Stocksbridge Clock Tower and Gardens become Sheffield's 4th Centenary Field

THE historically important Stocksbridge Clock Tower and Gardens, one of more than 800 green open spaces in Sheffield, has been officially dedicated as a Centenary Field protected site.

Set in landscaped gardens, with public footpaths running through, the site is a popular destination for walkers, those taking a rest on their way to the town centre, and the children who love to play there. The clock itself still keeps accurate time and the chimes can be heard throughout the area.

The Clock Tower and gardens are one of the most historically important sites in the Stocksbridge and Deepcar area. Overlooking the Stocksbridge Valley, the Clock Tower War Memorial was built to the memory 107 young people, a nurse, sailors and soldiers, who died in the First World War.

The laying of the foundation stone took place on 14 July 1923 and was carried out by F. S. Scott-Smith with Joseph Sheldon, Chairman of the Council. Onlookers included ex-servicemen, members of the Stocksbridge Choral Union, Boy Scouts and school children.

After reading the Role of Honour, the last post and reveille were sounded. A service of remembrance takes place each year at Armistice Day, with local residents paying their respects.

From sports pitches to children’s playgrounds, bicycle trails to country parks, Fields in Trust protects open spaces across the UK from being developed. Centenary Fields is a national initiative being led by Fields in Trust and the Royal British Legion. The Centenary Fields programme aims to protect at least one green space in every local authority area across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to commemorate the centenary of World War I.

Fields in Trust Chair of Trustees, Tim Phillips, comments: “This programme is a fitting way for us to mark the sacrifices made by so many in World War I whilst looking to the future through a living remembrance. We are delighted that Sheffield City Council is embracing Centenary Fields, commemorating the centenary of World War I for the people of Sheffield in a way they can appreciate forever. We look forward to many more landowners following their lead.”

This latest dedication will be the fourth protected Centenary Field in Sheffield, which recognises the Council’s significant commitment to not only the commemoration and remembrance of the city’s sacrifice in World War I and subsequent conflicts, but also the importance of maintaining and retaining good quality green space for the people of Sheffield.