JAILED:
20-year-old man for Burglary
A 20-year-old man has been jailed for 12 weeks for his involvement in a Sheffield burglary.
Shaun Tavernor, of Holme Lane, Sheffield, was charged with one count of burglary other than dwelling - theft. He pleaded guilty to the charge during a hearing on 9 October and was sentenced on the same date.
Tavernor broke into a takeaway in the Hillsborough area on the evening of 5 August 2024 and stole a till from inside the premises. He was arrested and subsequently charged following an investigation by the North West Neighbourhood Policing Team.
A 17-year-old boy who was also arrested as part of the same investigation is currently on bail pending further enquiries.
LIFE AT 90
CELEBRATING A COMMUNITY STALWART
In a heartfelt celebration of 90 remarkable years, we sat down with Doris Stubbs, a beloved local resident known for her tireless commitment to the community and the countless lives she’s touched. This is Doris’s story, a rich tapestry of volunteerism, compassion, and resilience.
“When they unveiled the first scanner at Hallamshire Hospital, I never imagined I’d be there with Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson,” Doris reminisces, her eyes sparkling with pride. She was one of the 100 locals who helped raise £1,000 each to fund the scanner, a moment of profound achievement for the city and a testament to what collective goodwill can achieve.
Doris’s public service extended to over 25 years on the Parish Council, where she spearheaded the construction of the Toad Tunnel. She explains with a laugh, “Wyllan Horsfall had been ferrying toads across the road in buckets for years, and when I joined him, I decided to enter us in a competition.” To her delight, they won, and she took Wyllan to Edinburgh Castle to accept an award from Prince Charles, gifting him a bronze toad as a memento of their quirky yet heartfelt mission.
Continued on page 11
A Burncross resident has voiced growing frustration over a persistent and hazardous sinkhole on Burncross Road, which has le her driveway inaccessible for over six weeks and stirred concerns about accountability and safety.
“ ey then disappeared,” she shared, highlighting that the situation has become a frustrating merrygo-round of shiing responsibility between agencies.
A er two weeks of inaction, the Mrs Petre followed up with the council, only to be told it was the responsibility of Yorkshire Water due to a broken highway drainage pipe. When she reached out to Yorkshire Water, they informed her that there was no record of Shefeld City Council reporting the pipe issue.
Sue Petre,63 who lives with her husband Craig opposite the Co-op on Burncross Road, rst noticed the beginnings of the sinkhole on 18 September. She claims to have promptly reported it to Shefeld City Council, who responded by covering the hole. However, when Amey contractors arrived on 1 October, they dug up the pavement, leaving a ‘yawning’ hole –approximately 2 metres wide and 1 metre deep – at the bottom of her driveway.
An inspector from Yorkshire Water is reported to have subsequently attended the site, conducting a thorough inspection, and con rmed that, according to their ndings, the responsibility rested with She eld City Council. “Six weeks on, I still can’t access my drive, and the mats over the hole are moving, making the area very unsafe,” she said.
e ongoing issue, which now leaves pedestrians and residents at risk, has fuelled concerns about safety, with residents calling on She eld City Council and Yorkshire Water to address the situation swi ly and clarify responsibility. As of today, the hole remains a visible and worrying presence on Burncross Road.
Mayor hails decision to move to public consultation on bus reform
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, has hailed the decision to move forward to public consultation on bus franchising, in a process that could bring the region’s buses back under public control.
At the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) board meeting, the Mayor and South Yorkshire leaders considered the independent review of the Bus Franchising Assessment and agreed to progress to a 12-week public consultation on the proposed franchising scheme.
Mayor Coppard has been committed to improving buses in South Yorkshire since his election, with feedback from over 30 public meetings on bus services across all four boroughs in South Yorkshire making clear that the current system is not working for them.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “Today, we’re taking a big step towards xing public transport in South Yorkshire as we consider going back to the future.
“When I was a kid, we had a world-class bus network in South Yorkshire, 2p fares, reliable services and routes that ran right across the region. But a er changes were made to how bus networks were managed in the 1980s, we’ve seen our buses go into a spiral of decline. Fewer people get the bus, so services get worse, so fewer people get the bus.
“Buses are a lifeline to opportunity and without a proper bus network, all too many people can’t get to work, to the Doctor, to school, or just to see friends and family. So today I’m really pleased
that together with the leaders of South Yorkshire’s councils, we’ve agreed to move towards the next phase of the franchising process.
“We’ve already carried out an assessment of the options for changing how our buses are run. at work has determined that if we want to get back to reliable, frequent and more comprehensive services, then public control through a so-called ‘franchised’ model is the best way forward.
“ e leaders of South Yorkshire’s Councils and I agree, so we’re now moving towards the next phase of the franchising process.
“So now we need you to help us decide if that’s the right way forward, and if you want us to bring buses back under public control, like they were before the changes of the 1980s. From October 23rd we will be launching a public consultation so people can have their say on how buses should be run here. I will listen carefully and consider all options before making a nal decision.”
A er the decision by leaders today, a 12-week public consultation will run from Wednesday 23 October to Wednesday 15 January 2025, ensuring people are at the heart of the process, with local passengers, businesses and transport providers able to have their say.
Mayor Coppard will then listen to and consider all consultation responses before making a nal decision.
More information on the public consultation will be released in due course with details on how you can get involved.
WANTED MAN FROM SHEFFIELD
Police are asking for your help to nd wanted man Glen Leary.
Leary, 44, of She eld is wanted in connection to burglary, arson, domestic o ences, and absconding lawful custody.
He is described as white, 5 6ins tall, of a slim build with a bald head and stubble facial hair.
Leary is known to frequent Halliwell Crescent, and the Southey Green, Parson Cross, Firth Park, Shiregreen areas of She eld.
If you see Leary, please call 999.
If you have information about Leary’s whereabouts, please get in touch quoting incident number 120 24 October 2024.
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PREPARING FOR A BUSY CHRISTMAS
Nestled in the heart of Chapeltown, Sheffield, The Butchers Block and Deli is renowned for its high-quality meats and locally sourced produce. As they prepare to take Christmas
For Wisewood resident Sophie Middleton, this year’s St Luke’s Hospice Festival of Light holds a deeply personal meaning, marking a chance to celebrate and remember her late father, John, in a very special way. The annual festival, a beloved Sheffield tradition, will light up the hospice’s Little Common Lane garden on Sunday, December 1, with thousands of dedicated lights honouring lost loved ones.
Hosted by BBC Look North presenter and dedicated St Luke’s supporter Tom Ingall, the 2024 Festival of Light promises to be a memorable evening for families across the city. Sophie, who will be attending to remember her dad, recalls how St Luke’s transformed her father’s final Christmas into an unforgettable celebration.
“The most incredible thing about St Luke’s is that they can turn the worst experience of your life into something very special, and that’s exactly what they did for my dad,” Sophie said. “Dad had cancer and was initially a community patient, but last December, he needed to be brought into the hospice for pain management.”
A family gathering at a pub had been planned, but when John’s pain prevented him from attending, the team at St Luke’s brought the festivities to him. “They gave us a wonderful Christmas morning without him needing to leave,” Sophie remembers. “My daughter
orders for 2024, the team is ready to meet the festive demand with a rich selection of traditional favourites and bespoke seasonal offerings.
The Butchers Block first opened its doors in 2023. Driven by a commitment to provide only the best cuts and freshest ingredients.
Working with local farms and suppliers from the start, The Butchers Block and Deli quickly established itself as a trusted source for premium meats, handmade sausages and deli treats. This dedication to supporting Yorkshire’s local farmers and producers has earned them a loyal customer base in Chapeltown and beyond.
The deli side of the business has also flourished, with offerings expanding to include freshly prepared sandwiches and Dimitris’ traditional Greek pitta gyros.
As the holiday season approaches, The Butchers Block and Deli has once again opened its Christmas order book, and it’s already shaping up to be a busy season. Their Christmas offerings for 2024 include free-range turkeys, grass-fed beef roasts, festive hams, and their signature pigs in blankets.
Staff are also on hand to offer guidance on quantities and cuts, ensuring customers have everything they need for their holiday .. As 2024 draws to a close, The Butchers Block is not only looking back on a successful year but also forward to continued growth as they aim to bring the best of local, sustainable produce to tables across Chapeltown. Wisewood Mum
Poppy, who adored her grandad, was there, and Santa even came to hand out presents. They had festive music, decorations, and a lovely breakfast waiting for us. It was truly magical.”
Though John later returned home, St Luke’s became the place where he spent his final days, with Sophie and her brother Jack by his side. “Being there with him felt comforting, almost like we were kids again. St Luke’s became like an extended family to us, and we can never repay what they did for us all,” Sophie added. “When Poppy visited, no one batted an eyelid as she joyfully pushed her grandad in his wheelchair down the corridor. St Luke’s made it feel like a home.”
The Festival of Light offers a chance for Sophie to give back and support the hospice that brought her family so much comfort. In addition to the lighting ceremony, visitors this year can enjoy mulled wine, seasonal foods from local vendors with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and live music from special guests. A new Family Photo Area will also provide families with a space to create fresh memories.
The evening begins at 4pm with the official ceremony scheduled for 6pm. Thanks to First Bus, a free Park and Ride service will be available from Abbeydale Road Tesco, running from 3:45pm to 7:20pm.
To learn more about the 2024 Festival of Light or to make a donation, visit www.festival-of-light.org.uk.
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Pub allowed to extend hours
A village pub near Barnsley has been granted permission to extend its opening hours despite objections, writes Danielle Andrews Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The Green Dragon in Thurgoland can open from 08:00 every day, until midnight Monday to Wednesday and on Sundays, 00:30 on Thursdays and 02:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.
Five objectors at the Barnsley Council licensing board meeting raised concerns over noise and the potential for crime.
Star Pubs and Bars Ltd said it aimed to operate the pub as a community asset and had dropped plans to extend the hours for live and recorded music.
'Dedicated complaints line'
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, objector Martin Thorpe told the meeting: "I don’t think any of us want to see the pub close.
"I think it’s an act of desperation to ask to open a pub 18 hours a day.
"I think it’s a ridiculous request.
"It’s a residential village with young families, elderly people, a very quiet village, and we don’t want to see anything that disrupts that."
George Domleo, speaking on behalf of applicant Star Pubs and Bars, said the change in opening hours would allow the pub to diversify its offerings by providing breakfast, and would allow customers to enjoy a longer stay.
He said the company also agreed to install a CCTV system, operate a Challenge 25 policy to prevent under-age drinking, and provide residents with a dedicated phone number and email address for a designated premises supervisor, to allow residents to make complaints directly during opening hours.
The licensing board unanimously approved the application on the grounds that a minimum of two staff would be on duty at all times
College donates more than £3,500 to help homeless
Barnsley College has made a lifechanging donation to the local homeless and rough-sleeping community after gathering more than £3,500 worth of essential supplies.
Staff and students at the College united to fill 22 rucksacks and 15 carrier bags with winter clothing, toiletries, and food for local charity, the Rucksack Project, an initiative organised by Barnsley Churches Drop-in Project. With official government statistics indicating a 10% rise in homelessness across the UK, the College's remarkable community effort will supply essential resources to local homeless individuals, helping them keep warm and safe during the difficult winter months.
Peter Mulrooney, Chairman of Barnsley Churches Drop-in, said: “Those who are homeless, rough sleeping or sofa surfing need essentials like rucksacks, clothes, food, and other items for their day-to-day survival; over time, these things wear out, get damaged, or even stolen, so constant replacement is crucial.
“This generous contribution from the College is truly appreciated. Thanks to the students, staff, and everyone involved—it really shows there’s an understanding of the challenges in Barnsley and the great support from the College in supporting their community.”
Students from a range of departments including; Business, Childcare
and Health, Engineering, Foundation Learning, Hair and Beauty, Leadership and Management, Safeguarding, Student Services and many others, came together to support the cause.
Lucy Evans, the College’s Cultural Capital and Personal Development Coordinator, who led the initiative, added: “What began as a plan to fill just five rucksacks quickly exceeded my expectations.
“Thanks to the overwhelming support and generosity of our students and staff, we were able to quadruple our goal, providing 22 rucksacks and 15 extra carrier bags filled with essential supplies for those in need in the community.”
Library Celebrates 40 Years
Community members recently gathered to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their library's official opening. The event included short readings, as attendees shared paragraphs from their favourite books, reflecting the library’s legacy of inspiring a love for reading. The celebration concluded with refreshments and an opportunity to chat with the Deputy Lord Mayor, marking four decades of the library as a treasured community hub.
Children starting school 'in nappies and buggies'
Children who spent their early years in lockdowns are starting school with "poor social and developmental skills" caused by screen time and isolation, education leaders have said.
Prof Judy Clegg, a speech therapist at the University of Sheffield, said many reception class entrants lacked "school readiness".
A report co-authored by Prof Clegg and produced by the Centre for Young Lives and Child of the North think tanks found that some new starters were still wearing nappies and using pushchairs.
The report has called for families to be given more support and help to ensure that children are prepared for the school environment.
Sheffield teacher Emma Porter, an early years lead at St Catherine's Catholic Primary School, agreed that many children she taught did not have the necessary communication skills to mix with others.
The report found almost a third of four-year-olds could be classed as "not ready" for full-time classroom learning.
Ms Porter said: "We have seen a decrease in children's ability to communicate with others, with developing their friendships, with their resilience when things are tricky, and talking as well."
She said an increased use of screens during lockdowns could be to blame.
"During the pandemic, children had more access to screens and parents were working from home, so children were having to do something while that was happening.
"I wonder if screens has a lot to do with fewer interactions, and adults not being available to talk to their children. "
She added that children during this time would have seen fewer "models" of people talking to each other or being outdoors and exploring the world around them.
Anne Longfield, founder of the Centre for Young Lives, said: "I have heard many concerning experiences from school staff about children arriving at reception wearing nappies, still using buggies, and unable to communicate at the expected level or to socialise with other children.
"Some of these children have developmental problems, struggle with speech and behaviour, and can require significant extra attention and support from already overstretched schools."
'Silver bullet'
Ms Porter said at her school pushchairs and toilet training were not a particular issue, but communication was.
Prof Clegg added: "Our children are very much our future, so if we can get things right in these early years, then they can go on to thrive.
"If we are thinking about economic terms, if they are not progressing through their education they are less likely to gain employment to generate the economic prosperity that we want."
Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said: "The disruption caused by the pandemic undoubtedly had an impact on the development of some young children, and many school leaders have reported concerns around speech and language development in particular.
"High-quality early years education is one of the nearest things we have to a silver bullet in education, and is vital in helping to narrow the gap between children from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers."
He added it was positive that the new Labour government had made clear that early years was among its top priorities.
The Chairman of Ecclesfield Parish Council, Cllr Susan Davidson / The Chair of Friends of Ecclesfield Library, Parish Cllr Vic Bowden / The Deputy Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Cllr Safiya Saeed .
Imagine how the Peak District will look in the future in family friendly art events at Castleton Visitor Centre this November
An exhibition of seldom-seen nostalgic photographs of Peak District scenes is set to inspire people to think about how places might look in the future and create new pictures to show it.
A Peak District Imaginarium will be created during creative drop-in workshops for the public over two Saturdays at Castleton Visitors Centre, when thoughts, memories and questions will be collected by two artists, working in collaboration with Bob Johnston, Megan Blomfield and Gui Pozzer from the University of Sheffield, and used to envision landscape views that future generations might see.
The exhibition of old photographs will be open every day at Castleton Visitor Centre between 9th and 16th November, from 10am to 4.30pm.
On Saturday 9th and Saturday 16th November, people can join artists Paul Evans and Jon Harrison for a spellbinding experience, employing the magic of AI (Artificial Intelligence) to bring the past into the present and visualise potential futures.
The creative workshops will develop people’s ideas and recollections inspired by the old images to co-create fascinating new
NOVEMBER
FRIDAY
1-3 Silkstone Parish Church S75 4JH Wonderfully Made in Yorkshire. 40 stalls selling unique handmade gifts . Light refreshments available. Entry
- £1.00 Opening times: Friday
- 12.00 noon - 8.00 pm; Saturday & Sunday - 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
SATURDAY
2 EPPiC Theatre On SATURDAY NOVEMBER 2nd, there will be a morning of free musical entertainment COFFEE and CHORDS with WELSH JOHN . His guests this month are well known duo John and Vic Bowden, Daz Barry and Lou Marriott ( all subject to late changes) Taking place at our regular Saturday coffee morning at EPPiC Theatre, Ecclesfield S35 9TP Doors open at 10am, with entertainment starting at approximately 10.45 Admission is FREE, but the sale of refreshments helps theatre funds. Theatre is open every Saturday from 10 until 12 noon
forms generated by advanced but easy to use technology.
There is no need to book, people can just turn up. The family friendly drop-in sessions on the two Saturdays are between 11am and 4pm, these are open to everyone and are free of charge.
Artist Paul Evans said: “We will be looking at rarely seen pictures from the extraordinary Peak District National Park photo archive and using image-generating technology to bring to life archive slides and photos based on what people say in response to the pictures.”
Academic Bob Johnston said: “We hope people will find the images provoke thoughts and conversations about some of the big topics and challenges we face in today’s landscape: climate change, protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage, how we live, work, travel and produce food.”
Peak District National Park cultural heritage team manager Anna Badcock said: “We hope this exciting new public art project with the University of Sheffield will inspire people to think about how landscapes look now, what they have looked like in the past and what they might look like in the future. We hope this will encourage curiosity and a sense of collective care for our extraordinary landscapes, communities and heritage.”
moners - Commoners Muck-In morning- Probably clearing small saplings. Everyone is welcome ... come for as long or as little as you like. Meet 10:00, finish at 12 noon. We have tools, please bring good gloves if you have some. www.walc. epizy.com or facebook page for more details.
MONDAY
4 Bradfield Historical SocietyYorkshire People, a talk by Josephine Firth, Village Hall, Low Bradfield, 2337463, bradfield. history@mypostoffice.co.uk, 7.30pm
4 2.30pm. Stocksbridge and Deepcar Townswomen’s Guild meeting @ Christ Church, Manchester Road. S36 1DY. Speaker will be Martin Rowley “ Air Ambulance/ Helipad Charity”. Visitors welcome @ £3 per meeting.
TUESDAY
5 Ploughman’s Lunches in Bradfield Village Hall Tuesday 5th and Wednesday 6th November 12 - 2pm £8.00 in aid of St.Nicholas’ Church, Bradfield
2 Mini Autumn Fayre 10.30am - 12.30pm gift stall / cake stalls, refreshments served The Salvation Army, Victoria Street, Stocksbridge
2 10-11am Stocksbridge Library Cllr Julie Grocutt’s Surgery. No appointment necessary pop in for help advice or a chat.
SUNDAY
3 Wadsley and Loxley Com-
WEDNESDAY
6 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, 7:15 for 7:30pm start time. We will be having a Tropic Skincare demonstration and will be swishing our unwanted clothes and accessories with any left over items being donated to the local charity shops. Further
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6 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 3rd July at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Roy Gunson, titled “The Uncertainty of Mr Heisenurg”. Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting
SATURDAY
9 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - Autumn Bird Walk - John and Anne Robinson’s regular seasonal bird walks continue. Have the winter visitors begun to return? No dogs on this walk please. Meet at 9am at Rural Lane Car Park, FREE but donation welcome. www.walc.epizy.com
9 Bolsterstone Archaeology & Heritage Group invite you to a Finds Afternoon. Come along and see items found in our local area and learn what to do if you find something interesting... Hear experts talk about their finds and if you have any interesting things that you have found along the way, please bring them along, we’d love to see them! Sat 9th November, Bolsterstone Village Hall at 1pm Entry £1, refreshments available.
9 Crane Moor Methodist Church
EVENT
Autumn Fair Saturday the 9th of November 10 -12 Variety of Stalls Bacon Sandwiches, cakes & a raffle, All Welcome
MONDAY
11 Worrall Environmental Group have a meeting at 7:30pm in the Blue Ball with the usual agenda: Parks, Tubs, Troughs, Budget, Clean up, etc. Followed by the AGM. All Worrallers welcome. Refreshments afterwards. No charge.
WEDNESDAY
13 Chapeltown and District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Hall on Main Street. We will be next meeting on Wednesday the 13th of November for 10am. We would particularly welcome new members for convivial conversations prior to listening to our guest speaker Stuart Atkins who will delight us with a presentation of ‘ My Life in Music ‘. After the meeting some members continue to Wortley Hall for lunch. For more information please visit our website or contact our secretary Trevor Winslow on 07966317258
THURSDAY
14 Chapeltown WI will meet at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church when they will welcome Elaine Ward from Cry as their speaker. The competition is for an Autumn Decoration. New members and visitors will always be made welcome.
14 Stocksbridge & District His-
tory Society Meeting -Christ Church Hall 7PM, Talk - Shefeld Flood -Part 2. Speaker Malcolm Nunn. All are Welcome.
SATURDAY
16 Christmas Fair at Bolsterstone Village Hall 11-4pm.
16 Magic Show at Zion Hall Oughtibridge 2.00 - 4.00 pm. Take-home snack for kids.
Book your places at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com stating dietary needs. 07957 206646
16 Stocksbridge Christian Centre Cedar Road CHRISTMAS FAYRE on Saturday 16th November from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Stall, Plants ,Cakes, Books, Tombola & more Hot Butties & Chips
SUNDAY
17 Craft Stalls by local makers and Refreshments - 10.00 am - 1.00 pm Hoylandswaine Village Hall, Haigh Lane (By the cricket eld) S36 7JJ. ww.hoylandswainevillagehall.co.uk
17 Magic Show at Inman Pavilion Stocksbridge 2.00 - 4.00 pm. Take-home snack for kids. Book your places at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com stating dietary needs. 07957 206646
MONDAY
18 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - a short AGM followed by ‘Comtempory Photos of Old Loxley’ by Malcolm Nunn, 7.30pm, Wadsley Church Hall, Worrall Road. www.walc.epizy.com
18 ‘Village Made’ in Oughti-
bridge. Crafters and artists from the village selling a range of hand made items ready for your Christmas gift needs! Free entry. Wesleyan Chapel, Church Street, Oughtibridge.6.30 to 8.30
WEDNESDAY
20 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday 20th November at 10.00AM in Christ Church Community Hall, 586 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Eric Jackson, “Remembrance Stocksbridge”
Our meetings are always relaxed and take place on alternate Wednesday mornings throughout the year. For more information about our group, please visit our website at www.donvalleyprobus.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting
SATURDAY
23 Greenhead Church, Chapeltown, Christmas Fayre, 10am - 2pm. Stalls, light lunches and refreshments. All welcome.
SUNDAY
24 Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Christmas Fayre - 11.00 am to 4.00 pm. Seasonal Fun And Festive Treats For All The Family, Santa’s Grotto, Festive Music, Craft Stalls, Children’s Activities & Much More...
FRIDAY
29 Coach trip to Hampsons Garden Centre for TARA members. Book your seats at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com 07957
206646
SATURDAY
30 Eccles eld Spartans Jfc Christmas Fayre 11am - 4pm Civil Sports Club, Green Lane, S35 9WY Come along and see Santa only £2 per child Loads of local stalls - free entry, free parking
DECEMBER
SATURDAY
14 Pantomime Matinee for TARA members. Jack-in -the-Beanstalk Academy Theatre. Book your seats at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail.com 07957 206646
ONGOING
MONDAYS
Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.
Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 2023 to meet us and see if you like us. Bass voices are needed so have a go at singing in the Bath rst! Contact 01226 764642 for more information
Baby and Toddler group at the Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Mondays during term-time 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in anytime. Sponsored by T.A.R.A.
TUESDAYS
CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) Tea, 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
Everyone is welcome at the Tea and Chat group - 1:00-3:00pm every Wednesday afternoon at St Leonards Church Wortley. Pop in for a drink and a chat. Contact Joan for more details: 0114 2887435
Thurgoland Community Choir, every Wednesday 7pm - 9:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Thurgoland.
THURSDAYS
Open House Community Café
Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:30-3:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com
The South Yorkshire Bonsai Society, meeting on the 4th Thursday of the month at Deepcar Village Hall 8 to 10 p.m.
Quilt Show keeps villagers warm
Bolsterstone’s village hall was beautifully decked-out last month for the sixth bi-annual quilt show held by Bolsterstone Quilters. Crowded with quilts of all colours and designs, trestle tables spread with tempting bakes and almost 150 visitors bustling about, the hall made a welcoming escape from the harsh weather outside.
Many hours go into the making of a quilt, from the design stage and accurately cutting fabrics, piecing the patchwork by hand or machine to form a quilt top or ‘Flimsy’, layering the backing, wadding and quilt top to form the ‘Quilt sandwich’ and nally quilting it to hold the ‘sandwich’ together before binding around the edges. Visitors viewed a display of over forty quilts - mounted on tall wooden frames - learning more about them in a show programme. eir kind comments, made about the quality and appeal of the work on display, were very much appreciated by the quilters.
Alongside the quilts, the tombola stall was exceedingly popular, with 100 fabric pouches, all made by the members, won in the rst few hours of the show! Naturally, quilters also enjoy baking - a er all what is cra without cake! –and visitors enjoyed homemade sausage rolls, quiches, scones, traybakes, fruit pies, cakes, and cupcakes. Doggy bags provided for take-home for family and friends - don’t think many dogs got a look in! –made sure that all refreshments were sold out by the close of the show.
e show’s charitable causes included She eld Hospitals Charity (She eldhospitalscharity.org. uk) and as well as making an array of brightly coloured Twiddles for dementia patients, the pro ts from the show will be donated by Bolsterstone Quilters to She eld Hospitals Charity and Quilts for the Longest Day.
As well as being addicted to fabrics and sewing, members have many other cra ing passions including knitting, crochet, needle felting, lacemaking, and embroidery. Some of these other skills were on show in the form of smaller displays of cushions, bags, stitched pictures, and adorable animal characters.
Also on show was a group challenge project. Members involved started by making the centre of a quilt to pass to other members, who then added borders, before returning it for the big reveal as a nished quilt top! e members all agreed that this collaboration had resulted in interesting and attractive designs - more so than if they had made the whole quilt.
Bolsterstone Quilters is open to new members from January 2025. For more details about joining us please email Victoria at bolsterstonequiltgroup@gmail. com or post a message on our Bolsterstone Quilters Facebook page.
e next event open to the public is a trip to York. Enjoy a day out in historic York. Why not visit the Christmas Markets, go sightseeing and Christmas shopping, and even enjoy a relaxing lunch, without transport and parking hassles. Date: Friday 22nd November. Cost: £25pp coach only. Couples welcome. Coach leaving at 8.30am from Stocksbridge Coop and dropping o in the centre of York, returning to Stocksbridge by 6pm. Use email address above or text message Sharron on 07894 202610 for details.
Keely Jane ATKINSON
Aged 58
Passed away peacefully with her family by her side.
Much loved Wife, Mum, Sister and a friend to many.
The funeral service will be held on Tuesday 5th November, 3pm at Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel.
Donations in lieu of flowers will be gratefully received for Smithy Moor Community Group
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar S36 2RE 0114 2885555
Tim TRAVIS
Aged 59
Passed away peacefully in St. Luke’s Hospice.
A service will be held at Bolsterstone Village Hall on Thursday 14th November at 1pm for anyone who wishes to attend. This will be followed by a private committal for immediate family only.
Family flowers only but donations will be gratefully received for GUTS UK for Oesophageal Cancer Research.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar S36 2RE Tel: 0114 2885555
HARMSTON née Beckett
Peacefully in Alpine Lodge Nursing Home on 8th October, Hilda aged 92 years of Bolsterstone
A much loved Sister, Sister in law and Auntie
Service and cremation at Grenoside Crematorium , South Chapel on Thursday 7th November at 11.30am where friends are asked to meet.
Family flowers only please but donations if desired for Alzheimers society for which a plate will be provided at the crematorium.
LOWRY
Christopher Michael
Sadly passed away on 21st October 2024 aged 80 years.
Funeral service to take place on Thursday 14 th November 2024 at 11am at Grenoside Crematorium North Chapel.
Family flowers only please but donations to the British Heart Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Society greatly appreciated.
NHS want your blood this Halloween
is Halloween, the NHS is calling on Shefeld residents to donate blood, as local hospitals continue to face shortages amid the critical winter period. With Halloween usually featuring blood in a light-hearted way, NHS Blood and Transplant is aiming to remind the community of the real need for life-saving donations. e She eld Donor Centre on Church Street currently has 200 appointment slots available over the next two weeks and hundreds more in the coming months.
e shortage is particularly severe for O negative blood, with an Amber alert in effect since July due to dangerously low stocks. NHS Blood and Transplant urges those with O negative and B negative blood types, as well as individuals from the Black community, to donate. Many Black patients require a speci c blood type to manage conditions like sickle cell, but there are currently only enough donors to meet half the demand, forcing hospitals to rely on O negative substitutes.
Mark Chambers, Director of Donor Experience at NHS Blood and Transplant, emphasises the urgent need: “Halloween is about fake blood and gore, but we need real blood to save lives now and throughout winter. She eld’s donor centre has hundreds of
empty slots, and we especially need more donors from the Black community for sickle cell patients.”
Chambers also reassured potential donors, “Donating doesn’t have to be scary this Halloween. We o er plenty of post-donation treats, and the best reward is knowing you’re saving lives. Each donation can help up to three patients.”
e NHS highlights that 56% of people of Black heritage carry the Ro subtype, vital for treating sickle cell, compared with only 2% in other ethnicities. Better matched blood signi cantly reduces the risk of transfusion complications, which improves long-term health for these patients. O negative, held by only 8% of the population, is also in high demand, as it is used universally in emergencies.
Existing Ro, O negative, and B negative donors are encouraged to call 0300 123 23 23 for a priority appointment. Blood donations are essential for treating trauma patients, cancer patients, and those undergoing surgeries, with every donation saving or improving up to three lives.
Aged 97
Passed away peacefully at home.
Loving Husband of Cynthia and Dad of Janie, much loved Grandad and Great Grandad.
The funeral service will take place on Friday 15th November at 12.00 at Grenoside Crematorium, North Chapel.
Family flowers only.
Enquiries to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar S36 2RE 0114 2885555
Local Opinion
Volunteer libraries
Dear Editor,
Sheffield library users fully support the sentiments in Maisie Dyson’s letter on volunteer libraries in Issue 1343. A library is not a library without paid, trained library staff. To call Sheffield former libraries now run by volunteers “libraries” is inaccurate, they are book swaps or community centres at best.
As for the quotes from the spokesperson at Stannington library in Issue 1342 (“Volunteer libraries thriving but new recruits needed”) as someone with a wide knowledge of safeguarding, the quotes from the person at Stannington Library made my skin crawl. Stannington Library asks potential volunteers to simply contact them on a personal mobile phone or email address. No mention of references or other checks, for a role which involves having access to children’s addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers and library loans. Library volunteers, many with a political or religious bias, are able to access all these.
The library needs to retract this article, apologise and ask Sheffield Council to reinstate a staffed library service in Stannington, for the good of the children and others in the area.
And finally volunteer libraries are not “thriving”. They have seen huge decreases in book loans. From a library user’s perspective, and from a safeguarding perspective, they have been a disaster. Thank you Ms. Dyson for your hard work. Shame on Sheffield Council for persisting with volunteer libraries.
Yours faithfully, Deepcar resident Haywood Lane
Tennis
club
High Green
Re Thorncliffe Tennis Club. On behalf of our members, I wish to hopefully end suggestions that we have disparaged the area.
Recognising that we needed outside funding earlier this year, and the attendant publicity to achieve that, we quoted the following words to various news outlets, principally The Yorkshire Post and subsequently BBC Look North and Radio Sheffield ....
“Most of the clubs in the local league are from the south and western parts of the city and are more affluent and middle class. We are definitely a more working-class club area,
There’s not a lot of money around here so consequently we do our best to keep subscription fees down.”
9 months on I still believe that to be true ( Our annual membership cost is less than £100 per adult - contrast that to clubs in the leafier parts of the city).
I believe that our initial quote therefore has been misconstrued / interpreted as various news organisations picked up on the story. To reiterate, in no way whatsoever did we intend to denigrate High Green; most of our committee live in High Green as do many club
members. We are proud to represent High Green when playing in the Sheffield and District Tennis League, and I apologise unreservedly if our words have been misconstrued.
Yours sincerely, Stephen Hague - on behalf Thorncliffe Tennis Club
Shoe Boxes for Romania
Thanks to all who responded to the above appeal with gifts, knitted items and money for transport costs.
We are sending 192 boxes this year for babies and children and also oap’s. We have also knitted and crocheted blankets for babies and knee blankets for the elderly. 100 hand-made dresses for ages up to 10 years are also being sent. Twiddle muffs and twiddle mats are in some boxes and also some have been taken to Belmont /house Care Home for their residents. On behalf of Children in Distress Charity. Thanks again, Jennifer Johnson.
Poppy Appeal
The committee of Stocksbridge and District WI would like to extend their thanks to everyone involved in creating this years poppy displays in Deepcar and Stocksbridge. We received over 1000 knitted, crocheted and sewn poppies this year which has meant our displays could be bigger than ever. We have also recycled plastic bottles for the display at TW Birks. A special thank you to all our members and the members of the Thursday night craft group at Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre for making and sewing 100s of poppies onto the cargo nets. Thanks too for all the donations and help from the customers of Busy Fingers Shop and the 214th Sheffield Guides and Star Rangers Stocksbridge. It has been a real community effort and one which we hope everyone who sees it will appreciate.
Mrs
B Wainwright (secretary)
Nightmare scenario
Hello Editor
Since the advent of Thatcher, successive UK governments have sought to pander to big business by pursuing a strategy of economic growth based upon privatisation, deregulation, and severe social cut backs; a strategy seemingly now being embraced by PM Starmer who recently informed: “We will rip out the bureaucracy that blocks investment. We will march through the institutions and we will make sure that every regulator in this country… takes growth as seriously as this room does”. A mindset often portrayed in terms of cutting suffocating red tape (regulation) that acts as a debilitating albatross around the neck of economic growth.
However, it may be prudent to ask as to how come such “stifling” bureaucracy came to be in the first place. The answer to which, is that such legal and regulatory frameworks grow up in response to disasters of one sort or another, whereby the innocent suffer (often
fatally) at the hands of the entrepreneurial cowboys mercilessly in pursuit of profit.
Indeed, Sir Edward Watkin in his capacity as chairman of the old Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway Company, apparently went on record stating that he would rather put up with the occasional accident than defer to the Board of Trade to improve safety. Presumably because he saw it as being cheaper to incur and pay for the consequences of the occasional accident, than to bear the cost of on-going safety measures in the name of profit. Especially in times when the onus to pay compensation was negligible. Hence, laws and regulations supported by official, independent watchdogs with teeth, grow up to police the capitalist cavaliers and protect their workforces and wider public from harm. And it is this safety net that has been and is being systematically removed in the name of profit maximisation and growth.
Recent examples of the consequences of which are: Grenfell Tower, the destruction of the NHS and social care, covid era fraud, world financial meltdowns with the perpetrators being bailed out by government to the tune of 100s of £billions and the increasing threat to green belt from developers, to name but a few.
As Naomi Klein states, the right wing have pushed through [and are still seeking to continue] a brutal ideological agenda based on fundamentalist capitalism, that is not designed to solve the problems that created the crises, but to enrich elites… Finding new ways to privatise the commons and to profit from disaster are what the current system is built to do.
Yours faithfully, Michael Parker.
DAY BREAK
From darkest night black and blue
The morning sky changes hue
Fiurst the faintest hint of light
Pink tinged horizon chases night
ASuddenly pale lemon, orange, purple too
Every rainbow shade in view
Then silently as scarlet red orb
Circled by a halo’s golden daub
Edges clouds across the sky
In colours changed in the blink of an eye
Soon in graded shades of blue
All Alone hangs a glorious golden summer sun
Celebrating a Community stalwart at 90
Another of Doris’s cherished causes has been Operation Christmas Child. For nearly 28 years, she has filled and coordinated shoebox donations, even running a checking centre at Green Moor Church for over 25 years. In one unforgettable year, she took the mission to Bosnia, travelling from Sarajevo to the Serbian border with aid. "I’ll never forget meeting children in war-torn Bosnia," she shares softly. “Hearing about Princess Diana’s death while staying in a Bosnian home was surreal; it underscored the fragility of life and the resilience of those we were helping.”
The Yugoslav conflict touched Doris deeply, and in 1995, she led a team to aid Bosnia’s post-war recovery. They provided school supplies and ran summer schools for refugee children. “We had to be careful about land mines. Even years later, those dangers were very real.” Her involvement didn’t end there. Recently, she joined with local couple Grace and David Bevan to establish a school in Uganda, where 280 children now study thanks to their dedication and support.
As technology transformed the world, Doris saw its promise and pitfalls: "It's incredible
what technology can do, but in the wrong hands, it's dangerous.” Reflecting on the NHS, a service she holds dear, she adds, "It’s one of our greatest achievements, and I worry for its future. I may not march these days, but I still sign every petition I can."
When asked for advice on longevity, Doris smiles, "Pick your parents well; genetics certainly helps!" Her wartime diet and active lifestyle as a netball player, mountain climber, and school sports teacher might also have something to do with it. “Netball took me all over Yorkshire and even made me captain for South Yorkshire. I played until I was 35, and then later celebrated my 80th by going up Snowdon—on the train!” she laughs. Doris recently celebrated her 90th birthday with a wonderful party attended by friends and family from near and far. About 70 guests gathered to mark the milestone, and members of Green Moor Church, along with other close friends, prepared a delightful afternoon tea. “The eating and entertainment lasted nearly three hours,” Doris says, beaming, “but it felt like it flew by. Seeing so many people I love all together was a gift in itself.”
The festivities continued over several days,
with friends treating her to outings and afternoon teas in her honour.
With a lifelong love of poetry, particularly that of Jackie Kay, Doris anticipates celebrating with Jackie in Sheffield soon. Her admiration for her parents shines as she speaks of their kindness, and she fondly recalls the influence of her Latin teacher, June Wrathall, who introduced her to the arts and a wider world.
As a parting thought, Doris shares advice for young people today: "Treat others as you’d like to be treated. Kindness and compassion can make all the difference." And, quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she adds, "‘The world has enough for everyone’s need but not enough for everyone’s greed.’”
In celebrating the life of Doris Stubbs, we are reminded of the power of service, the joy of community, and the legacy one person can create through kindness, resilience, and a lifetime of giving.
Sheila Gent aged 90, Stocksbridge
...Continued from front page
Situations Vacant
STOCKSBRIDGE SMITHY MOOR CHAPELTOWN STATION RD DEEPCAR HILLS RD Deliverers
Call Rita to Apply:
PIPE FITTERS
MATE WANTED
No experience necessary
Good pay rates and structured pay upgrades
Email: specialistpipeservices @outlook.com for more info
GRENOSIDE SURGERY & WADSLEY BRIDGE MEDICAL CENTRE
GP MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST VACANCY
Hours: 15/week
Wednesday: 8.30am – 1pm Friday: 8.30am – 7pm Start date: 9th December 2024
An opportunity has arisen to join the team in our friendly practice.
You will require good keyboard skills and it is essential that you are able to cover for holidays and sickness over and above your contracted hours. Previous experience in a health environment is an advantage, but not essential as full training will be given.
You will have an opportunity to join the NHS Pension Scheme.
Applications by CV for the attention of the Practice Manager to SYICB-sheffield.grenosidesurgery@nhs.net
For an informal discussion about the role please contact Kara or Hilary on 0114 240 3159 Option 6
Applications in writing to
The Practice Manager, Grenoside Surgery, Sheffield. S35 8NX
Closing date: 14th November 2024
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Firefighters launch heartfelt campaign
Firefighters are calling on families to check in on their loved ones as part of a new fire safety campaign.
The campaign, Be There For Them, launched with the publication of an animated video created by renowned animator and illustrator, Gary Andrews, whose portfolio includes working on hit children’s programmes such as Horrid Henry.
The heartfelt film focuses on a man reflecting on his life and relationship with his mum before it ends in tragic circumstances.
The aim of the campaign is to encourage families and caregivers to take basic steps to keep their older loved ones safe from fire – whether this be by making sure they have smoke alarms fitted and tested regularly or by carrying out an online home safety check with them on the Service’s website.
It’s in response to the latest fire statistics that show the those over 60 and living on their
own are one of the groups most at risk of a serious house fire.
Chris Tyler, Group Manager in South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue’s Community Safety team, said: “This deeply moving film highlights the importance of staying connected with our older relatives, especially in our busy lives.
“One life lost in a house fire is too many –that’s why we’re proud to be launching the campaign today to encourage our communities to look out for their older relatives and help keep them safe from fire.
“A really simple way you can do this is to carry out a free online home safety check with your family through our website.”
At the end of this check, you will be provided with safety advice relevant to you. Then, if you are eligible for a visit, you will be asked to submit your contact details and we will then contact you to arrange an in-person visit.
Mental Health First Aiders
Supertram has announced that it has successfully trained its first group of Mental Health First Aiders. This significant milestone forms part of Supertram’s ongoing commitment to enhancing colleague wellbeing and fostering a supportive community. The training, accredited by Mental Health First Aid England, equips colleagues with essential skills to support their peers' mental health effectively.
The newly trained Mental Health First Aiders at Supertram are now prepared to:
Act as a point of contact to reassure colleagues who are in need of support, experiencing emotional distress, or experiencing poor mental health.
Listen non-judgementally and hold supportive, confidential conversations.
Signpost colleagues to professional help when necessary.
Identify the signs and symptoms of a range of mental health conditions.
Use a five-step action plan to assist someone experiencing a mental health issue.
"We are thrilled to see our first group of Mental Health First Aiders ready to make a positive impact," said Megan Burns, Senior HR Manager at Supertram. "Investing in this training demonstrates our commitment to the wellbeing of our colleagues and the wider community. We believe that having trained Mental Health First Aiders will create a more supportive and understanding workplace, encouraging everyone to talk openly about mental health and seek help when needed."
Supertram's investment in Mental Health First Aid training reflects a broader strategy to prioritise mental health and wellbeing across the organisation. By equipping employees with the tools to support each other, Supertram aims to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
Local Classifieds
Broom clocks up 600 parkruns
Eleven Penistone Footpath Runners made the trip to Retford in Nottinghamshire to compete in the town’s popular half marathon road race.
The course is fast and flat, making it good for achieving personal best times. Oliver Pike was first back for the club in a time of 1-30-53 followed by Emma Moore who achieved a new personal best time of 1-32-06. This also gave Emma fifth place in the senior women’s age category which is a creditable achievement given the quality of the field. There were also personal bests for Michael Nicholson (1-41-59) and Carl Matthewman (1-57-49).
On the fells, Damian Kilpin made a comeback from injury competing in the Lockton Limping fell race in North Yorkshire. He finished just outside the top 30 in a time of 1-02-00.
The second South Yorkshire Cross Country league meeting took place at Longley Park in Sheffield. There were lots of good runs from Penistone runners in varying age categories but results have yet to be released.
The club held its third winter handicap race on Thursday night. First in the handicap competition was Kim Rogers followed by Andrew Taylor and Jackie Howsham. Fastest lady on the night was Jade Crosby (34-03) and fastest man George Parr (26-41).
Age-adjusted times show Ian Neville as best performance based on age followed by Barbara Haigh in second.
On the parkrun scene there were first places for Emma Moore (Barnsley) and Lesley Parker (Concord). There was a second place for Hannah Shaw at Penistone. John Broom ran his 600th parkrun at Penistone. This places John in the top 150 in the world. Martyn Hughes ran his 150th parkrun at Glossop.
Age graded performances of the week were James Mumford (79.47%), Bernice Nixon (75.35%), Flynn Rogers (73.37%), Rob Lees (72.28%) and Kelvin Bowskill (72.87%).
Results
Barnsley Parkrun
27, Emma Moore 23-54; 38, Alan Knox 26-08; 117, Steve
Runners Have ActionPacked Weekend
Across the Midlands
Valley Hill Runners (VHR) tackled a packed race weekend, kicking off with the regular Saturday morning parkrun at Concord, before heading off to multiple events that put the team’s endurance and commitment to the test.
Steve Sansom represented VHR at the Carsington Water 10K, clocking an impressive time of just under 48 minutes on the scenic but challenging course.
The weekend’s heat wave didn’t deter the VHR men’s team, who braved tropical temperatures on Sunday for the second race in the Cross Country League at Longley Park. Despite competing one runner short, the team showed true VHR spirit and delivered strong performances. VHR chairman Jonny Briggs led the way for the team, finishing first among his teammates in a race where every runner truly gave their all. Meanwhile, three Valley Hill runners, Peter Townsend, Michael Savage, and Gordon Fiander, took on the Worksop Half Marathon. Michael crossed the line first for VHR, achieving a personal best of 1 hour 56 minutes. Gordon, running in memory of his brother Keith, dedicated his race to fundraising for St Luke’s Hospice, where Keith received exceptional care. Gordon, Michael, and Peter finished with impressive times,
Dommett 35-01; 118, Stu Smith 35-04; 123, Ray Brown 36-09; 127, Dianne McGuinness 36-50.
Penistone Parkrun
4, Ashley Firth 18-59; 13, Ash Howlett 21-15; 14, Hannah Shaw 21-23; 25, Chris Hodgson 22-42; 32, Edward Holley 23-26; 50, Matt Coldwell 25-12; 66, Michael Nicholson 26-17; 73, Dawn Broom 2633; 74, John Broom 26-34; 78, Andrea Henson 26-40; 89, Oliver Found 27-07; 97, Jen Holley 27-34; 117, Emma Canetti 28-49; 130, Rebecca Parr 3029; 140, Sara Wolstenholme 31-28; 145, Claire Watts 3138; 146, Sarah Clough 31-44; 151, Myfanwy Cross 32-22; 162, Kim Rogers 34-11; 181, Ellen Chlebicka 49-37; 182, Martyn Cartwright 49-46.
Retford Half Marathon
88, Oliver Pike 01-30-53; 106, Emma Moore 01-32-06; 216, Michael Nicholson 0141-59; 220, Damien Briscoe 01-42-27; 236, Jade Crosby 01-43-02; 304, Alex Crosby 01-48-01; 498, Gemma Nutton 01-57-32; 507, Carl Matthewman 01-57-49; 604, Jill
Scrivens 02-03-22; 737, Sarah Halstead 02-09-31; 965, Tracy Samantha Woodward 02-2933.
Lockton Limping Fell Race
33, Damian Kilpin 01-02-00.
First South Yorkshire Cross Country Meeting, Norfolk Park, Sheffield
Under-11 Girls
10, Heidi Morley 07-44.
Under-15 Boys
10, Alexander Wright 18-43.
Under-20, Senior and Veteran Ladies
49, Jemma Williams 27-36; 62, Lois Lopez 29-14.
Under-20, Senior and Veteran Men U-65
58, Matthew Robinson 33-55; 118, Dave Lovatt 40-23.
Veteran Men 65+
5, Martyn Goodwin 28-26; 13, Keith Gordon 32-23; 16, Nick Whittingham 32-58.
Third PFR Winter Handicap – Ladies actual times
1, Jade Crosby 34-03; 2, Jemma Williams 36-04; 3,
Seuranie Johnstone 40-09; 4, Georgina Doyle 42-46; 5, Jen Holley 44-48; 6, Emma Canetti 46-47; 7, Tracy Woodward 46-52; 8, Barbara Haigh 47-49; 9, Jane Cockerton 4938; 10, Myfanwy Cross 50-37; 11, Kim Rogers 51-23; 12, Jackie Howsham 52-32; 13, Denise Pozorski 53-33.
Third PFR Winter Handicap – Men’s actual times
1, George Parr 26-41; 2, Ashley Firth 28-48; 3, Alex Harris 30-49; 4, Ian Neville 3051; 5, Gareth Irvine 31-00; 6, Alexander Melhuish 32-14; 7, Ashley Howlett 33-12; 8, Shaun Swallow 33-33; 9, Oliver Found 34-43; 10, Simon Pike 35-04; 11, Simon Lovidge 35-11; 12, Alex Crosby 35-51; 13, Nick Pepper 36-34; 14, Richard Williams 36-35; 15, Martyn Goodwin 37-06; 16, John Howsham 37-57; 17, Matthew Coldwell 38-49; 18, Paul Fryers 39-14; 19, Stuart Woodhead 39-17; 20, Mark Graham 39-36; 21, Chris Baldwin 40-57; 22, Andrew Taylor 42-38; 23, Ethan Hannard 43-00; 24, Bill Phillips 43-04; 25, Nick Whittingham 46-44.
Runners Tackle a Busy October Finale
showing that age is no barrier to determination and speed.
Gordon remarked, “Not too shabby for three older runners!” encapsulating the spirit of the team’s weekend efforts.
It was a weekend to remember for Valley Hill Runners, with members competing far and wide: Steve at Carsington Water 10K, Steve, Damo Todd, Jonny, and Kenny at the Cross Country, and Peter, Michael, and Gordon at the Worksop Half.
The final weekend of October saw Stocksbridge Runners putting in strong performances across several events on Sunday, showcasing the club’s depth and diversity.
Four members took on the See York Run York 6-Hour Challenge, a unique event where runners complete as many laps as possible within a six-hour window. Each lap is just over 10K, with the distance milestones rising from 10K for one lap, to a marathon for four laps, and anything beyond that reaching ultra distance. Cathy Steel and her daughter Kate Fewkes chose a single lap, finishing the 10K and crossing the line first and second overall, while Nick Boxall pushed through three laps in first place for a 32K distance. Amy Hutchinson also finished in first place for females at her distance going the extra mile— literally—completing four laps to achieve her first-ever marathon distance. A remarkable feat!
Not far from Penistone, Nicola Heaton represented the club in the second fixture of this year’s cross-country league at Longley Park, taking on a challenging 8K course. With the sun shining, Nicola tackled the tough terrain solo for the club, though the team hopes to rally more runners for the next fixture in Penistone this November. The club is keen to see more participation in team events, encouraging runners of all levels to give crosscountry a go.
Further afield, three members travelled to the Worksop Half Marathon. Charlotte Bailey,
Rachel Vernon, and Garry Harding all took on the popular course. Rachel Vernon, currently leading the club’s long-distance championship, added more miles to her tally. This internal competition encourages members to accumulate race miles throughout the year, with the top three awarded trophies regardless of speed.
Saturday’s parkrun saw club members spread across local sites, with Andy Gosling and his wife running in Hillsborough, Colin Mansell and Victoria Patterson tackling the Monsall Trail, and James Oldham enjoying the Penistone parkrun.
With races, challenges, and steady club growth, members continue to support one another while achieving personal milestones. New and seasoned runners are always welcome to join, whether for competitive racing, social runs, or the thrill of a cross-country mud challenge!
Pomona Push Past Champions in Gutsy Draw
Pomona FC 1 – 1 Hallam FC
Pomona FC delivered one of their finest performances of the season in a thrilling draw against league leaders and reigning champions Hallam FC at the Jubilee on Saturday. Determined to make a statement, manager Rob Wild dismissed any talk of damage limitation, setting his side up to challenge the champions on their terms.
Pomona started strongly, dominating the opening 10 minutes and keeping Hallam pinned in their own half. But a misplaced pass allowed Hallam to intercept, and with a strike from the edge of the box, they took an early lead as the ball hit the back of the net off the upright.
Undeterred, Pomona maintained their high press, finding space in Hallam’s final third. Despite some solid possession and pressure, Pomona’s efforts were thwarted by Hallam’s resolute defence. The visitors, forced into long-range attempts, found Pomona’s backline equally unyielding.
Pomona created several close chances, notably when Simon Bonnett headed the ball across goal, allowing defender Mark Tyler to power it home. However, the celebrations were cut short as Bonnett was ruled offside.
The second half saw Pomona relentlessly chasing the equaliser, even dominating possession at times. Bonnett came close with a glancing header, while Tom Gilbert missed a promising opportunity as Pomona pushed Hallam deeper into their own half.
Manager Wild’s tactical switch on 80 minutes paid immediate dividends.
The introduction of striker Nick Lowe sparked Pomona’s attack, and just two minutes later, the hosts drew level. Gilbert outmuscled a defender on the right, delivering a powerful low cross that Bonnett coolly slotted home with his left foot for his sixth goal in as many games.
Sensing a possible upset, Pomona threw everything forward in the closing minutes. Lowe’s ambitious scissor kick narrowly missed, a long-range strike from Michael Hayes was saved, and a closerange effort from Jason Allsebrook was deflected over the bar.
Although Pomona walked away with just a point, the team showcased they could stand toe-to-toe with the league’s best.
Next up, Pomona will host Thorncliffe Villa in the Topham Cup on 2nd November, aiming to carry this momentum into a promising cup run.
Legion make it 5 in a row
Chapeltown RBL 4-1 Eckington MW
Legion made it 5 consecutive wins picking up 3 points at home to Eckington MW.
Kenny Tafireyi opened the scoring with his first goal for the club, seeing his well hit volley find the top corner after an Alex Mosley cross.
Jay Carter beat the full back for pace and his perfect cross was converted for Tafireyi and Legions second.
Mosley intercepted in midfield and burst through carrying the ball for 30 yards before sliding past the oncoming goalkeeper.
Top scorer Carter added a fourth before half time after Luis Afonso-Ferreira crossed and he chopped inside before finishing well.
Eckington scored a consolation goal with a header in the dying seconds of the game.
Next week RBL host Brunsmeer at home, in the league cup.
Back Home and Back to Winning Ways
Stocksbridge Rugby 15 – 12 Hessle RUFC
Stocksbridge Rugby marked their return to Coal Pit Lane Arena with a thrilling last-minute victory over Hessle RUFC, courtesy of a composed kick from playmaker Adam Frith. Back on their freshly renovated pitch, courtesy of Globe Holidays sponsorship, Stocksbridge’s first home fixture of the Counties 4 Yorkshire South season didn’t disappoint the sizeable crowd who turned out for the action.
Despite last-minute changes to the lineup due to player absences and an injury to Reece “Diesel” Aspin, coach Aaron Kaye rallied his team. The starting XV saw the return of Sam Whitaker after a holiday, a season debut for Pat O’Leary at fullback, and Harrison “The Storm” Norman stepping up in the unfamiliar role of stand-off.
The game began with Hessle taking an early lead after Stocksbridge’s prop Gary Woodcock was sent to the sin bin for a “no arms” tackle. Hessle took advantage, converting two penalty kicks to go six points up. However, a determined Stocksbridge fought back, and Adam Frith orchestrated a clever drive downfield, releasing Callum “Whippet” Green to dash over the line. The conversion missed, leaving the halftime score at Stocksbridge 5 – Hessle 6.
The second half saw Hessle extend their lead with another penalty. Stocksbridge’s defence, known as the “blue wall,” held strong. Quick thinking from Frith led to a tap penalty that allowed Harrison “The Storm” Norman to weave through Hessle’s defence, scoring a
well-deserved try, and this time Frith converted to put Stocksbridge ahead. A subsequent Stocksbridge infringement gave Hessle a chance to equalise with a fourth penalty, setting up a nail-biting finale.
In the game’s dying moments, Stocksbridge’s forwards forced a penalty. Frith, showing nerves of steel, slotted the winning kick to bring the final score to Stocksbridge 15 –Hessle 12. Harrison “The Storm” Norman earned the Enzygo Environmental Consultants Man of the Match for a stellar performance, showing his return to form following a hand injury.
Stocksbridge’s skipper, Andy “Clock Tower” Beal, praised the team’s progress, saying, “Credit to all the boys; we’re improving week by week, and the effort in training is really showing. This was a tough game, but we were very physical in our defence. We’ll look to build on this.”
With no game next weekend, Stocksbridge will resume on 9th November, hosting Sheffield Medics + Dentists, followed by league leaders Dearne Valley on 16th November. The highly anticipated second instalment of the Fox Valley Trophy against Wortley RUFC is on 30th November, with the season’s festive “Christmas Jumper” game against Maltby set for 7th December. All games kick off at 2.15pm, and Stocksbridge aims to turn Coal Pit Lane Arena into a fortress for the remainder of the season.
Frustration for Steels
Stocksbridge PS 0-0 Brighouse
Stocksbridge Park Steels’ bid for a fifth consecutive win was halted by a resilient Brighouse Town in a tense goalless draw.
Steels dominated the early stages at Bracken Moor and had a golden opportunity to take the lead when Danny Deakin delivered a pinpoint corner into the box. Alex Hardwick rose to meet it, but his powerful header rattled the crossbar, allowing Brighouse to clear the danger.
Stocksbridge controlled much of the first half, pressing forward with confidence.
Despite their attacking prowess, they couldn’t find a way past Brighouse’s steadfast defence. The visitors grew into the game and nearly took the lead themselves with a close-range header, only for Ben Townsend to pull off a brilliant reflex save to keep the scores level.
The second half saw both teams struggle to establish a rhythm, with few clear chances on either side.
Brighouse came close to breaking the deadlock with a low
shot that looked destined for the net, but Townsend stretched to retrieve the ball just before it crossed the line.
Stocksbridge’s best chance of the half came late on. James Morris sprinted down the right, using a burst of pace to create space and deliver a precise pass to Hardwick. Hardwick’s powerful strike looked certain to find the net, but Brighouse keeper Kyle Trenerry produced a stunning save, tipping it over the bar and denying Stocksbridge the win.
Despite the frustration, the Steels showed solid form, and their unbeaten streak remains intact. They’ll look to convert their attacking efforts into goals in their upcoming fixture as they continue to climb the table.
Manager Ian Richards said after the game: “It’s another clean sheet, so it’s a massive well done to the players. It wasn’t for a lack of trying that we didn’t score”
Next Home Game:
Saturday 16 November, vs Newton Aycliffe, 3pm KO
Church fall to comeback
Penistone Church 2-3 Silsden
An excellent crowd of 337 saw Church play the proverbial game of two halves. In the first half they were excellent and took the lead when Nathan Keightley set Luca DeFalco to strike home from the edge of the box. Fifteen minutes later James Young expertly took and scored from a penalty kick given for handball to double the lead.
Co-manager John Whitehead takes up the story
“As performances go in the first half defensively we were resolute, we minimised their threats and going forward we showed great bits of play.
We said at half-time two-nil is a dangerous score line they only needed to get one to improve their morale and that’s exactly what happened. They came out and put it on us, we told the lads to expect ten or fifteen minutes of an onslaught and do their best to ride it out but by the first ten minutes of the second half, we’d conceded two goals to make it two-two. We were snatching at stuff making, the wrong decisions and not finding the right pass, it was the complete opposite from our first half performance”.
Silsden then scored when during some defensive confusion keeper Adam Lawlor’s clearance hit striker Casey Stewart and from the resulting rebound the ball went in the net to score Silsden’s third and what turned out to be the winning goal for the visitors
John continued
“Credit to Silsden for that second-half performance but we shouldn’t be losing from a two-nil half time advantage, especially at home It was absolutely chalk and cheese from the first half and it’s something we need to
address. The lads know, there’s no hiding from it, at this level you can’t just play football for forty-five minutes.
“We’re back on the field on Wednesday when we travel to Maltby in the Sheffield Senior Cup we need to manage the game, see it out and get a victory”.
It was better news for Church Reserves who travelled to AFC Dronfield looking to build on three consecutive league victories. First-half goals from Jordan Machen and Ryan Hallsworth paved the way for Reece High’s second-half brace. AFC Dronfield pulled a goal back from a penalty, the final score was four-one to Church Reserves Assistant coach Filip Rudnicki
A big mention today for young Alex Townend in the nets he did well, his distribution and saves he pulled off today were really good.
Fixtures
Wednesday 30th October 2024
Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup – 2
Maltby Main v Penistone Church FC
Kick off 7-45 pm
Also
Wednesday 30th October 2024
EV2 Sportswear County Senior Premier Division
Stocksbridge PS Reserves v Penistone Church Reserves
Kick off 7-45 pm
Photos by Myra Little
Church Co-Manager John Whitehead
