STEEL IN CRISIS
Continued uncertainty over the future of two Liberty Steel sites in South Yorkshire is placing thousands of jobs at risk and could bring an end to the industry in the region, writes John High eld.
Liberty - part of the struggling GFG Group - currently operates an Electric Arc Furnace steel-making furnace at its site at Aldwarke in Rotherham and a rolling and nishing plant at Stocksbridge in She eld.
But all steel production at Aldwarke is currently suspended amid fears that Liberty is facing imminent collapse, with a winding up petition having been taken out against the company.
Around 700 sta at Aldwarke and a further 500 at Stocksbridge are believed to be on voluntary furlough, claiming a percentage of their salaries to stay at home, with some looking at the very real prospect of redundancy in the next few weeks.
A Liberty Steel spokesperson said:
“A severe market downturn has hit steelmakers across the industry. Despite these challenges, Liberty has sought to preserve jobs and are focused on delivering pro table and sustainable production where viable, and trading intelligently to maintain cash ows. We are committed to battle through this di cult time for the industry to shape a stronger and more e cient business.
Our Speciality Steel operations in south Yorkshire are focused on lower carbon emissions Electric Arc Furnace-based production supplying strategic aerospace, defence, and energy customers. e business has achieved major improvement in performance over the last 18 months by focusing on high-value specialist products, securing key customers’ support and taking steps to cut xed costs and idle some unviable operations. It has been supported by signi cant injections of shareholder capital.”
...CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Steel crisis could be a catastrophe for Stocksbridge
...CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
One industry insider, who wishes to remain anonymous, says that the closure of the two sites would be catastrophic for the region and bring to an end South Yorkshire’s many generations at the forefront of the international steel industry.
“The most baffling thing about what is happening in Aldwarke and Stocksbridge is that nobody seems to be taking any notice of how dangerous a situation we are in,” he said.
“The situation at Tata’s Port Talbot and British Steel’s site Scunthorpe site have received national media attention but South Yorkshire seems to have slipped under the radar.”
The Aldwarke site was converted to an electric arc furnace in the 1970s and is now a leading national producer of environmentally friendly green steel.
“At a time when the whole world is talking about green power and the environment, Aldwarke is right at the forefront of providing an environmentally sound solution to these issues so we should be doing everything possible to ensure production can continue,” the expert said.
“Secretary Of State for Defence John Healey has also said that this site is strategically important to the UK as it primarily produces steel for the aerospace industry as well as steel grades for the gas, oil and automotive industries.
“It’s closure would certainly leave us increasingly exposed from a defence point of view.”
He added that Sanjeev Gupta - the CEO of Liberty Steel and the Chairman of GFG Alliance - should now be taking all possible steps to protect the future of steel in South Yorkshire.
“There are potential buyers for the sites, people who are prepared to invest in the region, but Liberty seem unwilling to sell,” he said.
“I feel we have a duty of care to let people know what is happening because if we don’t do something it really will be catastrophic for the whole of South Yorkshire.
“Communities like Aldwarke and Stocksbridge are already struggling and cannot afford to lose 1,200 jobs.
“The impact of that level of unemployment goes way beyond Liberty Steel - it seeps out and impacts every other business in the area, leaving just Forgemasters and Marcegaglia in Sheffield as the sole survivors of a once proud South Yorkshire industry.”
YOUR HAPPY SPACE AWAITS
MP Marie Tidball told Look Local
“Steel has been at the beating heart of our communities for over 180 years in Stocksbridge. I understand how vital our Steelworks is to families across our communities.
“Steel is fundamental to the UK’s economy and sovereignty. Yet, our steel industry has been let down for too long. I know actions that put jobs and operations at LIBERTY's Stocksbridge Speciality Steels at risk will be concerning for employees and the local community. However, having spoken to representatives at LIBERTY I am reassured that they are continuing efforts to reach a solution to the commercial dispute confronting them.
“Later this month, I'll be meeting the Steel Minister to discuss our forthcoming Steel Strategy. The new Labour Government are committed to investing £2.5 billion in green steel, which will be laid out in the Steel Strategy in the Spring. The Strategy will ensure we 'Buy British' for new infrastructure and turbo-charge investment into our steel industry to secure its future. I know the LIBERTY Steel site and its workforce will play a valuable part in that going forward."
POPPY APPEAL LAUNCH
By Janet Ridler
If you were out and about in Stocksbridge, Deepcar or Bolsterstone last Saturday, did you notice local Royal British Legion volunteers fixing large poppies to lampposts along our streets?
Next Sunday, 26 October, marks the official launch of the 2024 Poppy Appeal when local RBL members and volunteers will be out collecting for the appeal at locations around our local area. Each year the money raised from the Poppy Appeal supports local veterans and those in the armed forces community who have served our country, by providing recovery and rehabilitation support to currently serving and ex-service personnel who are wounded, injured, or sick.
In 2023, thanks to your generous support, the Stocksbridge and Deepcar Branch of the RBL raised an incredible £18,500 for the Poppy Appeal. This year, with your help, they hope to reach a target of £20,000. Poppies and other merchandise including special 2024 pin
badges and D-Day anniversary commemorative badges will be available from 26 October at locations across Stocksbridge including Aldi, Lidl, and the Co-op. 189 poppies have now been placed onto lampposts along the Remembrance Day Parade route and beyond by local Royal British Legion volunteers, thanks to funding from Stocksbridge Town Council. 160 of these poppies bear the names of local people, commemorated on the Stocksbridge Memorial Clock Tower, who gave their lives during the First and Second World Wars.
Please support the poppy appeal and join your local Royal British Legion for the annual Stockbridge Parade and Remembrance Service on Sunday 10 November. This is a tradition which dates back many years; this year will mark the 100th anniversary of the first outdoor service which took place in 1924 at the Stocksbridge Clock Tower memorial. The parade will include Royal British Legion members, our local
MP Marie Tidball, Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire Desmond Smith, local City and Town Councillors, the Royal Naval Association, Army Cadets, Scouts, Cubs, Guides, Brownies, the Women’s Institute, the Rotary Club, Don Valley Probus, and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, with music from the Loxley Silver Band. Everyone is welcome to join the parade, please assemble on Johnson Street at 10.00 for a 10.15 prompt start.
**Are you related to anyone whose name is on a poppy? If so, please get in touch with the ‘Valley at War Stocksbridge’ project, who are working closely with the RBL to create a lasting legacy to the fallen in the Memorial Gardens, via email at thevalleyatwarstocksbridge@gmail.com
Pictured are Stocksbridge & Deepcar Branch RBL members at the location of the first lamppost poppy at the Memorial Clocktower; from r-l: Jon Tolson, Cllr Janet Ridler, Timothy Curson, Christine Tolson, Cllr Alan Law, James Wheeler.
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TEEN TAKES ON EPIC SWIM CHALLENGE FOR HOSPITAL
A courageous 13-year-old girl from Stocksbridge is diving into a monumental challenge to raise much-needed funds for She eld Children’s Hospital, a place that has been her lifeline since birth.
Rose, who was born prematurely at just 29 weeks and weighing a mere 2lb 2oz, is swimming an astonishing 45 miles at Stocksbridge Leisure Centre. Her e orts are to thank and support e Children’s Hospital Charity in She eld, a hospital that has been by her side for her entire life. Her mother, Anna, shared their story, explaining the harrowing experience of Rose’s birth. Due to a lack of space in their local hospital’s neonatal unit, Rose was delivered at York District Hospital, where her tiny, underdeveloped lungs collapsed shortly a er birth. e neonatal team fought tirelessly to save her life, a time Anna recalls as the “scariest time of our lives.”
Since then, Rose has faced ongoing challenges with chronic lung conditions, but thanks to the dedicated team at She eld Children’s Hospital, she has been nursed back to health time and time again. Even as she turns 13 this month, Rose remains under the care of the hospital, which continues to provide her with the excellent care and support that has been crucial throughout her life.
To show her gratitude, Rose has set herself the goal of swimming 45 miles, representing the distance between York District Hospital, where she was born, and her family’s home at the time. e challenge, which she started on the 7th of October, will run until the 18th of December – her original due date.
Anna says, “We will forever be thankful for the care Rose has received at She eld Children’s Hospital. is swim is Rose’s way of saying thank you, and we’d be incredibly grateful for any sponsorship or donations.”
Stocksbridge Leisure Centre has posted about Rose’s challenge on their social media, and the family is encouraging anyone who can to donate via Rose’s JustGiving page.
To support Rose in her inspiring swim and to help her raise funds for She eld Children’s Hospital, please visit the JustGiving link shared by her family and the Stocksbridge Leisure Centre Facebook page. Every donation, no matter the size, will help this remarkable young girl give back to the hospital that has given her so much.
Let’s all get behind Rose as she swims for She eld Children’s Hospital!
NEW WORTLEY BASE FOR PEN FM
Penistone FM is pleased to announce that we are now able to reach into Stocksbridge and Fox Valley with the introduction of a new second aerial based in Wortley. Penistone FM has been broadcasting to the local area for the last 15 years but we were conscious that our signal didn’t reach important parts of the community. We would like to thank Stocksbridge Town Council, Fox Valley and Awards for All Lottery for their support and help in making the second aerial possible. The new frequency to tune in on is 97.7FM for Stocksbridge.
Penistone FM is a not-forprofit local radio station serving Penistone, Stocksbridge and the surrounding
areas. Broadcasting on 95.7 FM, 97.7 FM, streaming online and to your smart speaker, we aim to entertain the community with great music, news, information about local events and local people, radio drama and more.
There are lots of ways to get involved in the station such as training to be a radio presenter, local reporter or general help in raising awareness of the station. Learn new communication skills, build your confidence and learn to be efficient at multitasking. This can help in further education, interviews and developing your skills in the workplace. We are seeking more volunteers from the Stocksbridge area and will be holding some ra-
dio taster sessions soon in the town. Please come and see us for a chat.
If you are looking for a career in media then you will be interested to learn that some our trainees and volunteers have gone on to work in professional radio such as BBC Radio 1, Channel 4 and BFBS Forces radio. We have recently created PenFM Media, a new option to learn about film, podcasting and radio production and it is designed for people to develop their creative skills.
If you would like to support local radio through commercial advertising, feel free to contact us for a friendly chat or if you are a local community group organisation or a charity in the local area of Stocksbridge, Penistone or Barnsley and would like support promoting your offer over the airwaves, then please email us at studio@penistonefm.co.uk or call 01226 764646.
We are on social media, Facebook, and Instagram if you want to connect to us and we are also now on the Radioplayer app to take us with you on the move.
MP WELCOMES PRIMARY SCHOOL TO PARLIAMENT
Marie Tidball MP welcomed the children of St John’s Primary School, Penistone to Parliament this month.
The children’s day started with a tour of the Palace of Westminster, followed by a workshop on how Parliament works. Marie Tidball then joined the group to share her story of how she became a Member of Parliament after growing up in our town, followed by a Q&A session.
Visiting Parliament offers state schools a unique opportunity for young people to learn about our democratic processes, and to break down barriers to opportunity.
Former pupil of St John’s Primary School, Marie Tidball MP, was also elected as a member of the House of Commons Education Select Committee this month. It is a great new opportunity for the local MP to champion educational issues facing our communities to government.
The Education Select Committee is a cross-party Committee that works to hear evidence, question Ministers and produce policy recommendations to the Department for Education.
Marie Tidball, new Labour MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge said,
“It was wonderful to welcome St John’s Primary School, to Parliament. It was particularly special for me as St John’s is my old primary school!
The children asked about how nervous I was on election night (very), and in return I received some excellent advice from them about how to handle nerves. I’ll be using their tips in Parliament!
My wonderful state education at St John’s improved my life chances and is one of the reasons I am now our local MP, and serving on the Education Select Committee.
I will use this fantastic opportunity to represent the issues facing schools and young people across our communities, including SEND, skills, and closing the education deprivation gap.
If you are a school in our constituency, you can arrange to come down to Parliament for a day. I will be reaching out to schools soon, but please email me at marie.tidball. mp@parliament.uk if this is something you are interested in.”
Pub's extended hours plan sparks noise fears
Plans to keep a village pub open until the early hours of the morning at weekends have sparked concerns by local residents about possible noise nuisance, writes Danielle Andrews, Local Democracy Reporting Service.
An application from Star Pubs and Bars Ltd aims to extend operating hours at the Green Dragon pub in Thurgoland, near Barnsley, until 02:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.
If approved by Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, the changes would allow live music to continue indoors until 23:30 on weekdays and until 01:30 on weekends, while alcohol could be served from 08:00.
But a report to the council’s licensing board said there were fears from people living nearby over “noise and anti-social behaviour they believe will occur with the later opening times".
The report added: “A noise management plan has been submitted by the applicant’s solicitor, but no agreement has been reached with regards to it being conditioned to the licence at the time of writing this report.”
'Intolerable' noise
One resident, who said they lived close to the pub on Cote Lane, also told the council’s licensing department that the extended opening hours could lead to an increase in crime and disorder, along with a lack of police presence in the village.
Another contributor added that noise from the pub was already “intolerable”, resulting in their parents not being able to enjoy their garden.
The application also included proposed new safety measures for the pub, including a CCTV system, enhanced staff training and a Challenge 25 scheme, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Although discussions had taken place between licensing officials, the applicant and objectors, no consensus on a noise management plan had been reached, the report stated.
Barnsley Council's statutory licensing board was expected to meet on 22 October to hear from the applicant and objectors and to make a decision on any licence variations.
Transform Your Home into a Warmer, Cosier Space
South Yorkshire social enterprise Eco t is hosting a free workshop to help Penistone residents make their homes into warmer, more comfortable living spaces while reducing their environmental impact. e event will take place on Monday, October 28th, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at St John's Community Centre Hall in Penistone.
With 58% of local houses falling below Energy Performance Certi cate rating C, many Penistone and Stocksbridge homes could be warmer and more comfortable. e area’s beautiful traditional properties can be particularly chilly and draughty. is practical workshop will show homeowners how to enhance their living spaces while contributing to a greener future.
Attendees will:
Learn about ways to make their homes cosier and more comfortable- from simple tips to longer-term improvements, looking at the whole house as a system
Be part of developing ideas to encourage more people in
the community to make their homes more energy-e cient
Free refreshments provided "South Yorkshire's traditional housing stock presents unique opportunities for improvement," says Helen Todd, from Eco t. " is workshop focuses on practical solutions to create warmer, more comfortable homes while reducing carbon footprints."
Event Details:
Date: Monday, October 28th
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: St John's Community Centre Hall, Church St, Penistone, S36 6AR
Cost: Free
Booking: email info@eco t. uk to secure your place
For more information, visit www.eco t.uk or follow SY-Eco t on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Contact Information: Email: info@eco t.uk
TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD MARK 75TH ANNIVERSARY
In a tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II’s plea to "Plant a tree for the Jubilee," members of the Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild gathered to plant an oak sapling at Greave House Farm. e initiative honours both the Queen’s legacy and the Guild’s 75th anniversary, marking a signi cant moment in the community’s history. e Guild, established in 1949, has long been a pillar of local social and charitable activity. A er considering several potential locations around Stocksbridge, Greave House Farm graciously welcomed the Guild to plant the oak tree, which now stands as part of the farm's environmental contributions.
Pictured at the event are Mrs Ella Jones, Mrs Rosemary Allan, and Mrs Margaret Derbyshire of the Townswomen’s Guild, alongside Barbara and Chris Bristow of Greave House Farm, who supported the planting.
e ceremony re ects the deep-rooted connection between the Guild and its community, celebrating both the past and future with this symbolic act.
OCTOBER
WEDNESDAY
23 Don Valley Probus will meet at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Ron Pickering, `North Yorks Moors Railway`. 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
23 Local wildlife special at The Venue. 6-8pm Films, talks, discussion. All welcome- Stocksbridge Community Forum
SATURDAY
26 High Green Methodist Church. Autumn Fayre starting at 11am.
Stalls include cakes, bric-abrac, gifts, books, tombola etc. Sandwiches, cakes and drinks are available. All welcome.
26 Science Club at the Inman Pavilion, 2.00 - 4.00 pm Moorland Drive S36 1EG Have fun with Magnets!
SUNDAY
27 at 2.30pm the Service at Bullhouse Chapel will be led by Stephen Barnett. All are welcome to this act of worship.
SATURDAY
26 Bolsterstone Village Hall Cream teas, crafts & clothing stall 11-3pm
MONDAY
28 10.00 - 11.45am Kids’ Spooky Craft Club at the Inman Pavilion Moorland Drive S36 1EG. Come and make lots of spooky things for just £2.00!
NOVEMBER
FRIDAY
1-3 Silkstone Parish Church S75 4JH Wonderfully Made in Yorkshire. 40 stalls selling unique handmade gifts . Light refreshments available. Entry - £1.00 Opening times: Friday - 12.00 noon - 8.00 pm; Saturday & Sunday - 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
SATURDAY
2 EPPiC Theatre On SATURDAY NOVEMBER 2nd, there will be a morning of free musical entertainment COFFEE and CHORDS with WELSH JOHN . His guests this month are well known duo John and Vic Bowden, Daz Barry and Lou Marriott ( all subject to late changes) Taking place at our regular Saturday coffee morning at EPPiC Theatre, Ecclesfield S35 9TP Doors open at 10am, with entertainment starting at approximately 10.45 Admission is FREE, but the sale of refreshments helps theatre funds. Theatre is open every Saturday from 10 until 12 noon
2 Mini Autumn Fayre 10.30am - 12.30pm gift stall / cake stalls, refreshments served The Salvation Army, Victoria Street, Stocksbridge SUNDAY
3 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Commoners Muck-In morning- Probably clearing small saplings. Everyone is welcome ... come for as long or as little as you like. Meet 10:00, finish at 12 noon. We have tools, please bring good gloves if you have some. www.walc. epizy.com or facebook page for more details.
MONDAY
4 Bradfield Historical SocietyYorkshire People, a talk by Josephine Firth, Village Hall, Low Bradfield, 2337463, bradfield. history@mypostoffice.co.uk, 7.30pm
4 2.30pm. Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting @ Christ Church, Manchester Road. S36 1DY. Speaker will be Martin Rowley “ Air Ambulance/ Helipad Charity”. Visitors welcome @ £3 per meeting.
WEDNESDAY
6 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start time. We will be having a Tropic Skincare demonstration and will be swishing our unwanted clothes and accessories with any left over items being donated to the local charity shops. Further details 07917021268
6 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 3rd July at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a
presentation by Roy Gunson, titled “The Uncertainty of Mr Heisenurg”. 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
9 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Autumn Bird Walk - John and Anne Robinson’s regular seasonal bird walks continue. Have the winter visitors begun to return? No dogs on this walk please. Meet at 9am at Rural Lane Car Park, FREE but donation welcome. www.walc.epizy.com
9 Bolsterstone Archaeology & Heritage Group invite you to a Finds Afternoon. Come along and see items found in our local area and learn what to do if you find something interesting... Hear experts talk about their finds and if you have any interesting things that you have found along the way, please bring them along, we’d love to see them! Sat 9th November, Bolsterstone Village Hall at 1pm Entry £1, refreshments available.
MONDAY
11 Worrall Environmental Group have a meeting at 7:30pm in the Blue Ball with the usual agenda: Parks, Tubs, Troughs, Budget, Clean up, etc.
Early
1: Know your breasts and check for changes
If you notice something is different please check this with your
2: Attend breast screening when you are invited BREAST SCREENING
• Anyone registered with a GP as female will be invited to breast screening every 3 years between the ages of 50-71 years. Invites come in the post.
• Women over 71 can self refer for breast screening every 3 years.
• If you have missed your screening appointment you can rearrange this directly with the breast screening unit at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital 0114 2711920
On LISTINGS
Followed by the AGM. All Worrallers welcome. Refreshments afterwards. No charge.
THURSDAY
14 Chapeltown WI will meet at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church when they will welcome Elaine Ward from Cry as their speaker. The competition is for an Autumn Decoration. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
SATURDAY
16 Christmas Fair at Bolsterstone Village Hall 11-4pm.
16 Magic Show at Zion Hall Oughtibridge 2.00 - 4.00 pm. Take-home snack for kids. Book your places at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com stating dietary needs. 07957 206646
SUNDAY
17 Craft Stalls by local makers and Refreshments - 10.00 am - 1.00 pm Hoylandswaine Village Hall, Haigh Lane (By the cricket field) S36 7JJ. ww.hoylandswainevillagehall.co.uk
17 Magic Show at Inman Pavilion Stocksbridge 2.00 - 4.00 pm. Take-home snack for kids. Book your places at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com stating dietary needs. 07957 206646
MONDAY
18 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - a short AGM followed by ‘Comtempory Photos of Old Loxley’ by Malcolm Nunn, 7.30pm, Wadsley Church Hall, Worrall Road. www.walc.epizy.com
18 ‘Village Made’ in Oughtibridge. Crafters and artists from the village selling a range of hand made items ready for your Christmas gift needs! Free entry. Wesleyan Chapel, Church Street, Oughtibridge.6.30 to 8.30
WEDNESDAY
20 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 20th November at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Eric Jackson, “Remembrance Stocksbridge” 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
FRIDAY
29 Coach trip to Hampsons Garden Centre for TARA members. Book your seats at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com 07957 206646
SATURDAY
30 Ecclesfield Spartans Jfc Christmas Fayre 11am - 4pm Civil Sports Club, Green Lane, S35 9WY Come along and see Santa only £2 per child Loads of local stalls - free entry, free parking
DECEMBER
Saturday
14 Pantomime Matinee for TARA members. Jack-in
-the-Beanstalk Academy Theatre. Book your seats at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com 07957 206646
ONGOING
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.
Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath first! Contact 01226 764642 for more information
Baby and Toddler group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Mondays during term-time 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in anytime. Sponsored by T.A.R.A.
TUESDAYS
CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) Tea, coffee, 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 - Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to their Over 50s afternoon starting at 1:45pm. Bowls and coaching are available. At Thorncliffe Bowling Club, off Mortomley Close, High Green. Tuesday at 1.30pm Stocksbridge Bowls Club will hold an open crown green bowls sessions at the green behind the tennis courts on Linde Crescent. Experienced bowlers are on hand to help you enjoy this friendly sport. Refreshments are available.
WEDNESDAYS
Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:00-3:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435
Thurgoland Community Choir, every Wednesday 7pm - 9:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Thurgoland.
THURSDAYS
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
APPEAL: Alleged assault on Supertram
Police have released CCTV images of a woman they would like to speak to in connection with a reported assault in Sheffield.
It is reported that at 4.39pm on Tuesday 8 October, a passenger on a Supertram service to Middlewood assaulted a tram conductor by slapping him.
It is further alleged that they left the tram without paying the fare.
Enquiries are ongoing, and officers have released images of a woman they would like to speak to as they believe she could aid police in their investigation.
She is described as a white woman, between 30 and 40 years old, of a medium build, and with shoulder-length brown hair. Do you recognise her?
Tina Marie TRAVIS (née Crawford)
Passed away in hospital on 16th October, aged 73.
Loving Wife of Ken, devoted Mother and Grandmother.
Funeral service to be held on Tuesday 12th November, 11.00, Grenoside North Chapel.
Donations in lieu of flowers will be gratefully received for Macmillan Cancer Care.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar, S36 2NR.
local family
CHAPELS OF
at Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481
New Road, Deepcar S36 2RS 0114 288 3169
info@dysonfunerals.co.uk www.dysonfunerals.co.uk
Chapeltown Man Overcomes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to Become Personal Trainer
Luke Frith, from Chapeltown, was just 14 when he was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) a er developing severe tiredness and vomiting while training for football. His symptoms worsened, forcing him to leave school and rely on a wheelchair. Doctors warned he might never walk again or hold a full-time job.
Luke’s health deteriorated further while working as a chef, exacerbating his condition. Life took another blow when his father, Stephen Frith, was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away in 2015. is loss inspired Luke to make drastic lifestyle changes.
Barnsley Road, Bridgend, Penistone, S36 7AH 01226 762 481
• Making a basic Will
Luke gradually began exercising and eventually joined a gym. Over time, he lost six stone and became a quali ed personal trainer, opening his own gym studio in Chapeltown. He now helps clients who, like him, have struggled with physical and emotional challenges.
Despite his di cult journey, Luke has transformed his life, even running a half marathon, and now shares his story on social media to inspire others.
For more information on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, contact the ME Association.
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We
Local Opinion
High Green deprived
We live at High Green this is the second time we have been here other than a brief foray over to Ecclesfield we have been here this time for 12 years.Many of us high greeners are not happy about our area being called deprived by several news outlets after they did articles about the new tennis courts at Thorncliffe.What constitutes a deprived area as from my point of view I can’t see it.We don’t have a Waitrose or endless independent coffee shops. Our tennis courts might not be up to the standards of the more salubrious areas of Sheffield but this area is not as bad as painted. Doesnt every area have a pocket that needs improving but come speak to the majority of us here and other than a poor bus service it’s really a lovely place to live…
Jayne Grayson
Labour Party
Hello Editor
Historically, the Labour Party (LP) has been bankrolled by the trades union (TU) movement, who as a consequence had a major say in party policy development and practice. A situation that opposition parties used to argue that the LP was the party dog being wagged by the TU tail and hence did not have the national interest at heart. An argument reinforced when the LP became deeply associated with TU militancy and Luddite practices; leading to electoral wipeout for many a year as a result.
The LP right wing have therefore sought to break the TU influence, but were nevertheless still prepared to accept TU money; which basically amounted to the TU movement paying for their own annihilation. Hence, as the TUs threatened to end their financial support, the LP has looked elsewhere for ongoing funding. Which is now coming increasingly from big business and rich individuals of a right wing, self-interested, privatising, profit maximising point of view, that previously supported the Conservatives. Thus demonstrating the LPs new found business friendly orientation. However, such a strategy adopted by all major political parties over recent years, has led to such debacles as PFI and the latest Covid period rip offs, whereby organisations and individuals who pay into party funds expect to be rewarded with lucrative contracts that enable them to freely milk the public purse with a view to corporate and management profit/earnings maximisation, with precious little if any benefit for the wider general public.
Therefore, how is Starmer’s LP, seemingly more devoted to the cause of donation and freebie giving business than ever before, in actual fact going to end up implementing what most would regard as true change for the better?
Yours faithfully, Michael Parker.
Re Steve Moxon’s article last week. 10 out 10.
More details on the railway line. Apparently it has been stopped because certain essential parts of the study into it’s operation have not been carried out. This will cost money which will not be supplied. It has been suggested and backed by our MP that Supertram units could operate on the railway line. This would cost an absolute fortune. How many pylons would have to be erected to support the overhead electric supply. 100’s. The trams would not be as fast as a train unit. Journey time of 11 minutes is exaggerated. Some time ago I had a number of conversations with Julie Grocutt who as always supported the railway link, as did our past MP. I suggested a number of station sited to her. These were all going to be bus connected. Land was set aside on the Lowood works site for a new Deepcar station. Is that still the case ?
Please sort this mess out.
I am 77 years old and was a train spotter many years ago. I have seen much of our rail system removed. I have spent most of my life living in Deepcar.
David Lawson.
Stocksbridge High School
I had the pleasure of attending Stocksbridge High School’s Open Evening recently. The school’s positive atmosphere was fantastic. It was great to see posters around the school showing so many students are receiving awards. There’s a new bigger Student Council, a revamped parent forum and 50 families of Y11 students attended recent “How to Help Your Child Succeed” evenings. There are so many clubs, students are almost spoilt for choice. The new Girls Football team in their first cross-city competition, won all 3 games and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is up and running for the new term. The school provides an extra lesson (period 6) to help raise achievement. This has been described as
“having a private tutor, but for free”! The new Headteacher and new Senior Leadership Team are committed to ensuring that every single one of their students becomes “the best they can be”. I hope readers (many of whom probably attended the school themselves, some years ago) take any opportunity to visit the school again, get involved and see for themselves the positive work that is going on.
From a School Governor
Thank you
The Bradfield Macmillan Team wish to say Thank You to all who in any waysupported the Macmillan Coffee Morning at St. Nicholas Church on Saturday 14th September, A total of £1.275.00 has been raised for The Palliative Care Unit, Northern General Hospital Sheffield.
Mary Sheldon.
WINTER FUEL ALLOWANCE
Rachel Reeves robs the poor pensioners and says that she will not reinstate it. Well Labour will not get reinstated in 4 years time. Don’t look after your elders, look after unions, Labours priority. it won’t be hard for me to make a tough decision in 4 years time. Robin Hood Riding through the Glen blame Government for black hole and mistreat your elders for other government’s bad choices.
J S Hinchey
“The Forgotten Train Line”
You say as you argued from the outset that the rail renewal schemes here in the North. Our Town Council should have had first call on the money and questions. Our new MP has to her government has cancelled the Don Valley Rail Project here in South Yorkshire North.
No such rail upgrades in West Yorkshire up North. Between Huddersfield and Leeds which will be closed for at least five weeks for rail renewals which includes electrification of the line and drainage and other work in West Yorkshire.
So, let’s go back to 2012 a letter in your Look Local Issue 708 for 2nd August 2012, said back then by Alison that the Sheffield to Manchester Old Electric Train Line had the full backing of Don Valley Railway Line and that planning has the backing of Sheffield City Council and TATA steel and Network Rail. Back then 12 years ago I personally put in a letter about what the Conservative RT Hon Justine Greening MP had for Secretary for Transport she said it was the biggest investment since Victorian day 150 years.
So it’s now 162 years and counting. We here have a black hole but people who pay tax don’t have a railway but back then 12 years Labour blame said it was not in power.
Well it’s now 2024 and Labour cannot say that now can they and whilst talking of transport landslips could see Snake Pass slither into history?
Jim Hinchey
World class transport
So the Mayor has Visions of a world class transport network. Really?
I wonder how many users of Supertram would have prioritised this “deep cleaning” and new ticketing machines as contributing to a world class public transport network. More like a quick cheap fix. All very well removing graffiti but why not out the of date posters that remain up at some tram stops advertising 3 train trams an hour to Rotherham despite the fact for more than 2 years there are only 2 an hour. I am reminded of the phase “fiddling whilst Rome burns”.
Would not accurate information on the next tram via the dot matrix be seen as more important by customers or would the replacement of worn seat covers be more appreciated. Will they provide extra trams to cater for known busy times such as football at Wednesday, tramlines or events at Arena or will they continue to curtail services to avoid overcrowding. Perhaps customers would appreciate a customer focused bus replacement program rather than an operating led one. When will someone make the necessary amendments to the yellow tram timetable on Sundays to sort out the punctuality issues.
Alistair Nicoll S6
LEST WE FORGET - COMMEMORATIVE POPPIES
I would like to thank the person on Stocksbridge Council who had the idea of putting up these poppies all around the town. An
inspired thought.
My step-brother, Ernest Lowe, served in the Royal Navy on HMS Glorious and lost his life at the age of just 24. I was never lucky enough to know him but remember him every year at this time. Many will, I’m sure, have similar memories.
Christine Gilbert
Horse Muck
Could someone please look into the issue of the footpaths through Charlton Brook in Chapeltown being fouled by horses quite regularly?
I attach photos from today, both are next to child play areas
There is also more near the duck pond. Please see attached photos. Dog owners quite rightly get fined for such things but it seems horse riders have no restrictions.
Please advise how this will be addressed.
TWIN DELIGHTS
THEY CAME INTO THE WORLD TODAY, BROUGHT ABOUT IN A MODERN WAY, TO PARENTS LONGING FOR A CHILD OF THEIR OWN, IN THE GARDEN OF LIFE NEW SEEDS WERE SOWN, NON-HUMAN WAY, IN-VITRO FERTILISATION, I.V.F, TEST TUBE INSEMINATION, WHO CARES THE HOW, THE WHY, THE WAY? WHAT HAS JUST HAPPENED ON THIS WONDERFUL DAY, TWO BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRLS ARRIVE, A MAN-MADE ELEMENT IN THE MIRACLE OF LIFE, THEY WILL FACE A FUTURE OF MIXED PEACE AND STRIFE, KNOWING TOGETHER THEY CAN CONQUER ALL, SISTERS AND FRIENDS WHATEVER BEFALL
SHEILA GENT
A PUZZLEMENT
DURING MOMENTS OF GREATEST JOY TEARS FREELY FLY, YET LOSE SOMEONE VERY DEAR WE STAND DUMB WITH DRY EYE, THESE TRANSIENT EMOTIONS, OUR TRUTHS ESSENTIAL, ARE HIDDEN, BETRAYED BY A GLAND LACHRYMAL.
SHEILA GENT
FOR SALE
• Philips MP3-CD player
£5.00 phone 0781 444 3036
• Fabric Stairgate £3.00 phone 0781 444 3036
• Small fibreoptic Xmas tree
£5.00 phone 0781 444 3036
• Silvercrest 2.5l Slow cooker £5.00 phone 0781 444 3036
• Genuine 1930s three piece suite. Needs some attention. Offers. 07957 549136
• Massage Bed, nearly new condition, hardly used. No hydraulics. Any reasonable offer considered. Tel 0114 2886252
• WANTED
• Air Guns and Pistols wanted, Good prices paid, Please phone 07518938321.
• Glass Clowns wanted Tel: 07518 938321
Public and Legal Notices
Goods Vehicle Operators Licence
Mr Ben Charlesworth Trading as Charlesworth Transport Ltd of Old Wheel Farm, Rowell Lane, Loxley S6 6SH is applying to use the Old Wheel Farm, Rowell Lane, Loxley S6 6SH as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicles and 1 trailers
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
Runners defy Storm
Despite the storm hitting the UK on Sunday, it was no match for Stocksbridge runners. It was another busy autumn day of racing, with members racing up and down the country and also aboard.
First up we had the ever youthful Valerie Vernon who took part in the Duxford Dash 10K finishing in 1:11.26. Also taking part in a 10K was the beautiful trio of Amy Hutchinson, Heather Lindley and Victoria Patterson. The trio travelled to Scarborough to take on the Yorkshire Coast 10K and didn’t let the stormy weather stop them. Amy finished in 51:23, Heather in 58:13 and Victoria in 60:43.
Going up the distances, Molly Hayes made it a trio of personal bests in 3 weeks, this time improving her 10 mile time with a 1:17:41. Jennifer Elsegood fresh off her club debut at Chatsworth stepped up to the half marathon distance by taking on the Castles Half Marathon in 1:44. This was the second
quickest half marathon time by a female club runner from the club.
Autumn marathon season is in full flow and several members completed marathons this weekend.
Rachel Vernon and Garry Harding headed over the sea to go dutch by taking part in the Amsterdam Marathon. Rachel finished in 4:42:01 and Garry in 4:42:02.
Closer to home a trio of runners took on the Yorkshire Marathon. Narni Fulford smashed her PB and her 4 hour goal running in 3:51:30, Nick Wright ran 4:03:08 (even though he kept it quiet from the club!!) and setting the clubs first F45 marathon record was 4:55:02.
To round off three runners completed the parkrun on Saturday, David Napier ran 24:42 at Glossop, Andy Gosling ran 27:35 at Markeaton and Colin Mansell ran 25:49 at Millhouses.
Suzanne and Dawn earn England marathon vests
Penistone runner
Suzanne McGill became the latest runner from the club to earn an England master’s vest.
She will be able to compete for England by virtue of coming second in her age category at the Yorkshire Marathon which was held in blustery conditions on Sunday.
Suzanne was second in the ladies over
45 age category in a time of 3-03-08, just slightly slower than her recent sub 3 hour pb at Berlin.
Fellow England masters runner, Dawn Broom, also had a good run finishing third in the ladies over60 age category in 3-37-56 which also earns her selection to compete for England masters at the marathon distance.
Also running was Michael Walsh who dipped under four hours, finishing in 3-55-23.
Sitting alongside the marathon was also a 10 mile race which several Penistone runners took on.
First back was James Mumford in 1-0048 which gave him fourth place in the men’s over 40 age category.
First lady was Gemma Nutton in 1-25-14.
Three Penistone runners made the trip to the east coast to compete in the Scarborough 10k.
Michael Nicholson was first back for the club in 46-00 followed by Peter Beever (47-06) and Andrea Henson (53-24).
Shaun Swallow had a good run at the Langdale Half Marathon finishing in 1-41-31. Saturday saw Penistone enter three teams into the British Fell and Hill relay championships which took place in Appletreewick in the Yorkshire Dales. The men’s open team of Hugh Mackie, James Fryers, Richard Cottam, Tom Fryers, George Parr and Daniel Rushforth came 43rd overall and 31st in their category.
The ladies over40 team of Emily Free-
man, Emma Stead, Jemma Williams, Sarah Walch, Helen Wright and Joanne Boreham were 129th overall and 12th in their category.
The final team was the men’s over40 team of Martyn Goodwin, Simon Pike, Chris Hodgson, Andy Shelbourne, Steve Sanders and Mark Graham who were 103rd overall and 13th in their age category.
Despite running in the fell relays on Saturday, George Parr managed a creditable fourth place at the Gormire Gamble Fell Race which took place in Thirsk the following day.
On the parkrun scene there was a second place for Jade Crosby at Barnsley.
Age-graded performances of the week were Tony Wright (77.48%), Flynn Rog-
ers (73.70%), Bill Phillips (72.77%), Kelvin Bowskill (71.90%) and Rob Lees (70.82%).
Results
Barnsley Parkrun 9, Ian Neville 20-27; 20, Jade Crosby 2249; 122, Susan Hall 45-31; 123, Stuart Smith 45-32.
Penistone Parkrun 7, Will Hoyland 1939; 8, Antony Wright 19-50; 12, Jon Hallam 21-22; 20, Ashley Howlett 22-35; 25, Oliver Found 23-25; 26, Matthew Coldwell 23-49; 33, Nick Pepper 24-24; 39, Alex Melhuish 24-57; 52, Michael Nicholson 26-15; 68, Dawn Broom 27-29; 69, John Broom 2733; 104, Sara Wolstenholme 31-16; 105, Kate Rushforth 31-23; 107, Angela Rollinson 31-33; 108, Sarah Clough 31-59; 114, Ruth Albaya
Melhuish 32-48; 118, Daniel Batty 33-35; 134, Dianne Mcguinness 37-24; 145, Martyn Cartwright 46-47. Langdale Half Marathon 39, Shaun Swallow 1-41-31.
Scarborough 10k 216, Michael Nicholson 46-00; 256, Peter Beever 47-06; 592, Andrea Henson 5324.
Yorkshire Marathon 285, Suzanne McGill 3-03-08; 1931, 1220, Dawn Broom 3-3756; Michael Walsh 3-55-23.
Yorkshire 10 Mile
37, James Mumford 1-00-48; 267, John Broom 1-12-34; 283, Robert Davies 1-1328; 816, Gemma Nutton 1-25-14; 1446, Stu Smith 1-31-17; 1840, Sue Hall 1-37-02; 3060, Steve Dommett 2-06-45.
FLINT JOINS TIGERS
SHEFFIELD have signed Great Britain’s SGP2 racer Leon Flint as their new Rising Star.
The former British Under-21 and Under-19 Champion makes the switch from Birmingham - whilst the Brummies have snapped up Tigers’ favourite Jason Edwards as their new No.7.
Flint top scored for Great Britain in the Speedway of Nations 2 Final this summer as he starred with 22+3 out of a possible 28.
And Tru7 Group Tigers’ promoter Damien Bates feels the 21-year-old will develop even further with the Steel City club.
“Because he’s been racing for teams since he was 15, people forget how young and how relatively early in his career Leon still is,” Bates said.
“Having said that, he’ll see next season as a pretty big one for him and you can tell he’s already focussed on stepping things up another level.
“He’s got three-and-a-half years experience in the top division from his time with Wolverhampton and Birmingham and for a Rising Star that’s a lot.
“So hopefully he can bring everything he’s picked up already from that and I think once he’s settled in at Sheffield, he’ll grow and grow as the season goes on.
“I think we should give a mention to Jason; Birmingham had first pick of Rising Stars once they’d confirmed they were able to run next year and I wasn’t surprised to see him picked up at all.
“He’s done a pretty good job for us at Sheffield since we brought him into the team at the back end of 2023 and we wish him all the best.
VHR Running Club Goes International and Braves Stormy Scarborough
Local running club VHR has made headlines this week with members competing in races both abroad and on home soil. Emma Raine flew the flag for the club in Bilbao, Spain, where she took part in the evening half marathon. Raine completed the race in a highly commendable time of 1 hour and 58 minutes, marking VHR’s first international appearance and securing a solid result.
Meanwhile, closer to home, a group of VHR runners faced gruelling weather conditions in Scarborough for the town’s annual 10K race. What started as a mild day turned into a battle against the elements, with participants enduring driving rain and a brutal headwind on the north pier as they made their way back to the finish.
Despite the appalling weather, Steve Sansom led the way for the men, finishing as the first male club member home. Hot on his heels was Jayne Grayson, the first female finisher for VHR, with both runners completing the challenging course in under 50 minutes.
In a testament to the determination of VHR’s athletes, many managed to break their personal bests, undeterred by the relentless rain and gusty winds. The trip was not only a sporting success but also a chance for a little coastal getaway, with club members enjoying a well-deserved break in Scarborough.
VHR’s latest achievements highlight the club’s growing ambition, with international representation and local perseverance showing the strength of the group.
Northern XC Relays
Luckily, this event for the whole of the North was held at nearby Graves Park. Hillsborough’s A team came a superb 14th overall, and in doing so smashed the club record for this event as a team with leg 4 runner, Joe Harding, overtaking 5 runners in the last leg, with his time of 10.59 beating the previous individual leg record by 47 seconds! The B team was leading the A team after 2 legs and finished less than 3 minutes behind. A great effort by the C team who chipped away and finished a creditable 41st. Hillsborough women showed great endeavour in coming 24th out of over 40 teams.
Men’s Race:
14th HRRC A 47.22. (Dan Smith 11.46, James Garner 12.26, Peter Boden 12.09, Joe Harding 10.59.)
20th HRRC B 50.12 (Lampros Taratsas 12.05, Mark Prince 12.01, Lewis Bower 13.22, John Boden 12.42.)
41st HRRC C 1.01.15 (Al Dalton 15.01, Matt Burgon 15.04, James Mason 15.46, Phil Jarvest 15.23)
Women’s Race:
24th HRRC 49.19 (Julia Cobham 15.38, 17.08 Gillian Burgon, 16.31 Naomi Hartopp)
National Fell Relays
The men’s and women’s teams performed excellently against the best in the country when it came to hill running.:
HRRC women’s team finished 18th out of 38 female open teams in 5:30:58 (Sarah Pritchard, Leanne Lacey/Emma Mavin, Vicky Bridges/Fran Allen, Phoebe Bramley )
Hillsborough Men’s team came in 55th out of 145 teams overall with a combined time of 4:58:06
( Matt Noble, Joe Delahunty/Jon Osborne, Ben Burrell/John Himsworth, James Biggin)
Marathon Success
The previous weekend had seen Hannah Butcher show great determination in overcoming illness on the day but still complete the Budapest Marathon.
Yorkshire Marathon
Excellent set of results with 3 runners going under the magical 3 hour mark! Vincent Baker 2:48:30, Daniel Macrorie 2:59:16, Matthew Betts 2:59:46, Alex Jenkinson 3:02:20 and James Ellwod 3:47:20.
Bilbao Marathon
Tom Clifford finished in a superb time of 3:01;12 and in 43rd place out of over 1000 starters in this evening race in Pais Vasco.
Half Marathons
Also in Bilbao, Paul Harrison was 368th out of nearly 6500 finishers in a time of 1:27:39. Just down the road in the Bsque country, new club member Rob Addenbroke finished in 272nd place from more than 3000 runners in 1:34;00.
Yorkshire 10 Mile
Four impressive performances in York saw Alex Day power home in the 10 mile race in just over 1 hour, Sarah Moore finished in less than 1 hour 20 and debutants Steven and Joanne Maher both finished in sub 1 hour 39 minutes!
Steel City Trail 10K
Chapeltown hosted this trail race. Hillsborough had both the first man and first woman finishers , with Joe Harding and Jenny Cartmell (5th overall) achieving success. Lee Bagaley also finished in the top 6.
Scarborough 10K
On an extremely blustery course, HRRC saw good performances from Nick Hails 43.40, Andy Kinsella 45.45, Amy Wilks 47.16 and Catherine Allen 56.22
Budapest Marathon
Steels Deliver Season’s Best
Stocksbridge PS 4-0 North Ferriby
Park Steels produced a standout performance to comfortably beat North Ferriby FC, a team that arrived at Bracken Moor one place above Steels on goal difference and with one of the best away records in the division. Steels started brightly, creating several chances before breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute. A well-taken corner was headed home under pressure by Alex Hardwick, giving Steels a deserved lead. They carried that advantage into the halftime break.
Expecting a strong response from North Ferriby in the second half, Steels instead seized control, never allowing their opponents to settle. Captain Kurtis Turner doubled the lead with a sublime curling effort from the edge of the box, a strike that left the away side reeling. Meanwhile, Steels’ defence held firm, with goalkeeper Townsend enjoying a quiet afternoon, as he didn’t face a single shot on target.
The result was all but sealed when new signing James Morris showcased his strength, battling into the box and slotting the ball under the advancing Ferriby keeper. Manager Ian Richards then made some substitutions to introduce fresh legs, and Oliver Grzelek capped off a superb team move to score the fourth and final goal.
The all-round team performance was nothing short of outstanding, with some of the attacking play in and around the opposition’s box being superb. The Bradford Brewery Man of the Match award went to Tom Charlesworth for his tireless efforts.
The win sees Park Steels climb to fourth in the division, and fans will be eager to see if they can continue this form in their next fixture, a home clash against Brighouse FC this Saturday at 3pm. Get along to Bracken Moor to watch the everimpressive Steels.
Photo by Myra Little.
RUGBY RETURN HOME FOR SEASON DEBUT
After five consecutive away fixtures in the Counties 4 Yorkshire South league, Stocksbridge Rugby, proudly sponsored by Globe Holidays, will finally make their seasonal home debut this weekend. The 1st XV will face a challenging Round 6 clash against Hessle RUFC, who travel from just under the Humber Bridge. A large crowd is expected at Coal Pit Lane Arena for the 3pm kick-off, as fans eagerly anticipate the return of their team to home turf.
The homecoming is made even sweeter by the completion of significant pitch drainage improvements, thanks to a generous six-figure grant from Sheffield Council. Club Captain Andy ‘Clock Tower’ Beal expressed the team’s excitement, saying, “We’ve missed the home surroundings and the local support. We’re really looking forward to turning the Coal Pit Lane Arena into a fortress again.”
After a break last weekend, several key players, including Beal (hand), ‘Diesel’ Aspin, Teeling (both knee), Goldsworthy (ankle), Woodcock (leg), Hinchcliffe (hamstring), and Ricky ‘Rooney’ James (back), have had the chance to rest and recover. Player-coach Aaron Kaye will have the luxury of selecting from a near full-strength squad for what promises to be a tough test against third-place Hessle. However, Kaye remains confident. “The boys are training well enough,” he said. “We just have to bring this to the games, and we’ll start to climb the table.”
Currently sitting in fifth place, Stocksbridge Rugby are looking to build momentum as they head into another home fixture on 9th November. In that game, they will aim to complete a rare league double over Sheffield Medics & Dentists, with a 2.15pm kick-off.
Off the pitch, the club recently held its annual Harvest Festival, raising over £1,100 for charities including the Daniel Wilkinson Foundation, which provides defibrillators for grassroots sports in the area.
POMONA BEAT LOCAL RIVALS
Thorncliffe Villa 1-2 Pomona FC
Pomona had the task of bouncing back from last weeks second half capitulation to Kiveton Park as they travelled to local rivals and another top division one side Thorncliffe Villa
Pomona started the game well and had the better of the game in the first 30 mins but without creating any clear cut chances of note Pomonas forward line marshalled well by Thorncliffes defence.
Thorncliffe grew into the game as they changed there formation forcing a number of corners and also produced the games only real goalscoring chances of the half, hitting a post from inside the area and forcing Pomona keeper Danny Statham to save with his legs before the half time whistle
The second half started with both teams looking for to get a hold on of the game with some strong challenges going in in the midfield and it was a number of fiercely contested challenges that brought Pomona the breakthrough on 48 minutes a loose ball after a challenge in the midfield was played down the right wing and chased into the corner by a Thorncliffe defender and Pomona number 9 Simon Bonnett he gave the defender no option but to play the ball back to his goalkeeper who was then quickly closed down by midfielder Tommy Fowler forcing the goalkeepers clearance to ricochet off Fowlers boot as he went to block the clearance and into
the back of the Thorncliffe goal to put the away side into the lead.
Thorncliffe pressed for an equaliser but Pomona threatened on the counter and continued press the Thorncliffe defence at every opportunity and this brought Pomonas second goal of the game, the Thorncliffe centre back miss-controlled a pass from his team mate and 35 yards from goal Pomona striker Simon Bonnett fired the loose ball first time over the stricken Thorncliffe goalkeeper and into the top right hand corner of the goal to claim his fifth goal in five games and put Pomona 2-0 up.
Thorncliffe continued to press the Pomona defence but they coped well under the pressure and even turned defence into attack and could have been 3 goals to the good but Pomona number 10 Nick Lowe fired just over the bar from the edge of the area.
Thorncliffe did pull a goal back from a corner when their player was left unmarked in the box to head home 10 minutes before time. The home side pushed for an equaliser but the Pom held on to claim their second away win of the season. Pomona are back on home turf on Saturday as they welcome one of the world’s oldest football clubs to the Jubilee, Hallam FC.
Kick off 12pm.
