Issue 1315 Thursday 28 March 2024

e last survivors of the She eld Blitz – the air raids of December 1940 that killed and wounded over 2,000 people - are now in their very late 80s to 90s and recording their stories will be a key part of the project which has just been awarded £91,280.

e two year project, which is being run by the She eld Blitz Memorial Trust, will extend beyond the city’s boundaries to record the memories of people from surrounding towns that remember the attacks.

Pupils tackle

When pupils aged 10 and 11 at a North She eld primary school put pen to paper to write to Sir David Attenborough about their concerns about plastic litter they were not expecting a handwritten response, but that was exactly what they received from the renowned natural history and wildlife presenter!

Pupils in Y6 at Windmill Hill Primary School in Chapeltown wrote to the UN Environment Programme’s Champion of the Earth to ask for his help and support in highlighting the dangers of plastic pollution in the local community and around the world.

ey couldn’t believe it when a handwritten letter from the nonagenarian arrived in the post. e letter read:

“Dear pupils of Windmill Hill Primary School,

ank you for your letter. I totally agree with you, litter – and particularly plastic litter – damages the environment in a very serious way. I have been saying so as loudly as I can as o en as I can. And I will continue doing so.

Yours sincerely, David Attenborough”

Assistant Head at Windmill and Y6 Teacher Mrs Pape said:

“ e children’s letters were so unbelievably well-cra ed and we were incredibly proud of them, which is why we wanted to send them to their intended audience. It’s an important part of our learning at Windmill Hill to show our children that their words have a purpose and Sir David Attenborough’s response is amazing for helping to demonstrate that to our pupils.

“We are also incredibly passionate about our planet and environment at Windmill Hill and we’re very proud that our words have shown Sir David that his programmes and actions make a di erence. Hopefully this is a sign that our future generations will take these issues more seriously.”

Poppy Lundy, aged 11 said: “I am shocked that David Attenborough has actually replied as he’s a really busy man.”

waste

Picture on the front page shows Y6 pupils with their hand written reply from Sir David Attenborough.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport is one step closer to re-opening after the council agreed a lease for the site, Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones has said.

The signing of the 125year lease will help to ensure the future of the site, while an airport operator is found.

It followed a year of "detailed and complex negotiations" with landowners Peel Group, the council said.

"This is a significant day in our ambition to reopen the airport as the lease has been signed," Ms Jones said.

"This is a major step in the reopening process.

"The next is appointing an operator and investor who will manage and develop the airport."

The process to appoint an airport operator is "well under way" according to Ms Jones, who said she hoped for an an-

nouncement "later in the spring".

Responding to the announcement that City of Doncaster Council has agreed a lease with Peel Group who own Doncaster-Sheffield Airport, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard said:

“I am very pleased at today’s news that City of Doncaster Council have agreed a lease with Peel which is an important step on the way to re-opening DoncasterSheffield Airport. There remain steps ahead on this journey, the next one being bringing in a private operator with the capability and experience to turn DSA into the thriving regional airport we know it can be. I am keen to see the Council now secure that private sector operator to run the airport as swiftly as possible. Once they have that agreement in place, the Mayoral Combined Authority stands ready to assess the Full Business Case (FBC)

in order to release the funding to support this deal, and to get DSA flying again. I know people want us to move quickly and we will, but I have said from the start, we will only ever do things in a way that protects taxpayers while giving both DSA and South Yorkshire the brightest possible future.”Sarah Barnes, GMB Organiser, said:

“Workers fought tirelessly with their union and local politicians to save our airport.

“Although that battle wasn’t won, and we were badly let down by the PM Liz Truss, we never gave up hope.

“GMB welcomes this news to secure good, unionised jobs for working people in South Yorkshire.

“We look forward to working with the new operators to secure a future for workers at Doncaster-Sheffield airport.”

Homegrown Festival ’24 plans get underway

e team behind the Homegrown Festival in Stocksbridge and the Upper Don want to hear from local groups, artists and performers who have ideas and plans to share for the 2024 event.

Homegrown ‘24 will take place from September 28th to October 12th and organisers are hoping it will be even bigger and better than last year’s event. A special information evening is planned for April 2nd with an open invitation to the local community to get involved.

e meeting will take place on April 2nd at 7pm at e Venue at 650 Manchester Road in Stocksbridge. It is an opportunity to discuss last year’s event and share ideas and thought for Homegrown ‘24.

e team want to involve a wide and diverse range of groups and activities for this year’s Festival – including theatre and musical performances, workshops, arts and cra ex-

hibitions, textiles, poetry, and prose – a true showcase for local talent.

Alex Archer, Chair of the Homegrown Steering Group, said: “Homegrown is a brilliant platform to showcase the homegrown talent here in our community. e meeting on April 2nd is an opportunity for the community to get involved and share their ideas about the 2024 event and we are looking forward to some great contributions.”

e annual event was launched two years ago, and the team are keen to build up and develop the fortnight long festival to include more events and activities every year.

To get involved attend the meeting on April 2nd and you can also contact the team on udacevent@gmail.com and please follow the Homegrown Festival page on Facebook.

The

Members

So

On Sunday 7th April Thorncliffe Bowling Club will be opening its gates to anyone who wishes to try their hand at crown green bowling. The club welcomes both those who have never played before, and those who have played and want to come back to the sport. A selection of bowls will be available, and coaching will be given. All you need to do is to turn up in flat bottomed shoes.

Retirement living on your terms

Welcome to Otium of Stocksbridge, the brand new purpose-built community designed specifically for the independently minded* who choose to live their lives to the full without being bound by any of the complexities of everyday home ownership.

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• All utility bills covered in service charge

• 56 luxuriously appointed 1 and 2 bedroom suites

• Secure on-site parking, garaging & storage to rent

• 10 year ICW warranty guarantee

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ART IN

Cupola Gallery Hosts 'Miniatures Revisited' Exhibition

Sheffield's Cupola Gallery is set to showcase the grandeur of tiny artworks as nearly 100 artists come together for the much-anticipated exhibition 'Miniatures Revisited'. The exhibition, running from March 16th to April 27th, promises a captivating journey into the world of miniature artistry. Attendees attended the opening evening on Friday, March 15th, where visitors immersed themselves in the intricate details of these diminutive masterpieces.

The venue, located at 178-178a Middlewood Road, Sheffield S6 1TD, will open its doors from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm, welcoming art enthusiasts to explore the diverse array of tiny treasures on display.

With all artworks meticulously crafted to fit inside a 10cm cube, artists have risen to the challenge, submitting a stunning variety of miniature creations across various media. Sheffield-based talents join artists from across the nation and abroad in presenting their works, contributing to the exhibition's rich tapestry of creativity.

"We are delighted by the overwhelming response from artists, who have showcased a

wide diversity of works," expressed Karen Sherwood, Director and Curator of Cupola Gallery. "From miniature sculptures depicting plates of food to tiny greenhouse scenes with vegetable patches, and from paintings and printmaking to mixed media works, there is something to captivate every viewer's imagination."

The exhibition promises an immersive experience, with visitors provided with magnifying glasses to fully appreciate the intricate details of some artworks. Sherwood further remarked, "It is so uplifting to see such a wealth and breadth of creativity in a single show."

Art lovers looking to acquire these miniature marvels can do so, with works available for purchase ranging from £30 to £700. Cupola Gallery invites all to witness the enchanting world of miniatures and celebrate the boundless creativity of artists from near and far.

For more information, including opening times and contact details, visit www. cupolagallery.com or reach out via email at karen@cupolagallery.com. Join Cupola Gallery on a journey through 'Miniatures Revisited', where artistry knows no bounds.

MARCH

WEDNESDAY

27 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 27th March at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Chris Helme, `Life and Downs of a Public Speaker`. 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.

THURSDAY

28 March - Stocksbridge Art Society. Evening Demonstration (7 to 9 pm). ‘Water’ in Acrylics by Paul Freeman. Christ Church Community Hall, Stocksbridge, S36 1DY. All welcome: Members free; non-members £4 inc. refreshments.

APRIL

THURSDAY

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

SATURDAY

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

MONDAY

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

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

THURSDAY

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

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

FRIDAY

malper11@sky.com.

MONDAY

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

SUNDAY

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

FRIDAY

29 Free entry Pop Up Art Exhibition at Wortley Men’s Club by the local artists the Pennine Artists. A unique opportunity to view and purchase artwork depicting the local area. Everyone welcome Fri 29th March to Sun 14th April. Opening times Sat-Sun 1211pm, Mon-Fri 2-11pm.

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

WEDNESDAY

10 Brad eld Walkers are Welcome - Local History Morning Round Walk in Dungworth led by Malcolm Nunn, start 10.30am from outside Royal Hotel Dungworth, return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463. bradfield.history@myposto ce.co.uk or www.bradeld-walkers.org.uk

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

SUNDAY

14 Classic Car Rally in support of Marie Curie Cancer care & hosted by The M.G. Car Club. The event will start from Fox Valley Retail Park following a simple planned route book for 70 miles taking in roads within South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire. The event nishes at Cannon Hall & all types of classic car are welcome to enter. The event is called The Da odil Run 2024 & is a none competitive event. Entry forms can be downloaded from mgccyorkshire.co.uk, or for more information email

WEDNESDAY

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

24 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 24th April at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, will be our AGM with a short update about the Stocksbridge town centre redevelopment. Members

Onwill then go for lunch Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting

SATURDAY

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

ONGOING

MONDAYS

Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.

Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath rst! Contact 01226 764642 for more information

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

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

TUESDAYS

CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) Tea, co ee, cakes, dominoes and other games, and friendship. Every Tuesday 2-4 pm at St Andrew’s Church, High Street, Penistone. (Next to the library).For more details: 07903 628820

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

WEDNESDAYS

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

THURSDAYS

Open House Community Café

Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every

Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

FRIDAYS

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

SATURDAYS

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers to Creativity: Men’s Club Welcomes Artists for Community Showcase

Wortley Men’s Club, recently crowned as Barnsley’s CAMRA Club of the Year for 2024, is set to unveil a remarkable collaboration with local artistic talent. e club is joining forces with the talented Pennine Artists group to host an exclusive art exhibition, showcasing the rich artistic creations of the area.

Pennine Artists, brimming with enthusiasm, are gearing up for their inaugural Pop-Up Exhibition, promising an extraordinary opportunity to delve into the local art scene. e exhibition will feature captivating artworks depicting the essence of the area, cra ed by the skilled hands of Jackie Pracheck, Yvonne Moorhouse, Gina Quant, Ann Parkin, and Rebecca Burnham.

is free-to-attend exhibition will span across 17 days, inviting art enthusiasts and community members alike to immerse themselves in the beauty of local creativity. Guests are encouraged to not only admire but also acquire these unique artworks. e event will be hosted at the Wortley Men’s Club, renowned for its warm hospitality under the stewardship of Nigel and Teresa.

Commencing on Friday, March 29th, and running through Sunday, April 14th, the exhibition promises an evening of insight and interaction with the artists themselves during the 'Meet the Artists' session scheduled for

Friday, April 5th, starting at 7:30 PM.

For further information, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Pennine Artists' website at www.pennineartists.co.uk.

Event Details:

Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 2 PM to 11 PM, Saturday to Sunday: 12 PM to 11 PM

Location: Wortley Men’s Club.

Christine SMITH

Passed away peacefully in Barnsley Hospital on 18.03.2024

Surrounded by her loving family, loving Wife to the late Stuart Smith & Father to Shereen, Melanie & Craig beloved Mother- in Law, Nannan & Great Nannan Service to be held at Grenoside Crematorium North Chapel Tuesday 9th of April at 1pm

Christine SMITH

“May the winds of Love blow softly and Whisper in your ear.”

We Love and Miss you sister and wish that you were here Love all your Sisters & brothers.

Mary Siobhan LOUGHER

Sadly passed away in the Northern General Hospital aged 68 years Wife to Graham Step Mum to Laura and David Nannan to Miley and Betty-Mae

Funeral service to be held on Friday 12th April, 14.00 at Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel.

Donations in lieu of flowers will be gratefully received by Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis.

All enquires to Tw Birks & Son Funeral Directors, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar, Sheffield, S36 2RE. (0114) 2885555

Elizabeth Ann FIRTH

Michael David LIDDELL

Passed away aged 72 years, surrounded by his family.

Loving Husband to Kate Devoted Pops to Katie and Clair Father-in-Law to Lee and Rob, Loving Grandpa to Amelie and George Brother to Judy and Stuart Uncle to Sarah and Jon

Funeral service to be held on Thursday 11th April, 11.30, Grenoside Crematorium, South Chapel.

Donations in lieu of owers will be gratefully received by She eld Teaching Hospitals Charitable Trust.

All enquires to Tw Birks & Son Funeral Directors. 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar, She eld, S36 2RE. (0114) 2885555

Funeral Services

Peter and the staff at Dyson Funeral Service would like to apologise to the family of the late Ann Firth for the error on the service forms we provided for her funeral. We are very sorry. Amended ones are available at Christ Church, Stocksbridge for anyone who wishes to collect one.

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 Deaths Family Notices

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

Charity Appeal

We'd like to let as many people know who kindly support us, that our permanent base is now at urlstone. We are also appealing for DONATIONS of items for Fundraising to continue our Care of the Animals.

If you are able to help by showing our notice, it really would be very much appreciated.

ank you kindly Sue Hedges ( voluntary Fundraiser/Trustee)

Cafe owner search

I wonder if you can help me?

I’m trying to nd the owner of the Fox Diner café on the A616 Stocksbridge bypass?

If anyone can help please get in touch with me John@transparent365.com

John Kelleher

‘BLITZ KIDS’ PROJECT

..continued from front page

SCHOOL SUPPORTS COOKING SKILLS

A new programme has been established to provide ingredients to schools at no cost, supporting classroom learning.

Fire

from Rivelin station attended a deliberate re involving a camper van at 9:25pm

Road, She eld. e crew

Stocksbridge High School have taken part in the new initiative Ingredients into Schools to engage pupils in learning practical cookery skills.

Led by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), in collaboration with the British Nutrition Foundation, the project is speci cally tailored for Year 8 and 9 pupils. It addresses the need for access to ingredients, recipes, and classroom resources.

Learning cooking skills at school is an integral part of young people’s food education. However, the expense of providing the ingredients can present a barrier due to rising cost. is project has been developed to ensure students develop practical food skills and gain cooking con dence. It will empower them to make informed choices about healthy eating habits and participate in activities that might otherwise be nancially challenging.

Students from across Year 8 and 9 produced crumpets and butter from raw ingredients across the week beginning 4th March 2024. ey completed some evaluation work in lessons when complete and developed their knowledge of where ingredients came from and how common products are produced in these interesting sessions. is initiative is also supported by Lidl and UK Flour Millers.

A central part of the She eld Blitz 85th project will be the expansion of the popular She eld Blitz exhibition at the National Emergency Services Museum; the production of a new book with stories from ‘blitz kids’, and a series of educational and community engagement activities. e project, made possible thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, is set to o er a chance for the whole community to get involved through volunteer roles which will provide training in: recording interviews, web design skills, research skills.

Neil Anderson of the She eld Blitz Memorial Trust said: “ is

project is incredibly important as it’s an opportunity to record the stories of people that were kids at the time of the blitz – the last generation that are still living. We're excited to bring the community together to commemorate this pivotal moment in our city's history."

Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at e National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “We are proud to award this grant for an important project that will ensure the stories of the Blitz children are recorded and preserved for future generations. anks to National Lottery players, more people will learn about this signi cant moment in our history from those with rst-hand lived experience.”

Stocksbridge Get Silver

Deliverers

Stocksbridge came away with team silver at the Yorkshire Vets Athletic Association Cross Country Championships.

This was the club’s first major event since forming in 2023 and several members represented the club.

Rachel Howard came in 4th in the F45 category, Heather Lindley in the F60 category and Garry Harding racing in the M45 category. Rachel Vernon in the F35 category although admin error put her in the wrong category, she finished 2nd F35 category to claim an individual medal, then Rachel along with Amy Hutchinson, Nicola Heaton and Jolene Allen claimed team silver in the F35-F44 category. This is a massive achievement for the club and really puts the club on the county map. Next year the club aims to get teams in more categories, and will also look at fielding teams at the road relays throughout the year.

Also at the Spen20, Narni Fulford set a club record at the 20-mile distance running 3:08.43 . This puts Narni in excellent shape for the Manchester Marathon in a few weeks.

Founder Richard Hayes said “We are always on the lookout for new members, especially as we would like to field more teams in events, if you are interested in joining, the main requirement is you can already run for over 60 minutes without stopping and can run10K again without stopping. If yes to either then you can come try our club night out on a Monday night or we do have plenty of members who are active on our Whatsapp group but can’t attend club nights as it’s not a requirement.”

School Hosts Girls Football

Stocksbridge Junior School turned a regular Monday, (March 26th), into a dynamic celebration of girls' football, showcasing the athleticism and spirit of local youth. The event highlighted the players' skills, teamwork, dedication, and love for the sport. Beyond competition, it served as a vibrant exhibition of learning, respect, and the joy of football.

The tournament featured four outstanding schools: Stocksbridge Junior School, Deepcar St John's, Malin Bridge Primary School, and Shooters Grove Primary School. Each team displayed remarkable dedication, teamwork, and a genuine love for the sport.

The matches were played with great enthusiasm and a competitive spirit, as the girls poured their hearts into every kick and tackle. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for the young athletes to showcase their talents and learn from one another.

Stocksbridge Junior School would like to extend its gratitude to all the participating teams for their exceptional performances and for embodying the values of fair play and respect. The school is incredibly proud of the girls' achievements and commends their hard work and commitment to the game.

The success of this tournament would not have been possible without the support of the parents and spectators who cheered on the players throughout. Their enthusiasm and encouragement played a crucial role in creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.

Stocksbridge Junior School is honoured to have hosted such a remarkable event and looks forward to hosting the boys' tournament after the Easter holidays to celebrate the talent and passion of young athletes in the local community.

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Rare defeat for Legion

Chapeltown RBL 1 - 2 Pheasent

Sunday saw Chapeltown RBL su er a rst league defeat since October at orncli e. A scrappy rst 45 minutes ended when Pheasant took the lead with a great striker in o the crossbar from outside the area.

Pheasant then scored straight from the kicko for the second half when a long ball was latched on to and volleyed home well.

RBL made changes and pulled one back with 15 minutes to go when Josh Savage rounded the keeper and slid home.

Legion pushed for an equaliser but didn’t create any clear-cut chances, as both sides ended the game with 10 men - and Pheasant deservedly ended with 3 points.

Derby day in Dronfield

Dronfield Town W 0 - 3 Oughtibridge

Oughtibridge fully entered the title race in East Midlands Division 1 North with a tremendous win at local rivals Dron eld Town.

It was one way tra c in the rst half as Oughtibridge created chance a er chance without joy until Codi Melia spun away from her marker and sent a 25 yarder into the top corner. A second quickly followed when Laura Cain’s cross fooled the keeper and nestled in the back of the net. If that was a bit fortunate her next goal was a beauty as player manager Laura Watton broke through a mid eld melee to nd Cain who

WM W

turned her defender to smash the ball home and leave the home team and large crowd shell shocked.

Dron eld, who won recently at the War Memorial, pushed in the 2nd half but Oughtibridge held rm whilst continuing to create chances and it ended 3-0 to avenge that unlucky loss. is Sunday sees the Women travel to Retford looking to continue their recent good run.

Player Manager celebrates a 3-0 lead (pic Julian Barker)

STOCKSBRIDGE OUT MUSCLED

Stocksbridge RUFC 0 - 17 Thornensians RUFC

On a cold, wet, blustery afternoon at the Coal Pit Lane Arena, visitors ornensians proved too strong and too streetwise for Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby, easing to a 17pts to nil victory in the Yorkshire 4 Counties (Phase 2) South competition.

is was an improvement on the previous week’s showing, and the more familiar home surroundings, sponsored by Premier Stone Worktops Ltd, helped the Stocksbridge performance.

e conditions made open, owing rugby next to impossible, and the gusting crosswinds made a mockery of any worthwhile kicking game but, both sides showed great e ort and commitment to produce a contest.

Stocksbridge started well and applied some good early pressure with ‘clock tower’ Beal and the burly Gary Woodcock threatening with the ball. Joe ‘milky’ Martin was busy on both sides of the ball, but the conditions favoured a tight forwards game and the talent-

ed, pacey Stocksbridge threequarter line were starved of any decent opportunity.

When the visitors gained some ascendancy, Stocksbridge was penalised for trying to slow the breakdowns and creeping up o side.

e O cial’s patience nally snapped when, on the stroke of half time, Jack Spencer overstepped the line once too o en, and was given a yellow card and ten minutes in the sin bin for his troubles. e rst half remained scoreless.

e second half was played almost entirely in the Stocksbridge half, with orne enjoying more and more possession and the home blue wall looking increasing thin!

Despite great defensive displays from young Jacob ‘Bing’ Crosby, and centres Harrison Norman and Mason Goldsworthy, backed up by the industrious Reece ‘diesel’ Aspin and them ‘milky’ Martin boys, the visitors took advantage of their superior numbers to run in 2 quick tries, the second being a rather fortunate bounce to take the lead.

ere was even time for the visiting Hooker to dive for the tryline and celebrate a score, only to realise he had crossed a ‘slit’ line and was still short of the mark.

Spencer returned to add more steel to the defence, and Head Coach Andy Lawrence introduced old war horse Ricky Christopherson to provide some guile around the breakdown, but it was all to no avail, with Stocksbridge rarely threatening the visitors tryline, and losing possession when they did get close.

Stocksbridge stay rooted to the bottom of the league ladder with just one xture le in the competition. Stocksbridge will have a break over the Easter period and then travel to

West Yorkshire to face Leeds Modernians for a very winnable last game.

Gary Woodcock, sponsored by Valley Property Services won the Funding Solutions Man of the Match award for a committed and physical display with Beal, that man Frith and Josh Kerr all showing up well. It was probably a day to forget for most of the Stocksbridge back line, the weather was their greatest enemy.

‘we didn’t do the basics well enough in the poor conditions’, re ected Head Coach Andy Lawrence, adding, ‘they probably adapted better than we did, although once again we showed tremendous spirit right until the end’.

STEELERS CHAMPIONS

e Steelers held their nerve a er the second period to bag three in both the rst and third period as they came out victorious over the Guildford Flames and li ed the Elite League trophy on home ice on Sunday night.

Top point scorers in the league, Mitchell Balma bagged ve points throughout the contest with Marco Vallerand also picking up his 29th and 30th goal of the year as the Steelers were crowned Elite League Champions for the rst time since 2016.

‘BIZARRE’ GOAL DENTS STEELS

Match report by:

Photo

by:

1 - 0

Adam Allcro

Ian Revitt

Stocksbridge Park Steels lost to Consett due to one of the most bizarre goals of the season e biggest protagonist of the day would not be any of the players on the pitch but the weather. e wind was blowing a gale and a ecting play heavily, especially when both sides tried to play long balls. It meant that we were never going to get a great game of football and all three points would end up with who could make the most of the conditions.

For a while, it seemed like Stocksbridge would be the team to make the most of the wind, especially with it blowing in from the back. is was notable for Luke Hogg who sent a missile of a shot that was carried by the wind but Kelechi Chibueze made an unconventional save to keep the game goalless. At the other end, Zak Atkinson got onto a bad back pass but Ben Townsend made a sliding challenge to stop him from making the most of that mistake.

In the second half, Consett would take the lead through a goal that would end up on the old blooper videos if they still were sold.

Turner Wins Gold in Dublin

Penistone youngster Graihagh Turner enjoyed more success this weekend whilst representing England at the Schools Cross Country Internationals held in Ireland. Turner was part of the Intermediate Mixed Relay team, completing leg one with a healthy lead which ensured her team returned with the gold medal.

Her Rotherham Harriers team-mate Maya Scho eld also enjoyed success, being part of the Junior Mixed Relay team who also claimed gold.

ere was another gold medal for George Parr who nished in rst place

in this year’s Chicken Run fell race in Hay eld. e 8.3 mile route consists of 1421 of ascent and Penistone were well represented with six runners in a eld of over 200.

Penistone’s Pete Beever travelled to Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire to take part in their 10k race. Beever came home in a time of 54:56 to claim 57th place out of 163.

Two Penistone runners took on the brutal 21 mile Edale Skyline fell race on Sunday, with a whopping 4505 of climbing involved. James Fryers started the race strongly and held on for 74th position, just a few minutes behind club-mate Richard Cottam in 68th who is training for a Bob Graham Round attempt in the coming months.

In the weekend’s parkrun events, there were rst places for Tom Fryers at Milton Country, James Mumford at Lister Park and Suzanne McGill at Penistone, whilst Rob Lees nished second at Northallerton.

John and Dawn Broom completed the Wymondham 20 mile race in the run-up to marathon season. John got round in 2:44:05 to nish in 198th, whilst Dawn set a slub record for the female v60 category with a time of 2:44:43 to take 204th spot.

Hogg tried to clear the ball but Will Shaw blocked it at point-blank range with his bum and back. e wind then took the ball and curled it into the back of the net, becoming a contender for the most ridiculous goal of the season.

Stocksbridge tried to get onto the front foot to get back into the game but that was tough now that they were kicking into the wind. But

they did struggle and things didn’t fall right.

e Steels were able to whip plenty of dangerous balls across the six-yard area but no one was there to be able to tuck it in. It means Stocksbridge were blanked, and Consett got their revenge for their loss at Bracken Moor just over a week ago.

Next Home Game: Easter Monday 1 April vs Pontefract Coll. 3pm KO

Church denied by late

On Saturday and in front of an estimated crowd of one-hundred plus Penistone Church Reserves strengthened their top league position by securing a two-nil home victory against Wombwell Main. e goals came from veteran striker Jack Moore and Ryan Hallsworth.

In the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division Penistone Church rst team made the short journey down the M1 to Maltby Main looking to build on the midweek four-one victory away at Frickley and for three more points to keep in touch with the playo places

In a sti breeze and playing up the slope Church defended well and created some nice moves in the rst half but in general the teams cancelled each other out.

Church had to weather some pressure from the Maltby side early on a er the break.

ey went one up ten minutes into the half when an excellent cross from Eddie Newsome was met on the far post by Ryan Johnson (pictured) who powered it in the net.

Church held the lead for twenty- ve minutes then conceded the equaliser when Maltby defender Haydn Ward was allowed to turn in the box and place his shot just in o the post.

Church fought back and soon a er a cross aimed for Antony Brown was handled by a Maltby defender. Taking the spot kick himself Ant Brown slotted the ball home and Church regained the lead and that should have been that but in the nal minute a goalmouth scramble resulted in the ball falling to Maltby’s Marc Newsham who scored the

goal

equalising goal and the game nished at twotwo.

Co-manager John Whitehead

As for attitude, desire and work rate the lads have been fantastic for ninety minutes. We will not stop ghting, we’ll never give up, our play-o hopes, they are very much in the balance, until it’s mathematically impossible we’ll still be giving our utmost to try and get there. We won’t throw the towel in we’re denitely in with a shout so we’ll do our utmost in the remaining games.

She eld pulled o a stunning comeback to snatch two league points at top- ight newcomers Birmingham on Monday.

e Tru7 Group Tigers fought back from ten points down to tie 45-45 - before claiming the extra league point from a Super Heat at Perry Barr.

Simon Stead’s side conceded three 5-1s in the opening four races in what was a real sluggish start in the Second City.

e gap was reduced to six in Heat Six though when Tai Wo nden and Jason Edwards banged in a maximum over Birmingham No.1 Vaclav Milik.

Josh Pickering then produced a ne ride to round Scott Nicholls o bend four of the opening lap to lead a share of the spoils in Heat Seven before Wo nden and Edwards linked up for another advantage in the ninth, this time with a 4-2.

e ten-point gap was present again when Birmingham took advantage of Chris Holder’s fall in Heat Ten - but Jack Holder and Kyle Howarth came up with an instant

response to bring a di erent feel heading into the interval.

For the second xture running, Wo nden was nominated as a Tactical Substitute in Heat 12 - and whilst it wasn’t quite the 5-1 they managed at Oxford, a 4-2 with Chris Holder saw them move to within four points of the Brummies.

Wo nden made it four wins on the spin in Heat 13 - but they were unable to close the gap further following a spill for Jack Holder who was desperately trying to repass Nicholls.

Pickering eased to victory in Heat 14 but with Edwards at the back, it meant the Tigers needed a 5-1 in Heat 15 to force the Super Heat.

Jack Holder dusted himself down to storm away from gate two and when Wo nden’s perseverance on the outside of Nicholls paid o , they’d got the result they were after.

Unsurprisingly, Stead put his faith in his top two once again and his decision was rewarded as they got the job done with a 7-2

in the re-run of the Super Heat a er Milik was thrown out for the hosts a er coming down alone on the opening bends of the initial staging.

BOSS Simon Stead says the self-belief within his She eld team played an essential part in their comeback at Birmingham on Monday.

“I’m pleased that we’ve got points on the board,” Stead said.

at xture at Owlerton sees the Tigers host Oxford with the Spires leading 47-43 with the aggregate point also on the line.