WARNING OVER COUNCIL'S
EXPECTED £34M OVERSPEND
She eld City Council is grappling with "signi cant nancial challenges", meaning it is projected to overspend by £34m in 2024-25, councillors are to be warned, write Roland Sebestyen, Local Democracy Reporting Service and Naj Modak, BBC News.
e overspend was spread across several "key" service areas and amounted to 7% of the authority's net revenue budget, according to a new report.
Members of the council's strategy and resources policy committee will be told that the authority was experiencing "a more challenging nancial landscape" than in the previous nancial year.
While it could avoid declaring bankruptcy by using its reserves to balance the budget, the “ nancial outlook remains di cult”, councillors will hear.
'Growing pressures'
e expected overspend totalling £34.3m in 2024-25 had stemmed from increased service demand, rising costs and reduced funding, the report said.
Meanwhile, there was “limited scope" for help from government "amid growing pressures across the public sector, including the NHS, schools and higher education institutions”, it added.
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, areas a ected included housing and homelessness, adults and children’s social care and special educational needs home-to-school transport.
According to the report, the previous nancial year had seen the council overspend by £15.6m which had been funded through its reserves, leaving a remaining balance of £27.6m.
While one-o funding and provisions had helped mitigate many of the issues faced in 2023-24, the council now faced "a more challenging nancial landscape", it said.
However, the report added that alongside a "corporate provision" of £7.9m, "the council will be able to manage the budget for 2024-25". e authority's approach to dealing with the challenges it faced was centred around the "Future Shefeld" programme, it said. at aimed to "transform services to create a more sustainable and efcient operating model".
She eld City Council's strategy and resources policy committee is expected to consider the report's ndings on ursday.
GCSE Results Day
Stocksbridge High School celebrated another successful year as students collected their GCSE and BTEC certi cates on ursday 22 August. When this group of young people started in secondary education, their rst two years were signi cantly disrupted by the pandemic. So, the grades received demonstrate the great e ort and hard work it has taken to overcome that challenge.
Outgoing Headteacher, Andy Ireland said “I am really proud of the resilience and hard work that students have demonstrated since the pandemic to
ensure their success today. I would like to thank them and their families for that hard work and partnership over the years”
New Headteacher, Ben Gilder added “I have only been with the school for a short time, but it is clear to me that the diligence and dedication of the sta and students of Stocksbridge High is a real strength of the school. I look forward to working with the whole school community in building further success in the coming years.”
Valley Hill stalwart Pete Taylor slipped under the radar at Concord Parkrun a couple of weeks ago it was his 400th run but he didn't know it was. At the weekend to make up for that fact on his 402nd park run members gave him a massive cheer.
“To reach that amount of park runs takes a lot of time and commitment, Pete loves running but is more than happy to help and volunteer as well” said Chris Grayson male captain
£500,000 for interim Chief Executive
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority's interim chief exec has cost more than £500,000, writes Rob Waugh for The Yorkshire Post.
The cost of employing an interim chief executive at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority under a consultancy deal has comfortably topped half a million pounds over the last two years. Invoices disclosed following Freedom Of Information requests show the authority (SYMCA) has paid £544,375 for the services of Martin Swales from 1 July 2022, when he took up the post, to the end of June this year.
SYMCA pays a day rate of £1,250 through a contract with recruitment agency GatenbySanderson which has been repeatedly extended after Mr Swales was appointed on an interim basis. The deal currently runs to the end of March next year –nearly three years after the interim arrangement began.
Payments under the contract totalled £272,500 in the first year and £271,875 in the 12 months to the end of June this year.
In a statement, SYMCA defended the deal, saying it “has taken an ambitious approach to development and growth, and in pursuit of those goals have sought to appoint the best available people
Stocksbridge Town Council
STOCKSBRIDGE TOWN COUNCIL COUNCILLOR VACANCY – WEST WARD
There is a Councillor vacancy at Stocksbridge Town Council for the West ward, covering Garden Village and Smithy Moor.
Anyone wishing to be considered for co-option to the vacancy should write with their request to the Town Council office, to be received by noon on Tuesday 10th September 2024.
Further details can be obtained from the Town Council office. It is intended that Councillors will make the final decision at the Town Council meeting to be held on Thursday 12th September 2024.
Email: admin@stocksbridge-council.co.uk
Post: Stocksbridge Town Council, Town Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, Sheffield, S36 2DT
Phone: 0114 288 7895
to senior roles within the organisation.”
The authority said the overall cost of employing its interim chief executive is “directly comparable to the costs of Chief Executives in other combined and peer authorities nationally when the costs of their pensions and other benefits are included.”
An FOI response also highlighted the daily rate of £1,250 has not been adjusted for inflation since the arrangement began in 2022.
The chief executive at SYMCA’s nearest peer combined authority, neighbouring West Yorkshire, is paid a basic salary of £193,000.
Stocksbridge Town Council
STOCKSBRIDGE TOWN COUNCIL PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING EVENT OCTOBER 2024
Following a successful event in 2022, Stocksbridge Town Council are providing funding towards another Participatory Budgeting event. £36,000 has been allocated towards this year’s event
www.stocksbridge-council.co.uk
The funding is available for local constituted groups to apply for projects that fit with the following criteria:- The provision, improvement, replacement, operation or maintenance of infrastructure or anything else that is concerned with addressing the demands that development places on an area. Four spending priorities have been identified:-
Post: Stocksbridge Town Council, Town Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, Sheffield, S36 2DT Phone: 0114 288 7895
Environmental Projects
Access Works
Road Safety Measures
Recreational Facility Improvements
Funding applications will be voted on by the public at an event to be held at the Venue on Wednesday 16th October 2024 - all the family are welcome to the event as anyone aged 8 or above will be eligible to vote - more details on the public event in October will be advertised nearer the date
If your group is interested in applying for the funding you can request an application form from the Town Council offices either via email or by downloading one from the Town Council website. Deadline for applications is Tuesday 10th September 2024.
If you want someone to come along to your group to speak to your members please contact the Town Council office, or check out the Town Council’s website for details 0114 288 7895
www.stocksbridge-council.co.uk
Post: Stocksbridge
DEEPCAR
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Contact The Experts in Double Glazing. 46 Years of Quality Service
are a small local family business and have been fitting top quality Windows, Doors & Conservatories since 1978.
Windows Doors
• uPVC • Aluminium
• Timber
• Casement
• Sliding Sash
• Tilt & Turn
• Any Size
• Any Colour
• Light-weight tiled roof
• Extensions
• Orangeries
• Free Quotes
• Composite • Aluminium
• uPVC
• Bi-folds
• High Security Locks
• Any Size
• Any Colour
• Driveways
• Patios
• Ballastrades
• Garage/Loft Conversions
5 YEARS FOR STEALING A DOG
Dogs Trust Welcomes Introduction of
New Pet Theft law
Dogs Trust, the UK’s leading dog welfare charity, has welcomed the new Pet Abduction Act which came into force on Saturday, 24th August.
Anyone found guilty of stealing a dog in England or Northern Ireland will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. Previously, despite the very distressing nature of having a dog stolen, pet theft has not been a specific crime and has instead been treated in the same way as the theft of household items such as phones and bikes.
Under the new Pet Abduction Act, dogs and cats are no longer treated as inanimate objects but instead are recognised as sentient beings capable of experiencing emotional trauma when they are stolen from their owners.
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust says:
“We are delighted to see the Pet Abduction Act come into force, and that it recognises the emotional bond between dog and owner. For years, Dogs Trust has called for harsher penalties to deter those who profit from this despicable crime and to tackle the issue of pet theft here in the UK.
“Having your beloved pet stolen is an extremely stressful, heart-breaking experience. For most owners, pets are members of the family, and being separated from them, without knowing where they are, is devastating. However, despite the obvious emotional impact pet theft has on families and owners, until now it has been treated no differently to mobile phone or laptop theft.
“Along with this new law, there are other ways owners can reduce the chances of this despicable crime hap-
pening to you. Never leave your dog unattended, especially in a public area, and if you are walking them off lead, always keep them in sight. You should also be careful with what details you share online about your canine companions.
“Not only is it a legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar and ID tag in a public place and to be microchipped, these two simple steps will also help to get your dog home to you as quickly as possible if the worst does happen.”
For more information on preventing dog theft and what to do if your dog is stolen, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/ life-with-your-dog/outdoors/dog-theft-advice
The Norfolk Arms Chapeltown
A few weeks ago the Norfolk Arms Chapeltown got a new lease of life.
The new Landlady Jax and Landlord Johan took over the lease and reopened the Pub. Jax was born in Wales but went to live in South Africa in the 80’s, and stayed there for over 40 years, and Johan is South African, but they now live here in South Yorkshire and are both loving it.
Over the past few weeks they and family and friends have been cleaning up the grounds and Pub and are now ready to do a full launch of the Pub including both the Kitchen and Rooms.
There are some new faces working there, but a few well-known staff members too.
On Friday the 30th they will be having their re opening of the pub and then they will be having lots of fun with the Karaoke and music.
On the Saturday evening they have the amazing duo Andy and Dec from Jug o Punch to
entertain everyone, but there will be plenty of loud music before that. They will be having a simple barbeque menu that day from steak, chops and sausage straight from the barbeque with various salads...South African style.
Sunday will be a relaxed fun day with breakfast available from 9am till 11.30am then full plated Sunday lunch from 12pm till 5pm. (Maybe they could add a bit of Bingo in the afternoon from 3pm till 6pm.)
Lots of events have been planned from Quiz nights, Friendship lunches, Poker nights (which we need some more players so if you are interested let us know).
Karaoke competitions, Bingo etc., watch our FB page or boards for more details about upand-coming events when they are starting. All are welcome to come to the launch weekend....for more info see the FB page The Norfolk Arms Chapeltown or contact them on 0114 457 6628.
FOOD BANK CELEBRATES MILESTONE YEAR
A Food Bank in North She eld is to celebrate a year of providing essential services to the local community.
e Food Bank, which relocated to the Christian Centre on Cedar Road exactly one year ago, is marking its rst anniversary with a special celebration.
On ursday, 5th September, during its regular opening hours of 10 AM to 12 PM, the Food Bank will host a coffee and cake morning to commemorate this milestone. e day also marks the anniversary of the opening of the new Community Outlet, a key initiative launched on the same day last year.
In addition to celebrating with the Food Bank clients and Community Outlet members, the event will welcome sponsors, partners, and local organisations that have supported these vital services over the past year. e morning promises to be busier than usual as the community comes together to recognise the achievements of the past year.
e Food Bank continues to thrive thanks to the generosity of local residents, who contribute food through collection boxes in supermarkets, as
well as donations from clubs, churches, and schools across the town. is ongoing support enables the Food Bank to ful l its mission of providing “freely donated food given freely to people in urgent need.”
e Community Outlet, an environmental project at heart, sources its supplies from the supermarket wholesale network, distributing “rescued food, shared out for a donation.” is initiative has proven immensely popular, contributing to the growing number of local people who have joined the Community Outlet.
One volunteer, Sam Reale, who was a chef in a previous career, has created a series of recipes using ingredients commonly available at the Food Bank. ese recipes can be found on the Food Matters Facebook page (search for Food Matters Stocksbridge).
Looking ahead, building work is set to begin in September to construct a new meeting room and workspace for the Food Bank. is development is part of the church’s ongoing project to trans-
KEEPING
A She eld man has shared his bewilderment a er contractors painted a road line over a loose piece of cardboard le at the side of the street, writes Harry Harrison for the She eld Star.
Michael Wragg, from Oughtibridge, spotted the error on Jawbone Hill on ursday, August 22, and shared the images to social media.
“Look at this,” he said, “bloody lazy... couldn’t even be arsed to move cardboard while laying white lines on the freshly surfaced road on Jawbone Hill. Unbelievable.”
form the centre into a vibrant seven-day community hub.
Rev Ian Lucra , who has been at the forefront of this development, expressed his surprise at how quickly the rst year has passed. “We are shocked at how quickly the rst year here has gone. We are able to support more Food Bank clients, and the number of local people who have joined the Community Outlet has been more than we expected. We are very grateful to all our donors,” he said.
Rev Lucra also emphasised the ongoing need for donations, particularly as the community approaches the Harvest and Christmas seasons. “We expect that people will still be under increasing pressure, and a small amount of money in our donations helps us buy the marg or milk that can make such a di erence to a family in need. We might have the bread in the freezer and the jam on the shelf, but we can’t stock fresh chilled donations so easily. We are so grateful for all the donations.”
IN LINE
Amey, the company tasked with maintaining She eld’s roads by the council, quickly rectied the issue - with Michael informing e Star that sta had been out and xed the lines the very next morning, praising their swiness.
e comical mistake is far more innocent than it rst appears, with an Amey spokesperson insisting it was an unfortunate event which cannot be helped, hence why it was recti ed so quickly.
Accident 'blackspot' junctions to be improved
Road junctions that have recorded high numbers of tra c collisions are to be improved in a £274,000 scheme.
She eld City Council said it hoped the work would reduce the number of injuries sustained in crashes at the blackspots in the city centre.
e Eyre Street, Matilda Street, London Road and St Mary's Gate junctions will be recon gured as well as the Bramall Lane roundabout, and a new
pedestrian crossing will be built in Nether Edge.
More than 240 people in the neighbourhood signed a petition calling for a safe crossing point back in 2021.
A feasibility study for each location has been commissioned to determine what actions could be taken to improve safety.
A temporary crossing would be provided at the Psalter Lane/Osborne Road junction in Nether Edge before its replace-
ment with a permanent zebra crossing.
e funding for the project came from the Local and Neighbourhood Transport Complementary Programme, which is funded by the Department for Transport and administered through the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).
Woodland Art Exhibition
McDonnell's paintings look at two cultures with very di erent attitudes to woodlands, Finland and the UK.
e exhibition features two bodies of work, and opens this Friday at Cupola Gallery in Hillsborough.
e Finnish series began following a trip to Finland in 2019. However due to the pandemic in 2020 Rachel began walking more in local woodlands. “Every now and then, in the woods, I would come across a patch of tree marker paint on trunks, o en on ash trees, clearly destined to be felled as a result of ash dieback. It was something I’d also seen when visiting ancient woodlands that had been, or were going to be, cleared to make way for HS2.
I began to ponder the power that we have, as we wield our spray cans. I began to use the tree marker paint on some of the paintings too. It felt very uncomfortable, but if it feels bad to obliterate a nice little painting of the woods, how much worse is it to destroy the real thing?
When we were staying with our friends in Finland, they told us about how their uncle had built his summer house.
e rst thing he did was to build the window. en, he wandered around looking for the view he wanted, before building the house around it. It seems emblematic of a di erent outlook, and a closer connection to nature, which results in totally di erent ways of dealing with environmental issues.” Rachel McDonnell 2024
Ms McDonnell has brought a series of oil paintings on canvas and wooden panels varying in size and format. e circle format is unusual but is something Rachel has been
working with for a while alongside the more traditional
square and rectangular formats. e circle format developed from the idea of using an oval, which was a common format for traditional portrait paintings as Rachel liked the idea of painting ‘a portrait’ of the landscape. Rachel is exhibiting around 50 pieces of work varying in size from a series of tiny 20 cm diameter circle paintings up to larger works on canvas around 120 x 80cm. All works for sale.
“Rachel makes richly coloured strong, yet delicate paintings using a speci c scale and a limited colour palette to emphasize the grandeur, preciousness and or fragility of the scenes she chooses to depict. O en the surfaces glimmer too, creating the sense of leaves moving in a breeze or water rippling. Small touches which elevate the works beyond merely a depiction of a beautiful patch of woodland or landscape. Woodland is vital to our country and communities. Rachel’s focus and care for this precious resource is manifest in this body of work.” Karen Sherwood, Curator and director.
Rachel studied for her Foundation Course in Fine Art at City and Guilds art school, before going on to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at St. Anne’s College, Oxford, where she won a scholarship. e ideas encountered during this time continue to inform her work, speci cally in terms of the links between politics, philosophy and art.
Rachel McDonnell’s Woodland 24 August –28 September Opening Evening: Friday 23 August, 7:30-9:30pm – All welcome – hospitality provided. Venue: Cupola Gallery, 178a Middlewood Road, She eld S6 1TD Tel: 0114 2852665 email: karen@cupolagallery.com www.cupolagallery.com
Rachel
SEPTEMBER
Monday
2 Bradfield Historical Society - Bolsterstone Glass and Its Place in South Yorkshire History, a talk by Dennis Pinder, Village Hall, Low Bradfield, 2337463, bradfield.history@ mypostoffice.co.uk, 7.30pm
2 Stocksbridge & Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting at Christ Church, @ 2.30pm Manchester Road, Stocksbridge S36 1DY Speaker is Stephen Flinders ‘My kind of Paris’ Visitors and new members welcome.
Dirty ‘Stop Outs’
The original mission was simple: provide the Victorian working man with the means to improve himself and stay out of the pub. By fostering an alcohol-free environment enriched with middle-class values, the goal was to cultivate a more harmonious home life and reduce spiralling cases of domestic violence.
It’s fair to say the Victorian minister who conceived the first Working Men's Club would have turned in his grave at what the movement became: a multi-million-pound supplier of subsidised alcohol, years spent fighting to ensure women remained second-class citizens, and early educational pastimes like libraries replaced by entertainment spanning Bernard Manning to Sunday lunchtime strippers.
Despite its faults, the Working Men’s Clubs were a much-loved national institution that peaked in popularity during the 1970s. Sheffield became a northern epi-centre with over 150 thriving venues in the era. The Dial House Club located on Ben Lane was one of the city’s most popular and it features prominently in Neil Anderson’s new 'Dirty Stop Out’s Guide to Working Men’s Clubs' which celebrates the heyday of the movement that helped create some of the UK’s biggest light entertainment stars of the era.
Local names that went on to national fame includes
Charlie Williams, Bernie Clifton and many others.
But despite up to four million people a week visiting the Working Men’s Clubs in their heyday and the institutions attracting some of the biggest names in entertainment, there really was only one star of the show – the bingo.
The annual club trip took tens of thousands of kids to the coast every year – for many youngsters, it was their only visit to the seaside.
Neil Anderson, author of the new 'Dirty Stop Out’s Guide to Working Men’s Clubs,' said: “I think it’s vital that this massive part of Sheffield’s working class history is celebrated. Dial House was one of the city’s most prominent clubs and it truly deserved its place in the book. I had the pleasure of interviewing scores of entertainers, patrons, committee members, and more for the title, and it made me realise just how little is left of the movement today.”
It was teetotal social reformer Reverend Henry Solly that formed the Working Men’s Club & Institute Union (CIU) in 1862. Its motto was simple: “Recreation hand in hand with education and temperance.”
Author Neil Anderson added: “By the 1970s it’s fair to say the movement was probably shifting more beer per week than half the pubs in the UK.”
more information call Joan on 01142 887435, or Sylvia on 01142 882296.
Wednesday 4 September, Stocksbridge & District WI are meeting at Christ church Community Hall 7.15 pm for 7.30pm start. It is our annual meeting and we will be celebrating our 9th anniversary. Visitors are always welcome, for further details call 07939941818.
Also joining is Ann Smith and her husband Chas (all subject to late changes) Timing is flexible, but will probably start at around 10.45 Admission is FREE , but the sale of refreshments helps the EPPiC Theatre funds. Make a note in your diary !!
7 Chapeltown forum Autumn craft Fayre, Newton Hall Chapeltown 11.00-3.00pm free admission
Worrall Road. Small charge, free refreshments, www. walc.epizy.com
TUESDAY
TUESDAY
3 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome - Local History Morning Round Walk around Worrall led by Malcolm Nunn, start 10.30am from Sycamore Park, Towngate Road, Worrall, return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. bradfield.history@ mypostoffice.co.uk or www. bradfield-walkers.org.uk
WEDNESDAY
4, St. Mary’s Church Bolsterstone Macmillan Coffee morning - 4th of September 10am -1pm. Vic & John Folk singers doing a short performance Refreshments & homemade cakes after. (£10 Admission).
4 St Leonards church Wortley are open for an heritage day on Wednesday 4th of September from 11am to 3pm Come along a sociable tea or coffee and discover the story behind this historic church For
4, September, Stocksbridge & District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall 7.15 pm for 7.30pm start. It is our annual meeting and we will be celebrating our 9th anniversary. Visitors are always welcome, for further details call 07939941818.
THURSDAY
5 High Green WI will be meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 5th of September in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church, on Wortley Road. The event is “A craft night” with Ann Hodkinson. The competition is “Made in Yorkshire”. All members and visitors are welcomed.
SATURDAY
7 COFFEE and CHORDS O n Saturday 7th September 2024 at the EPPiC Theatre, Ecclesfield S35 9TP ,there will be a morning of free musical entertainment COFFEE and CHORDS at our regular Saturday coffee morning which is open from 10 am. “Welsh John’s “guests this month are duo “ Acoustic Roots “ and Andrew Wild .
SATURDAY
7 St Leonards church Wortley are open for an heritage day on Saturday 7th of September from 10am to 4pm The church and tower are open to explore, enjoy the view from the church roof and there will be historic local items and documents to browse Tea, coffee and delicious cakes to enjoy. For more information call Joan on 01142 887435, or Sylvia on 01142 882296.
SUNDAY
8 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Commoners MuckIn morning- Probably clearing bracken. 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
9 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - a talk by Mellissa Worthington from the Natural History Museum on Fungi, 7.30pm, Wadsley Church Hall,
10 Sheffield Walking FestivalTracks and Ways in the Medieval Manor of Wadsley, a seven mile walk. A walk over Wadsley Common to Holdworth, Worrall and back, exploring some of the old tracks and ways in the area, and seeing historical features on the way. FREE but you need to book through the festival website.
WEDNESDAY
11 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome - Local History Morning Round Walk in the Loxley Valley led by Malcolm Nunn, start 10.30am from Loxley Village Green (junction of Loxley Road/Rodney Hill), return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. bradfield.history@ mypostoffice.co.uk or www. bradfield-walkers.org.uk
THURSDAY
12 Chapeltown WI will hold their next meeting at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church.
Ann Featherstone will speak to the group about Joseph Merrick. The competition is for a Victorian Artefact. Visitors and new members are always welcome.
SATURDAY
14 St Leonards church Wortley are having an illustrated talk by Andrew Beevers on Saturday 14th of September
Marti Caine,
Paul Shane, Bobby Knutt,
Onat 7pm. He will be revealing some of the history hidden in the church and its roof space. There are clues on how the building as changed and evolved over the centuries and some mysteries yet to be solved. Followed by a pie and pea supper. Tickets £9 (in advance please) from Joan on 01142 887435, or Wortley Post Office. All proceeds to church funds.
SUNDAY
15 Table Top Sale - Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Sunday 15th September, Open To Buyers 10.00 am to 1.00 pm.
FRIDAY
20, September @ 7.30pm-Fairtrade Wine tasting evening at The Venue, Stocksbridge. S36 1DY. Ticket only event. Cost £7.50. -Call 07415277266 for tickets.
OCTOBER
WEDNESDAY
2 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome - Local History Morning Round Walk in the Upper Agden Valley led by Malcolm Nunn, start 10.30am from outside Old Horns Inn, High Bradfield, return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. bradfield.history@ mypostoffice.co.uk or www. bradfield-walkers.org.uk
SUNDAY
6 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Commoners MuckIn 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
7 Bradfield Historical Society - South Yorkshire Civil Wars, a talk by Catherine Warr, Village Hall, Low Bradfield, 2337463, bradfield.history@mypostoffice.co.uk, 7.30pm
MONDAY
14 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - a talk by Jheri Bryant, ‘History of Bricks from Antiguity to the Present Day’, 7.30pm, Wadsley Church Hall, Worrall Road. Small charge, free refreshments, www. walc.epizy.com
TUESDAY
17 Friends of Wortley Hall Gardens September meeting will be on Tuesday 17th at Wortley Hall and will be the start of year social with tea, coffee and cakes. New members welcome, admission is £2.50, free for friends of Wortley Hall Gardens. If you are interested contact Barry on 0114 2830056
SATURDAY
19 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Annual Fungus walk. As nature starts to think about shutting down for the winter, it’s time for our annual look at the fungi putting in an appearance this year. Meet in the Long Lane car park for a prompt 10am
start, finish around 12 noon. Guide ... Alan Smith www. walc.epizy.com
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
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 - 1:003:00pm 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.
Firefighters Charity Challenge
A team of eleven firefighters are embarking on South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue’s latest charity challenge in support of The Children’s Hospital Charity and the Firefighters charity.
Lowedges Watch Manager (WM) Tom Robjohns will be leading the team six miles across Sheffield as they carry a 10.5 ladder from Lowedges Fire Station to Sheffield Children’s Hospital.
WM Robjohns son, Alfie, was born in 2019 and at three weeks old contracted viral meningitis. He was rushed to the Emergency Department at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where the nurses and doctors cared for him around the clock, ultimately saving his life. Now five years old, Alfie has made a full recovery and is none the wiser of the ordeal his parents went through back in 2019.
It is the incredible work and care that the nurses and doctors showed Alfie that has led to WM Robjohns wanting to organise this epic ladder carry across Sheffield as part of the service’s wider fundraising for Sheffield Children’s.
Setting off from Lowedges Fire Station at 10:30am on Saturday 31 August, WM Robjohns and team will pass by:
• 11:15 - St James retail park where a Lowedges Blue Watch with their fire engine will be giving fire safety advice and taking donations.
• 12:00 - Through Woodseats
• 13:00 - On to London Road and up St Mary’s gate.
• 14:45 - On to Western Bank on the final stretch up to Sheffield Children’s Hospital led in convoy by Central Appliance.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Area Manager, John Billings, said: “Since April of this year, I’ve asked my teams across Sheffield to raise as much money as we can for Sheffield Children’s. So far we have walked to every Sheffield fire station wearing breathing apparatus and climbed the equivalent of the Yorkshire three peaks using our 32m turntable.
“This is another huge challenge set by Lowedges and I couldn’t be prouder of the team.”
The Children's Hospital Charity’s Community Fundraising Officer, Emma Maskrey, said: ‘We are so grateful to each and every member of South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for their support. The stations across the Sheffield District have shown such commitment and generosity in their campaign to fundraise for us this year. They’ve taken on some incredible challenges, with the ladder-carry at Lowedges being no exception. We’re so proud to have such a vital part of the Sheffield community supporting our charity.
“The Children’s Hospital Charity supports Sheffield Children’s to provide life-changing care for children from the UK and beyond, and that is only possible thanks to the fundraising and support of organisations like South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue. Our team will be cheering them on and we hope that supporters from across Sheffield and beyond, can get behind their campaign and donate.”
You can donate towards this challenge online or meet WM Robjohns and team across the route outlined above on Saturday 31 August.
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
gained great peace of mind knowing that they have sorted everything out.
A Letter to School Leavers on GCSE Results Day
Dear School Leavers,
We want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your GCSE Results Day.
This is a significant moment in your life, one filled with anticipation, emotion, and reflection. Today marks an important milestone in your educational journey, as you receive the results of your hard work and dedication. We recognise the countless hours you have invested in your studies, and we commend you for your commitment and perseverance.
As you open that envelope, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come, no matter what the results may show. These grades of course seem imposing, but they do not define you as an individual. Whether your results meet your expectations, exceed them or fall short, remember that there are many paths to success. Each result is a stepping stone leading you towards a future full of possibilities— that may involve continuing your education at college, sixth form, pursuing an apprenticeship, or starting in the world of work.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Some of you may feel elated with your results, while others may feel disappointed. What constitutes a “good” grade is relative to every person’s goals and aspirations. Your journey is your own, and comparing yourself to others will take you no further down that path which is yours to discover for yourself.
Always keep in mind that your character is defined by the resilience and determination you have shown along the way. Be proud of all you have accomplished and look ahead with optimism to the opportunities that await you.
Once again, congratulations on your achievements. We wish you every success in the exciting future that lies ahead.
Best wishes,
Stephanie Peacock MP Harris Bokhari Minister for Sport, Media,
“Participatory Budget”
Dear Stocksbridge,
-Here are a few bits of information which might be useful:
1. If any community groups want to bid for “Participatory Budget” money, the deadline for submitting bids is Tuesday 10th September. Please visit Stocksbridge Town Council website for details. The public event where all bids are presented and we then vote, is to be held at The Venue, on Wednesday 16th October starting at 5.30pm. We hope to have reports from the groups who were successful during the last round of voting.
2. On Tuesday 10th September, at Cedar Road Christian Centre, Upper Don Community Energy has invited speakers to talk about damp and mould.. Questions and discussion are encouraged. Starts at 6pm.
3. The next Stocksbridge Community Forum meeting is at The Venue on Wednesday 11th September. Kick off is 6pm. Items to be covered include Townsfund projects and police report. This is an open forum where anything you want to raise can be! Come and tell us about your organisation Also discussion an urgent need for volunteers to get involved in many Stocksbridge Community Groups.
4.Upper Don Community Energy, one of our local community groups, wants to hear from you if you’re interested in a thermal imaging survey of the outside of your house-to see where you might leak energy- or if you need extra insulation to keep you warmer this winter. they may be able to help with door curtains, draught excluders, pipe lagging, radiator reflector foil and low energy bulbs-janet.udce@gmail.com or 07707 762995. Everyone is welcome to come to any/all of the above events
Barbara Horsman
Pine Martens
Dear Editor,
I wish to thank Mike Parker and Professor Ian who took the time to inform me about the small animal which now and then ran through my garden. I now know Pine Martens breed in this area but away from the people. I agree my visitor is most probably a stoat. It will still give me much pleasure as long as my sight allows. Pine Martens should safely increase in numbers since this county has trees growing freely in every direction.
With thanks Shiela
Gent
Local News
Mill Lane Dear Editor
The letter from David on the history of our lives was very interesting. However, he forgot to mention our cottages at the top of Mill Lane, next to Don Field.
They were the stables to the Mill and the field is on our deeds (which are loaned to the lady in charge of our local history at the time) and returned of course soon after.
The flood in 2007 damaged our cottage badly; and we were rehoused in Mill House Green for 13 months, whilst many old features were recovered during the restoration of the building.
When we first moved into the cottage we were disturbed in the early hours by the clear sound of a whip being used. Thankfully not on us! Thank you David for reminding us.
Yours Sincerely, Mrs Doreen Wilkinson.
Tigers edge closer
Sheffield took another step closer to securing top spot ahead of the playoffs with a successful Bank Holiday Monday’s work against rivals Belle Vue.
The Tru7 Group Tigers put up a great fight in Manchester in the afternoon to narrowly miss out 48-42 before blitzing the Aces 56-34 at Owlerton to collect three more league points.
The reigning champions got off to a strong start in Manchester and led by six points with three races gone - but Belle Vue banged in a straight hat-trick of 5-1s to move six ahead themselves.
That kept the gap at six allowing team manager Simon Stead to bring in the unbeaten Josh Pickering as a tactical substitute who had enjoyed a breathtaking battle with British Champion Dan Bewley two races previous.
Pickering extended his winning run and once again teamed up with Chris Holder for another 5-1 to move back within two.
Jack Holder and Pickering then led shared heats to set up a last heat decider with the latter riling the Aces’ faithful after a tight tussle and some minor post-race after with Ben Cook.
The visitors lost captain Brady Kurtz to suspected broken ribs with him struggling from a crash in Poland over a week ago - but not even he would’ve been able to do anything
about the opening onslaught from the Tigers who controlled and dominated things from the off back at Owlerton.
It was one of their best ever starts to a contest as they raced into an 18 point lead with just six races gone with the Aces unable to provide a race winner until Tactical Substitute Dan Bewley led a 5-1 in Heat Nine.
Jack Holder and Howarth replied with a 4-2 in the re-run of Heat Ten before three 3-3s followed to seal three league points - and mathematically deny their rivals the opportunity to finish top of the regular table.
Tigers managed another 5-1 in Heat 14 with Pickering well clear out front whilst reserve Jason Edwards collected a well-deserved paid victory after an impressive battle with Ben Cook.
Chris Holder then took the chequered flag in Heat 15 for his fourth win of the night on another outstanding night on home shale for him and his team-mates.
Boss Stead said: “Two meetings in one day can be a big ask but I thought the lads dealt with it and handled things superbly.
“I thought our display at Belle Vue was pretty good because they’ve been so dominant at the National Speedway Stadium.”
Sheffield teenager jailed after attacking pupil and school staff
being bravely apprehended by two staff members has been released, with the attacker today (23 August) sentenced in court.
Louis Melotte posted a series of disturbing messages on social media and warned people "today is the day" before walking
into Birley Academy and assaulting three people, including a 12-year-old pupil.
Police have now released CCTV footage which shows the 17-year-old entering the school grounds, with a shard of broken glass hidden up his sleeve.
He can then be seen talking to a receptionist before attacking his youngest victim who escaped any harm thanks to the quickthinking of Molly Bulmer and Alicia Richards.
Ms Bulmer, who worked at the school as a youth and integration coordinator, bravely stepped in to apprehend Melotte, with additional help provided by receptionist Ms Richards, who thought she was "going to die" at the hands of the teenager.
Melotte, of Jaunty Avenue, Sheffield, was found guilty of three counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court earlier this month.
He had already pleaded guilty to two counts of wounding without intent and possession of a sharply pointed article on a school premises.
At Sheffield Crown Court, Melotte was given a 10-year extended sentence comprising five years in a young offender institution and an extended licence period of five years.
Detective Constable Thomas Ryan, from our Major Crime Unit, said: "This was a devastating attack in a school setting and the footage that has emerged shows the terrifying and frantic nature of Melotte's behaviour on that day.
"It is amazing that no one was seriously injured and I want to express my sincere gratitude to Ms Bulmer and Ms Richards for the bravery they showed in such a terrifying setting.
"They instinctively went towards danger and grappled with Melotte to prevent him from inflicting any further harm, and South Yorkshire Police will be nominating them for bravery awards."
Video footage showing the moment a teenager launched into a frenzied attack in a school reception before
FOR SALE
• Gents Cycle Trek ( FX 7200 ) Hybrid 24 speed, straight handlebars, New Tyre’s, Medium frame £50.00 Call: 07727228686
• A Zanussi Washing Machine, unused, £100. Buyer to collect and A Hoover Vacuum Cleaner, Good working order, £15 Call: 07444070684
• A Battery Operated Lawn Mower ( G -Tec ) £150 or nearest Offer ( NEEDS TO COLLECT) Call: 07488361184
• Classic T Reg Honda HRV 4wd, for details 0114 2578754
• Classic camera, Praktica MTL3 £70 0114 2578754
• Classic camera Yashica Elektra 35 £70 0114 2578754
• The grateful dead video disc £20 0114 2578754
• Swift Saratoga Mk3 8 x 40 wide angle binoculars £40 0114 2578754
• Carp Fishing Tackle For sale, 2 Rods Unused, 2 Reels unused, Net, Rod Pod & accessories £125 Call: 01246 462306
•
WANTED
• Air Guns and Pistols wanted, Good prices paid, Please phone 07518938321.
• Power tools Makita, Dewalt etc, batteries, chargers, working or non working order. cash waiting 0773 0773526
• Scrap cars and motorbikes,Garages and Sheds cleared free with every car or bike purchased. Tel: 07518938321
• A Garage to park a car in & around Stocksbridge area Call: 07971430442
• A Reel to Reel Tape Recorder Call: 07957549136
Goods Vehicle Operators Licence
Mr James Whittaker Trading as Whittaker Plant Hire Of 82 Fox Glen Road, Deepcar, Sheffield S36 2PX is applying to use the Glen Works, Carr Road, Deepcar, Sheffield S36 2NR as an operating centre for 3 goods vehicles and 0 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.
PENISTONE CHURCH PUNISHED LATE ON
Goole AFC 3-2 Penistone Church
Penistone church travelled to Goole at the weekend looking to take advantage of the home-sides sanction of no fans allowed. However, a dubious penalty decision and a late goal saw the Church edged out in a fivegoal game, after they had lead an the hour.
Assistant manager Brett Lovell (pictured), reflected on the game,
“It was weird with no supporters there and we let that affect us a little bit, we always have a good travelling army of fans that give us support, week in week out and to not have them behind us today was a disappointment for us.
We didn’t start the game with any impetuous, they dictated play and if Adam Lawlor hadn’t made a few good saves we would have been chasing a deficit at halftime.
We had a few choice words with the lads. We made it clear that we needed to be one-hundred percent better in the second half and for the first fifteen or twenty minutes I thought we were excellent, we got the ball in the right areas, we had more football in their half, Kieran Ryan had the ball in the Goole eighteen yard box three times in the first five minutes, it was very pleasing that the lads had taken on board the discussion we had at half time and we were starting to move forward with our play.
Nathan Keightley broke the offside trap to put us one-nil up, I’m not going to say deservedly because Goole were the better side up to that point, it’s about grinding results
out when you’re not playing well so it was nice to get our noses in front.
We only had the lead for about a minute and a half and Goole was back on level terms it was a really poor goal for us to concede by switching off so quickly after taking the lead, and then it was about trying to push on and get the second but unfortunately the next goal went to Goole.
The referee decided that it was a penalty. Liam Flanagan stepped up and sent Adam the wrong way to give them a two-one lead and I suppose on the balance of play taking into consideration the first half they probably deserved that.
We made a couple of changes and went to three at the back and tried to impose ourselves a little bit more for the last fifteen minutes and we got our just rewards, we’ve played a decent bit of football and scored an excellent goal. Jordan Coduri recycled the ball out wide to Nathan Keightley who played a fabulous ball to Sam Scrivens on the far post to tap in.
At that point we were thinking let’s shut up shop, let’s take a point, the performance hasn’t been the best but let’s accept that, move on and put another point on our tally but unfortunately, the demons from the first goal returned to haunt us again and we conceded a really poor goal within two minutes. We had a couple of set-piece chances late on but it wasn’t to be
For everybody who was there, players and few from the committee they will probably agree today wasn’t our day so we congratulate Goole they were better than us on the day.
It’s still early days in the league, we need to lick our wounds, we need to put this behind us, it’s a blip in our form, we need to start stringing another bank of results together and start moving forward, it’s still a good start for us in what will be a competitive league, similar to last year.
We’re sorry for the supporters who weren’t able to attend but we hope to see you in your masses again next Saturday away at Frickley Athletic”
George dashes to Denby win
Bank holiday Monday saw the eighth running of the Denby Dash trail race. The five and a half mile route starts and finishes at The George pub in Upper Denby and quite aptly George Parr of Penistone Footpath Runners took first place despite having a sprint finish with former winner and Penistone runner Chris Law.
There were age category wins for Lois Lopez (first over50 lady), Barbara Haigh (first over70 lady) and Olivia Clough (first under23 lady).
The previous Monday saw the penultimate running of the Trunce race down at Oxspring. George Parr is having a consistent series and managed second place in a time of 26-49. Team mate Damian Kilpin was next
in in 12th place in a time of 31-13. First lady back for Penistone was Sarah Walch in a time of 38-26.
There were podium age group placings for Alan Knox (first over70 man), Lois Lopez (first over50 lady), Barbara Haigh (first over70 lady) and Sarah Walch (second over40 lady). Overall series winners for the Trunce will be presented after the ninth and final race on 9th September which is also the fancy dress race.
Peter Beever made the trip to Staffordshire to compete in a new 10 mile race, the Denstone 10. He finished in 27th place in a time of 1-22-38.
John Broom's continued improvement in form was demonstrated by a 19-45 at the Podium Home Nations 5k in Cardiff. This was John's fastest time as the distances since 2019.
On the parkrun scene Dawn Broom was first lady at the Barry parkrun breaking the ladies over60 course record by 80 seconds and Lois Lopez was third lady at the Penistone parkrun in a new personal best time of 23-03. There were parkrun milestones for Ray Brown (250), James Fryers (300) and Keith Gordon (400). Age graded performances of the week were Dawn Broom (86.19%), Bernice Nixon (76.75%), Keith Gordon (76.07%), Sue Hall (74.60%) and Tom Fryers (74.14%).
Results
Denstone 10
27, Peter Beever 1-22-38.
Trunce Race 8
2, George Parr 26-49; 12, Damian Kilpin 3113; 23, Oliver Pike 33-09; 26, Phil Hinchliffe 34-09; 29, Jon Hallam 35-19; 53, Stan Halstead 38-10; 59, Sarah Walch 38-26; 64, Alan Knox 39-49; 65, Lois Lopez 40-01; 72, Matthew Coldwell 41-36; 88, Stuart Woodhead 44-40; 97, Harriet Drouin 45-43; 106, Andrew Taylor 46-53; 112, Steve Dickinson 48-33; 116, Heath Ramsden 48-58; 123, Luke McGuinness 50-37; 129, Barbara Haigh 5154; 138, Myfanwy Cross 53-17; 146, Sarah Clough 56-13; 151, Tracy Woodward 59-17; 153, Dianne McGuinness 01-00-43; 154, Stu Smith 01-00-47; 162, Shaun Swallow 01-0753.
Dereham 5K
97, John Broom 19-56.
Barnsley Parkrun
29, Nick Wright 23-58; 42, Alan Knox 25-10; 58, Kelvin Bowskill 26-49; 59, Kelly Howson 26-50; 63, Stuart Smith 27-07; 73, Susan Hall 28-01.
Penistone Parkrun
3, Tom Fryers 17-24; 4, George Parr 18-16; 6, James Fryers 18-42; 22, Oliver Pike 21-15; 39, Lois Lopez 23-03; 50, Hannah Shaw 23-53; 51, Ashley Howlett 23-54; 56, Michael Nicholson 24-02; 75, Paul Fryers 25-02; 77, Mark Graham 25-10; 86, Carl Matthewman 25-51; 106, Heath Ramsden 27-01; 120, Rachael Mayston 28-05; 146, Bernice Nixon 29-03; 187, Daniel Batty 31-55; 191, Steve Dommett 32-22; 198, Myfanwy Cross 32-36; 215, Sarah Clough 33-59; 220, Dianne Mcguinness 3533; 259, Raymond Brown 53-58; 260, Martyn Cartwright 53-59.
BOXALL SETS NEW CLUB RECORD
This past week saw members of Stocksbridge Running Club stay close to home with two events taking place with the local area.
Firstly last Monday was race 8 of 9 in the local Trunce series from Oxspring, with 3 members taking part. Nick Boxall was first back in a new club male record time of 36:47. Next up was Heather Lindley in 46:46. Then Jolene Allen was the sweeper as she still takes part but without risking injury as she is training for the marathon.
Saturday morning so runners do various parkruns around the region with 6 runners taking part. Nick Wright ran 23:58 at Barnsley, Steve Watts ran 23:27 at Concord, Colin Mansell and David Downs headed up the M1 to do Dewsbury in 32:30 and 33:50 respectively. Andy Gosling stayed local, running 26:10 at Hillsborough and finally Heather Lindley ran 29:26 at Rother Valley.
Also in action on Saturday was club treasurer Nicola Heaton who took part in Triathlon Relay swim with the Sheffield Triathlon Club
Later on Saturday morning three of SRC’s weekend warriors pootle over to Penistone for ‘Trail, Trains & Tunnels’; an event hosted by the friendly folk at See York Run York. Being blessed with having the Trans Pennine Trail so close to home, this was
familiar territory for those runners who need to get a weekend long run in without much need for mucking around dubiously plotting a route on Strava. A healthy number of runners assembled at St John’s Community Centre, ready and raring to go for a 10am kick-off.
Molly and Richard Hayes took up position at the head of the pack, both with specific goals in mind and looking determined. Nursing a somewhat poorly hip Narni Fulford elected to start mid field, spending much of the start of the race blowing kisses at unofficial club photographer Sarah and waving manically. A cheery shout from the race director and off we trotted from Penistone towards Oxspring, shuttling pleasantly downhill towards Thurgoland tunnel. The trail was dry and good underfoot; no need for a trail shoe. The 3.5 mile downhill section was complete at the intersection with Cote Lane, where runners whisked around and started the march back up towards race HQ. This shuttle-style route meant that the SRC bods could give each other a cheery thumbs up as we whisked past each other, and Narni was especially pleased to see that Molly had maintained her first overall place as she sped back up the track.
One loop being 7 miles, runners were obliged to do a quick visual check back at the community centre for the
Chapeltown end pre-season with a win
Chapeltown
RBL 4
- 1 Thorpe Hesley Village
Chapeltown RBL rounded off pre-season with a home win over Rotherham side Thorpe Hesley Village.
The scoring started on 16 minutes when a Thorpe Hesley corner was cleared to Adam Todd who turned his man and played a diagonal ball to Luis Afonso-Ferreira. He beat his man and found Mikey Vella to finish well.
Morgan Cowell made it 2-0 just before half time when an Elliott Simpson corner found Vella, with Cowell prodding home from close range.
Alex Mosley was in the wars after a clash of heads saw him bandaged up, but he made it 3 when Afonso-Ferreira’s excellent cross was headed home.
Two controversial penalties were then given inside 5 minutes. Thorpe Hesley scored theirs, but Cowell dragged his wide after Jay Carter had been fouled.
Carter was brought down again inside the area late on and this time man of the match Tom Clare made no mistake.
diligent SYRY bods to count off our laps. Narni took the opportunity to pilfer one of Richard’s flapjacks that he’d carefully left labelled and stashed in the gazebo, much to the horror of a poor volunteer. Snacks demolished and off out we went again: the trail being reasonably quiet for a weekend morning. Runners were all being careful to respect and share the trail with members of the public, and the SYRY crowd are always polite and deferential; key in maintaining the good will that allows these types of events to be run. The Thurgoland tunnel itself is a delight to run down, and many participants tested out the brilliant acoustics with cheery whooping. Storming in after 2 laps/14 miles was Molly in 1:54:12, taking first place overall for both genders in the heavy half marathon category (we never had any doubt as to her brilliance) – an outstanding week for Molly, having received some stellar GCSE results to go alongside her running crown. Sneaking in just behind was Narni in 2nd overall place at 2:06:18 – hoping originally to go for 3 laps, but letting her sensible head prioritise the hip and long term running health. Richard Hayes smashed his way to first overall in the gruelling 45K /28 miles distance at 3:52:53 – a cracking distance and pace sustained throughout.
Cup clash to open the season
Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby start their season this weekend with a tricky trip to West Yorkshire to face Knottingley RUFC in the 1st round of the Yorkshire Vase Trophy. The squad have been training well, & in good numbers as they prepare for the new campaign under rookie Coach Aaron Kaye. Club Skipper, ‘Clock Tower’ Andy Beal is in positive mood for the coming season as he explained, ‘the boys are buying in to the shapes & structures of the new Coaching team, & we are looking forward to putting them into action’, before adding, ‘the whole squad are chomping at the bit to get going & there is a good, positive vibe about the place’. In a strange twist of
fate, Stocksbridge will also visit Knottingley the following week aswell in the 1st round of the league fixtures, with all September’s fixtures now being played away from the Coal Pit Lane Arena as the work on the new drainage facilities is completed. There is an exciting mixture of experience in the shape of Ricky James, Sam Whitaker, Reece ‘diesel’ Aspin plus Beal himself, along with some youthful exuberance in the shape of Logan ‘whiskers’ Hannah, Harrison ‘the storm’ Norman, the Kerr boys & the Martin brothers, the ambitious club could well be in for a much-improved season, if the standards shown so far in training are maintained.
POMONA FALLS SHORT
Pomona welcomed back their centre-back duo, Joe Hackworthy and Mark Tyler, for the visit of the recently formed Middlewood Rovers veterans. The return of the defensive pair seemed to have an immediate impact, as Pomona dominated the early stages of the match, playing some excellent football and pinning Rovers deep in their own half. However, despite their strong start, it was Rovers who struck first, breaking the deadlock in the 13th minute when a through ball sliced through the Pomona defence, allowing the Rovers striker to slot past Pomona’s stand-in goalkeeper.
Undeterred, Pomona continued to assert their dominance and were soon rewarded. Jason Allsebrook wreaked havoc in the Rovers’ defence, and the ball ricocheted kindly to striker Simon Bonnett, who calmly dispatched it from just inside the area to level the score at 1-1.
Pomona should have capitalised further on their momentum. A superb cross from the left found Bonnett rising above the Rovers defence, but his header was denied by the crossbar. The match took a turn for the worse for Pomona when Hackworthy, one of their returning centre-backs, was forced off due to injury,
prompting a defensive reshuffle. This disruption proved costly, as Rovers seized the opportunity to break away and regain the lead, making it 2-1 on 40 minutes.
The injury woes continued for Pomona as Tyler, their other returning centre-back, also had to leave the field. With a makeshift defence in place, Pomona found themselves under increasing pressure, but their stand-in keeper made two crucial saves to keep them in the contest heading into half-time.
The second half saw Pomona pushing hard for an equaliser, and they found it in the 57th minute. Simon Yeadon unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area, which the Rovers keeper failed to hold, bringing the score to 2-2.
Despite chances for both sides, it was Rovers who regained the lead shortly after the hour mark. They then capitalised on Pomona’s defensive instability, adding a fourth and a fifth goal by the 70th minute. Pomona continued to fight, hitting the post during a scramble in the box, but it was Mark Tyler’s long-range effort that reduced the deficit, making it 3-5 in the 90th minute.
POMONA FC 3 – 5 MIDDLEWOOD ROVERS VETS
STEELS ON TOP IN ‘SHEFFIELD DERBY’
Sheffield FC 1 - 2 Stocksbridge Park Steels
After the disappointment of losing 3-1 at home to Dunston on Saturday, Steels made the short journey to Dronfield to play Sheffield FC on Bank Holiday Monday.
An early flurry of goals was enough for Stocksbridge Park Steels to take the three points from Sheffield FC.
Stocksbridge have had some good starts but this one was probably the best yet. Good play opened up space for Jack Haslam in the box and he had his shot. Myles Wright appeared to save it but he didn’t get enough on it and the ball would end up in the back of the net.
A few minutes later, Stocksbridge were 2-0 up. Again, it was a scrappy one with Sheffield failing to clear his line. Joao Silva played the ball into the middle where Reece Fielding touched it almost into his own net, but Alex Hardwick made sure it was in back slide tackling the ball over the line.
And it could have been three. Hardwick got on the right side of his man through a long ball forward and charged forward, only to be hauled down by Wright in the box. The striker looked to score his second penalty in two games, but Wright guessed the correct way and was able to prevent Hardwick extending the lead.
This seemed to turn the game Sheffield’s way, and they would be able to halve the deficit. Jack Dolman, a former Steel, burst down the left hand side and was able to play the ball into the middle. Luke Aldrich got onto the ball at
the near post and slammed the ball home, haunting his former manager Ian Richards who he worked with at Penistone Church.
In the second half, Sheffield FC had an instant chance to equaliser. A push from Jack Tinker in the box was punished and a penalty was given. Former Steel Luke Mangham stepped up but his penalty was very similar to Hardwick’s in the first half and with a similar result, with Harry Garman making a brilliant save to keep Stocksbridge ahead.
While the Steels did have their own opportunities and were able to slow the game down in the second half, the end of the game would see an all-out assault on the Steels goal. Another former Steel Jack Watson had two big chances, but would hit them both wide. Fielding also headed just wide. Alfie Smith had the last big chance with his far post header but Garman made another big save, sealing the three points for Stocksbridge.
Steels have signed Paul Iggulden on loan from Hull City for the month.
The young centre-back is coming off the back of signing his first professional contract with the Tigers. He has captained the U18s on a few occasions and has recently made the bench of two U21 games.
Photos By Myra Little
Cricket: Defeats for Stocksbridge
Shiregreen 220-9 (A Hibbert 4-47, J Vickers 3-42)
Stocksbridge 141 all out (R Taylor 55, J Vickers 27*)
Unfortunately it was back to back defeats for the 1sts, as they hosted Shiregreen. Bowling first, Stocksbridge made a cracking start, with captain Vickers taking 2 early wickets to leave the visitors 21-2. Andy Hibbert then joined the party and Shiregreen were 39-3, with Stocksbridge more than happy with their start.
The visitor's number 4, Akram, held firm and provided an excellent anchor to the innings. He formed several meaningful partnerships and played a match-winning knock. James Tevendale removed Ahmad for 14, before the visitors really started to tee off. Vickers struck again, removing his captain counter part for 37, before Andy Hibbert picked up 3 late wickets and James Tevendale claimed a second. Sadly, in the middle of these late wickets, was also a barrage of boundaries, as Shiregreen raced from 144 with 7 overs left, to finish on 220 from their 46 overs. Muslim in particular caused the majority of the damage, bludgeoning 27 off just 7 balls. A disappointing last period in the field which saw the 1sts set a challenging total.
Unfortunately, the response with the bat never really began, as 'Bridge struggled from the get-go. Price (7) and Musgrove (12) were both bowled by Shahzad, before Aqeel Ahmad got to work. Ahmad removed Siddall, Murfin and Smith in quick concession, leaving Stocksbridge floundering at 34-5. Rob Taylor was holding firm and looked good, however was running out of partners. Pickford, Tevendale and Haywood were all then dismissed without reaching double figures and the writing was pretty much on the wall. Rob Taylor brought up an excellent half-century with a lovely 6, however the 1st XI were now 79-8. Taylor was eventually dismissed for an excellent 55, leaving just Vickers and Hibbert remaining. The pair put on another brilliant partnership, demonstrating some great late resilience. Vickers brought up his highest score for Stocksbridge, with his 27* including 3 4s and a maximum. Andy Hibbert supported Vickers well, adding 15 himself, with the pair putting on 35 for the final wicket and securing 2 potentially crucial bonus points.
A disappointing defeat for the 1sts, however they still sit in a fantastic position with just 3 games remaining.
Stocksbridge 2nd XI 99 all out (M Hague 20, T Perry 18)
Green Moor 1st XI 101-1
Sadly, it was double defeat for the men's sides this weekend, as the 2nd XI were comprehensively beaten by neighbours Green Moor. Skipper Ogley won the toss and elected to bat, however the 2nds really struggled to build anything of note. 3 of the top 4 didn't make it past 5, with Steve Perry hitting a quick 15 before also being dismissed. The 2nds were 35-5 in no time and the game was in danger of an early finish. Matt Hague and youngster Tom Perry led a mini rebuild, with the pair hitting 3 boundaries each as they restored some pride to the scoreline. Tom was dismissed for a positive 18 before Hague was removed for a patient and well-made 20. Paul Hargreaves hit a quick-fire 13 late on to try and push the 2nds towards three figures, however they were eventually all out for 99.
The hosts made light work of the run-chase with opener Airstone finishing 57 not out in a very straight forward reply. No Stocksbridge bowler could really find their rhythm, with the batsmen dominating and hitting regular boundaries in almost every over. Les Harris picked up the 2nds' only wicket, however Green Moor were already at 70 and in touching distance of victory. The hosts got over the winning line inside 16 overs to complete somewhat of a rout.
The 2nds have another tough game next weekend, as they host 3rd placed Brookhouse at Lucas Wheels Bracken Moor!
Photo By Ian Revitt
