Look Local Issue 1262 Thursday 23 March 2023

Sex Education review comes under attack

By James Fletcher

Three charities have come to the defence of the current sex education curriculum that is currently being taught in our schools.

Rishi Sunak called for a review by the Department for Education (DFE) of the current sex education topics being covered in UK schools. The concerns were first brought forward by our Conservative MP for Stocksbridge and Penistone, Miriam Cates at the House of Parliament in which she said, “Graphic lessons on oral sex, how to choke your partner safely and the 72 different genders. This is what passes for relationships and sex education in British schools.

“Across the country, children are being exposed to age-inappropriate, extreme, sexualising, and inaccurate often using sources from unregulated organisations that are actively campaigning to undermine parents.

“This is not a victory for equality. It is a catastrophe for childhood.”

Continued on page 2...

Not many Happy Days left

Full story on page 6...

Sex Education review comes under attack

...continued from front page

Ms Cates was backed by 46 other MPs’ who all signed the letter for a review to be taken out by the Prime Minister. This has sparked quite a debate.

Liz Robinson the CEO of Step 2 who works closely with Bradford City Council to offer support to Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) said,

“Given the amount of time we have spent in schools, we are struggling to reconcile the comments made by a group of MPs, who delivered a signed petition to Rishi Sunak, expressing their concerns about what is being taught to our children.

“What we are seeing is teachers, who are often non-specialists, working very hard with little support or training, to deliver relationships and sex education to children and young people growing up in a world where many are exposed to inappropriate mate-

World-renowned musician returns home

Concert musician Ruth Berresford has come full circle as she is set to return to her hometown of Penistone to perform in her welcome home concert.

Ruth started life at Penistone Grammar School before pursuing her love of music and moved on to study at the Guildhall School of music and Drama, where she would go on to do great things as an Oboe player.

rial online and in the wider world at an earlier age.

“RSHE is not the promotion of sexual activity. It is about giving people all of the information they need.”

She ended the quote by saying the safeguarding of children and young people is their number one priority.

A recent study taken by the Chil dren's Commissioner for Eng land discovered that 10 per cent of nine-year-olds have seen porn online, and 64 per cent aged be tween 13-24 admitted to watch ing porn.

Children need to know the facts of life but if they are being taught by what Ms Robinson called “Non-specialists” the question, for now, isn’t, should children be taught this so early on in schools it’s the case of why can’t the teach ers be given the correct training they need in order to deliver it successfully.

She has played with the cream of the UK players that included the London Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra, and the London Concert Orchestra.

Ruth is also very accomplished in the world of Ballet, being a part of the English National Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Glyndebourne Touring Opera, English National Opera, Wexford Opera, Longborough Opera, and the Dorset Opera. And when you think this woman couldn’t become more impressive, Ruth has also worked in TV and film her most noted work from the blockbuster movie ‘The Hobbit’ and a Nissan advert. Mainly performing session work in the studio. Now she is to come home for a special concert at the ST Andrews Church in Penistone on the 25th and 26th of March tickets start at just £10, which is an absolute steal to witness anyone of her calibre perform live.

Changes that will affect how you vote come what May

The government now say you have to prove who you are when arriving at the polling station come May.

The Elections Act of 2022 has now introduced a photo ID scheme, which will affect the way you vote in the May elections. Now people who wish to or who are registered to vote will now have to provide photo ID in order for their vote to be counted.

The Sheffield City Council have released this statement,

“A new requirement from Thursday the 4th of May 2023 for voters to show a photo ID before voting. You will not need a photo ID if you vote by post or have appointed a proxy, however, your proxy will need their own photo ID if they vote for you in the polling station.”

The approved types of ID include a UK passport or any passport from the Isle of Man, an Overseas Territory, Commonwealth, or a state of the European Economic Area (EEA) the same applies to driving licences.

List of government-approved forms of ID:

-A biometric immigration document.

-An identity card or a PASS card with a hologram.

-Defence Identity card.

-A blue badge.

-An older person’s bus pass.

-A disabled person’s bus pass.

-An Oyster card 60+

These are only a handful of approved documents, if you wish to see the list in full then please visit www.sheffield.gov.uk/your-citycouncil-/voter-id and by some miracle, you don’t have any of the approved ID documents then you can apply for a voter authority certificate free of charge following the verification of your identity.

These rules will apply to Local elections, Police and Crime Commissioner elections, UK Parliamentary by-elections and Recall Petitions.

Man convicted of Murdering neighbour

A 31-year-old Sheffield man has admitted to murdering his neighbour in a “prolonged and brutal” incident last August. At 8.15pm on Tuesday 2 August 2022, emergency services were called to Fox Hill Road following numerous calls from members of the public reporting that a man was being severely beaten in the street.

Upon arrival, officers found 50-year-old Simon Wilkinson who had suffered critical injuries and he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Neighbours and witnesses identified local Andrew Hague (pictured) as the man responsible and he was arrested at his home nearby.

Detective Inspector John Fitzgibbons, who led the investigation into Mr Wilkinson’s death, said: “A number of people in the local area called police after witnessing this prolonged, brutal and unprovoked assault.

“What they saw, and indeed what the officers who first responded to this incident saw, was traumatic. A post-mortem examination found that Mr Wilkinson died as a result of head and facial injuries, from repeated severe blows.

“The help our officers received from the community was invaluable and Hague was brought into police custody a short time afterwards.”

Hague, formerly of Fox Hill Road, Sheffield, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court today where he entered a guilty plea to murder.

DI Fitzgibbons added: “My thoughts are with Mr Wilkinson’s family as they continue to mourn the loss of their loved one. I hope that they can take some solace in knowing that Hague will face a significant time in custody for his unforgivable actions.”

Hague has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on 9 May 2023.

Steel City Bishop sworn into the House of Lords

This week The Bishop of Sheffield Rt Revd Dr Pete Wilcox was introduced to the House of Lords as one of the Lords Spiritual.

The Last Bishop of Sheffield to serve as a Lord Spiritual was Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft who was the Bishop of Sheffield from 2008 – 2016 before he translated to Oxford where he became the Bishop of Oxford and where he remains to this day.

The House of Lords consists of 25 Lords Spiritual five of whom hold ex-officio status for example the Arche Bishop of Canterbury and the Arche Bishop of York have ex-officio status in the House of Lords along with three Diocesan.

And they are responsible for giving the Prayers before the meetings because no meeting in the House of Lords can begin without the prayer. The Lord Spirituals can also take part in all matters of the house such as debating, tabling, challenging legislation and serving on committees or all-party groups.

Rt Revd Dr Pete Wilcox said in a statement,

“I am keen to make an effective contribution in the House of Lords for the benefit of the communities we serve across the Diocese. I hope to be more visibly the Bishop of Sheffield, not less, on account of this new responsibility.

“There will undoubtedly be opportunities to make new partnerships both across our region and Westminster, for the sake of the coming Kingdom of God.

“My first priority remains unchanged: to see the Diocese of Sheffield renewed, released and rejuvenated in the power of the Holy Spirit, as we bear witness to the salvation of God has won for us in the life, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus.”

Rt Revd Dr Wilcox swore an oath to the House of Lords on the 14th of March 2023 and gave a brief speech in front of the House and now will begin his duties in due course.

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A star-studded evening the night an Award-winning film came to town

By James Fletcher

The Penistone Paramount cinema hosted a special screening, attracting tinsel town and other major local celebrities.

The night consisted of the main screening, followed by a Q&A with the producer, Terri Dwyer and the Author of the book and screenplay Samantha Lee Howe before capping the night off with a book signing, with all the proceeds going to the domestic abuse charity IDAS.

Mrs Howe spoke highly of the work the charity has been doing over the years and said, “It is a charity which is very close to my heart after I suffered domestic abuse from a very young age and came out of the other side IDAS does outstanding work for the community and does it in a way that makes you feel safe.”

ing this time according to Producer Terri Dwyer.

The film was shot beautifully, and the music adds to the emotions and anxiety the main character, Charlotte is feeling throughout her journey of discovery for their first film, Buffalo Dragon pushed the boat out and shirked nothing from the production value.

Doors

Ex – Wakefield Wildcat Trinity player turned-actor Keith Mason, who was also in attendance said after the viewing, “It was well done, well written. I enjoy thrillers, it’s on similar lines to the film I’m currently working on which comes out in a couple of months. The acting was really good, and it was just very entertaining.”

furniture. This also saw the business change names to Furniture Clearance Warehouse. Although all these years later, customers still refer to them as

The business predominantly sells living room, dining room and bedroom furniture. Selling end of line, over stocks and exdisplay from the big multiple furniture stores. There is something to suit every budget.

‘A stranger in our bed’ is a thriller/mystery about a woman who is seemingly trapped in a marriage by her overbearing and overprotective successful husband. As she tries to escape his clutches, she discovers something even more sinister along the way.

The movie was filmed during the pandemic in 2020 and Buffalo Dragon was the only production company out making films dur-

The owner, David has decided after working long hours and weekends for the last 23 years to start a new chapter. With no one to take over the reins of the business, there is now a closing down sale. The sale will continue until all stock has gone. During this time all customers will receive their furniture and all orders will be fulfilled.

This is by no means a business that is going bust, merely an

owner who wants to dust off his passport and get to know his family in the daylight hours.

David is grateful for all the support and custom over the years and is looking forward to the next chapter.

Hollywood actor Chase Masterson who is a good friend of the Author came out to the small town of Penistone for the screening declaring the evening a huge success and also reiterating the wonderful work the charity has been doing, “It is a wonderful charity and a topic that we should all be discussing and helping in any way we can, to help these kind of charities.”

Card shop leaves the high street after two decades

...Continued from front page

By James Fletcher

pears to consist of mainly food takeaways and hairdressers.

When before you could buy clothes from Mrs Mavis Fletcher, grab a quick coffee and some cake across the street in the local café.

And after being in business since 1999 the manager of the shop Chris Brown has decided to call it a day and will now enjoy his retirement, but do not despair as his other shop in Ecclesfield will

But as he closes the shop for good, he would like to thank all his customers past and present for their support, “an end of an era” he went on to say, “It’s sad to be going, but it is what it is. I met a lot of lovely people on the way, it’s just sad of the times. It’s going to be sad…”

This week, Grenoside and Birley Carr Players will be performing The Mikado at Grenoside Community Centre, just over 138 years to the day it was first performed at the Savoy Theatre, on March 14th 1885.

The shop has seen many changes over its 24-year existence and according to the proprietor, these changes have been highlighted on social media with some local campaigners trying to save their high street. The street now ap-

Mr Brown couldn’t continue the interview as he became too emotional, but he finished off by thanking everyone in Stocksbridge and the surrounding areas for their continued support throughout the years.

Helped by a Japanese exhibition held in Knightsbridge, London in 1885, The Mikado became one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular works. Although the setting is the fictional town of Titipu in Japan, and the costumes look oriental, the show has particularly English characters, influences from the English Victorian nursery language, and could exist in any culture.

Proving once again that the course of true love never runs smooth, Nanki-Poo and Yum-Yum have fallen in love, but their relationship

has to contend with a previous engagement, a hidden identity, an execution and an unwelcome suitor. With the help of a host of memorable townspeople, it looks as if everything is going to work out for the young couple. But what will they do when they hear that the Mikado (Emperor) of Japan is on the way to Titipu?

The popularity of the show remains to this day and will be the eighth time that the operetta has been performed by the society in its 76-year history. This time, the role of the Mikado will be performed by David Laine, with the ‘Three little maids from school’ played by Loren Parker, Helen Dent and Jenny Nortcliffe. The society has been pleased to welcome both new and returning members

to the ranks this year, to the delight of Director Karen Ann Loxley. It is lovely to have such a large chorus and strong sound again. As The Mikado says, “Nothing could possibly be more satisfactory!”. The friendly society is always on the lookout for new members of all ages, both on and off stage, please do get in touch if you are interested.

Grenoside and Birley Carr Players will be supporting the MS Society during this production.

Tues 21st – Fri 24th 7.30pm, Sat 25th 2.30pm

Grenoside Community Centre, Main Street, Grenoside, S35 8PR Tickets from Helen on 01226 754462

Choir lifts trophy

Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir are pictured singing their signature song, Hail! Smiling Morn on Sunday, to celebrate winning first prize in the male voice section of the Don Valley Festival.

The choir, led by Daniel Timmins with Kim Kaye as accompanist, were delighted to lift the trophy after being told by the adjudicator Nadia Hinson that their performance had been “stunning”.

The success followed months of intensive rehearsals and set the seal on the choir’s revival after nearly three years of silence because of the Covid pandemic.

Runners-up at the competition held on day three of the festival at Sir Thomas Wharton Academy, Edlington, were near neighbours and friendly rivals New Mill Male Voice Choir.

Bolsterstone’s two winning pieces will feature at a concert on Saturday at Penistone Parish Church with Penistone Ladies Choir at 7pm. Tickets available on the door. There will be a varied programme, the choirs joining together for some items.

march

Thursday

23 & 24 Grenoside and Birley Carr Players present The Mikado Tues 21 st – Fri 24 th 7.30pm, Sat 25 th 2.30pm Grenoside Community Centre, Main Street, Grenoside, S35 8PR Tickets from Helen on 01226 754462

23 at 7:30 pm Speaker Val Linnett Topic Who were the 1929 Sheffield Labour Women Councillors? At Hillsborough Trinity Methodist Church, Middlewood Rd, Hillsborough

saTurday

25 Chapeltown WI will hold a coffee morning at Chapeltown Methodist Church from 10.00am until 12.00 noon. Come and enjoy coffee and cake and a Tombola stall. All proceeds for the Childrens Hospital.

25 Stocksbridge Christian Centre Coffee Morning on Saturday 25th March from 10 a.m. to 1p.m.Easter gifts, cakes, stalls, bric-a-brac, raffle Light refreshments

sunday

26 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Muck In’ Day (practical work on the common), 10am-noon, meet at Long Lane Car Park or Rural Lane Car Park www.walc.epizy.com. Tools supplied, bring gloves, families very welcome.

26 The service at Bullhouse Chapel Sunday 26th March, at 2.30pm , will be will be led by

What’s EvEnt

Steve Moyise. All are welcome to join us in this act of worship.

26 St. Mary’s R.C. church, High Green are holding an “Easter eggstravaganza” on, after morning Mass at approximately 11am in the church hall. A tombola stall and a raffle offering prizes of Easter eggs and chocolate goods, plus light refreshments will be available. All are welcome.

monday

27 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Solutions to the Cost of Living and Climate Change’ by Richard Teasdale and Dawn Spier. Wadsley Church Hall,Worrall Road, S6 4BB. 7.30pm. Admission £3 members, £3.50 non members, free refreshments. www.walc. epizy.com

Wednesday

29 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday March 29th at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Eric Songhurst, `A year to Remember`.

Thursday

30 Stocksbridge Art Society. Evening Demonstration (7 to 9 pm). Animals in Pastel by Lindsay Norman (Holmfirth Artist). Christ Church Community Hall, Stocksbridge, S36 1DY. All welcome: Members free; nonmembers £3. Refreshments included.

saTurday

1 Why not join Friends of Chapeltown Park on the Saturday morning before Easter from 10.30am to 12.30pm at our FREE Easter Egg Hunt? Collect your instructions from the bandstand, do the woodland trail to find lots of little tokens. These can then be exchanged for Easter treats. There will also be Easter crafts and refreshments.

1 Free Easter Craft for kids session 10.00 - 12.00 at Wharncliffe Side Community Centre, Brightholmelee Lane S35 0DD Book places: 07957 206646 or tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail. com. Organised by Stocksbridge & Upper Don Tenants & Residents Association

1 Wharncliffe Side WI are having a Coffee Morning from 10.00 to 12.00 on Saturday 1st April in the Chapel meeting room to celebrate our 70 years as a WI branch. Join us for coffee, company, stalls and raffle.

sunday

2 Antiques and Collectables Fair Penistone St John’s Community Centre S36 6AR.10:00 - 3:00. Refreshments by and proceeds for Green Moor Cricket Club.

2 2 Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Easter Fayre11.00 am to 4.00 pm. Fun For All The Family. Easter Bunny, Craft Stalls, Easter Bonnet Competition, Music. Stalls Available £15.00 Per Table, Telephone 0114 2883792.

2 On Sunday 2nd April Thorncliffe Bowling Club will be opening its gates to anyone who wishes to try their hand at crown green bowling. The club welcomes both those who have never played before, and those who have played and want to come back to the sport. A selection of bowls will be available, and coaching will be given. All you need to do is to turn up in flat bottomed shoes. So why not join us on Sunday 2th April at any time between 10am and 3pm at the end of Mortomley Close, S35 3HS.

monday

3 Friends of Wisewood and District Gardening Group are holding an Easter Children’s event on the green space, next to RIVA Cafe and Shop, Laird Road, Wisewood. Starts at 11am to 1pm. Easter egg hunt, crafts, games, stalls, refreshments available at RIVA cafe.

3 Wharncliffe Side WI will have their next meeting in the Community Centre and the speakers are the Leader Brothers with the topic The Mystery Box, 7.15pm. Join us for an entertaining talk on antiques and collectibles. For details contact Valerie Hales 01144187256.

3 Monday April 3rd Easter Craft at Inman Pavilion, Moorland Drive 10.00 - 11.45 am. Fun things to make. enquiries@ inmanpavilion.org.uk £2.00

Tuesday

4 An Evening with Ron Clay-

On listings

ton, Local Historian, Wadsley Jack Pub,7.30pm.

Wednesday

5 Stocksbridge and District WI are meeting at Christchurch Community Hall Manchester Road Stocksbridge at 7.15 for 7.30 start, when our speaker will be Rebecca May, a finalist of Sewing Bee. She is bringing along the garments she made on the programme. We will have a fun tombola and raffle and all proceeds will go to Sheffield Childrens Hospital Helipad Appeal. Tickets are £5 and are going fast so please contact me for further information. 07939941818

Thurday

6 High Green W.I. are meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 6th of April in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church on Wortley Road. The event is “Easter & Resolutions” with focus on “Clean rivers for people and wild life”. Competition is “Easter Bunny”. All members and visitors are welcome.

6 Free Easter Craft for kids session 10.00 - 12.00 at Zion Church Hall, Langsett Road, Oughtibridge S350HA Book places: 07957 206646 or tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail. com. Organised by Stocksbridge & Upper Don Tenants & Residents Association

saTurday

8 COFFEE and CHORDS , hosted by Welsh John and guests, at our regular Saturday coffee morning , starting at approx

10.45 Admission is free, but the sale of refreshments helps theatre funds. EPPiC Theatre, off High Street, Ecclesfield S35 9TP Our open theatre operates every Saturday from 10 till 12 , with refreshments on sale.

Wednesday

12 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday April 12th at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, with a presentation by Sue Firth, `Health Alternative medicine`. 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.

Wednesday

19 Join Bolsterstone Archaeology and Heritage Group at 7.30pm for a talk by Yvette Marks from the Archaeology Department at Sheffield University. Her talk is titled ‘Searching for Neolithic Salt’. We meet in the hall at Christ Church on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge, and the talk is also available live on Zoom (members only) - please contact bahgevent@axelafa.com for the link. Refreshments available. Don’t miss it - all welcome.

Wednesday 26 Don Valley Probus will meet on Wednesday April

26th at 10.00AM in Christ Church Hall, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, for their Annual General Meeting followed by the Chairman`s lunch. 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.

may

16 Ecclesfield Priory Players Present The Stranger By Produced by Syl Langan. By arrangement with Concord Theatricals Tuesday 16th - Friday 19th May 2023

Curtain at 7.30pm Tickets £11.00 Concessions £10.00 (Tues only)EPPiC Theatre, Well

Lane, High Street, Ecclesfield, Sheffield, S35 9TP tickets @ ecclesfieldprioryplayers.co.uk Tel: (0114) 2402624 s www. ecclesfieldprioryplayers.co.uk email: info@ecclesfieldprioryplayers.co.uk

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.

Mary MOXON

Sadly passed away after a long illness on 5th March 2023 age 89.

Loving and caring Wife of Eric, Mother to Steven and Philip, Motherin-Law of Jane and Grandmother of Emma, Jessica, Joshua and Jamie.

Funeral and service to take place at Grenoside Crematorium, South Chapel on Monday 3rd April at 12:30pm. Reception to follow.

‘Forever missed and always in our hearts’

Enquiries to TW Birks and Sons 0114 2885555 / 0114 2995769.

Alexander (Alec) SWIFT

Aged 80 years. Passed away suddenly at home. Much loved Husband of Elizabeth, loving Dad of Helen and Kate, loving and proud Grandad and friend to many.

A funeral service will be held at St Mary’s Church, Bolsterstone on Tuesday 4th April at 11.00.

Family owers only but donations in lieu will be gratefully received for the RSPB.

Enquires to T W Birks and Son, 100 Manchester Road, Deepcar, S36 2RE Tel: 0114 2885555

Public right of way

Subject: NATTRAN/Y&H/S247/2246

With reference to the above proposed public right of way diversion on the fox valley site at stocksbridge we would like to strongly object to its diversion once again

As a disabled user for many years I used to wonder with my family along ford lane especially at weekends when it was quieter before the development started we supported a cause for a separate flat route which was lost as the developers didn't see a need and agreed to put the right of way through their own development with a separate entry and exit point.

Now for a second time not for anyone else's needs apart from their own they wish to take this away I feel very strongly that there is a need to keep this In place as a wheelchair and mobility scooter user I do not want to contend with lots of other pedestrians bikes cars etc by having to enter at a main entrance to a development when a separate one had already been agreed.

By having this sep location my family members who are cyclist and fitter can go up fox valley way whilst we can choose to either wonder along the flat internal public right of way stopping for a coffee and still be in a location which is easily visible to all without them having to come round and into the retail park on their bikes to find us !

There are many advantages for leaving this route and access point open as it continues an uninterrupted i

Link up hunshelf and again we would still be able to keep an eye on our families and lookout for them whilst sat waiting after our own gentle strip on the flat.

There is also a concern that too many rights of way are lost due to developers needs and also this access point is also of special local interest and is an area mo so than a roundabout entry point that can be made safe.

I do hope for the sake of disabled users such as myself who is a copd sufferer and disabled husband that this is not changed yet again as it should have been developed a little better and with more consideration in the first instance when planning was first approved.

Yours hopefully

Spring time

Spring is almost here, Now birds are making nests, Crocus peeping through the ground, Spring is here at lasts.

Grass is growing, lush and green, A wonderful sight to be seen, Gardens start to getting ready, For their next great scene.

The snow has gone the sky is blue, What I see is a wonderful view.

Let's say goodbye to winter, The cold wind and the fog, Looking forward to lovely spring time, The sights that summer brings.

MA Eggenton

Continued slowcoach bus disservice, 57/57A Stocksbridge

Dear Stagecoach Yorkshire, Miriam Cates MP, Bus Users UK, LookLocal editor

The Stagecoach, nay Slowcoach bus disservice to Stocksbridge/Deepcar catalogue of woe continues as ever. As usual, a smooth inter-city coach journey ended with the Sheffield to Stocksbridge last leg (or wheel) falling off, or, rather, amputated by Slowcoach. The pathetic hourly service on Sundays -- which MUST actually run, given this ridiculously low frequency of the sole service for a town of 20,000 people -- once again became a case of 'no wheels on my wagon' on March 19 with the non-running of the 4.29pm 57 from Sheffield. A passenger on the next, 5.29pm bus, getting on at Penistone Road, said the previous bus had passed him ‘not in service’. So it had left a number of passengers along with myself stranded in Angel Street and at several stops further out from the city centre. Yet according to the Slowcoach website’s ‘live’ tracking it ran as normal, just very slightly late. At least if you are given accurate information you can go have a coffee or something, instead of being kept waiting in the street under false pretences.

This is just one instance of what is all too familiar for all passengers. Just what is going on? Why the dishonesty?

Is it that Slowcoach is further deliberately -- or is recklessly indifferent to -- destroying passenger numbers so as to claim taxpayer subsidy when the COVID subsidy ends next month? The company has run the service down to just one an hour on Sundays and evenings, and only two an hour at other times, with only one of these direct instead of becoming the Worrall Wanderer; this being exactly the low level of disservice that subsidy would support for this route (the SYPTE informs me).

A few days ago there were long delays as so often is the case through parked cars on both sides of Victoria Road – a resident I know said one bus actually crashed into a parked car -- when Slowcoach is well aware this is an obviously unsuitable bus route, that anyway does not feature a single bus stop. Instead, it could come down Spink Hall Lane. All it would miss out is the Bracken Moor Sports Club (whose fit clientele could walk from the Youth Centre in a couple of minutes). Furthermore, the loop all the way to Cedar Road top for both outbound and inbound buses is a daft waste of petrol and time for everybody. As usual, Slowcoach managers seem to remain oblivious to issues with the crazy routes and timings they devise -- if they're not just having a laugh, perversely enjoying infuriating (would-be) passengers.

Our bus service should not be in the hands of a company that either deliberately, indifferently or incompetently is as demonstrably across-the-board and consistently woeful as is Stagecoach, which should be investigated for defrauding the taxpayer of the COVID subsidy explicitly to maintain services that instead were massively cut, and for what may be ruses to be subsidised indefinitely.

Yours sincerely Steve Moxon

Old codger

Dear 'Old Codger from Oughtibridge, I read your letter last week concerning the BBC with interest. I believe both you and I hold similar opinions on the athletic sporting prowess, abilities and incisive insight and humour that Mr Lineker affords us every week concerning football. (Do you feel a 'but' coming?)

Mr Lineker does not work for the BBC, he is part of a large media organisation that sub-contracts people to bidders who supply not just sports pundits but political talking heads as well as others, whenever they are required for various programs and I was not surprised to learn that, none other than, Alastair Campbell, who was visibly vociferous in his support of Mr Lineker last week, is on Lineker's payroll. No doubt time will tell if Ian Wright, Micah Richards, Alan Shearer, Alex Scott and the rest of the so called 'Lineker lovers' are also on his payroll.

I agree with the principal of free speech - this reply on Look Local forms part of that democratic right that we all enjoy, but sticking your neck above the parapet means you can expect dissenters. Here I am.

Mr Lineker tweeted "...This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the '30s, and I'm out of order?"

Well, in short, the answer to your question Gary is "yes you are out of order". The German Reich held power from 1933 -1943 and the Greater German Reich (1943 - 1945). The Nazis, to you and me, used the language of death, not only to its enemies, but also to any race or nation that would not concede and it also went about the purification of the German Race by executing their own disabled, mentally ill and non-Aryan descendants. The only thing Mr Lineker appears to know about the Germans is that they are better than we are at penalties!

To make comparisons between the Nazis and their actions, with our current government is not only reprehensible, it denigrates the memories of all those who suffered at the German's hands throughout the Second World War and I would challenge him to withdraw his inane comment in their memories and apologise, if nothing else.

Now as an individual, any bone brained idiot, myself included, can say (well, almost) anything they like on whatever platform they like, but with that right (see above) comes responsibilities and the onus to defend that position, if challenged. BUT nowadays there is another caveat. Any selfrespecting employer will ensure that any employee, whilst they are on the payroll does not air anything that may be considered illegal, immoral incorrect, defamatory, libelous, confidential and so on because it can and does reflect upon the employer. For Joe public, by doing just that means the sack and rightly so. But to Mr Lineker....aw no..... he is a cultural icon and is now held up as some sort of Lighthouse beacon for for the vulnerable, the dispossessed and the needy - which is rich when it is coming from a multi-millionaire, with jobs spreading across Europe (check La Liga for example).

Mr Lineker lives a life of great wealth and privilege as a result of.......errr reaching a World Cup Semi Final and also babysitting Paul Gascoigne?. But with that privilege comes great responsibilitiesones that he clearly has no intention of shouldering and for that I find his behaviour anathema. As for the lickspittles whom, we are told by Mr Lineker himself (of course), raced to his side in a show of solidarity, only one word suffices.... Baaaaaaa!

One final point about the Boat People. I am not aware of any boat people attempting to enter the UK from any other port/country other than Calais and its environs. This is where the Channel is at its narrowest, of course. So please remember this - EVERY SINGLE ONE who boards any vessel to cross the channel ALREADY HAS the protection

afforded by the Shengen agreement on Political and War refugees, The Shengen Area covers most but not all of the EU membership, but everyone entering a Shengen Country automatically has the right to reside as a refugee in that Country, but the route for many tens of thousands breaks that agreement when they insist on crossing other borders as well as the Channel, as it is only valid in the country of entry and passing through several other Shengen Countries renders it void. Though that section of the agreement has now been largely abandoned.

So, why do they risk their lives, their families and children and many thousands of Euros for a leaky patched up rubber inflatable, when everything they need is already behind them and they know that, on a bad day, capture or death comes in equal measures - perhaps the BBC should address that question as well. Or do you think it will be leaned on by the Government eh?

Oh...Almost forgot - In 2017 the BBC commissioned a 5 (FIVE) part series concerning British Wildlife with a company called Silverback Films, featuring Mr Attenborough - it was never intended to have any more than 5 episodes. In 2018 the RSPB and the WWF approached Silverback to make a film about the work being done by both groups with British Wildlife. The BBC agreed to show this film on the Iplayer. It has never been shelved, or moved and it can still be located, The Guardian newspaper (hardly a bastion of neutrality) is the only source of the story quoting "Anonymous BBC staff who gave them the "details"", but also failed to mention the two organisations', RSPB and WWF, connections to political lobbyists. No other newspaper, red or blue, has been able to add ANYTHING to the accusation. The BBC has, quite rightly, strenuously denied that the episode was pulled due to fear of, or potential for, political pressure

So there you are 'Codge. Oh, and BTW your last para is a really cheap shot, You'll be telling me next you never accept freebies, even when I stick my chin out!

Nigel Grice, High Green

57 Bus route: - My view on the incident

Around midday, on Friday 17th of March, I popped into one of the local shops on Victoria Road. I had to park further up the road after the chip shop and parked half on the pavement.

On my return to my car, an irate man bellowed across the road (in front of a few neighbours who had gathered) that a bus had taken ten minutes to get passed my car.

I apologised saying, I didn’t realise that this was a bus route. Why would the bus company choose to go along one of the narrowest roads? When they could go along Kenworthy Road or Shay Road for that matter, which the tram link bus used to use at one point.

Also if they intend to carry on using Victoria Road they need to put double yellow lines on one side of the road as practically all along Victoria Road all the cars are double parked, the irate gentlemen in question also asked me not to park across the street from his driveway, where are you supposed to park As there are beauty salons, takeaways and a chip shop as well as all the local houses?

I just wanted to get my point across, and I felt embarrassed to be shouted at in public in front of people and moms with small children, I felt I kept my temper, and I didn’t swear.

Anonymous Deepcar resident

TO HOLD AN OPEN DAY. SUNDAY 2ND APRIL

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

The club has been established for over fifty years at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green, and has car parking facilities. It boasts two greens which are maintained by a professional greenkeeper.

Members play in league matches all over Sheffield and the surrounding districts on many days and evenings of the week, with Monday and Tuesday evenings being the most popular. So friends are made at other clubs. The leagues cater for all bowling abilities from top players to those just starting out, there is a place for everybody.

So why not join us on Sunday 2th April at any time between 10am and 3pm at the end of Mortomley Close, S35 3HS. We are a friendly club and you will receive a warm welcome.

Go on, give it a go, you might enjoy it!

By James Fletcher

A community centre is on the lookout for young and enthusiastic people to save the centre from potential closure.

Current board members at Whitwell community centre are looking for someone local to take up the mantle as other commitments have forced their hand to step down. One of the members. Amanda Grimstone who has been running the centre for 20 years starting from the age of 23 said,

“This is a fantastic opportunity, the building is newly refurbished, it’s a lovely building, with great high ceilings that can accommodate bouncy castles. There is the potential for a future for Whitwell community centre in the fact

that is operating profitably the concerns are not financial and there’s a cash reserve. It’s just after 20 years it’s time for a break and allow some fresh faces and new blood to take over the centre.”

The community centre can host a wide array of activities as Amanda explained the centre used to host Karate, birthday parties, dancing, baby groups and so on. The building has been standing just as long as the estate has, so for it to see it closed for good would be heart-breaking for the community. As Amanda put it, “You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.”

If the centre is unable to attract a new board soon then the centre will, unfortunately, have to close its doors. How-

Community centre needs you… Students taught by Hair and Beauty industry specialists

ever, if you are interested in saving the centre then you can put your name forward by either contacting Amanda Grimstone via her social media advert on Facebook’s local community page or turning up to the general meeting held on Friday.

Amanda is fearful of what the future holds and gave a rallying cry to the local community in which she said, “I just want to engage with the local community to find the people that have the interest and the insight to be able to take the centre forward. I don’t want the end story to read that the centre has had to close down for good due to the lack of interest. That’s not my wish, that’s not anyone’s wish.”

For more information

contact John on 0114 284 8472 or 0790

310 1942

As part of Barnsley College’s Hair and Beauty Industry Week, students received training sessions from some impressive names in the industry.

First to visit and share their expertise was award-winning professional hairstylist, Sheree Thompson, founder of Siren Hair Art, who delivered a bridal hair training session to students.

Tuesday was a takeover by professional makeup artist Carrie Jones. Carrie carried out a full make-up demonstration on the College’s very own Julia Davies from the Enterprise team. Carrie has worked with celebrities including Gok Wan, Olly Murs and P!nk, and shared anecdotes and advice from her career during the session.

On Wednesday, Jack Sowter and Lucy Whelan from Lush Meadowhall gave students an interactive bath bomb-making session and presentation on working for the company, giving an insight into the opportunities that might be available for them in the hair and beauty retail industry.

Finally, Olivia Pearce from Luxe Aesthetics delivered an interactive session on Thursday demonstrating potential careers which await students in beauty aesthetics.

Anita Wilkinson, Head of Department for Hair and Beauty at Barnsley College, said: “We’ve had another brilliant Hair and Beauty Industry Week packed full of new learning opportunities for our students.

“Sessions with experts like this are not only making valuable additions to our students’ skill sets, but also showing them what they could achieve and aspire to be in their careers if they continue to work hard.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to each of our guests for their brilliant sessions.” Barnsley College offer Hair and Beauty courses at a variety of levels, including parttime courses for adults. There are part-time courses starting very soon including Hopi Ear Candling, Lash Technician training and much more. Visit the Hair and Beauty webpage to browse the range of courses that are available: www.barnsley.ac.uk/hair

Photograph: Award-winning professional hair stylist, Sheree Thompson, founder of Siren Hair Art.

Graihagh earns England call-up

Penistone junior Graihagh Turner represented South Yorkshire at the English Schools Cross Country Championships at Wollaton Park in Nottingham.

Graihagh’s eighth place in the junior girls race was enough to earn her selection for the England team which will complete in a home countries competition later this year.

Steve Sanders competed in the Sea to Sky race in Christchurch, New Zealand. He finished in 18th place in a time of 1-35-30.

Dave Napier competed in the Colwyn Bay Metric Marathon, finishing in a time of 2-04-54 which gave him 48th place. Closer to home a few Penistone runners made the short trip to Wakefield to compete in the Wakefield 10k. First back for the club was Michael Walsh in 44-44. Others competing were Michael Nicholson (46-43),

Peter Beever (49-43) and John Spencer (1-20-27). Dawn Broom took nearly 10 minutes off her own club over55 lady 20 mile record at the Knighton 20. The race consisted of 3 undulating loops through Staffordshire and Shropshire country lanes. Her new record now stands at 2-40-54.

English Schools Cross Country Championships, Wollaton Park, Nottingham (Junior Girls)

8, G Turner 12-25. Velorunner Knighton 20 157, Dawn Broom 2-4054.

Colwyn Bay Metric Marathon

48, Dave Napier 2-04-54.

Wakefield 10k

188, Michael Walsh 44-44; 243, Michael Nicholson

46-43; 371, Peter Beever 49-43; 1340, John Spencer 1-20-27.

Barnsley parkrun

32, Martyn Goodwin 2350; 59, Heather Graham 28-14; 68, Susan Hall 2853; 69, Stuart Smith 28-54; 89, Raymond Brown 32-34; 108, Karen Bowskill 36-49; 113, Karen Schofield 3705; 116, Rianna Armitage 37-24.

Penistone parkrun

3, George Parr 19-10; 11, Mark Law 21-17; 12, Mi chael Walsh 21-42; 18, Nick Wright 22-23; 33, Daniel Cooper 23-17; 47, Matthew Coldwell 25-01; 65, Emma Stead 26-18; 76, Andrew Taylor 27-07; 78, Lee Hopkins 27-10; 113, Eleanor Law 30-36; 118, Steve Dommett 30-50; 179, Martyn Cartwright 38-16; 185, Myfanwy Cross 3936.

Graihagh Turner (English Schools Cross Country

Dawn Broom (Knighton 20)

ChurCh latest team to suCCumb to Champions-eleC t

Penistone Church 0-3 North Ferriby Utd

North Ferriby continue its stronghold at the summit of the Northern East Counties League Premier Division, as Penistone Church suffer at the hands of the Champions elect.

Neither side took charge from the get-go, but it would be the away side to open the scoring with a long throw into the box found by an unmarked Danny East, who looped his header over the onrushing Chris Snaith to break the deadlock.

Penistone Church responded well after going behind but found it hard to break North Ferriby down. This set the precedent for the afternoon really, as every Church

attack was well-defended by the away side.

And after weathering the storm North Ferriby doubled their lead just after the halfhour mark. Amir Berchil twisted and turned on the edge of the Penistone box, and eventually found the top left corner as they went into the half-time break with a commanding two-goal lead. Church came out into the second half on the front foot but like the first North Ferriby stayed strong at the back. Before they made their inroads in attack, and with 14 minutes left to be played North Ferriby put the final nail in the coffin. Amir Ber-

stocksbridge youngsters earning their spurs’

With more than a dozen first team regulars unavailable through work commitments or injury, Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby produced a spirited performance before eventually going down by 46pts to 12pts away at rivals Mosborough.

Head Coach Andy Lawrence was forced to dig deep into his playing roster with youngsters Crosby, Miles, Norman, & ‘whiskers’ Hannah all starting, & 2 un-named trialists included in the matchday squad.

There was also a welcome return from the bench for the powerful Luke Birch, & the jet heeled Ryan Smith. Stocksbridge conceded almost from the kick off, & there wasn’t much to encourage the visitors as the home side scored almost at will in a very one sided first half. Credit to all the players for keeping their heads up & for not throwing the towel in when the going got tough, a half

time score of : Mosborough RUFC 39pts –Stocksbridge Rugby nil was reflective of a very one sided contest.

The more experienced players such as Lewis ‘eggsy’ Bowman, Reece ‘diesel’ Aspin & skipper & that man Adam Frith lead by example however, injuries to ‘rampaging bull’ Joe Smith & the veteran playmaker Ricky Christopherson further depleted the already thin blue line. Birch was introduced to the action from the bench after half time & his contribution was immediate & telling, bustling his way through three Mosborough defenders to register the visitors first score of the afternoon. He backed this up with a second score minutes later, charging onto a deft Frith pass, with stand in goal kicker Jack Spencer able to add the conversion. Was there a miracle comeback on the cards?

Mosborough eventually regained some control

with a further score to lengthen their lead, & there was still time for a bit of handbags & fisticuffs towards the end of the game as Mosborough’s frustrations at Stocksbridge’s refusal to lie down boiled over.

A final score of Mosborough RUFC 46pts – Stocksbridge Rugby 12pts was not reflective of the effort from the plucky visiting side. Ironically, Stocksbridge climb to 6th in the Yorkshire 4 Counties league ladder as a result of some teams refusing to travel or forfeiting fixtures when their availabilities are low, some consolation for the Stocksbridge club. The Fox Catering Man of the Match award went to Lewis ‘eggsy’ Bowman, kindly sponsored by Mr Mark Logan, for a gritty display & some good work in the set piece areas, with Luke Birch not far off on his return to action.

Skipper Adam Frith was quick to pay tribute to his beaten but not battered troops afterwards when he said, ‘we relied heavily on the youngsters today & they all deserve credit for their efforts, the easy option would have been to put the cue on the rack & give in’, before adding, ‘we dug deep when the going got tough, & we have all learned lessons from today to help us in our progress’. Stocksbridge have a bye week next week before heading to York on 1st April to attempt the double over Nestle Rowntree, & on this showing, you wouldn’t bet against their endeavour & courage to complete the task.

chil with a brace for the day to secure all three points.

Penistone Church Coach, Brett Lovell said after the game, “In football, you have to be a gentleman sometimes and say we were up against a very good side today. Yes, we’re very disappointed with our result today, the way we performed, the way we applied ourselves and we lacked creativity.

“Our focus now is on the next four fixtures and accumulating as many points as we can, then focus will completely switch to next year, we’re hoping we can stay in the top five around the au-

tomatic places or at least the play-offs.

“We’ll keep working hard, the lads will train on Wednesday, and we’ll prepare for next week’s fixture against Garforth.”

It is a week for Penistone Church to forget as they also suffered defeat in midweek. Losing 1-0 to Golcar United, and with four games of the season remaining - time and points are very much against them.

maroon platoon fall to leaders

Chapeltown Hockey Club

Mens first team missed the opportunity to go into second spot in the YNE second division in an entertaining and hard fought home game at the weekend.

The Maroon Platoon were in front twice against league leaders Boston Spa with a brilliant solo goal and a penalty stroke from Danny Palmer. Boston Spa however made the most of their penalty corner opportunities and ran out 3-2 winners.

The Mens 2s were also in action against Bradford 2s. A dominant display with goals from Craig Day, Rob Ramsay and man of the match Matt Oxby saw them finish 3-1 winners against the side just above them in the table.

The Ladies 2s played some good hockey in their game against Sheffield University Bankers and went in at half time with the score at 0-0. The team from across the City however came out stronger in the second half with the final score a 3-0 loss.

The Mens 3s travelled to play Worksop 1s with a makeshift team. Mick Burgan, filling in, had an outstanding game in goal but couldn't keep out the home side. The final score 3-1 to Worksop with Welsh veteran Antony Wyatt getting the goal for Chapeltown.

LocalSport

Stocksbridge Park Steels had their first goalless draw of the season against Grimsby Borough.

Both teams showed plenty of attacking intent in the early parts of the game but it was the visitors with the

better chances. Not long after a cross begging to be tapped in was flashed across goal, Adam Drury was able to volley a strike into the back of the net but the linesman had flagged long before he was able to knock it in.

At the other end, Stocksbridge were causing problems with most of the joy coming down wither wing. Lewis Macaskill was doing well against debutant full-back Max Taylor, with one time him turning a few men before curling a shot that was well saved by Liam Higton. Ify Ofoegbu was also able to get a shot off after out-strengthing Luis Adlard, but Higton was able to make a smart stop.

In the second half, it was much the same. Caine Winfarrah thought he had laid up the dream pass for Brody Robertson as his effort did get past Ben Townsend, only for the former Cleethorpes striker to hit it over the bar. At the other end, a great pass saw Tomas Poole burst into the box with some pace but his powerful shot was hit just wide of the far post.

The big talking point would come following the referee giving a free kick after a foul from Jack Debnam. Tomas Poole was getting set to take it but would have an altercation with Grimsby sub Jack Barlow. Poole appeared to lower his head towards to Barlow while the Grimsby man would go to grab Poole’s neck in return. This led the referee to send both players off.

The resulting free kick, and the drama of the incident continuing on the sidelines, almost decided the game. The initial free kick was whipped in and deflected back out of the box. Bailey Baker slammed the shot back in for Higton to save, and then the goal-

keeper made an impressive reflex stop to stop the rebound from going in. This ensured both teams would have to be happy with a point.

Next home game: Saturday 1st April vs Grantham Town, 3pm KO

Photo by Myra Little