Look Local Issue 1281 Thursday 03 August 2023

DRAGON SCULPTURE DESTROYED

Glen Howe Park, a cherished green oasis nestled in the heart of Wharncli e Side, She eld, has long been a source of pride and joy for the local community. At its heart stood a stunning sculpture wall, an artistic masterpiece shaped like the village's beloved mascot, a majestic dragon. Unfortunately, this symbol of unity and identity was recently subjected to a shocking act of vandalism that has le the community heartbroken and outraged.

Created through the collaborative e orts of local volunteers, and community members.

e once vibrant dragon sculpture wall had been brutally defaced and destroyed. What was once an inspiring work of art had been turned into a broken and mangled mess. Villagers, who had held the sculpture wall dear to their

hearts, were devastated. It felt like a direct attack on their sense of identity and community. It le many questioning how such an act of senseless destruction could occur in their peaceful village.

Social media platforms became a vital tool for the community to express their outrage and organise e orts to restore the beloved sculpture wall. Messages of condemnation for the vandals were mixed with messages of hope and determination, re ecting the resilient spirit of Wharncli e Side.

is act of vandalism shook Wharncli e Side was undoubtedly an unwelcome chapter in the village's history.

e incident also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting and cherishing public art and shared spaces.

Fundraising Fun at thorncliFFe club

proved popular. Boys and girls of all ages queued up to see if they could choose a ‘lucky lolly’ in hopes of winning a prize.

fresh food including chips, pizza, and hotdogs.

“The day was so much fun and a huge success, thank you to everyone who came.”

Written by Isabel Butler

Over the weekend, the community came together to help raise funds for the Thorncliffe Football teams, the Ledwood family, and The Thorncliffe Community Sports Bar. Everyone gathered to enjoy food, drinks, activity stalls,

and the July sun that we had all been waiting for. The day kicked off with a charity match, with the winning team being 3-2 up. In the car park a fun fair had been set up including a hook-a-duck stall, a dairy milk truck, and a waltzer. There were also stands being run by Thorn-

cliffe’s volunteers. The first stand was a raffle, for just £1 for a strip you were in with a chance of winning a range of prizes such as a signed Sheffield United ball, a signed Sheffield Wednesday shirt, and a selection of luxury hampers. Next up was the “Pick-a-lolly” stand which

MG ZS EV

Lastly, there was the football scratch card, at £10 a square your name was entered for the chance of winning £750. In the right-hand corner of the car park, the sponge-amanager gained plenty of attention, not such a bad thing on such a warm day. For £3 a go, you were able to throw wet sponges at a manager (or any person) of your choice. The funds raised from the stalls were dedicated to Thorncliffe’s Football Teams as well as the Ledwood family, an extremely important cause to those at Thorncliffe Club.

The day also supported the Sports Bar as people filtered in and out for drinks, whether it be a refreshing pint or a fizzy coke, and

Throughout the afternoon there was a DJ keeping the summer spirit up until around 16:00 when the live music began. Rhianna Towers, age 16, kicked off the evening with a playlist of impressive songs, followed by a talented duo that carried the live music on into the night.

All in all, the day was a huge success full of fun, talent, and sun. Nikki Vigrass one of the event organisers said

Keep an eye out for the next event, and if you are ever close to Thorncliffe, pop into “The Club” (as it’s known by its regulars) and enjoy their selection of food and drinks.

Thorncliffe Sports Bar is Located on Mortomley Close, High Green, and is run by the locals who aim to maintain this hub of society for everyone to enjoy.

A book on locAl history for locAl people

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these historic pathways are still an enduring feature of the landscape within Stocksbridge. Yet very few people know about it.

Thanks to four years of funding and support from the Sheffield Lakeland Landscape Partnership, overseen by Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust. A team

advent of the industrial revolution.

Evidence of these old packhorse trails still lies beneath our feet. The book uncovers the rich social history of the lives of the men and women who lived out alongside their packhorses, transporting goods along the ‘causeys’ or stone paths, some of which

talented Heritage Highway volunteers whose dedication has made this project a reality.

So many people turned out for the launch event and this book is highly recommended for people who are interested in the local history and unique heritage of this historic part of the world.

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C C I N T E R I O R S

CupolaContemporaryArt Artists bring a splash of colour to Fox Valley

The Stocksbridge community is being invited to take part in a large-scale street art project at Fox Valley shopping centre in Sheffield this Saturday [5th August].

Budding artists, shoppers and diners can all take part in a free chalk and mosaic art workshop at the centre’s fountain area from 10:30 am until 2:30pm.

Working alongside award-winning and internationally acclaimed pavement artists, Urban Canvas, the community have the chance to get creative and leave their mark at the shopping centre for visitors to admire for days to follow.

Alongside this exciting, interactive workshop, the Fox Valley Food and Drink Market will be taking place across the weekend from 10am until 3pm with over 20 stalls showcasing delicious baked goods, street food and crafts.

Visitors that enjoyed the annual Food & Drink Festival last month can expect to see some familiar, tasty food vendors return, such as La Fiamma, who specialise in oven baked pizza, Eat Dutch, who serve up delicious mini pancakes and waffles, and Main Streat Greek, with their amazing gyros.

Shoppers looking for something cheesier, can find their fix at the Cheesy Living, where they have a fresh display of cheese, honey, jam, hot sauce and pickles. The Cheese Cavern, will also be joining the market with their beautiful display of charcuterie boards and a variety of flavoured pork pies.

Claire Biltcliffe, Centre Manager for Fox Valley, said: “This is going to be a great weekend where the community can come together to create a beautiful piece of public art for everyone to enjoy.

“It is also great to see a full line up of food and craft traders, where shoppers have the chance to support a lovely range of local, independent businesses.”

At Fox Valley there is four hours’ free parking with all day parking offered for just £3.50. The centre team is always on the lookout for new independent traders to join their regular weekly and monthly markets.

To find out more information about the Fox Valley Markets and how you can become a trader, visit www.foxvalleysheffield.co.uk or email jade.griffiths@foxvalleysheffield.co.uk.

Walker rescued after rivelin reservoir fall

A walker has been rescued after falling into a reservoir spillway on the outskirts of Sheffield, BBC reported.

Ambulance crews and Edale Mountain Rescue were called to the Rivelin Reservoir on Saturday, with the casualty suffering pelvic injuries.

A stretcher was used to haul the injured person out of the spillway during the "challenging" rescue at about 20:50 BST, rescuers said. They were then carried out through a forest and placed in an ambulance.

The patient was carried on a stretcher through a forest and placed in an ambulance

A mountain rescue team spokesperson said the person "had fallen a considerable distance" into the spillway.

"The patient was also rather chilly, having also fallen into the water and been immobile since," they added.

No further details of the injured person were available on Sunday.

a fortnight of celebrating the arts in stocksbridge

The team behind the Homegrown Festival in Stocksbridge are planning a busy two week programme – showcasing the creative talent in Stocksbridge and Deepcar.

This year’s Homegrown Festival will take place from September 30th to October 14th celebrating arts and culture in the Valley – providing a platform for local artists, writers, musicians, crafters and performers.

There are also plans for art displays working with the local schools as well as dozens of events across the two week programme starting with a special launch event on September 30th.

The annual event was launched last year and the Homegrown team want to make the 2023 Festival even bigger and better. The event is supported by UDAC and Steel Valley Beacon Arts with local organisations including Stocksbridge Town Council supporting the Festival.

Homegrown 2023 is looking for artists, bands, crocheters, DJs, singers, musicians, potters, glassmakers, photographers, writers, poets, actors, dress-

makers, wood turners, choirs, comedians, make up- artists and crafters.

The organisers want to hear from anyone who has a performance space – or where exhibitions and displays can be held – from pubs and shops to community centres, churches and even gyms. They also want to hear from local groups planning to stage an event during Homegrown 2023, to ensure they’re included in the Festival programme.

Adrienne Wright from Homegrown Festival said:

“This is a real opportunity to shout about the creativity and talent in our great community. So if you have an event, meeting or exhibition planned from September 30th to October 14th please get in touch and let us know so we can include it in the programme. Our Valley is rich with arts and culture and Homegrown 2023 is all about celebrating that.”

Get in touch about your event before July 31st by emailing udacevent@gmail.com and please follow the Homegrown Festival page on Facebook.

Photo: BBC

honoured for

Stocksbridge - In a heartwarming ceremony held at the local community centre, the Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen's Guild paid tribute to four exceptional members who have dedicated their lives to the organisation. Mrs Jen Clarke, Mrs Dora Linley, Miss Barbara Mannion, and Mrs Liz Brook were recognized for their longstanding service, spanning a combined total of 140 years.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and admiration as the Guild members, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the remarkable commitment and contribution of these outstanding women. The event was presided over by Mrs Ella Jones, the Guild's current Chairman, who took the opportunity to acknowledge the immeasurable impact each honoree had made over the years.

Leading the list of commendations was Mrs Jen Clarke, who has served the Guild faithfully for an astounding 50 years. Her unwavering dedication and boundless enthusiasm have been a source of inspiration for the Guild's members, old and new alike.

Next in line were Mrs Dora Linley and Miss Barbara Mannion, both honoured for 40 years of service. Their steadfast presence in the Guild has been pivotal in driving numerous community initiatives, fostering strong bonds among members, and leaving a lasting legacy of camaraderie.

Mrs Liz Brook, though relatively newer to the Guild with 10 years of service, was not forgotten. Her commitment and fresh ideas have breathed new life into the organisation, further enriching its traditions while embracing change.

Each of the esteemed members was presented with a distinguished badge, a symbol of recognition and gratitude for their devotion to the Guild. The badges were specially crafted to commemorate this extraordinary milestone in the Guild's history.

The Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen's Guild holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, having played a vital role in promoting social cohesion and charitable efforts since its establishment in 1949. As the Guild approaches its 75th birthday next year, this acknowledgement of long service stands as a testament to its enduring impact on the lives of its members and the community it serves.

In her address, Mrs Ella Jones, the Chairman, expressed her heartfelt appreciation, stating, "The dedication and loyalty demonstrated by Mrs Clarke, Mrs Linley, Miss Mannion, and Mrs Brook have been instrumental in shaping the Guild into what it is today. Their selflessness and passion for our organisation have not only bound us together as a family but also inspired generations of women to actively participate in community-building activities. We are truly grateful for their service."

The event concluded with warm applause and a sense of anticipation for the approaching 75th-anniversary celebrations. The Guild looks forward to commemorating this significant milestone with renewed vigour and the knowledge that its future is bright, thanks to the unwavering commitment of its members, past and present.

Parents could be P revented from taking their kids on holiday

Parents should ensure they get written consent before taking their children outside the jurisdiction of England and Wales, an expert family solicitor from law firm Shakespeare Martineau has warned.

Stephanie Kyriacou, family associate at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “You must get permission of everyone with parental responsibility for a child or from a court before taking the child abroad, especially if there is a possibility that verbal permission could be withdrawn before travel.

“This doesn’t have to follow a particular format but should include full details of the holiday, including when and where you plan to go, why and for how long.

“Consent is not legally required by the other parent if the holiday is for less than 28 days and a child arrangements order (court order) is already in place to confirm the child lives with the parent taking them on holiday, but it is always better to have written consent.”

While term times across the country differs, most schools in England and Wales will break up for the summer holidays around Friday, 21 July or before. Stephanie has also provided further tips to support parents navigate the school holidays.

Stephanie said: “If recently separated, the thought of dealing with child arrangements can be a daunting prospect. However, it is crucial to remember that chil dren’s welfare and best interests should always be the main priority.

What’s EvEnt

AUGUST WedneSdAy

“Parents should work together to come up with a plan that makes their children as happy and as comfortable as possible. Planning ahead is always recommended, especially when it comes to trips abroad. Written consent could save you thousands of pounds in wasted costs, as well as uncomfortable questions at border control.

“Ensure any agreement contains sufficient detail to limit the possibility of conflict and confusion. For example, clearly state the location where handovers will be taking place and set out the times for collection and drop off.

“Each family is different so try not to compare your arrangement with others. Some families are able to share the school holidays 50-50. However, this may not work for others. Unless there are particular circumstances that prevent this from being possible or safeguarding concerns, it is generally reasonable for children to spend at least one or possibly two consecutive weeks with each parent.

“If you are able to reach a suitable parenting plan with your ex-partner, there is absolutely no need for the court or lawyers to get involved. In the unfortunate scenario where you cannot agree matters with your ex-partner, it is advisable to seek legal advice from a family law specialist.”

2 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 2nd August 2023 at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Mark Smith, `Transplant Journey`. Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year, and we look forward to welcoming our regular members, visitors and new members. For more information, please call Stephen Clarke on 07593 792967.

2 The Barnsley Recorded Music Society puts the sound recordings of the American classical music conductor Thomas Schippers under the microscope at its forthcoming meeting on Wednesday 2 August. Now largely forgotten Thomas Schippers was one of the leading conductors of his day in both America and Italy. Active for 25 years from 1951 to his early death in 1976 he conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and the Metropolitan Opera in the USA, and La Scala Milan and the Spoleto Festival in Italy. Leading this investigation into Schippers will be David Patmore, the author of ‘The Naxos A-Z of Conductors’ and a frequent writer on the subject of recordings of the past. The meeting will take place at the Friends Meeting House, 2. Western Street, Barnsley S70,

at 2 pm on Wednesday 2 August. Admission for non–Society members is £2, including refreshments. For further information, please contact David Patmore on 07953098767, davidpatmore@hotmail.com

2 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall Manchester Road Stocksbridge at 7.15 for 7.30 start, when our speaker’s subject will be An Introduction to Family Trees. Visitors are always welcome. Further details on 07939941818

SATUrdAy

5 Summer Coffee Morning Saturday 5th August 10—

11.30 Zion Church Hall Langsett Road South Oughtibridge Raffle Gifts Refreshments Everyone Welcome.

5 Free entertainment at EPPiC Theatre , off High Street, Ecclesfield S35 9TP. Clive Hudson will be hosting COFFEE and CHORDS, and will be joined by John and Vic Bowden and Daz Barry (all subject to late change) Entertainment will start at approx 1 10.45.Admission is free, but the sale of refreshments helps EPPiC funds. Our regular open theatre operates from 10 am until 12 noon every Saturday , with refreshments on sale.

5 FreeStyle Batik Workshop

10.30am - 1.30pm in the nurturenature Healing Garden Finkle Street Lane Wortley S35 7DH.Please bring an apron £15.subsidised places

available,if needed,on application. All materials and free refreshments provided. Plant sale. Register by phone 07831 505 627 or email Helena: nurturenature61@gmail.com

5 Bullhouse chapel will be open every Saturday until the end of September, from 11am until 2pm, as a Quiet Space. Whilst everyone is welcome, we hope any walkers who have to leave the Trans Pennine Trail, due to the diversion across Millennium Bridge, may like to visit to have their picnic and a cuppa, use the loo! Bullhouse Chapel is a ‘dissenters chapel’ and is the oldest independent chapel in the country to have been in continuous use in the same building since 1692

5 Free Style Batik Workshop

10 30am to 1.30pm Nurturenature Healing Garden Finkle Street Lane Wortley S35 7 DX

All materials provided. Please bring an apron. Free Refreshments. Plant Sale Some financial support provided if necessary Book via Helena@naturenurture61 or 07831 505 624

SUndAy

6 Bullhouse Chapel continues to open for Christian Worship on a Sunday at 2.30pm during August. There will be no formal preacher but someone in the gathering leading a quiet time with a mixture of readings, thought and music. All are welcome to join us.

WedneSdAy

9 High Green Development Trust’s Summer Celebration

YOU ARE INVITED TO 9th August 2023 11.30am - 2pm

Join us for food, drink and music in the gardens here at The Campus to celebrate the achievements of 2022 / 2023 with the launch of our social accounts. We welcome all the HGDT team, occupants and their customers as well as partners and stakeholders from across the community. Please RSVP and advise of any dietary requirements to Lauren community@hgdt.org / 07738361122 (WhatsApp or text).

9 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Hall on Main Street. We will be meeting next on Wednesday the 9th of August for 10am. We would especially welcome new members for a pleasant convivial social occasion. After the formal meeting we are to receive a fascinating talk by Paul Adey on ‘ The History of the Motor Industry in Europe’. After the meeting some members continue to Wortley Hall for an informal lunch.

ThUrSdAy

10 Stocksbridge & District History Society meeting. Christ Church Hall 7PM - Speaker John Gilliam - Life of Captain Cook, all are welcome. 10 Chapeltown WI will meet in the Methodist Church at

On listings

7.30pm. This will be a social evening with light refreshments. The competition is for a favourite cup and saucer. New members are always welcome.

FridAy

11 Hillsborough Tabernacle

S64 HF Concert for Rwanyana Community Trust Uganda. Registered Charity. This is part of a National Tour by Maryen Cairnsindie folksinger/songwriter.

“ a minstrel, an entertainer who brings madcap joy and whimsy and the proper touch of artistic madness ``.At 7pm. Tickets £10, £5 for under 21’s available from Jamie on 0780 537 8012 or www.MARYENCAIRNS.com Maryen is kindly donating all proceeds to the Charity.

SATUrdAy

12 7 pm Christ Church Stocksbridge S36 1DY Concert for Rwanyana Community Trust Uganda, Registered Charity. This is part of a National Tour by Maryen Cairns-indie folksinger/ songwriter. “ a minstrel, an entertainer who brings madcap joy and whimsy and the proper touch of artistic madness.” At 7pm. Tickets £10, £5 for under 21’s available from Jamie on 0780 537 8012 or www.MARYENCAIRNS.com. Maryen is kindly donating all proceeds to the Charity.

12 music festival at Rugby pitches’ Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby are

holding the 1st of what they hope will become an annual Music Festival on Saturday 12th August, at Coal Pit Lane (S36 1AW) start time 1pm. The fun event will consist of Live Music, Local Singers/ Bands, BBQ, Café Open & of course a well stocked bar. All are welcome, so come along, join in & have some fun.

MondAy

14 7pm Bullhouse Chapel Bullhouse Lane Millhouse Green S36 9NF Concert for Rwanyana Community Trust Uganda Registered Charity . This is part of a National Tour by Maryen Cairns - indie folk singer/ songwriter “ a minstrel, an entertainer who brings madcap joy and whimsy and the proper touch of artistic madness,”Tickets £10, £5 for under 21,s available from Jamie on 0780 537 8012 or www.MARYENCAIRNScom. Maryen is kindly donating all proceeds to the Charity

ThUrSdAy

17 - Stocksbridge Community Care Group, holding their annual general meeting at 2pm. All are welcome to attend, and any enquiries please contact: (0114) 2830141.

FridAy

18, “Free Mini Beast Hunt in Chapeltown Park - Friday 18th August, 2023 from 10.30 am to 12.30pm. Register at the bandstand. Crafts and refreshments available.”

SATUrdAy

19 - Stocksbridge Christian Centre Ceder Road, Afternoon Tea Saturday from 3pm - 5pm. Prices starting at £7 book in advance is essential phone (0114) 2884377.

19 10am to 1.00pm Creative Writing Workshop in the nurturenature Healing Garden Finkle Street Lane Wortley S35 7DH. £15 subsidised places available, if needed, on application. Plant Sale Register by phone on 07831 505 627 or email Helena : nurturenature61@gmail.com

19 Penistone Refugee and Asylum Seekers’ Support Group are organising a social cycle ride along the Trans Pennine Trail from Silkstone Common Station to Wigfield Farm and back to Silkstone Common this summer. The ride will start at 10:30am on Saturday 19th August 2023, meeting at Silkstone Common Train Station, Knabbs Lane, Silkstone Common. Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 30th August 2023 at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Stuart Lines, `What a Way to Run a Railway`. Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year, and we look forward to welcoming our regular members, visitors and new members. For more information,

please call Stephen Clarke on 07593 792967.

SePTeMBer

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

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 fur ther 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

Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir meets on Monday Evenings (19.30 to 21.30) at Millhouse Green Institute,

ROEBUCK Judith

A golden voice is silenced. Judith passed away peacefully at home with her family on Wednesday 19th July 2023, aged 89.

Wife of the late Ron, much loved Mum of Greg, Catherine, Paul and Helen, Mother-inLaw to Sue, Hugh, Anne and the late Je ; adored Nannan and Great Nan. She will be missed by many including a Sister, Nieces and Nephews and lots of friends.

All are welcome to St. John’s, Deepcar on Wednesday 9th August at 13.00 and afterwards at Grenoside Crematorium, South Chapel at 14.30. Please wear bright clothing at Judith’s request. Family owers only please; donations in lieu for Mary’s Meals and/or Children in Distress Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, She eld S36 2RE Telephone - 0114 2885555

BACON Gordon

Passed away 17th July 2023 aged 89 years. Much loved Husband of Shirley, Father to Elayne, Father-in-Law to Jim and Grandad to Gareth.

Service to be held at South Chapel, Grenoside Crematorium, on Wednesday 9th August at 1.30pm.

Family owers only please, but donations if desired to Gordon’s chosen charity, RSPCA at the service or c/o John Fairest Funeral Care, 10/56 Penistone Road North, Wadsley Bridge, She eld, S6 1LQ

Family Notices

Family Notices

Stocksbridge Town Fund

There have been several letters published in Look Local in recent weeks about the Stocksbridge Towns Fund and specifically the Trails Project which is one of the ten projects across the town that we are working with Sheffield City Council to deliver as part of the £24.1m investment in Stocksbridge.

Whilst we do not intend to get drawn into the many inaccuracies that have been written and repeated, we do think it is important to clarify our position and the role of the Towns Fund Board in delivering this investment for our community.

Funding for the Towns Fund projects was confirmed by the Government in December 2022, effectively giving the green light to start on the next phase of the more detailed work and move towards the delivery of the projects we have committed to in our Town Deal.

The board took a decision at this point to review some projects against a changing landscape and circumstances from the bid’s early development and outline proposals in 2020. The Trails Project was reviewed following concerns about costs, return on investment and the deliverability and timescales of the wider Upper Don Trail vision. Following this review the board decided not to fund sections of the Upper Don Trail at Deepcar and Morehallthough a section at Underbank will be funded as part of a wider package of interventions planned for this part of the town.

Whilst we support and applaud the aspirations and vision of the Upper Don Trail Trust and understand they are disappointed by this decision, we must stress that all the decisions we take about funding are set against the background of the need to drive the sustainable economic regeneration of Stocksbridge and deliver long term benefits and growth. This is a once in a generation opportunity for our community and getting it right is incredibly important, if that means reviewing a project and

taking a second look, to ensure it delivers for our community then I hope your readers would agree that is the right thing as a Board for us to do.

We believe we have the opportunity to deliver a better project for the town which links with the regenerated town centre and will bring those long term benefits. Ensuring that this investment delivers for our town.

We are investing in walking and cycling trails and will be partnering with Yorkshire Water to increase the impact of that investment – so we can create not only a safe link to the reservoir from the town centre, but once there, offer a host of activities and create a real destination. We want this project to benefit the town and build on its location at the gateway to some of the most beautiful countryside in our region. We also need to have certainty that our Trails Project can be delivered in its entirety and is not dependent on other funding streams and factors that are out of our control.

Members of the Towns Fund Board are residents and representatives from different parts of our community, we are all volunteers and are custodians of the vision and direction of the Towns Fund projects. You can see our membership on the website where regular updated are also posted: www.welcometostocksbridge.co.uk

Please be assured that a great deal of work is underway across all our projects, delivering sustainable improvements and regeneration are never straightforward but ensuring that we have the right outcome for Stocksbridge is always our guiding principle. We look forward to continuing our work with Sheffield City Council along with local stakeholders and partners in delivering for our town.

THE STOCKSBRIDGE TOWNS FUND BOARD

Colours of the sun

I decided to change my front room to the colours of the sun.

I bought a lot of yellow items, I really had some fun.

I bought some large yellow sun flowers, Lamp shades and some cushions, to decorate the place.

All in a lovely yellow, I was really very pleased. The room is now a sunshine room, full of warmth and happiness.

All because of sunshine colours i got it right i guess.

By Margaret Eggenton

Looking to the future

Looking up beyond the sky, towards the stars and planets so high.

Do our spirits ascend there when we die? Is there a heaven beyond the sky? It was foretold a thousand years ago, but times have changed so much. Since this prophecy occurd. Why doesn't god just give us a sign of hope for the future,

Then our doubts would decline, Modern day life has changed our way of thinking, Our busy lives have taken over.

So, what's in the future when we pass away? Is it a new beginning in a different way?

By Margaret Eggenton

Places for People builds on success of Big Sister project to create more healthy communities

Places for People - the UK’s leading social enterprise - has launched the Active Communities Programme – helping more people live healthier lifestyles in Sheffield.

Continuing the progress made from the Big Sister Project, and other successful projects including Still On The Go and Make Your Move, the Active Communities programme will focus on delivering and promoting work in local communities in Sheffield, Amber Valley, Norwich and Milton Keynes to bolster community engagement and investment initiatives.

Recently, Places for People partnered with four organisations – Places Leisure, Places Foundation, Women in Sport, and Hey Girls – to successfully deliver the Big Sister Project. A programme designed to support teenage girls to enjoy sport, exercise and physical activity during puberty whilst also alleviating period poverty by providing access to puberty education and free period products. There are currently 11 Places Leisure Centres delivering this project throughout this year and beyond.

Now, the Active Communities programme will work on the ground, with the aim of delivering further real social impact where it matters to support customers and communities to be more active, healthier and improve their wellbeing. The programme will foster local relationships and provide social, exercise and wellbeing activity opportunities by supporting at least 75 community organisations by March 2024. These organisations will be supported through a range of partnerships in-

cluding with Places for People’s leisure provider Places Leisure and receive support with funding through the Place’s Foundation - an independent charity that is supported by the Places for People Group.

The first grant applications have already been received for projects across the country including a community craft group in Amber Valley, a girls’ health and fitness event in Sheffield, a games room in a retirement living scheme in Hampshire, a youth boxing project in Milton Keynes, and refugee football sessions in Norwich. Places for People’s Director of Places Impact Marcus Hulme explained: “We are delighted to launch our Active Communities Programme – helping to protect the health and wellbeing of people living in our communities in these initial target areas.

“Our team are already active on the ground implementing eight new projects which we aim to increase weekon-week. The team will continue to foster new partnerships and engage with those who share our passion for removing the obstacles that hinder peoples’ desire to live a healthy life.”

Active Communities has been shaped by real-world data gathered from Places for People customers through a national wellbeing survey*. The survey revealed that only 20% of respondents were mostly or completely satisfied with their health, significantly lower than the UK average of 45%. Additionally, 59% of participating households had at least one person with a disability or limiting condition. These statistics have guided the de-

cision-making process in developing the Active Communities programme.

Marcus continued: “This data showed a clear demand from people within Places for People’s communities in Sheffield, Amber Valley, Norwich and Milton Keynes, as they aspire to get more active.

Active Communities is the latest in a wave of support from Places for People for customers in these regions, and builds on the recent Big Sister project; launched in May 2022 and supported by Women in Sport and social enterprise Hey Girls, Big Sister has already engaged more than 3,250 girls, 70 community partners and 68 schools – breaking down the prohibitive barriers of affordability, body confidence, managing periods or worrying about safety or harassment.

Marcus concluded: “Through investing in our Active Communities programme, we will continue to be able to help people protect their health and wellbeing. I’m delighted with what the new team has already achieved and look forward to supporting hundreds more people as we nurture active, thriving and engaged communities across the country.”

Find out more at https://www.placesforpeople.co.uk/ about-us/community/community-projects

Sheffield WedneSday fan dieS folloWing attack

Michelle Wall posed: “I still cannot believe you've gone Richard Wheeler, I have known you for over 30+years, you weren't just a work colleague you were a great friend. You were certainly the life and soul of any party, you only had to walk into the room and you lit it up.

“You will always be in everybody's thoughts. I for one will treasure the memories, laughs and good times that we had. Gonna miss you mate.”

Matthew Corker described him as ‘one of the biggest Sheffield Wednesday fans you will ever come across’.

Jon Blundell posted: “Rest in Peace Richard. Proud to have called you a friend.”

TribuTe held for scooTer rider

Vigil held to pay tribute to scooter rider killed in collision with ambulance in Hoylandswaine, Adam Fowler reports.

Around a hundred people have gathered at the site of a crash that killed a man in his 30s.

He was riding a scooter on the evening of 29 July in Hoylandswaine near Barnsley when it was in a collision with an ambulance responding to an emergency call.

Tributes are continuing to pour in for a much-loved man who lost his fight for life after being attacked in Sheffield city centre, Claire Lewis reports.

Richard Wheeler, aged in his 50s, was on a night out with friends when he was left critically injured after being assaulted close to The Bessemer pub in the Leopold Street/ Orchard Lane area, at around 11.10pm on Saturday, July 15. He has since tragically passed away, leaving friends and relatives devastated.

Sally Harrison described Mr Wheeler as ‘a true gent and lovely bloke’ and Nicole Slater said he was ‘a truly lovely guy who always made time for Sally Har a chat’ and would be ‘sadly missed’.

Dave Lappin described him as ‘a great, fun-loving lad who will be missed by all’ and Victoria Lloyd said he was ‘such a nice caring man’.

Liam Jones, 20, of Morland Road, Gleadless Valley, Sheffield, appeared in court before Mr Wheeler’s death charged with two counts of Section 18 assault, one count of Section 20 assault, and one count of possession of an offensive weapon.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident in which Mr Wheeler was injured should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 1,124 of July 15, 2023.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted on 0800 555111.

Friends, family and well-wishers assembled on the A628 to pay their respects to the man, who hasn't been formally named.

Around 30 of the mourners turned up on motorcycles, blocking off part of the road to express their grief at the exact spot where the crash happened. Throughout the day flowers have also been left at the site. Meanwhile, the ambulance driver is assisting officers with their enquiries and South Yorkshire Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with CCTV footage to come forward.

northern Rail launch their new cleaning app

“It will enable them to ensure the right trains receive the right attention at the right time – which is essential when the time available to complete a ‘basic clean’ can be very limited.

“With over 2,500 services a day departing from stations across 3,000km of track, the cleaning task facing my team is massive.

“This new approach was the brainchild of one of our graduate trainees, Sebastian Chromiak, who deserves the credit for taking this challenge and finding a data-driven solution."

For its work on this new approach, the train operator has been nominated for a Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) ‘Award for Excellence’.

port and logistics profession. In their category (Operations Management), Northern has been nominated alongside online fashion giant Boohoo and supply chain specialist Wincanton. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Thursday, 28 September 2023.

In 2022, Northern released a video to highlight the monumental task its 500 train presentation operatives have to keep its 345 trains clean and tidy.

Northern carries out train cleaning duties at 42 locations on its network, including five main TrainCare Centres at Allerton (Merseyside), Newton Heath (Grater Manchester), Heaton (Tyne & Wear), Neville Hill (West Yorkshire) and Hull Botanic Gardens (East-Riding).

Northern is developing an app that will let its team of over 500 train presentation operatives know ‘to the minute’ when any given train on their network was last cleaned.

It is part of a new plan led approach to the ‘basic cleans’ that take place in carriages while trains are waiting at stations during passenger service.

Train presentation staff will be able to easier-identify which trains are most

in need of attention, based on real time data, rather than tackling them on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis.

Richard Holt, head of train presentation at Northern, said: “The technology we’re developing will give my team a level of insight parents can only dream of when it comes to their children’s untidy bedrooms - knowing exactly ‘to the minute’ when a space was last cleaned.

Holt added: “Since the COVID-19 pandemic, our customers’ expectations in terms of train cleanliness has, quite rightly, increased significantly. My team has worked incredibly hard to maintain those new high standards and to be nominated for a CILT Award for Excellence is a testament to their efforts.”

The CILT Awards for Excellence celebrate industry best practice in logistics and transport and recognise the brightest talent and most pioneering organisations across the UK.

This year’s finalists were selected by an expert judging panel from across the trans-

Each year, the team carries out 695,000 ‘carriage cleans’ and work their way through 32,759 microfibre cloths, 10,300 sponges, 1,724 litres of toilet cleaner and 2,265 litres of floor and surface cleaners. They also replenish some 26 million pieces of toilet tissue and 778 litres of hand soap.

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.

Photo:

Married Mr Wheeler was a keen runner, cyclist, Sheffield Wednesday fan and a supporter of the New England Patriots American Football team.

Sweaty Betty BoSS joinS South yorkShire’S active travel team

South Yorkshire’s Mayor has announced the appointment of Nicola Marshall, leader of the Sweaty Betty Foundation, as the region’s new Active Travel Programme Director.

Working alongside Mayor Oliver Coppard and Active Travel Commissioner, Ed Clancy OBE, Nicola will drive ambitions to make walking, wheeling and cycling the first choice for everyday trips in South Yorkshire and lead on the development of the region’s cycling and walking network.

With over 20 years of experience at organisations including Cycling UK and Save the Children, Nicola has worked across multiple charity and sports sectors to empower individuals, families and communities. Leading the Sweaty Betty Foundation - the corporate charity of the activewear brand, Sweaty Betty – Nicola’s most recent role specifically supported women and girls to get active, and stay active, for life.

Nicola, said: “I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to make South Yorkshire the best place to walk and cycle in the UK. I passionately want my toddler to grow up thinking the first choice for every journey is on his feet, a scooter, or a bike. Creating safe places to walk and cycle is a brilliant start, but we also need to actively support people to choose to get on their feet or their bike.

“I love being active, but I know as a mum with limited time it often feels easier to jump in the car. My job will be about building on the amazing opportunities that are already out there in our region and supporting communities with what can, sometimes, be tricky challenges around choosing active travel. I can’t wait to start making it easy and cost effective for thousands more people to cycle and walk more every day, helping make South Yorkshire a better place to live.”

Nicola brings a wealth of understanding from across the active travel sector to South Yorkshire, from her role as Director of Income Generation at Cycling UK, where she supported the creation of cycle friendly environments. In her ten year career at Save the Children, Nicola supported families in the UK to give the best start to their children, by linking up the public, private and third sectors to make a difference in communities and create change.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard, said: “I’ve been open about the challenges we still face in delivering on our ambitions for active travel, but I’m determined to build a better-connected, more sustainable and healthier South Yorkshire. People being able to walk or cycle where they want, when they want, is the foundation on which more liveable, healthier and wealthier communities are built.

“Nicola brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise as we seek to step up our efforts to encourage walking and cycling schemes. We’ve been promised a London-style integrated transport network for South Yorkshire, and Nicola will be central to our work to drive change.”

Nicola will join South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority on 1 August to support delivery of the region’s Active Travel Implementation Plan for over 1000km of walking and cycling routes, 800m of safe crossings and 230 sq. km. of low traffic neighbourhoods across the region by 2040.

Active Travel Commissioner, Ed Clancy, added: “I am very excited to welcome Nicola to our Active Travel team, to support our mission to get people cycling and walking more across South Yorkshire. Her experience and talent will help build on the foundations we’ve laid to transform our infrastructure and to give communities the freedom to choose active travel for everyday trips.

“By putting well-designed and effective schemes in place we can bring about benefits to communities that help to improve lives – through better public health, connections to employment, education and local services, by tackling climate change, and by giving people the confidence and independence to travel safely.”

Belmont care home celeBrate Staff memBer for decadeS of Service

Residents & staff at Belmont House Care & Nursing Home in Stocksbridge held a retirement party for their much-loved care worker Eileen Wood. She received a homemade cake, cards, flowers and presents to thank her for her twenty-three years of service and all her hard work.

Eileen has worked at Belmont House in many roles including senior care assistant, kitchen assistant and chef for a total of 23 years. Eileen has loved her time caring for residents and making them smile on her shifts.

‘I have enjoyed my job immensely and I am proud of the care

I have been able to provide for residents and the company. I would do it all again. Country Court has been the best thing that has happened to Belmont’ Commented Eileen

‘Eileen's favourite part of her job here at Belmont House has been providing care for each and every resident, it has given her much pleasure. She has worked both days and nights in her time here and has always given 110% in everything that she does.’ Commented Home Manager Joanne Coldwell.

‘Eileen is a very lovely lady who has always gone the extra mile with all of our residents, she has been a tremendous support to the home and is a very reliable lady who will be missed greatly’ Commented Home Manager Joanne Coldwell.

‘We all wish Eileen well in her retirement and hope she visits us occasionally as she will be missed around the home.’ Commented a group of Care Assistants at Belmont House

Eileen was born in Barnsley and lived with her mum and dad. Eileen eventually moved to Stocksbridge where she married her husband, Michael, in 1973. Eileen and her husband Michael have recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Eileen has 4 children Carol, Sharon, Ruth and Christopher, numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

‘Eileen is most looking forward to getting away in her static caravan in her retirement. She loves exploring different places so this is first and foremost what she will be doing in her retirement.’ Commented Wellbeing Coordinator Yvonne Snape.

SKIP HIRE

Public and Legal Notices

Goods Vehicle Operators Licence

Micheal Bartnick of Doghouse farm Cathill Lane, Penistone, Sheffield, S36 7JB is applying for a restricted operators licence for carriage of own goods for 2 vehicles in relation to the above addressed farm.

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.

DI D YOU KNOW?

LocalSport Belle Vue Vs TiGers rained off

Belle Vue had the unfortunate task of informing fans of both sides that they have had to call off the race between the two rivals.

George above Parr

Tigers sign of triple World Champion

Sheffield have pulled off the sensational signing of triple World Champion Tai Woffinden. The Tru Plant Tigers have swooped to secure the signature of the Great Britain captain as an injury replacement for Jack Holder who is facing a spell on the sidelines with a broken wrist. It will go down as one of the Club’s biggest ever signings as the Owlerton outfit remain focussed on booking their place in the Sports Insure Premiership Play-Offs.

Penistone’s George Parr sealed first place at the latest Trunce trail race at Oxspring. He fought off some close competition to win via a sprint finish in a time of 27-15. There were also age category wins for Lesley Parker (first over40 lady) and Barbara Haigh (first over70 lady). Jon Hallam grabbed second place in the men’s over40 age category. Several Penistone runners took part in the Up the Nab fell race near Glossop and enjoyed some success. George Parr was third overall and Penistone also picked up first team prize. The team consisted of George Parr, James Fryers and Steve Storey. James also picked up first place in the men’s under21 age category. On the parkrun scene there was first place for Alex Melhuish at Friedrichsau in Germany. Andrew Heppenstall was second at the Haverfordwest parkrun.

Junior Trunce

7, Finn Pepper 17-59.

Senior Trunce

Co-Promoter Damien Bates said: “For Sheffield to sign a rider like Tai Woffinden is a massive coup, not only for us as a Club but for British Speedway as a whole.

“Tai’s had his reasons for not racing in the UK for a while now but as soon as Steady (Simon Stead – team manager) spoke to him, he was well up for it.

“Jack has had an operation but we can’t say for definite how long he’ll be out for and we don’t know how quickly he’ll be ready to come back. “August is a busy and crucial month; we’ve got a lot of fixtures coming up and we’ve still got work to do to get into the play-offs.

“With the July weather causing havoc with the fixture list, it means there’s going to be a lot of hectic race nights in the Premiership on Mondays and Thursdays for the next four weeks or so.

“So I don’t want to be struggling to be booking guests or being forced to run rider replacement at No.1.

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1

The race was set to be staged Monday the 31st of July at the National Speedway Stadium in the evening. But after track inspections and a further look into the forecast for the rest of the day, the rain didn’t look as though it was going to ease and the club decided that the best course of action was to postpone the race as it would prove to be too treacherous for the riders.

The Tigers would have been without their number one rider Jack Holder after he suffered a suspected broken wrist, as he crashed out during FIM Monster Energy Speedway World Cup Final, representing his

Fans were able to either be refunded for the event or have their tickets carried over to the rescheduled event at a later date which is still yet to be decided.

A spokesman from the Belle Vue speedway team posted an apology on their social media page, which read, “Unfortunately! The club has taken the regrettable decision to postpone today’s fixture against Tigers Speedway. Due to inclement weather and forecasted rainfall during the race time period. We have given every chance and opportunity for this to change, however, we have seen no improvements to the forecast.”

1, George Parr 27-15; 11, Sam Davison 30-27; 13, Daniel Hague 30-36; 19, Jon Hallam 3131; 29, Steve Sanders 33-11; 33, Oliver France 33-54; 57, Oliver Found 36-56; 59, Matthew Coldwell 37-11; 66, Lesley Parker 38-22; 70, Nick Pepper 38-37; 73, Lee Storey 38-45; 74, Stephen Storey 38-45; 79, Paul Fryers 39-23; 84, Martyn Goodwin 39-44; 95, Mark Graham 41-02; 102, Helen Wright 41-59; 109, Steve Dickinson 42-31; 115, Racheal Winterbottom 43-19; 126, Heath Ramsden 44-20; 133, Stu Smith 44-59; 134, Harriet Drouin 45-30; 138, Heather Lindley 45-53; 168, Barbara Hague 51-22; 171, Ray Brown 53-07; 182, Tracey Woodward 56-20; 184, Sarah Clough 56-44. Barnsley Parkrun

27, Matthew Coldwell 23-38; 33, Martyn Goodwin 24-33; 41, Alan Knox 25-17; 72, Rory O'Sullivan 28-32; 73, Susan Hall 28-40; 74, Stuart Smith 28-41; 81, Jill Scrivens 29-12; 94, Daniel Batty 30-27; 105, Raymond Brown 31-46.

Penistone Parkrun

"So with that in mind we felt it’s better to bring in an injury replacement for Jack for now, have a full team and give ourselves the best chance of making sure we stay in that top four.

“In Tai we’ve brought in a genuine, proven world class rider and it’s going to be great to see him lining up in a Sheffield race jacket.”

The last time Woffinden raced in the UK, he helped parent club Wolverhampton lift the topflight trophy in 2016.

Now back in British Speedway for the first time in seven years, the 32-year-old is looking forward to racing for the Tru Plant Tigers at a place he holds close to his heart.

“Steady jumped on the phone and said that Jack was going to be out and asked if I wanted to fill in," Woffinden said.

“One positive thing is that the boys that I have spoken to about racing in England, no one has had a bad thing to say whereas five or six years ago that was a different story.

“So it’s all cool, the boys are super positive about everything and I’m looking forward to having some fun.

“It’s been a long, long time since I raced around Sheffield but it’s a sick track and I’m really looking forward to getting out there.

“In fact one of the last times I rode there was probably when I won the Premier League Riders’ Championship in 2008 – it’s a place I have so many memories from.

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5, Ben Malcolm 19-16; 8, George Parr 20-24; 15, Gareth Irvine 21-34; 20, Lee Hopkins 2234; 42, Hannah Shaw 24-49; 43, Shelley Anne Gill 24-52; 46, Peter Beever 25-10; 58, Helen Turner 25-47; 66, Robert Davies 26-26; 67, Kelvin Bowskill 26-27; 84, Eleanor Law 29-03; 103, Sarah Clough 30-41; 127, Martyn Cartwright 33-24; 132, Myfanwy Cross 34-12; 150, Dianne Mcguinness 35-59. 07769

“I used to go to Sheffield as a kid and it will probably ignite all those memories from when I was younger; I have a lot of connections there and it’s going to be interesting to get back there for sure.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there and going racing and let’s see how high up in the Premiership we can finish.”

The Tru Plant Tigers head to Leicester on Thursday (August 3, 7.30) with their trip to Belle Vue rearranged for Monday (August 7, 7.30).

They’re back at Owlerton next Thursday (August 10, 7.30) with Leicester the visitors when Woffinden will make his home debut.

SteelS S urpri S e neighbourS with dominant di S play

PARK STEELS 3-0 OWLS

Stocksbridge would be the ones to open the scoring as Luke Rawson controlled the ball before he smashed the ball into the back of the net, as Park Steels went into the half-time break 1-0 up.

Park Steels had the ascendency in the second half as they continued to barrage the Chesterfield goal playing a higher line and eventually, Stocksbridge forced the opposition into a mistake as Charlie Wragg caught the defender napping at the back and pinched the ball before he calmly slotted home from close range.

Stocksbridge drew first blood in the first half as Thomas Poole caught The Owls' backline off guard, steamed into the box before smashing it past the keeper. Poole would double his tally after the home side were awarded a penalty for a handball in the box and up stepped Poole to Panenka the ball for his brace.

And just before the half-time whistle Ify Ofoegbu curled a brilliant effort into the top corner and left Hall with no chance of saving it.

Church win on opening day with 10 men

Stocksbridge Park Steels' confidence continues to soar as they make light work of local rivals Chesterfield and Sheffield Wednesday.

A young Chesterfield XI would be the first to make the trip to Bracken Moor, on a rainy Wednesday evening and despite the early setback as Lucas Bell had to be rushed off to hospital after he suffered a broken arm challenging for a header.

Stocksbridge didn’t rest there and continued their onslaught and nearly made it three before the full-time whistle in a game they dominated for the majority.

Then two days later Park Steels would host a young Sheffield Wednesday XI on Friday evening and the game started as you’d expect with both sides having chances, Wednesday came the closest to opening the scoring, but their efforts were unable to hit their targets.

Stocksbridge went into the second half now their tails up as they searched for more goals, causing all sorts of problems for the visitors. But The Owls managed to keep out the hosts and held the scoreline to just three.

Stocksbridge’s pre-season is coming to an end with only FC United of Manchester (2nd of August) and Barnsley XI (7th of August) left to play, both games kick off at 7pm.

The season begins on the 12th of August.

Penistone Church started the new league campaign with a win despite being a man down for most of the second half.

Penistone came under pressure early in the game but dealt with anything the home side could throw at them. Penistone opened the scoring a quarter into the first half, a well-drilled cross into the box that found Kieran Ryan who slotted home for the only goal of the game.

Early in the second half saw Penistone’s shot-stopper shown a red card as he was adjudged to have handled outside of his box and would play the remaining 44 minutes of the game down to 10 men.

Co-Manager John Whitehead had nothing but praise for how his side showed their grit and determination to see out the game.

With the upcoming campaign just 5 weeks away, Head Coach Andy Law rence is encouraged by the attendance & effort being put into pre-season training currently. There are a few new faces to integrate with the current & retained squad as Lawrence prepares his charges for the trip to

ber for the opening fixture, before the 1st home game against York RI on 9th September, kick-off at 3 pm.

Commenting on the new laws around the tackle height Lawrence said, ‘ Player safety is paramount and adjustments over recent years

to the rules and tackle heights have improved player safety and mitigated injuries compared to decades past, if this season's incoming law changes further improve player safety, then we have to embrace it’.

Lawrence has also spoken about how he intends to coach the new laws, ‘ I think you still have to treat the tackle as a collision and the team that dominates the collision normally will gain the momentum which is all important in the modern game. The difference now is you must focus more on shifting the collision sideways which is how I would prefer to play anyway. Chop tackles need to become the default tackle where possible and chop tackles focus more on stopping the legs than the ball and upper body. I will be focusing on the waist area because contact here means you can still control and dominate the collision, any lower you are still effective but less dominant.

I do have concerns that this isn’t always possible, and I can only hope that referees take a sensible approach

But The Church dug in deep and continued to create chances despite being a man down and held on for their first win of the season.

with their interpretation because yellow card after yellow card will quickly ruin a contest’.

When asked about his hopes for the coming season Lawrence said,

"We are aiming for more consistency and ultimately a top 4 finish this season. We are working on a style and a system that will make for an entertaining brand of rugby that people will want to come up and watch. I want the boys to play with confidence, freedom and a belief in themselves and each other. There is a fine line between playing like this and not taking unnecessary risks and that’s where the experience within the squad becomes an advantage", before adding,

"This year’s pre-season feels different, we are hitting the ground

“We’re really good as a team when our backs are against the wall and for the 44 minutes or so that remained, we dug deep. We defended the frame of the goal well and restricted Golcar to long shots or crosses into the box.” John Whitehead said. It’s a quick turn-around for the Church as they go again on Wednesday evening, the 2nd of August with a home match against Emley AFC drew 0-0 with Maltby Main in their opening match, But Penistone will have to play this coming match without their number one shotstopper between the sticks.

running and now the boys know me and I know them we can get straight to work. We have had good numbers up at pre-season with more to come and I am really proud of the culture we are building, new faces are welcomed and treated as teammates straight away."

‘rugby training going well’