead MG is celebrating 60 years of providing a rst-class motor industry service to the people of She eld. e family-operated dealership has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Opening their doors in 1964 by the late Eric Stead, the modest repair garage and petrol pump was given a foundation of robust principles and morals that have been carried through the dealership ever since. Still in the original Eccles eld premises, they are now a distinguished MG UK sales and a ersales franchise with a reputation for top-notch customer service, as well as a trusted dealer of preowned vehicles, whose extensive array can satisfy various budgets and lifestyles.

Taking pride i delivering exceptional customer service, and their unwavering commitment to maintaining this high standard that they’re known for, has resulted in Eric Stead MG fostering enduring connections over the past 60 years. ey regularly see multiple generations of customers visiting time and gain. is steadfast dedication to upholding exceptional customer service is evidenced by multiple accolades, having been awarded MG UK A ersales Dealer of the Year for three years running, as well as the MG UK Platinum Dealer of the Year award, for their achievements in new car sales. Additionally, their customer service has garnered ‘Highly Rated’ status from Autotrader, and they boast an impressive 300+ 5-star reviews on Google.

Trevor Stead, Managing Director of Eric Stead MG says, “ ese achievements are a direct result of the fantastic customers that we’re privileged to serve. e team here at Eric Stead MG are always eager to extend a warm welcome to each and every customer when they visit. Everything we do is for them.”

Going above and beyond mere car sales, Eric Stead MG provides their loyal patrons with valuable insights and expertise

on both vehicles and the upkeep that they require. Aiming to provide each customer with a vehicle aligned to their preferences, budget, and way of life, Eric Stead MG pride themselves in their extensive selection of new and pre-owned cars, at highly competitive prices.

With 60 years in the automotive industry, Eric Stead MG’s stand as a family-operated dealership is rmly rooted in the values and ethics rst brought to the fore by its founder, the late Eric Stead. eir enduring commitment to excellence is

evident in every aspect of their service, and the team take immense pleasure in their work, dedicated to o ering genuine care and a meticulous attention to detail.

To nd out more visit us at Eric Stead MG, 248 e Common, Eccles eld, call 0114 245 4404, or visit www.ericstead. co.uk

Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre held their Easter Fayre on Sunday 24th March welcoming visitors to enjoy their third Easter Eggstravaganza.

The event included 50 stalls selling beautifully crafted items and entertainment throughout the day provided by local artists, bands and dance groups.

The day was packed full of family fun and activities for children, including an Easter Bonnet Competition and parade, which was judged by their very own Easter Bunny, who entertained the children throughout the day.

Julie Martin, Assistant Centre Manager for Operations commented "This year's Easter Event has been another great success and we would like to thank all our stallholders, performers and customers, for at-

EASTER EGGSTRA UP IN FLAMES

tending and joining us in the Easter fun again this year. I would also like to say a big thank you to our Fundraising Group and all our volunteer team who assisted with our fundraising event this year and made it such a fabulous community event".

The next fundraising event scheduled at Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre will be their Indoor Table Top Sale on Sunday 19th May, followed by the Summer Fayre on Sunday 23rd June.

If you require any further information on any of the above events, or the volunteering opportunities available at Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre, please contact Julie Martin, Assistant Centre Manager - Operations, by telephoning 0114 2883792, or by email admin@stocksbridgeclc.co.uk.

Prolific shoplifter charged

On Thursday 28th March 2024 Callum RIPLEY of no fixed abode, was arrested for 3 offences of theft from shop, 1 public order offence related to an employee at one of those shops and and 4 breaches of his Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) in Ecclesfield and High Green.

He was charged and remanded in custody before appearing before Sheffield Magistrates court on Saturday 30th March, where due to the combined seriousness of the offences he was committed for sentencing at Sheffield Crown Court and remanded in custody until that date.

Sgt Cook from the Ecclesfield Neighbourhood Policing team said " Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and has a big impact on the shops and the staff who work there. We will continue to target those individuals who commit these offences and use all the powers available to us such as a CBO to stop offenders and bring them to justice"

Historic Orphanage Engulfed in Flames Following Suspected Arson

In the dead of night, a piece of North Sheffield's history was illuminated in the most tragic of lights as several fire crews battled a deliberate blaze at a derelict building on Lane End, Chapeltown.

Known to many as the 'old orphanage', the building caught fire at 11:55pm, prompting an immediate response from fire services across the city. Teams from Tankersley, Elm Lane, Rivelin, Central, and Parkway stations worked tirelessly into the early hours, finally leaving the scene at 4:05am, on Tuesday 2 April.

The building, originally called Lane End House and later known as Ryefield Lodge, has a storied past, opening its doors as a Children's Home during the tumult of the Second World War. It was a refuge for vulnerable children, overseen by 'aunties' and 'uncles' under the strict supervision of the home's matron. Despite its picturesque surroundings, the security measures in place, including shutters and bars on the windows, painted a picture more akin to a detention centre than a sanctuary for children.

In 1976, the dark underbelly of this institution was exposed when a staff member brought to light the mistreatment of children within its walls. This led to the closure of the children's home in 1979, after which the building embarked on a new chapter as the Chapeltown Centre, an educational facility, until its closure in the early 2000s.

The property has since stood derelict, a ghostly monument to its own complex history. Attempts to breathe new life into the site have faced obstacles, with planning permission for redevelopment being denied in 2008 and 2013. It wasn't until 2019 that permission was finally granted for the site's conversion into two dwellings and 11 detached houses, yet, as of 2022, the blueprints for rejuvenation have remained unrealised.

Photo by: Tina Martin

SCOUT’S FOOD DRIVE

'Incredibly lucky' man survives parachute failure

A paraglider was "incredibly lucky" to survive, suffering only minor injuries after his parachute failed, firefighters have said.

The man, aged in his 60s, landed on a "large tent-like structure" in an industrial estate in Ecclesfield, South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue said.

It said the nature of the structure helped soften his fall on Saturday.

Gavin Jones, from the fire service, said: "In 25 years of firefighting I've never known of an incident like it."

He added: "The man has been incredibly lucky and I'm just

so pleased we were able to bring him to safety."

The service said the paraglider had been taking part in a glide in Derbyshire when his chute malfunctioned, forcing him to make an emergency landing.

Fire crews from Stocksbridge and Parkway worked alongside ambulance and police to safely bring the man down from the roof.

South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue said he was "absolutely fine" and explained that the structure he came down on, located on Station Road, was used to store salt grit and had a soft roof.

The 93rd Sheffield (3rd Stocksbridge) Scout group has joyfully concluded its third Annual Multi-School Food Drive.

This year's initiative saw an enthusiastic response, with participation from seven local schools: Stocksbridge Nursery Infants, Stocksbridge Junior School, Stocksbridge High School, St. Ann's, West Meadows, Wharncliffe Side, and Norte Dame, culminating in a friendly yet spirited competition to support a noble cause.

St. Ann's emerged as the winner of this year's drive, contributing significantly to the impressive total of over 500 donations collected. The success of the food drive was bolstered by the active involvement of the Scout group's Beavers, Cubs, and Scout sections, whose efforts were instrumental in achieving such a remarkable result.

The organisers expressed immense pride in the commit-

ment and hard work demonstrated by all participants.

"The dedication of our young members and the solidarity shown by the schools have been outstanding," remarked the organisers, highlighting the collective effort that underpinned the drive's success.

A special acknowledgment was made to Costello's Flooring, which played a crucial role in transporting the donations to the Food Bank, ensuring that the collected items reached those in need within the community.

The food drive also provided an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of key individuals who were pivotal to its organisation and success. Among those recognised were Tracey, the Beaver Leader; Sue Birch, the Deputy Coordinator of the Food Bank; Rachel from the CoOp; and Jennifer Staniforth, the Cub Leader and visionary behind the food drive's inception and organisation.

Football opportunity

A semi-professional football club in north Sheffield is looking for a new ground sponsor.

Stocksbridge Park Steels, who famously started the career of ex-England international Jamie Vardy, are on the lookout for a new sponsor to help provide the community with good quality non-league football.

The first team compete in the Northern Premier East Division and regularly in the early qualifying rounds of the FA Cup.

Roger Gissing the Club's Commercial Manager said "As we continue to pursue our plans of providing sustainable football for the community, we are still looking for businesses and individuals, to help provide funds that will support our development."

If you have any interest? Please contact Roger Gissing to discuss further. rpg.sps@mail.com or 07507 387775.

fans raise

She eld Wednesday fans raised over £11,000 as they braved the cold of an early spring night and supported South Yorkshire youth homelessness charity Roundabout at the Night Owls Sleep Over.

Mascot Barney Owl also came to o er his support as the Night Owls settled down for their night in the iconic stadium.

e She eld Wednesday Community programme joined up with Roundabout for the fundraiser at the Hillsborough Stadium that attracted both families and football fans alike. And making the event even more special was an appearance by Reverend and the Makers frontman Jon McClure, who provided live entertainment and took donations in return for song suggestions.

Sharing their stories were Roundabout Peer Educators Charlotte and Lydia, helping over 70 night owls to understand the work Roundabout does and the way the charity supports young people in She eld and Rotherham.

“ e annual Roundabout Sleep Out has always been one of our most popular annual events and we have been asked so many times if there was a version the whole family could support,” said Roundabout Fundraising manager Emily Bush.

“Now, thanks to the support of the team at She eld Wednesday Community Programme, we were able to o er a new experience that appealed to both families and Wednesday fans.

“ anks to everybody who swapped their beds for sleeping bags helping to raise a fantastic amount to help fund our vital work, and a special thank you too to Jon McClure for his participation.”

GAS WORKERS VOTE TO STRIKE

Hundreds of gas emergency workers are set to strike across Yorkshire, GMB Union has said A majority of 99.5% per cent of workers at Northern Gas Network (NGN) voted to take industrial action on a 97 per cent turnout.

Workers are angry a er the company failed to implement necessary improvements to terms and conditions and safety changes.

GMB has been raising concerns over working practices for a number of years. Concerns include engineers being forced to work excessive hours and a culture of workplace bullying.

ese concerns were so serious that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stepped in and ordered NGN and other gas distribution companies to limit shi length to a maximum of twelve hours.

GMB are concerned for both public and worker safety.

GMB representatives have been negotiating with NGN to address the shi length alongside other terms and conditions, but due to NGN’s failure to respond in a timely manner workers took the decision to ballot.

e industrial action could potentially take place in the spring.

Andrew Aldwinkle, GMB Organiser, said:

“ ese workers put their lives on the line daily to protect the public and keep the heating on - but they are consistently over tired and undermined.

“We are convinced the public would be appalled by how these front-line workers are treated.

“ is huge mandate for industrial action shows just how strongly our members feel about NGN’s attitude.

“It’s time that this multi-million company did the responsible thing and paid these workers properly for a decent working week and improve their conditions.”

Join in the fun at the bowls club

Have you ever strolled past a serene bowling green and felt the urge to give it a try? Now, you can turn that curiosity into reality!

Stocksbridge Bowls Club is throwing open its green, nestled on Linden Crescent (behind the tennis courts), every Tuesday, starting from April 2nd, at 1:30 PM, welcoming individuals of all ages from 6 to 106.

Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a complete novice, this is your opportunity to get involved. Experienced bowlers will be present to guide and encourage new and inexperienced players, ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy the game. Picture yourself basking in the fresh air, engaging in gentle exercise, fostering companionships, and indulging in a cup of tea or coffee alongside some biscuits, all while having heaps of fun.

All necessary equipment will be provided, but participants are advised to wear flat shoes without

heels for safety and comfort. And if you discover a passion for bowling, you can partake in competitive games and steadily build your confidence in the sport.

But that's not all - Stocksbridge Bowls Club is also on the lookout for new members to join their ranks, regardless of experience level. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete novice, there's a place for you at S.B.C.

So mark your calendars, gather your enthusiasm, and head down

to Stocksbridge Bowls Club for a Tuesday afternoon filled with camaraderie, laughter, and the joy of bowling. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to try something new and become a part of a vibrant community.

For further inquiries or to express your interest in joining, please contact Stocksbridge Bowls Club via Donna on 07814706115 or Steve on 07901741877 or visit our facebook page.

APRIL

THURSDAY

4 High Green W.I. will be meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday 4th April in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church, on Wortley Road. The event is “British Schindler” and the speaker is Tim Mulroy. The competition is “War Heros”. All members and visitors are warmly welcomed.

SATURDAY

6 Co ee Morning 10-11.30 am Zion Church Hall Langsett Road North Oughtibridge Gifts Ra e Refreshments Everyone Welcome

MONDAY

8 Spring Craft Club at the Inman Pavilion Moorland Drive S36 1EG 10.00 - 11.45 am. Lots of fun things to do.

8 Brad eld Historical SocietyAGM Plus The Grenoside Steel Works, a talk by Helen Jackson and David Dulieu, Village Hall, Low Brad eld, 2337463, brad eld.history @mypostofce.co.uk, 7.30pm

8 @ 2.30pm. Stocksbridge & Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting at Christ Church, Manchester Road. Speaker is Mr Peter Drake--Travellers’ Tales. Visitors welcome £3 per meeting to include refreshments.

WEDNESDAY

10 Brad eld Walkers are Welcome - Local History Morning Round Walk in Dungworth

led by Malcolm Nunn, start 10.30am from outside Royal Hotel Dungworth, return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. bradfield.history@myposto ce.co.uk or www.bradeld-walkers.org.uk

Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 10th April at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Alex Sotheran, `From Barrows to Bunkers`.

THURSDAY

11 Chapeltown WI hold their next meeting at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church.

Mandy Keyworth will speak about Hypnotherapy. The competition is for a home made card. New members and visitors are always welcome.

11 Stocksbridge & District History Society Meeting. Christ Church Hall 7PM.‘Model Villages’ - Speaker Susan Deal. . Everyone welcome.

FRIDAY

12 Poetry for Pleasure –Stocksbridge Library – 1.30 to 2.30. Listen to some poetry or bring a favourite poem to share in a warm hub with a hot drink.

SUNDAY

14 Classic Car Rally in support of Marie Curie Cancer care & hosted by The M.G. Car Club.

The event will start from Fox Valley Retail Park following a simple planned route book for 70 miles taking in roads within South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire. The event nishes at Cannon Hall & all types of classic car are welcome to enter. The event is called The Da odil Run 2024 & is a none competitive event. Entry forms can be downloaded from mgccyorkshire.co.uk, or for more information email malper11@sky.com.

MONDAY

15 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners, a talk by John Robinson, ‘Birds of Wadsley and Loxley Commons’, An insight into the fascinating bird life of the Common throughout a calendar year. Wadsley Church Hall, 7.30pm start. Homemade refreshments included. www.walc.epizy. com, £3 members, £3.50 non-members.

FRIDAY

19 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Patrons’ Concert To be held at the Newton Hall Chapeltown on Friday 19th April 2024 at 7.30 pm

SUNDAY

21 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Commoners MuckIn’ - regular conservation morning, probably clearing saplings but check on the website - www.walc.epizy. com, 10am-12pm, bring gloves, tools provided, families very welcome

WEDNESDAY

24 Brad eld Walkers are Welcome - Local History Evening Round Walk around Low Bradeld led by Malcolm Nunn, start 7pm from Low Brad eld Car Park return around 9pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. brad eld.history@ myposto ce.co.uk or www. brad eld-walkers.org.uk

24 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 24th April at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, will be our AGM with a short update about the Stocksbridge town centre redevelopment. Members will then go for lunch Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year. 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

SATURDAY

27 Stocksbridge Christian Centre Co ee Morning from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Various stalls, Light refreshments All proceeds to Christian Aid

MONDAYS

Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to

On3-30pm 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

Every Monday Morning at 9:30am-11:30am, mother & toddler group meet at Crane moor Methodist Church. Everyone welcome.

Baby group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Drop in anytime between 9.30 and 11.30, during term time. Mainly for 0 - 3 year olds. Contact - tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com or 07957 206646 for more information.

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

Every Tuesday - Thorncli e

Bowling Club invites you to their Over 50s afternoon starting at 1:45pm. Bowls and coaching are available. At Thorncli e Bowling Club, o Mortomley Close, High Green.

WEDNESDAYS

Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:003:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435

THURSDAYS

Open House Community Café

Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com

The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m.

High Green Fitness and Fun Aerobics and Activities Paces campus, High Green Thursday 10am-12:30pm £4 per person. Call Margaret for more info 0114 284 7190

Volunteer Thursdays at Greave House Farm Trust. Enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise, meeting new friends. Any time between 10am and 4pm. Bring a packed lunch. Also monthly work days on 2nd Saturday. For more info contact Barbara: 07724505911or email

greavehouse@yahoo.co.uk

‘WARM WELCOME’ for everyone at The Christian Centre, Cedar Road every Thursday between 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. Meet & Chat - Enjoy a snackgames to play.

FRIDAYS

Stocksbridge Community Care Group’s Friday Drop In Service for elderly residents is once again being held weekly at The Venue, between 10am and 3pm. For a small charge visitors can enjoy a hot drink, company, games, talks and a light lunch. For further information contact Dave Owen on 0114 2864426.

SATURDAYS

Councillor Janet Ridler’s surgery is held on the 3rd Saturday of every month at Stocksbridge Library 10.00 –11.00. Call in for help, advice or a chat. You can also contact me at janet.ridler@councillor. she eld.gov.uk or on 07468 701684.

Councillor Lewis Chinchen’s surgeries will be on the 2nd Saturday of each month (except February) from 10.3011.30am at Stocksbridge Library. Drop by if you require assistance or support. Lewis can also be contacted at lewis.chinchen@councillor.shefeld.gov.uk

Eppic Theatre Eccles eld is open again every Saturday morning from 10am until 12. Tea, co ee and biscuits are available.

Julie Grocutt’s monthly surgery the 1st Saturday of each month. 10 -11am Stocksbridge Library. Call in for help advice or a chat with your local City & Town Councillor. Alternatively email julie. groutt@councillor.sheffield. gov.ukv

Saturdays - Thorncli e Bowling Club invites you to our Shu es afternoon at 1:45pm. Bowls and coaching are available. At Thorncli e Bowling Club, o Mortomley Close, High Green.

SOUL TRAIN STEAMS INTO TOWN

SOUL TRAIN will soon steam into Penistone Paramount with their great show featuring no less than 6 lead vocalists, plus a truly ne feast of your favourite soulful gems.

Harking back to the wonderful days when the dance oor was king, performers deliver a fun presentation of 60s and 70s soul classics.

From early soul days of Tamla Motown, Stax and Atlantic records though to disco and beyond as the show brings on the good times.

Featured in a fun feel good production are classic hit songs byStevie Wonder, Isley Brothers, Supremes, Gladys Knight, O'Jays, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Ike & Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Candi Staton, Whitney Houston, Billy Ocean, Lionel Richie, Tavares and many more

great artists that still keep us singing and dancing.

Great atmosphere - wonderful memories and always a fun night out!

Show producer and performer Wayne Kennedy goes back to his roots having sold well over one million concert tickets for his theatre shows.

e Stage - Superb - Remarkable - Tremendously Entertaining!

e BBC - MAGNIFICENT!

For more information on how to get on board please visit www. SoulTrain.org.uk

Join thousands of friends on their facebook page www.facebook.com/soultrainshowuk

Tickets www.penistoneparamount.co.uk Box O ce Tel: 01226 767 532

Acknowledgements

Ann Firth

Bill and all the family would like to thank you for all the cards, flowers, letters of sympathy and support you have given us following Ann’s sad passing. Thank you to everyone who attended Christ Church Stocksbridge on Monday 18th of March to celebrate Ann’s life and thanks to Ian Lucraft and the choir for a lovely service.

Thanks also to Argys and his team at Ponti’s for looking after all guests, to Lisa at Fleur De Lys for the beautiful flowers and Dyson Funeral Service for all arrangements.

Finally for all who donated in Ann’s memory, thank you.

You all did Ann proud.

Margaret BULLOCK

Passed away aged 86 years Much loved Wife of the late Michael Loving Mum to Anne and David Friend to many Funeral will be at Grenoside Crematorium South Chapel on 12th April at 11.30am Family flowers only

All enquires to:

TW Birks & Son Funeral Directors. 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar, Sheffield, S36 2RE. (0114) 2885555

RUBY KIPPAX née CHERRY

Passed away peacefully in her sleep on 16 March 2024

Wife to Roger Mum to Mandy, Joanne and Paul Grandma to Luke and Adele. Funeral service to be held on Wednesday 10th April at 2pm Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel. Donations in lieu of flowers will gratefully be received by Macmillan Palliative Care Unit, Sheffield and Midhope Church.

Hello, I’m Jane Ward-Drummond, your local Estate Planning Consultant of 13 years experience. I am an expert in helping people arrange their Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Pre-paid Funeral Plans.

Along with my colleague Haworth Ward-Drummond we specialise in helping all kinds of people gain peace of mind by providing professional advice, but with a personal touch. We offer a FREE consultation without obligation for anybody who would like to know more about any of the following:

• Making a basic Will

• Setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney

• Protecting your home for future generations

• Pre-paid Funeral Plans

their families) that we have helped in the past have been very happy with our services and tell us they have gained great peace of mind knowing that they have sorted everything out.

Urgent Appeal:

Theft of E-Bike Leaves Owner Stranded

Happy Hooker to return

After a free weekend, Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby get the opportunity to end their league campaign & climb off the bottom rung of the Counties 4 Yorkshire (phase 2) South with a trip to West Yorkshire, on Saturday to face Leeds Modernians. Stocksbridge will be looking to complete a league double over their rivals & close the season out on a high.

The Club have announced the Fox Catering Man of Steel award for March has been won by burly prop forward Gary Woodcock, with young Jack ‘half pint’ Martin, & ‘clock tower’ Andy Beal also in the running. Woodcock, kindly sponsored by Valley Property Services, has excelled during the Month with a string of powerful , robust performances on both sides of the ball. The next fixture to be played at the Coal Pit Lane Arena will

be against Midsomer Norton, a touring team from Somerset in the West Country on Saturday 13th April, with a 2.30pm kick off.

Off the field, the Club are finalising their plans for the Season 2023/2024 Presentation Awards to be held at the Manchester Road Clubhouse on Friday 26th April, with the doors opening from 6pm. All are welcome & a great evening is sure to be had, as the Club’s awards are presented to the individual winners.

Rumours persist that hooker

Mikey ‘vegas’ Hartley is considering a comeback after recovering from a horrific ankle injury during the previous season, a Club Official said, ‘Mikey is working hard on his rehab, & we will be delighted to see him again on the park, as his experience has been sorely missed’.

In a distressing turn of events, a valuable e-bike was stolen from a securely locked garden shed after burglars brazenly climbed over a fence and forced the door open.

The theft, which occurred despite the bike's battery being removed and only one of the two keys being available, has left the owner in a particularly vulnerable position.

The incident is believed to have involved two individuals, one of whom has been captured on various CCTV footage in the area. Following the theft, the culprits were seen pushing the bike along Moorland Drive, evading the eyes of the community but not the lenses of local surveillance.

The impact of this theft extends far beyond the loss of property. The bike's owner, who had invested four years into paying for the e-bike, relied heavily on it for mobility. Walking, a painful task for the owner, is now a necessity as the bike also played a crucial role in maintaining the well-being of their dog by enabling regular walks to the moors and trig point. This theft not only robs the owner of their mobility but also affects the quality of life of their beloved pet.

Furthermore, it has come to light that this was not an isolated incident, with neighbouring sheds also being targeted by these remorseless thieves.

The community's assistance is urgently sought in identifying the individuals responsible for this callous act. If you have any information regarding the burglary, the suspects, or their associates, you are encouraged to contact the police immediately.

Please call 101 and quote the crime reference number 14/58890/24. Your information could be crucial in restoring not just property, but the freedom and well-being of a fellow community member.

Students are top brass

Three Barnsley College Music students, and members of the Barnsley Metropolitan Band, have won the Yorkshire Areas final of the National Brass Band Championships.

First year Level 3 Music Performance and Production students Marcus Rowbotham, Holly Musgreave and Eliza Van Noort, who are members of the Barnsley Metropolitan Band, will now go on to compete against other regional section winners at Cheltenham Racecourse in September.

The championship has been running since 1945 and has been won by bands such as Grimethorpe Colliery Institute Band and Hebden Bridge Band.

The regional competition consisted of ten brass bands and the students and band really pulled out the stops this year after finishing fourth last time.

Level 3 Music Performance and Production student, Marcus Rowbotham,

said: “I’m really proud of our achievement and I think we deserved to win.

“The band worked really hard in the build up to the competition and it wasn’t until a week before that I thought we could do it.

“On the day I think we smashed it and the people in the audience came up to us afterwards and said we were untouchable in comparison to the rest.”

The students have recently featured on the College radio station, The Vibe, where they talked about their experience and how they are looking forward to the next stage of the competition.

Tim Speight, Course Leader in Music at Barnsley College, added: "We are absolutely delighted for Marcus, Eliza and Holly. It's so great to hear success stories about our students outside of college. We are very proud of them and we wish them the best of luck for the next round of the competition.

“We always try to promote students to 'put themselves in the spotlight' which can be very daunting, but this shows what you can achieve with hard work, commitment and dedication. It's fantastic!"

Nurse wins national award

Deliverers

A Stocksbridge nurse has been named ‘Cardiovascular Nurse of the Year’ by a prestigious medical journal.

Dr Iain Armstrong, who is also chair of Chapeltown-based charity Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK (PHA UK), won the accolade at the British Journal of Nursing (BJN) Awards 2024.

The ceremony took place in London on Friday 22 March, where he was also presented with a silver award in the ‘Nurse of the Year’ category.

Iain works as a consultant nurse within the Sheffield Pulmonary Vascular Disease Unit, a specialist pulmonary hypertension (PH) service based at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

He co-founded the PHA UK 24 years ago to support people living with PH, a serious and incurable lung disease which also affects the heart.

He has worked within the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for 34 years and in 2005 he became the first consultant nurse to work in pulmonary vascular disease. The BJN Awards aim to showcase nursing excellence, highlighting the critical contribution that nurses make to healthcare.

Iain said: “I’m really humbled to receive this recognition from the BJN. Nursing is a challenging but reward-

ing career, and in over three decades of nursing in Sheffield, I’ve been privileged to work with - and care for - some truly inspiring people. I accepted the awards on behalf of them, and everyone living with PH around the UK.”

Professor Chris Morley, Chief Nurse, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, said: “The British Journal of Nursing awards are recognised as among the most prestigious honours within the nursing sector. So, this is fantastic news for Iain and reflects his amazing passion and dedication to delivering and improving care, support, and treatments for patients with pulmonary hypertension.

“The Trust is home to the largest of eight specialist PH centres in the UK. Iain makes a huge contribution to our work here, as well as having a significant national profile in this field. He is a real inspiration to colleagues, and it’s a privilege to have his wealth of expertise and experience available within the Trust. Well done, Iain.”

Iain was named ‘Respiratory Nurse of the Year’ at the BJN Awards 2020, and in 2019 he was awarded a Fellowship from the Royal College of Nursing.

PH is a rare and life-limiting condition that causes high pressure in the blood vessels connecting the heart and lungs.

Celebrating volunteers in the Peak District National Park

Peak District volunteers came together in a day to recognise the many ways they contribute to the work of the National Park.

Around 140 people took part in the Volunteers Day, held at Lady Manners School in Bakewell.

It included volunteers from teams working across the National Park Authority –from conservation to cultural heritage, engagement and trails rangers to junior rangers and the Moors for the Future Partnership.

Volunteers took part in practical workshops and learned more about National Park initiatives - including the Defra-funded Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme - and the fundraising work of the Peak District Foundation.

Certificates were presented to volunteers who have achieved more than 10, 15 and 20 years of service and for those completing over 300 hours of work over the last year.

Volunteering manager Dave Cramp said: “Volunteers work hard in so many ways and this was a great opportunity to bring everyone together and recognise what they bring to the National Park. It was a way to say thank you and to share some of the wider work of the Authority.”

Peak District National Park Authority CEO Phil Mulligan also took part in the day. He said:

“Volunteers play a crucial role in many aspects of our work, dedicating their time with great enthusiasm to help conserve and enhance the National Park we all love.

“It was good to personally meet so many of our volunteers and to show our appreciation for everything they do.”

Picture caption: Volunteering manager Dave Cramp, front, with volunteers

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Sheffield trail by eight points at the midway point of their Premiership Knockout Cup Quarter-Final tie with Belle Vue.

The Tru7 Group Tigers were beaten 49-41 in the first leg at the National Speedway Stadium on Monday afternoon, leaving them with an eight point deficit to overturn this Thursday (April 4, 7.30) at Owlerton.

In the opening set of races, a 5-1 from Belle Vue’s reserves in Heat Two proved the early difference with the Tigers having to wait until Heat Four for their first winner.

The visiting duo gated on a maximum and whilst Tai Woffinden held on to take the chequered flag, Rising Star Dan Gilkes was passed on the opening lap by Grand Prix star Dan Bewley before Connor Bailey capitalised on a dramatic lift down the back straight for a third shared race.

Belle Vue doubled their advantage with another maximum in Heat Five before Woffinden made it two out of two in the sixth as the Tigers registered their first advantage. The triple World Champion executed a beautiful swoop around home skipper Brady Kurtz on the entrance to lap two whilst Jason Edwards held on for third ahead of Norick Blodorn who had been a winner first time out.

Chris Holder and Josh Pickering teamed up for Sheffield’s only 5-1 in Heat Seven - but the hosts delivered an instant reply in the very next race with Gilkes handed a 15 metre

handicap for exceeding the two minute time allowance.

Woffinden eased to a third straight victory in Heat Nine but despite an impressive gate, Edwards was relegated to the back with a forceful move from Ben Cook at the end of lap two.

Pickering and Chris Holder picked up the minor places in the tenth before Jack Holder took his first race win of the afternoon in Heat 11 with Kyle Howarth re-passing Connor Mountain for third.

Belle Vue restored their six point lead with a 4-2 in Heat 12 and maintained the gap when Brady Kurtz produced a fine ride to get past Jack Holder as well as becoming the first rider to defeat Woffinden in Heat 13.

The Aces added another couple of points to their lead with a 4-2 in Heat 14, but a fourth classy victory from Woffinden in the last ensures the tie is nicely poised ahead of Thursday’s decider at Owlerton.

JED ON TARGET

Oughtibridge WM 1-2 Chapeltown RBL

Chapeltown RBL returned to winning ways on Sunday away at Oughtibridge.

Jay Carters header on 5 minutes opened the scoring after a great challenge from Alex Mosley, who then crossed for Carter to dive and guide the ball home.

Luis Afonso-Ferreira twice came close to doubling the advantage, before Josh Savage tripped the Oughtibridge striker in the box, leading to the equaliser on 30 minutes.

Oughtibridge were reduced to 10 men after a wreckless Elliott Ro-

gan challenge, and defended well during the second half.

The winning goal came on 64 minutes as Mosley again was the provider, as his corner was headed home for top scorer Jed Phillips.

Legion had other good chances to kill the game off but the game ended 2-1 to the visitors.

RECORDS TUMBLE

A busy week for Stocksbridge running club, hot off the club's Cross Country success, Rachel Vernon was flying the club flag twice in a week. First up she and Garry Harding headed up to Leeds for the Leeds 5K series with both getting new club records.

Rachel's time of 23:12 was enough to break the overall female record and set a new F35 record. Garry set a club M45 record in 22:07. Then on Friday Rachel then went and did the Manchester to Liverpool Ultra 50 mile race, finishing 6th female over and setting a club overall (both mens and womens record) in a time of 8:33:06! Yes 50 miles non-stop from Manchester to Liverpool. A full write up is on the club website.

On Saturday two parkrun records were broken when Amy Hutchinson and Andy Gosling both broke their own respective age group records. Amy setting a new F40 record and Andy a new M45 record. Narni Fulford and Tim Daniell took on ‘Runner vs Steam’ on April Fool’s day; a 7 mile trail race in beautiful Matlock, where runners try and beat a train in an ‘out and back’ style route. 250 runners battled runner 251 (Cathryn the steam engine) by wending their way over the

river Derwent and along snaking trails that offered beautiful views of the Derbyshire countryside. Despite valiant efforts, a cape fashioned from a Thomas the Tank Engine bed sheet, and much cheering from spectators in Cathryn’s carriages, neither runner managed to beat the train, but finished respectably within 6 minutes of her. A grand time was had by all, and Stocksbridge Running Club represented well. Highly recommended for an Easter Monday family fun day out.

CHURCH PAY THE PRICE

4 - 3

Church first team were in Toolstation NCEL Premier Division action on the road at Skipton based side Silsden AFC. They were looking to win valuable points in quest of a playoff place but Silsden had other ideas.

Church started on the front foot and deservedly took the lead on six minutes with a goal from Nathan Keightley.

Silsden’s equaliser on twelve minutes came from a disputed indirect free-kick. An obvious deflection from Church defender Jordan Barnett was collected by keeper Chris Snaith and judged by the referee to be a back pass. The resulting free kick in the penalty area was squared to Silsden striker Kayle Price whose powerful shot found the back of the net to make it one-one.

Church reacted well and two minutes later mid-fielder Lennon O’Grady (pictured) took a deflection from Ant Brown’s shot and finished it well to restore the lead to Church.

Then with ten minutes to go before half time three minutes of defensive naivety saw Church trailing three-two at the break with a well-placed goal by Silsden’s Luke Brooksbank and a second from Kayle Price.

After the break Church started well and were on terms when Nathan Keightley took advantage of a defensive mix up and on the hour Church were deservedly back on terms.

They led for just three minutes when after some defensive indecision Kayle Price completed his hat trick.

Church had chances to equalise but were denied by the Silsden defence and notably when the referee denied Church a blatant penalty when Ant Brown was manually pulled down in the area.

The final score was Silsden four Church three Manager Steve Lenthall

The frustrating part for me today is the officiating of the game, we’ve had a blatant penalty turned down for a foul on Antony Brown, their lad has grabbed him round the scruff of the neck, he’s pulled him down in the area and the ref has said it’s not a foul.

I don’t think some officials realise how much work we put in, week in-week out, to get a team into the situation that we are, pushing for a play-off position and they just come for the ninety minutes and make decisions that are totally wrong.

I don’t want sound like I’m bitter in losing because it’s full credit to Silsden, they’ve dug it out and they’ve won fourthree, we’ve caused our own problems defensively but I think that there were some decisions today that have cost us. If we hadn’t conceded the first equaliser to go one-one we could have probably have gone on to go extend our lead with the chances that we have created.

One thing I will say the lads will never gave up and they showed it today, they’ve given one hundred and ten percent all the way through.

We’ve got four games left and we’ll give it our all and we start on Tuesday away at Barton Town.

GARETH BEATS TRAIN

Gareth Irvine of Penistone Footpath Runners competed in the Runner v Steam train race in Rowsley, Matlock.

Runners are challenged to beat a steamhauled heritage rail service from Peak Rail Rowsley South station to Matlock Riverside station and back. The scenic seven mile course runs on the White Peak Loop extension of the Monsal Trail.

Gareth put in a good performance to claim first place in the men’s over40 age category in 44-55. He also finished a good seven minutes ahead of the train.

Sarah Walch and Damian Kilpin made the trip to the lake district to compete in the Coledale Horseshoe Fell Race which is a classic fell race known for its challenging and scenic route. Damian finished in 121st place in 1-46-48 and Sarah was in 218th in 2-0739.

Mother and daughter Helen and Graihagh Turner travelled over to the Isle of Man Easter Running Festival. Graihagh was fifth lady in the Peel Hill race but first in the under17 age category. In the 5k race Graihagh was eighth. Not to be outdone, mum Helen grabbed second place in the ladies over45 category in the 5k.

On the parkrun scene there were first places for Emma Moore (Concord), Suzanne McGill (Sewerby), Hannah Shaw (Penistone) and Flynn Rogers (Hillsborough Juniors). There were parkrun milestones for Jo Sammon (50 parkruns) and Steve Dommett (100 parkruns). Shaun Swallow’s improved form continued with a new personal best at Hills-

borough in a time of 19-24. Age graded performances of the week were Dawn Broom (89.55%), Julia Johnson (85.34%), James Mumford (80.04%), Shaun Swallow (78.52%) and Suzanne McGill (78.07%).

Starting on Thursday 4th April, Penistone running club will be starting a walk to run open to anybody who would like to start running. Meeting at 6.30pm on the trail by the skateboard park in Penistone, it will continue on every Thursday for 10 weeks. For further information please contact Steve Dickinson via steve@osi.uk.com

Barnsley Parkrun

49, Alan Knox 26-05; 73, Heather SImpson 28-44; 76, Susan Hall 28-53; 107, Raymond Brown 33-00; 146, John Spencer 40-56.

Penistone Parkrun

9, Ashley Howlett 20-52; 14, Oliver Pike 2156; 21, Hannah Shaw 23-05; 33, Emma Stead 24-20; 43, Seuranie Johnstone 25-01; 52, Shelley Anne Gill 26-10; 61, Georgina Doyle 26-40; 63, Keith Gordon 26-55; 116, Daniel Batty 31-31; 135, Dianne Mcguinness 35-22.

Steels leave it late for Easter Win

Stocksbridge PS

Report by Dakir Thanveer

Stocksbridge Park Steels earned a 1-0 victory over Pontefract Collieries in the Northern Premier League East Division at Bracken Moor on Monday, thanks to a late Tomas Poole winner.

Playing against playoff contenders Pontefract Collieries, the Steels found themselves under the cosh in the initial minutes. However, Ian Richards’ side soon grew into the game.

The first big chance of the game came in the 23rd minute when Tomas Poole played Luke Rawson through on the right flank after combining well with Kurt Turner. The No. 9 delivered a tempting low cross into the danger area but the ball is dealt with by a Colls defender before Jack Watson could get on the end of it.

Meanwhile, skipper Ross Goodwin –starting alongside Charlie Oglesby in central defence – displayed his defensive prowess, putting an end to a Bailey Thomspon-led attack just outside the Stocksbridge box.

The Steels had another sight of goal in the 31st minute, with Watson playing a threatening cross from the left wing. Poole gave his all to get on the end of it, going in with a diving header, but could not connect.

Minutes later, Poole produced a jawdropping nutmeg on the right-hand side in what was one of the best moments of the first half. His cross, however, was easily gathered by Colls goalkeeper Lloyd Allinson.

The first half did not end well for the Steels as Turner was forced off with an injury. Richards, making his first change of the game, brought on Alex Phillipson, with Goodwin moving back to midfield.

1 - 0

The first chance of the second half fell to Watson. Tom Charlesworth played a clever pass to Poole from a free-kick just inside the Pontefract half. The latter subsequently delivered a cross into the box, finding Watson, whose header goes just over the crossbar.

Townsend, meanwhile, had a heart-inmoment just after the one-hour mark as he miskicked a clearance. The goalkeeper, though, did well to clear it away for a throw-in before the visitors could pounce.

After pulling out a stunning nutmeg in the first half, Poole produced another moment of brilliance just before the 70-minute mark, attempting a half-volley from outside the Colls box. He was unfortunate not to find the top left corner.

‘The gaffer’ made his final two changes between the 75th and 85th minute, bringing Jack Dolman and Olly Nowak on for Luke Rawson and Jordan Lemon.

The game opened up in the final 15 minutes, with Watson seeing two ambitious efforts go off target. Oliver Metcalfe had one on the other end, but saw the ball fly over Townsend’s goal.

It was Poole who eventually got the first and only goal of the match.

Watson did not seem like a player who had been working his socks off for 89 minutes, tussling with a Colls defender to force his way into the box. Although his initial pass did not find its target, the ball fell to Poole, who made no mistake in front of the goal.

With only four games left to play, Stocksbridge have made another step towards ensuring safety. The Steels sit 12 points above the drop zone, although 19th placed Grantham Town have a game in hand.

Richards and Co. visit North Ferriby in their next outing on Saturday (April 6).

Happy 50

Kevin Gibson a member of the Valley Hill Runners today made it to 50 park runs. He joined everyone at concord park run to achieve this milestone. Jayne Grayson from VHR told Look Local “Kevin is a bit shy and told no one he had got to 50 but all of us at valley hill couldn't let it go without telling everyone.”

Also on Saturday runners took a trip to Pontefract park run. A lovely run around the race course and the lake in very warm sunny conditions. Kelvin Bowskill from Penistone runners tagged along too for a lovely social morning with good running friends.

Photo’s by: Myra Little

Pictured: Jayne Grayson, Michael Savage, Chris Grayson, Sheila Duffy, Luke Evans, Wendy Duggan, Julian Duffy and Kelvin Bowskill.