Look Local Issue 1266 Thursday 20 April 2023

sAvE s gir Forever grateful parents want to give back

By James Fletcher

Grateful North Sheffield parents are raising money to give back to the organisation that helped save their daughter’s life.

Ivy Hemingway was diagnosed with a rare and dangerous brain tumour known as Craniopharyngioma back in 2021 at the age of four and she has undergone four lifesaving surgeries at Sheffield Children’s Hospital since her condition was first flagged up by her parents, Sarah and Benj Hemingway. Even though her first initial three surgeries were a success, the surgeon that treated her exclaimed that she was hours away from dying. Ivy waited a year for her

final surgery in which the team at the hospital used an MRI 3T scanner which helps the surgeons determine if they got all the tumour.

This piece of equipment cost around £2 million pounds and was funded largely by donations from the public. Sarah and Benj now would like to repay the favour to the hospital by raising 10 thousand pounds to help the children’s hospital continue what they described as “amazing and world-class care.”

So far, they have raised a whopping £8,558, two thousand pounds just shy of their £10K target.

Continued on page 6

Probation services rated 'inadequate' by inspectors

By Andrew Barton, BBC News

Sheffield's probation service has been rated as "inadequate" following an inspection earlier this year.

The service "must improve" after scoring just one out of a possible 27 points, his Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation said.

It faced "high vacancy and sickness rates, unmanageable caseloads and staff leaving", said Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell.

The unit's work to keep people safe was its weakest area, he said.

A remorseful robber has been put behind bars after an elderly shop assistant was punched and kicked during a masked raid by a gang at a store.

Sheffield Crown Court heard on April 14 how Grant Furniss, aged 31, of Oakland Road, Hillsborough, Sheffield, was part of a four-strong masked-gang that raided a Londis store, at Crookes, Sheffield, in the early hours and stole cigarettes and scratch cards valued at £1,320.

Austin Newman, prosecuting, said a 64-year-old shop assistant had been dealing with newspaper deliveries at about 5am when four masked individuals burst into the shop and as he tried to stop the raid he was punched and kicked by one of the gang.

One male confronted the shop assistant as the other three robbers went around the store stealing cigarettes and scratch cards, according to Mr Newman, but as the shop assistant tried to stop them he was attacked.

Mr Russell said the probation service in Sheffield had to do better in order to "ensure the risk of harm people on probation may pose is properly assessed, for the protection of victims, potential victims and the local community".

'Little insight'

At the time of the inspection, in January 2023, too many cases being dealt with by the service had not included "essential information from police and children's services", according to Mr Russell. That meant efforts to keep people safe could have been weakened, particularly in identifying where women and children were at risk of abuse, he said.

His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation said it had found senior probation officers in Sheffield were not routinely monitoring how people on probation were being managed by their teams and had "little insight into whether the quality of work being carried out was being successful".

However, the Inspectorate said managers were hindered by "high workloads and insufficient capacity to provide the level of oversight that was necessary".

Mr Russell had called on senior leaders at the service to provide "a clear vision" for returning the service to "an acceptable level of service, for the benefit of all concerned".

Fourteen recommendations for improvement were issued to the Sheffield service, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation said.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, which oversees probation services, said: "We have taken immediate action to address the issues raised by inspectors, including additional training for staff to improve risk assessments and more regular quality checks on management plans for offenders.

"We are also investing an extra £155m a year into the Probation Service and recruiting record numbers of staff to deliver tougher supervision and keep the public safe."

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Warwick Development is based right here on our doorstep in Ecclesfield, Sheffield. Owner Debby Lewis has been part of the sister company Warwick Development Specialist Window Division since 2001, and she was delighted when the opportunity arose to take over Warwick Development in 2017. Debby has a wealth of knowledge and experience, having worked within the glazing industry for over 25 years.

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STAR RAISES MONEY IN ABSEIL CHALLENGE

Rowan Campbell-Pilling, a rising star in British Motor Racing and Charity Ambassador for Sheffield Children’s, and his team, have raised more than £3,000 by taking part in #TeamTheo’s Abseil 2023.

Keen to give back to his community, Rowan took the incredible 160ft plunge down Sheffield Hallam University’s Owen Building in support of Sheffield Children’s.

The racing star has been competing in kart racing across the UK since the age of five. Winning a multitude of trophies along his career, he was the youngest ever winner of the Daniel Ricciardo National Series, at the age of 14. Now as a 16-year-old, he is beginning to compete in the senior ranks of karting in both Iame X30 Series and the Daniel Ricciardo Series.

Rowan has supported many charities over the years but feels a particular affinity to The Children’s Hospital Charity. He was born in the Jessop Wing, just

around the corner from Sheffield Children’s, and was admitted there two months later for a serious chest infection. Much more recently, Rowan needed an x-ray and again made use of their outstanding facilities.

Rowan said: “My family and I know first-hand how important the services at Sheffield Children’s are and being able to raise money and awareness for something that means so much to me and many other young people in the region is such an honour.”

Double superbike world champion and current Eurosport WSB commentator, James Toseland, joined Rowan as the pair, suited in their race gear, raced against each other.

Rowan added: “The abseil was so much fun and getting to go down twice, once on my own and again with James was an absolute blast.”

Phoebe Marriott, Events Fundraising Officer, from The Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “It was really good to meet Rowan

and the rest of Team Rowan CP42 at our charity abseil, and I was delighted to hear how much they enjoyed it.

“Descending a 160ft building using just a rope is no mean feat but Rowan bravely took on the challenge without even flinching. He and his team raised an incredible amount of money for Sheffield Children’s, and it will make a huge difference to the lives of our patients, their families and our staff.

“He is a real credit to the ambassador role and a great advocate for the charity.”

Rowan is aiming to raise further funds topping £5,000 for the charity as he goes from abseiling back to karting with a Charity Karting Event at the end of March. The two-hour endurance team race will be hosted by Rowan and will see teams of four compete the ultimate test of karting endurance, determined by tactics, teamwork and staying power, all in support of The Children’s Hospital Charity.

Thanks for saving Ivy

...Continued from front page

SPRING SHOW

Barnsley College is set to host a Spring Show at its Wigfield Farm campus in Worsbrough on Thursday 20 April 2023, 10.00am until 3.00pm, featuring animal showing and live talks on some of their adorable new arrivals.

Even though Ivy will have to live with numerous behavioural and physical changes Ivy’s journey is not yet done as her last scan indicated that her tumour has started to regrow, and will now have to receive ‘Proton Beam Therapy’ at the Christie Centre in Manchester.

Her Mum (Sarah) couldn’t give the hospital enough praise as she told Look Local,

“To all the doctors, surgeons, nurses and cleaners, we see them all as part of our family now and will be forever grateful for their world-class job.”

Ivy’s Dad (Benj) will also be running a ‘Beast Spartan race’ with three of his closest friends on August 13th to help raise money for his “precious princess” with all the information also on the Go Fund Me page.

“We all hope that Ivy can conquer this once and for all so she has the chance to live a full and wonderful life regardless of all the challenges she is likely to face.“

So, if you wish to help Sarah and Benj on their quest you can donate on their ‘Go Fund Me’ page: Ivy Hemingway - Brain tumour journey

CELEBRATING

100,000 DOORS INSTALLED!

Wigfield Farm is home to Barnsley College’s Animal Management and Horticulture courses, and the event will give these students chance to take to the stage and showcase what the farm has on offer. The students will show the variety of animals they have been working with, including sheep, rabbits, poultry and guinea pigs.

Visitors can also attend reptile and lamb talks and view the diverse range of animals at the farm, including newborn chicks and goslings, meerkats, horses, zebu and much more.

There will also be independent craft and gift stalls on the day and food and drink are available.

Peter Wood, Head of Department for Animal Care at Barnsley College, said: “The Spring Show is an amazing opportunity for everyone to see the hard work, passion and determination displayed by our students.

“I am incredibly proud of all our students, and I hope everyone will come down whilst enjoying some fantastic springtime festivities.”

The event will take place at Wigfield Farm, Haverlands Lane, Barnsley, S70 5NQ. The admission price for the farm is £2 per person with free entry for children under the age of two.

Cost of living fundraiser

tions with Josh and members of his team, it’s clear they have grasped what communities across South Yorkshire need and that is crucial assistance with the cost of living crisis.

A kind-hearted trio of British Gas engineers have turned their focus from customers to communities by directing £2,000 to a Cost of Living Fund overseen by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF).

Josh Hill, Customer Delivery Manager from Thorpe Hesley and his team of nineteen engineers decided they wanted to help people across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield with the cost of living crisis, after being given £1,000 by their employers for a charitable donation, which was subsequently doubled to £2,000.

One Google search later led them to SYCF’s Cost of Living Fund, launched in September 2022, to collect donations big or small for a grants pro-

gramme allowing community groups to deliver support.

Josh said: “I did some research into local charities that are supporting communities with the Cost of Living and SYCF stood out straight away. After reading about all the fantastic work they do and specifically about their Cost Of Living Fund, it was clear that our donation would be put to good use helping those most in need, in what is an extremely difficult time for many.”

A latest survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal that 94% of people reported their cost of living had increased compared to the previous year, whilst 92% said the issue was the most concerning for them.

SYCF Chief Executive Ruth Willis said: "In our conversa-

“We hope their decision to choose SYCF’s Cost of Living Fund may encourage other businesses and individuals who may want to give a financial donation to help people experiencing day-to-day difficulties with rising food costs, energy bills and fuel poverty.”

Currently, the Fund has nearly reached over £68,000 with people donating some, or all, of their energy bill rebates following the Government’s launch of the Energy Bills Support Scheme in October 2022. Donations can be made through SYCF’s Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving. com/campaign/SouthYorkshireCostOfLivingFund

Community groups can apply for funding of upto £5,000 to support people including improving food accessibility, reducing fuel poverty and providing debt advice, that closes on Monday 27th March at 12noon. Application guidance is on SYCF's website at: www.sycf.org.uk/costofliving

Stocksbridge Town Council

Coronation of King Charles III

Reminder to all local shops/businesses in Stocksbridge and Deepcar that the Mayor will be judging the Best Dressed Window competition week commencing 1st May 2023 – with a certi cate and cheque for £100 to the winner, to be presented at the Town Council meeting on 11th May 2023. If your business is participating please email the o ce in order that your business is not missed o the route when judging takes place.

Tel: 0114 288 7895 admin@stocksbridge-council.co.uk

Stocksbridge Town Council, Town Hall, e ARC, Manchester Road, Stocksbridge, SHEFFIELD S36 2DT

STEEL VALLEY BEACON ARTS

Man jailed for child sexual abuse

A 64-year-old man who sexually abused a child over a decade has been jailed for more than six years.

Alan Beecroft first began abusing his victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, while she was aged under 10 years old.

Detective Constable Helen Timms, from Sheffield’s Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) team, said: “The victim in this case has demonstrated exceptional courage in sharing with police details of the horrific abuse she suffered as a young child.

“Sexual abuse can have a significant and lasting impact on its victims, indeed the victim in this case was so traumatised by her abuse that she felt she couldn’t tell anyone what was happening.

“It was only in 2021, when Beecroft was jailed for sexual offences committed against other children, that the victim felt able to disclose his awful crimes. She has shown incredible strength throughout our investigation and the legal process and I am pleased that we have been able to secure justice for her.”

Beecroft, already serving a jail term at Marsh Gate prison, Doncaster, for other offences, was convicted of 11 counts of indecent assault at Sheffield Crown Court.

OnWednesday (22 March), he was sentenced to a further six years and nine months in pris-

on. This will run concurrently to his existing prison term of four years.

DC Timms added: “I hope this case further highlights to the public how committed we are to securing justice for victims of sexual abuse, irrespective of when that abuse took place.”

Two Great Nights Out

Music for Stage and Screen

Steel Valley Beacon Arts and over 70 singers from 13 local choirs bring you a night to remember.

Friday May 12th/Saturday May 13th at 7.15pm Christ Church Manchester Rd Stocksbridge S36 1DP

Tickets £10

from Samuel’s Kitchen and on 07792 142 545

Email: steelvalleybeaconarts1@gmail.com

The month of May not only sees Spring well and truly setting in, but two great evenings of entertainment. On Coronation Day, Saturday 6th May at 7pm, A Gala Concert is taking place at Christ Church Stocksbridge. Steel Valley Beacon Arts, Bolsterstone Male Voice Choir and Christ Church are joining together to present a concert to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. The evening will feature music, song and comedy and will be followed by a party to round off the day. Tickets are available, priced £5 for the concert and party afterwards, from 07792 142545 or Samuel’s Kitchen in Fox Valley. A percentage of the ticket sales will be going to support the exciting plans for the new Foodbank in Stocksbridge, to continue to support those in

need. The concert will be an appetizer for the following weekend.

On Friday 12th and Saturday 13th at 7.15pm Steel Valley Beacon Arts presents at Christ Church, “The Big Sing”. Beacon will be joined by singers from across the valley and district to create a 75-member strong choir. The “choir” is busy rehearsing excerpts from some of the great film and stage musicals of our time. So, if you fancy a bit of The Phantom of the Opera, Sister Act, The Lion King or West Side Story to mention but a few, contact Steel Valley Beacon Box Office on 07792 142 545 or call into Samuel’s Kitchen to get your ticket, priced at just £10 for a great night out.

Wharncliffe Side Memorial is yet to be unveiled

By James Fletcher

A new War Memorial is yet to be unveiled at the new David Wilson housing estate, Oughtibridge Valley. The memorial is located just at the entrance of the estate and is twinned as part of a little park area with grass, benches and wildflowers growing at the edges. So, pa trons can sit and remember the fallen from both World Wars.

The Bradfield Parish Council helped find all the names of the fallen men who resided from all four corners of the parish, with the help of the local historian.

The listed soldiers were all sons of Worrall, Wharncliffe Side, Oughtibridge, Loxley and Stannington. A spokes person from the Bradfield Parish Council said, “We can’t wait to see it when it’s officially unveiled and we were more than happy to help out with the names, even though we didn’t contribute financially it was still nice to help.”

We have contacted David Wilson, but a spokesperson is yet to reply so the unveiling will remain a mystery until it is announced, but that has not stopped the locals from finding this poignant reminder.

Along with the memorials they have also included two boards explaining the history of the old paper mill that was situated here before the new housing was built, and another that is named ‘the power of the River Don.’ Which was a staple component for the people of these villages as well as a warning of the destruction the river can and has caused in the past.

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Man says Charity has helped transform his life

APRIL 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 itall welcome.

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21 Chapeltown Silver Prize Band Patrons’ Concert To be held at the Newton Hall Chapeltown on Friday 21st April at 7.30 pm Tickets from Margaret and Peter on 0114 2460983 or Julie and Paul on 01226 747951

Sandwich Hot Dogs Cakes Together with various stalls including Books Jigsaws Plants Tombola Raffle This is to raise funds for the church from 10am-12 noon

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.

s undAy

30 Cawthorne Antiques Fair

9.30am to 3.30pm Sunday 30th April for details call 07966 721068

From pilates to painting, crafts to cookery…there isn’t any activity offered by the St Luke’s Hospice Patient and Family Support team that Alan Hobson will say no to!

Alan, who is 61 and lives in Crookes, has been visiting the charity’s Ecclesall Road South site for a year now, making full use of the range of activities and therapies on offer.

The St Luke’s Patient and Family Support service provides patients with physio and occupational therapy, wellbeing and creative therapies, social work, chaplaincy and spiritual support, along with relaxation and wellbeing techniques, tips on nutrition, routine and sleep and fun activities for all interests.

And Alan says that the support of the whole St Luke’s team has had a transformative effect on his life.

Alan, who has cancer, admits that he had never even really thought about the work that St Luke’s does until it was suggested by his NHS medical team that he might benefit from their services.

“I really didn’t know what it was or what they did and even though I do go into the St Luke’s shop in Crookes, it had never dawned on me what it was all about,” he says.

“But I was eventually getting some support at home from the St Luke’s Community

Nurses and they asked if I’d be interested in some of the Patient and Family Support services.

“At first I was very undecided and unsure about it all but now I go three times every week and I wouldn’t miss it because I enjoy everything on offer and will always give things a go.”

Among the activities Alan has taken part in are everything from art classes and cookery sessions to indoor curling and bowls, mindfulness, community singing and Tai Chi.

“Because of the cancer, I am living day to day but St Luke’s has been a life saver to me,” Alan says.

“Deep down, I always know the cancer is there and it isn’t going away but being at St Luke’s takes me away from it for a while and as long as they’ll have me, I’ll keep coming.

“I enjoy being here, I enjoy meeting new people, making new friends and I enjoy all the activities.

“The staff are fantastic and the volunteers are great too –it’s absolutely brilliant to be honest and I can’t get enough of it!”

To find out more about the St Luke’s Hospice Patient and Family Support services visit stlukeshospice.org.uk/whatwe-do/for-patients/patientfamily-support

21 Coffee morning at St Saviours church, Mortomley Lane, High Green. Coffee and Cake, all welcome, good company. 10.30 am -12noon

sAtu R dAy

22 Come fly your kite in Chapeltown Park with Kite Sheffield’s enormous kites. Friends of Chapeltown Park free event from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Make a small kite at the bandstand –these are great – they really fly!

22 Penistone Ladies Choir Concert, The Sound of Brass and the Joy of Song, with guests Hade Edge Brass Band, Penistone Paramount Cinema S36 7DY at 7pm on Saturday April 22nd. Tickets from Paramount Cinema website, the Box Office and on the door.

22 at Crane Moor Methodist Church Come and join us for refreshments including Bacon

MAy

t hu R sdAy

4 Coronation Cream Tea at the Venue for members of Stocksbridge & Upper Don Tenants and Residents Association. More details and book your no-cost place at tarastocksbridge.ud@gmail. com or 07957 206646

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6 Concert for the King and Party. Steel Valley Beacon Arts and Bolsterstone MVC Christ Church £5 from Samuels Kitchen or 07792142545

t uesdAy

9 Bradfield Walkers are WelcomeGuided walk with Malcolm Nunn, Local History Evening Round Walk in Loxley Valley - start at 7pm from Loxley Village Green (junction of Rodney Hill and Lox-

ley Road), return around 9pm, www.bradfield-walkers.org.uk, 2337463, FREE but donations welcome

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11 Chapeltown WI will celebrate the Kings Coronation by holding a party for members at 7.30pm in Chapeltown Methodist Church. There will be a supper of pie and peas followed by entertainment. The competition is for an item of Royal Memorabilia.

11 High Green W.I. Are meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday the 11th of May in the Church Hall, behind the Methodist Church on Worley Road. The event is “King Charles 111 Coronation Party”. The competition is “Royal Family Memorabilia”.

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12 Steel Valley Beacon Big Sing –Songs from Stage and Screen. 80 voices Tickets £10 from Samuels Kitchen or 07792142545

sAtu R dAy

13 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners, Dawn Chorus Walk on Wadsley Common with John and Anne Robinson, meet at 5am at Rural Lane Car Park, FREE, families very welcome, no dogs, www.walc. epizy.com NOTE EARLY START

13 Steel Valley Beacon Big Sing –Songs from Stage and Screen. 80 voices Tickets £10 from Samuels Kitchen or 07792142545

MondAy

15 Bradfield Historical Society - a talk, ‘Paupers and Vagrants in Sheffield Workhouses’ by Mary Garside, 7.30pm, Bradfield Village Hall, The Sands, Low Bradfield. 2337463

15 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners, talk by Debbie Coldwell

of Natural Flood Management - referencing how the common can play a part in Flood Management, 7.30pm, Wadsley Church Hall, Worrall Road, S6 4BB, £3 for members, £3.50 for nonmembers, included refreshments, www.walc.epizy.com

t uesdAy

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

16 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome, Local History Morning Round Walk led by Malcolm Nunn, meet at Cutthroat Bridge (A57 layby) at 10.30am return around 2pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463 or www.bradfield-walkers.org.uk or email bradfield.history@mypostoffice.co.uk BRING PACKED LUNCH FOR THIS WALK.

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21 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. tuesdAy

23 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome - Guided walk with Malcolm Nunn, Local History Evening Round Walk - start at 7pm from Rural Lane Car Park, Wadsley, return around 9pm, www.bradfield-walkers.org. uk, 2337463, FREE but donations welcome

On listings

WednesdAy

31 Bradfield Walkers are Welcome, Local History Morning Round Walk led by Malcolm Nunn, meet Low Bradfield Car Park at 10.30am return around 1pm. FREE but donations welcome. 2337463 or www.bradfield-walkers.org.uk or email bradfield.history@mypostoffice.co.uk

on G o I n G

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 first! Contact 01226 764642 for more information

Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir meets on Monday Evenings (19.30 to 21.30) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, S36 9NQ. Have you ever sung in a choir before? We would love to see you come and have a enjoyable time with the ‘Friendly Choir’. We especially need some more Bass, Baritone and Top Tenors. Visit MCMVC. co.uk for more information.

Monday Art Class at The Venue, Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge. 10am-12 noon. £7 per session,

first one free. What a great way to start the week! A few places now available. Tutor gives individual help/advice/demos - water colour/acrylics/oils/sketching.

Pop in and see us or call The Venue 0114 283 8692 for further info.”

t uesdAys

Warm space offering soup,bread roll and a drink every Tuesday from 11.30am til 1.30pm at Chapeltown Methodist Church

ALL ARE WELCOME

Deepcar Drop In at St John’s Church - every Tuesday from 10am until noon - open to all ages - drop in for a free warm drink and some cake - toys for the under 5s - and a Warm Bank where you can drop off or take a warm coat, hat, scarf or gloves if you need them. Everybody welcome!

Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to over 50’s afternoon at 1.45pm. Find us at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green S35 3HZ Bowls and coaching provided. Cost £2.50

WednesdAys

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

thuRsdAys

Open House Community Café Everyone is welcome at Open House, our new community café - 1:303:30pm every Thursday at Holy Trinity Thurgoland Church. Pop in for coffee, cakes and a chat. Contact Hannah for more details: hannahosandoval@gmail.com

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

High Green Fitness and Fun Aerobics and Activities Paces campus, High Green Thursday 11am-12:30pm £4 per person. Call Margaret for more info 0114 284 7190

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

“High Spirits Singers - for people who enjoy singing in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere but don’t want to be in a formal choir! We meet on Thursdays 2.00 - 4.00 in the Miners’ Welfare Hall, Angram Road, High Green - bring your voice and a sense of humour! Details from Vic Bowden, 07884 007581” Thursdays at 12noon until 3.30pm. Warm Spaces at Stocksbridge Christian Centre, Cedar Road. Meet up with friends-enjoy a tea/coffee or light snack. Board Games available. All welcome.

FRIdAys

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

sAtuRdAys

Councillors Julie Grocutt & Janet Ridler Surgery 1st Saturday of each Month Stocksbridge Library 10-11am. Call in for help advice or a chat. Also contact us on julie. grocutt@councillor.sheffield.gov.

uk janet.ridler@councillor.sheffield.gov.uk

Councillor Lewis Chinchen’s surgeries will be on the 2nd Saturday of each month (except July) from 10.30-11.30am at Stocksbridge Library. Drop by if you require assistance or support. Lewis can also be contacted at lewis.chinchen@ councillor.sheffield.gov.uk or on 07766 540328.

Eppic Theatre Ecclesfield is open again every Saturday morning from 10am until 12. Tea, coffee and biscuits are available.

Thorncliffe Bowling Club invites you to our Shuffles afternoon at 1.45pm. Find us at the end of Mortomley Close, High Green S35 3HZ Bowls and coaching provided. Cost £2.50 (from 12 April) Bullhouse chapel will be open ev ery Saturday, Easter until the end of September, from 11am until 2pm, as a Quiet Space. Whilst ev eryone is welcome, we hope any walkers who have to leave the Trans Pennine Trail, due to the di version across Millennium Bridge, may like to visit to have their pic nic and a cuppa. Bullhouse Chapel is a ‘dissenters chapel’ and is the oldest independent chapel in the country to have been in continuous use in the same building since 1692.

Family Notices

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

K. DYSON M.B.I.E.

TEL: (0114) 288 3169

TEL: (01226) 762 481

Margaret LAYCOCK

Sadly passed away in hospital on the 6th April aged 86.

Dearly loved Wife of the late Basil, a loving Mum to Keith and Gillian, and loved Mum-in-Law to Ian.

Will be sadly missed by all of her family and friends. Private family cremation.

STEER S (Née Hall)

Doreen passed away peacefully in Belmont House Nursing Home on 4th April 2023, aged 97.

Much Loved Mum, Mother-in-Law, Grandma, Great Grandma and Great-Great Grandma.

The Funeral will be held on Tuesday 2nd May at Grenoside Crematorium in the South Chapel at 12:30. Enquiries c/o Coop Funeralcare, Bevan Way, Chapeltown, She eld, S35 1RN. 01142467971.

Passed away on 7th April 2023 aged 84. Formerly of Stocksbridge but lived in Lincoln after his long army career.

A much loved Brother to Jenny, Marie, Lorraine and Lynda, Uncle and Great Uncle.

18.4.1978 – 10.10.2015 On

Your Letters

Communities in Danger

Miners strike for jobs they say to keep their communities as they are today

“What’s so good about going down pit and then coming up to cough and spit

To die in agony a little each day or quickly beneath a ton of clay?”

Understanding how they all feel, in an alien world their world is real.

Their troubled fast bound them together, friendships fast, brother to brother.

In that hostile workface they needed to trust, to depend on their mates in that acrid dust

The worry each shift, the stain and strife binds strongly the cord between mother and wife.

The communities are no mere token, strong as steel they musn’t be broken

But shouldn’t rely on cutting coal to hold them tight as a mare and her foal

Leave the coal in the goround, deep down in the mine

Find healthier work in gods golden sunshine

Make solar panels to fuel the nation!

No profits? No loss! Congratulations!!

By Sheila Gent, Aged 90 Stocksbridge

This life that we live if only

Only to have a first rehearsal before the final thing, So as not to take life for granted the next time round, Wouldn’t we learn a lot, Wouldn’t we make less mistakes and have less regrets, Wouldn’t it be more perfect the second time around, Would we appreciate life and people more, If only…

Margaret Eggenton

Contradictory political leaflet

Deepcar an even better place to live. I will walk the walk says David Chinchen MBA your local choice in the Conservative manifesto for this years 2023 May local elections.

The Governments Town Fund deal is funding work to complete the Upper Don Trail from Underbank to More Hall Lane. This will deliver a safe off-road path for walkers and cyclists ‘helping to take traffic away from Manchester Road in Deepcar’.

Jobs a good plan for failure its not delivering for Deepcar. Only by looking at the photo on the Conservative flyer shows a photo of the bottom of Carr Road, without any cars. A junction with a nearby bus stop, pedestrian crossing and a traffic lighted three-way junction. I’ve never seen this junction so quiet. So much for Sheffield City Council planning on road safety!?

But every picture tells its own story. Was the same photographer the same person who took a photo of Wood Royd Road without any cars?

Helping to take traffic away from Manchester Road in Deepcar, no cars no problem solved. But what time of day and who is the master photographer of showing no cars on Manchester Road or Wood Royd Road.

Last but not least 430 new homes will not take traffic away this is failure and not to mention Hollins Busk. Our local councillors need to look in the mirror. Not delivering for Deepcar’s bottleneck

Jim Hinchey, Deepcar

Buses

Dear look local

There is a collective cry of anguish over the state of public transport round here.

Either we get a hospital , college and a cultural world in Stocksbridge or adequate buses.

There are many things to discuss about the past and future of public transport but right now we need to know how much it costs to have the supertram link back as it was and get that money to stagecoach now or to another company if they won't run it.

I am not good at sums but it will be so much less than the cost of people just refusing to live here anymore or than the cost to the health of those who have no choice.

Yours

Disingenuous to link excess deaths with strike days, says BMA

“Any increase in excess deaths is a concern but it is wholly wrong to say that the strikes are the root cause; the two events might have happened at the same time, but correlation is not causation and any statistician worth their salt will confirm it is impossible and potentially dangerous to attribute the rise to a single cause. We have been concerned about preventable and excess deaths across the health and social care system for some time, which is one of the reasons why we are taking the action we are, in a bid to reverse the impact of sustained under-resourcing.

Puppy Smuggling

Dear Editor,

Peter Morton Hunshelf Park

“What is clear is that these data have been used in a premature and highly selective manner to imply that the strikes caused the increase in the excess deaths. It also completely ignores the fact that there were no strikes in Wales, and yet the excess deaths were higher there than in England over the same period, and more than 14 times higher compared to two weeks earlier (14% v 0.9%). This is frankly irresponsible. While the Government accuses the BMA or putting politics before patients, this

analysis is playing politics with patients’ lives by wrongly linking excess deaths with industrial action, and being used to further undermine and attack junior doctors. It will require the data to be rigorously analysed to find the underlying causes of this increase in excess deaths across England and Wales and without such study it is impossible to say what impact the first round of strike action may or may not have had.

“The BMA can reassure patients that their safety remains an absolute priority and those who need lifesaving care will get it. During these strikes, consultants and SAS doctors have safely stepped in to cover urgent and emergency care. The BMA has a jointly agreed system with NHS England in place to ensure patient safety in the event of extreme and unforeseen circumstances. The BMA met with NHS England four times per day during the strikes to monitor the situation in the first round and we have the same system in place currently.”

Professor David Strain, BMA Board of Science chair

For more than a decade, Dogs Trust has been campaigning to end the cruel puppy smuggling trade to protect countless dogs from the horrific mistreatment of being illegally transported into the UK.

The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill is essential to tackling puppy smuggling, and future legislation under it would close legal loopholes that allow unscrupulous traders to import puppies, pregnant dogs, and dogs with mutilations like cropped ears. However, despite pledging to tackle puppy smuggling, the Government is dragging its heels and has not progressed this crucial legislation since November 2021.

I am incredibly disappointed that the Government continues to side-line these critical improvements to dog welfare which could help to stop the needless suffering of animals. We are calling for the Bill to return to Parliament as a matter of urgency. This is a view shared by the 40,000 plus people around the UK who have supported Dogs Trust’s campaign and emailed the Prime Minister to ask him to progress the Kept Animals Bill.

I recently chaired a parliamentary roundtable on the issue of puppy smuggling. We were joined by 17 organisations who are on the front line of the problem, including major transport carriers, Trading Standards, and veterinary professionals as well as Members of Parliament. We all have a shared goal – to tackle the abhorrent illegal trade and do all we can to bring this Bill back to Parliament. The meeting allowed us to discuss how we can work together to tackle the cruel trade, and it was encouraging to see that other organisations are also committed to this crucial cause.

While I am pleased that we have such a weight of backing on this issue, it’s frustrating that the Government will not recognise the urgent need to progress the Kept Animals Bill. Dogs Trust remains committed to working with other organisations and will continue to rally the public for support until the Government makes good on its election promise to crack down on the illegal smuggling of dogs and puppies. We will not give up.

To show your support for our campaign, visit: https://action.dogstrust.org.uk/page/120892/ action/1

Yours faithfully,

Walker finds snake trapped in a tin can

Owen Sharp, CEO, Dogs Trust

By James Fletcher

When you think of a snake in a can you may think of the old prank of ‘Snakes in a can’ but this is no laughing matter. As this poor creature slithered through the can it caught its head through the ring hole of the can and remained there until a local man on a walk spotted the distressed reptile.

“When I found the snake, at first I was wary because the markings on its back looked very similar to that of an Adder, but once confirmed it was a Grass Snake, I couldn’t just leave it there, so I carefully cut the snake free with a pair of tin snips.”

When he found the reptile, he told Look Local that he rang around a few places, first he tried to ring a wildlife centre which unfortunately didn’t do rescues. But they suggested he tried the RSPCA who told him that they would only come out if the animal is hurt/ injured.

Eventually, he contacted the ARC (amphibian reptile conservation) who helped him identify that it was a grass snake which can

grow up to a metre long, but again they were unable to attend, being located in the south of the country and too far to travel in such a short space of time.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wildlife being impacted by discarded rubbish, in the last three years over 10 thousand calls were made about wildlife being impacted by the litter some of us leave behind.

A Grass Snake was last week, found trapped in a discarded beer can in woods in the area.

Penistone

College offers new online courses

Independent Training Services (ITS) and Barnsley College have partnered with e-Careers to offer students, businesses and individuals the opportunity to study industry-recognised professional courses and upskilling solutions online.

Accredited by industry-recognised awarding bodies, including Microsoft, Sage, CIMA and AAT, the content delivers relevant, meaningful learning that is tailored to the course and area of study. The range of courses means individuals can create a bespoke programme of study that meets their needs and learn skills to boost their career at their own pace.

e-Careers offer more than 170 courses, in areas including:

Accounting, Business Analysis, Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Health and Safety, HR training, Project Management

makes it easier than ever to fit a course around other commitments.”

Jazz Gandhum, Founder of e-Careers, added: “We are thrilled to be working with ITS and Barnsley College. Our partnership provides an opportunity for additional learning for students and businesses, as well as allowing individuals to further their education or to fill skills gaps in the workforce.”

There is a charge for these online courses, however, interest-free payment plans are available for most courses, along with flexible payment options.

For more information, visit: https://ecareers.ind-training.co.uk/

This year saw the fourth annual Charity Tractor Run in and around the Penistone area. The tractor run has proven a very popular event and raises over £5000 each year for charity

The tractors set off and arrived back at Yummy Yorkshire for an afternoon of family fun.

Organisers said "What an amazing day! We have been overwhelmed with the support and generosity from each and everone of you, from tractor drivers, to memebers of the public out on the street supporting us, the stewards helping keeping the day running smoothly and all the catering team we have helping us, we really couldn’t do without you all."

Steve Hepworth, Managing Director of ITS, part of Barnsley College, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with e-Careers to offer this exciting range of online courses.

“Whether you are looking to boost your skills for a promotion at work, or retrain for a new career, there is a course for you and the online delivery

David Chinchen

Your Conservative Candidate for Stocksbridge and Upper Don Ward

If elected on 4 May I will deliver for the residents of Stocksbridge, Deepcar, Wharncliffe Side, Oughtibridge, Bolsterstone and the numerous other villages and hamlets that make up this beautiful place to live. I will not waste time and money playing politics at Sheffield Council.

As is my style I will walk the talk. I live in Oughtibridge and you will see me regularly, finding out what’s wrong and fixing it. I am determined to make this an even better place to live. The new housing developments in our area present opportunities and challenges. I know that the Upper Don Valley with its history of industry and enterprise, strong community and beautiful surroundings has a bright future. I want to help shape that future and deliver on those opportunities. I have had an incredibly rewarding career as a police officer. Now it’s time to give something back. I will eliminate waste wherever I find it, challenging Sheffield Council to focus on delivering core services in our area - tackling the backlog of Council house repairs rather than wasting almost £700,000 of your money on a set of shipping containers on Fargate.

David Chinchen, Former Chief Superintendent. My election pledge: To ensure Sheffield Council delivers services for the new housing in our area; To complete the Upper Don Trail for cyclists and walkers; To protect our children from drugs and criminal exploitation in all its forms.

Promoted y Wayne Rhodes on behalf of Sheffield Labour both at Sheffield Trades and Labour Club, 200 Duke Street, Sheffield S2 5QQ.

Foundation supports children’s charity

Barnsley based charity, The Exodus Project, is the latest cause to receive a £1,600 boost from a group of charity cyclists from Dransfield Properties.

Team Dransfield raised an amazing £47,000 after completing the final leg of a 14-year Tour of Europe last September. Funds have been used by the Dransfield Foundation to support a number of projects focused on helping children and their families in the local community.

The Exodus Project, which was formed in 2000 by Jackie and Martin Sawdon, delivers regular activity clubs and weekend camps to over 300 children, some of which may not have the opportunity to take part in a whole range of events and activities.

The project now manages 16 activity clubs, a weekend activity centre, two charity shops and a committed team of 14 staff and over 60 volunteers.

Martin said: “We’re enormously grateful for the support the Dransfield Foundation has shown our project for the past nine years. We rely entirely on donations and grants to carry out our work.”

“Last summer we started construction on our new purpose-built activity centre which we hope to see completed this June. Although the project has secured over £600k in funding we do remain £40k short from completing the development, so would love to hear from any local businesses who are willing to help us reach this goal.”

Founder of the ride and Chairman of Dransfield Properties, Mark Dransfield DL, said: “When I set up the bike ride 14 years ago it was with the intention to make a difference to our local communities. Projects such as this carry out vital work in supporting local families and inspiring our young people and we wish Jackie and Martin all the best with their fundraising for the new activity centre.”

The team of cyclists have covered more than 5,000 miles across 14 countries covering punishing routes through Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Portofino, Rome, Dubrovnik, Tri-

SHEFFIELD TO GET ITS FIRST ‘CRUYFF COURT’

este, Munich, Berlin, Copenhagen, Oslo, Stavanger, Aberdeen, Newcastle and back to London raising an incredible £593,000.

Their fundraising endeavours over the years have helped support medical research and purchase vital healthcare equipment for Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Leukaemia

Care home event brings joy

On Saturday the 15th of April, Motion welcomed several local care homes, community groups and guests to the English Institute of Sport, Sheffield for their second Community Games event of the year.

The event is one of a kind as it brings people together to try something new, have fun and interact with others in a dementia friendly and disability friendly environment.

The Motion Community Games kicked off at 10:30 AM when care home staff, residents and their families began to arrive. Once everyone helped themselves to refreshments, the sporting tournaments began!

Each team participated in 3 sporting tournaments. There was the egg and spoon race, bean bag kick and pom-pom throw. Then, following lunch, Motion held an awards ceremony where each person was awarded a certificate and medal and each team got a tro-

phy. The day was rounded off with more socialising and give-it-a-go activities.

One activities coordinator from a local care home said: “It’s a nice enjoyable event with a good atmosphere. We were really well looked after. There were a variety of games to play and everyone was included.”

Motion is proud to have hosted such an inclusive event in Sheffield where the enterprise was originally founded by Ella Hopkin and Zeezy Qureshi, whilst studying at the University of Sheffield. They are both excited to host more of the events and hope to bring sponsors in to support them to grow The Motion Community Games initiative.

For anyone interested in attending the Community Games or sponsoring the event, Motion welcomes you to join them. Tickets are on Eventbrite. Alternatively, you can email info@motionexercise.co.uk or call 07399555067.

Valley hill runner Luke Evans completed the Manchester marathon on Sunday finishing in an impressive 4 hours 17 minutes.

Exciting developments are due to take place at Parson Cross Park to benefit the community, funded by Sport England Created By Rugby League World Cup 2021, The Cruyff Foundation and S106 (planning gain) funding. Work to deliver a much-needed refurbishment of the pavilion in Parson Cross Park is now underway.

Sheffield City Council Sport, Leisure and Health in conjunction with local Councillors have worked with local stakeholders to gather feedback on how the pavilion should be developed. Due to general wear and tear, the pavilion required mechanical and engineering improvement to return to full working order for the pavilion’s users. Additionally, the top plateau of football and rugby pitches will receive perimeter fencing to better support the playing surface. Stakeholders include Sheffield Hawks ARLFC, Sheffield Oaks RUFC, Sheffield and Hallamshire FA and Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme. The bottom plateau of football pitches will remain unaffected as part of these works.

Additionally, following consultation with local schools and the wider community there were requests to improve the playing surface of the football area of the Multi Use Games Area. As a result, Parson Cross Park will receive Sheffield’s’ first ‘Cruyff Court’. Funding has been sourced from Cruyff Foundation, matched with some S106 funding, to provide a high quality, lit, playing surface on one area of the current multi use games area within the park. The Cruyff Court will provide a high quality, accessible, safe playing surface for the local community to take part in sport and physical activity, contributing to Sheffield's Move More physical activity strategy. Once completed, the court will be used to deliver the Active Through Football programme to the community. The Cruyff Foundations objective is to as much space as possible to play sports and be active and we are delighted that they have made Parson Cross Park part of this

Councillor Richard Williams, Chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “This is a really exciting time for Parson’s Cross Park – this much needed boost for the park will enhance the area and give the community a park and facilities that they can be proud of.”

The improvement works will be delivered by June 2023.

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YOUNG BRITISH MOTOR RACING STAR TAKES FIRST SENIOR TITLE

Motor racing hot prospect

Rowan Campbell-Pilling has taken his first senior karting title at one of the sport’s most highly contested meetings.

ber plate rather than a number for the main championship throughout 2023 effectively seeding him as a firm favourite.

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The Sheffield teenager secured the Daniel Ricciardo Series 125 Senior 'DRS' plate title on his senior karting debut at the coveted meeting at Rissington Kart Circuit in Gloucestershire.

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• Japanese, german. any condition pre 1982. decent price paid tel: 0114 2456562.

The young racing driver, who is still only 16, has been competing in kart racing across the UK most weekends since the age of five. His recent win builds on his previous success in junior karting where Rowan was crowned UK junior karting Champion, the youngest ever winner of the National Series, at the age of 14. Now the South Yorkshire schoolboy is competing in the senior ranks of karting in both the Iame X30 Series and the Daniel Ricciardo Series.

Ahead of the 2023 main championship season, which gets underway in Oxfordshire at the end of April, the Daniel Ricciardo UK Karting Series headed to Rissington Kart Circuit in Gloucestershire for the popular ‘DRS' plate meeting. This allows Rowan to display the letters ‘DRS’ on his num-

The Daniel Ricciardo Series is a “one make” series meaning that all competitors have one kart chassis, one engine, fixed gear ratios, controlled fuel, and oil and one set of slick and wet tyres for racing, making this a fair and level playing field for all competitors.

On race day, Rowan immediately set the pace on lap one of the first practice topping the time sheets by over half a second.

In the 14-lap grand final, Rowan then led 12 laps over 14 and was only challenged once. He held on easily to win the coveted DRS plate title for 2023 by over half a second. Rowan will now run the DRS plate on his kart all year in the upcoming championship series.

Rowan said: “The weekend was very special, from the practice seasons of Saturday to all the races on Sunday but my focus all weekend was to be at my best and to win the ‘DRS’ plate on my debut in the Daniel Ricciardo Series Senior Class is a fantastic start to the year.”

Rowan’s Chief Race Engineer and Team Manager, Jack Woodhouse, said: “This young racing driver continues to impress as he moves from karting to full race spec cars. His application and focus have been exemplary, and he continues to stand out as someone to keep a close eye on.”

Around his karting, Rowan is one of less than 40 young drivers in the country testing Formula 4 and GB4. He has been racking up mileage at the very best of UK circuits in a Formula 4 single seater race car as part of the prestigious Arden’s Young Racing Driver Academy programme.

Last month, Rowan also visited Ice Drive Sweden, with Tom Canning from Aston Martin Racing, to drive a BMW 130i on a frozen lake, following in the footsteps of many Formula 1 stars such as Kimi Räikkönen and Valtteri Bottas who honed their craft there.

Conscious to give back, Rowan hosted a charity karting event, and abseiled Sheffield Hallam University’s Owen Building. He has raised over £5,000 for The Children’s Hospital Charity since becoming an Ambassador for them in January.

steels heading for playoffs

...Continued from back page

Not long after Townsend made another great save from close range, Stocksbridge got their fourth but it was a bit lucky. Macaskill had worked his way into the box but his initial effort was blocked. The block would ricochet to Macaskill, bounced off his knee and looped over Newbrook to truly kill the game off.

Hebburn would get one goal back. Amar Purewal got a good touch after a ball over the top and Townsend body checked him as he rushed out to grab the ball. The referee pointed to the spot and Oliver Martin would send the keeper the wrong way to get a consolation. But a consolation was all the Hornets would take back to the North East as the Steels moved into third place.

Manager Ian Richards said after the game “ A great way to sign off our home league campaign. I thought we played excellent from start to finish. Everyone was excellent and we needed 14 players today. We’ll go to Bridlington on Saturday to get the three points.”

Steels finish off their league campaign with a trip to seaside on Saturday. Bridlington host Steels in a 3pm KO, with a point enough to secure a playoff spot, three points secures home advantage. The playoff semi final is scheduled to be played on Tuesday 25 April.

Goalscorers: (left) luke rawson, by Myra little. (right) lewis Macaskill, by Pete revitt

runners take on mancHester maratHon

Three Penistone runners made the trip over the Pennines to take part in the Manchester Marathon. First back and dipping under the three hour mark was Lee Nash in 2-5705. Next and completing her first marathon was Rhianna Banford in an impressive 3-46-25. Not far behind Rhianna was Chloe Worth who finished in 3-52-03. A number of Penistone runners ventured up to York to take part in the Vale of York five and ten mile races. James Mumford picked up second over40 man in the five mile race in a time of 29-56. In the same race John Spencer place third over65 man in 1-03-17. In the ten mile race Andrew Pearson was second over55 man in 1-01-19 and Keith Gordon picked up third over70 man in 1-25-19. Jonathan Bentley produced a per sonal best time of 37-44 to take first over55 man at the Tatton Park 10k. On the parkrun scene there were first places for Tom Fryers at Cusworth and Damien Kilpin at Nostell Priory. There were second places for James Mumford (Thornes Park), Rob Lees (Bri erley Forest), Sarah Walch (Nostell Priory) and Jon Hallan (Penistone). Ruth Albaya Melhuish completed her 200th parkrun at Sewerby.

Barnsley parkrun

30, Alan Knox 25-17; 36, Stuart Smith 2546; 65, Kelvin Bowskill 28-54; 80, Susan Hall 29-59; 103, Raymond Brown 31-46;

Hartley’s woes

Penistone parkrun

7, Steven John Stead 21-38; 15, Nick Wright 22-29; 18, Oliver Found 22-46; 19, Lesley Parker 22-56; 23, John Broom 23-45; 24, Alex Simon 23-47; 31, Helen Wright 24-33; 47, Emma Stead 25-57; 56, Lilian Storey 2726; 57, Steve Storey 27-30; 58, Peter Stanley 27-32; 66, Rhianna Banford 28-24; 67, Dawn Broom 28-25; 78, Carl Matthewman 29-41; 86, Steve Dommett 30-29; 87, Rory O'Sullivan 30-49; 99, Martyn Cartwright 32-53.

44-51;

reaking brad

An even first half brought no goals either way with a scrappy 45 minutes. Shortly after half time Brad Beatson broke the deadlock after good work from Jay Carter found Beatson to finish in to the bottom corner confidently.

Both teams made changes and RBL looked to be taking 3 points before an Eckington cross evaded everybody and found the top corner.

Legion thought they had won a penalty in the final minute but the protests were waved away by the referee.

speedway recovery

The

metal plates and

hope than in expectation, with veteran kicker Scotty Bowskill restored to the fly-half berth, and the fit again Ben Tyers marshalling a youthful looking back line with both Logan Hannah and Harvey Norman included from the start against a powerful, robust and confident Halifax outfit.

Wily Head Coach Andy Lawrence, produced a cunning game plan to upset the Halifax promotion party, and there was success as the home side seemed to lose their discipline almost from the first whistle, conceding a high number of penalties which allowed Stocksbridge to nudge their way upfield.

infringed, there was always a threat when the pacey Halifax backs were on the ball, and the blue line was eventually breached as ‘Fax’ ran in two tries before the break to leave the half time score: Halifax RUFC 14pts – Stocksbridge Rugby 3pts.

The home side shuffled their big forwards around to maintain their dominance, but the hardworking Reece ‘diesel’ Aspin and fellow back-rower, the bulky Pete Newton tackled manfully, Beal was a constant thorn in the home side and Whitaker produced some telling moments of maturity.

itors, as Halifax sealed their promotion with a late flurry of tries through a tiring Stocksbridge defence to leave the final score:

Halifax RUFC 52pts – Stocksbridge Rugby 24pts. Stocksbridge end the season in 7th place, with 9 wins and a draw from the fixtures, and the campaign will be celebrated at the Club’s Awards Evening on Friday 19th May, tickets are on sale now and in demand, so don’t miss out.

to

the bone and is now focussing on his rehabilitation and physio work with a busy upcoming schedule for the Tru Plant Tigers.

He had initially intended not to miss a fixture - but admits next Thursday's (April 20) trip to Ipswich may come too soon.

Sheffield then head to King's Lynn for the second leg of their Knockout Cup tie on Monday, April 24 with their next fixture at Owlerton on Thursday, April 27 against Peterborough.

Halifax received a total of 4 yellow cards for their misdemeanours and were lucky not to receive a straight red for a poorly timed high shot on flying winger Hannah towards the end of the clash.

Stocksbridge rattled their highflying opposition early on, with ‘clock tower’ Beal handing out some punishing hits in defence, one, in particular, silenced the vocal home scrum half, much to the joy of the travelling band of Stocksbridge supporters.

The visitors even took the lead when Bowskill converted a 30-metre penalty for a ruck in-

Stocksbridge attacked when they could and young flier Harvey Norman danced his way to the line for a Stocksbridge score after good approach work from the pack, Bowskill converted.

As the home side continued to stretch the Stocksbridge defence with further scores, there was a 2nd try for Norman as he chased a Whitaker hack through, and outpaced the Halifax defence to register a further score, which Bowskill duly converted.

The visitors began to creep back into the game and took advantage of further Halifax indiscipline, won a line out, and a pickand-go sequence eventually lead to ‘slammin’ Sam Whitaker,

The Fox Catering Man of the Match award went unanimously to the ‘clock tower’ Andy Beal, kindly sponsored by Mr Mick Gribbins, for a majestic and physical display in a losing cause, Spencer, Norman and Hannah also showed up well in defeat. Afterwards, Head Coach, Andy Lawrence paid tribute to the players, and to all the playing roster who have represented the 1st XV throughout this campaign, ‘the boys have all bought into what we’ve been trying to achieve, and it’s nice to see the teamwork and camaraderie that has been built during the season’, before adding, ‘there is a foundation that we can build on, and we can look forward to a rest and what next season has to offer us’.

44, John Broom

81, Dawn Broom

Rhianna Banford (Manchester Marathon)

Chloe Worth (Manchester Marathon)

SHEFFIELD star Tobiasz Musielak has successfully undergone surgery on his broken collarbone.

pacey Pole has had

screws inserted

repair

Steels close in on playoffs

Stocksbridge PS 4-1 Hebburn Town

Match report by Adam Allcroft

Stocksbridge Park Steels are just one point away from sealing a place in the play-offs following an emphatic 4-1 win over Hebburn Town.

Steels got off to the best possible start. Bailey-Tye Baker sent a long ball forward over the top of the defence and Luke Rawson had the beating of his man. He then bundled the ball past another defender before firing past goalkeeper Shaun Newbrook at his near post. It was a classy individual effort from Rawson as he starts to hit top form at the end of the

Stocksbridge were unlucky that they weren’t able to double their lead. Tomas Poole whipped a free kick in from deep and Keegan Townrow was able to rise highest to head into the back of the net. He thought he had got his first ever Stocksbridge goal but the linesman judged it to be offside, ruling it out. Hebburn weren’t too far off levelling things themselves. Corner were causing problems in the Steel’s box and Stocksbridge were not confident in clearing the danger. Robbie Spence tee-ed himself up for a volley and crashed it off the underside off the bar for Ben Townsend to claw it out. The away fans were cheering thinking it was in, but Townsend’s stunning save made sure Stocksbridge kept their lead.

That ended up being a sliding doors moment as Stocksbridge would go on to double their lead not long after. A superb one-two between Lewis Ma-

caskill and Jack Tinker allowed the latter to break through the defence and get to the byline. He put a quality low cross in and Wayne Phillips almost turned it into his own goal, only for Jack Donaghy to clear it off the line. He only cleared it to Ify Ofoegbu though who lashed it home to double the lead just before the end of the half.

Just as the first half started off brilliantly for Stocksbridge, so did the second. Steels earned a corner and Poole whipped it in for the far post. Ofoegbu was there to head it into the back of the net and ease any nerves Stocksbridge might have. Ofoegbu was unfortunate to add another t his name from another corner, but Townrow’s foul on the goalkeeper denied him the hat-trick. Cont. page 19

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.

AT THE DOUBLE: Iffy Ofeogbo celebrates with Tomas Poole after scoring Steel’s second goal. Photo: Chris Clancy