The Mercury Issue 1580

Page 1


The Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

SOUTh YORkS TO hOST TOUR OF BRITAIN STAgE

The Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men will return to Sheffield, Rotherham & Doncaster for the first time in almost 20 years this September, as South Yorkshire gears up to hold the third stage of Britain’s national Tour. Stage three of the race, on Thursday 5 September, will head from Sheffield to Barnsley, taking in Rotherham and Doncaster during the route. The race last came to South Yorkshire in 2007 when a stage started from Rother Valley Country Park.

Rotherham’s

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member

for Social Inclusion & Neighbourhood

Working, Cllr Dave Sheppard, said: “The Tour of Britain travelling through Rotherham during this south Yorkshire Stage is a fantastic opportunity for the borough, to showcase some of our beautiful scenery, provide a boost to cycling - whether as a leisure activity, as a sustainable mode of transport or as a competitive sport - and of course to benefit businesses in the area. We know our communities and schools will look forward to giving the teams and spectators

a warm Rotherham welcome.”

Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones said: ‘We are delighted to be part of such an exciting sporting event, right in the heart of our communities with the Tour of Britain

passing through Tickhill, Wadworth, Conisbrough. Denaby, Cadeby and Hooton Pagnell. Being part of such a fantastic event across South Yorkshire gives the opportunity for residents to come

together to cheer on cycling at an elite level, as well as inspiring the next generation of local sporting heroes.’

More information and updates can be found at www.britishcycling.org. uk/tourofbritain

DALTON SMITH ANNOUNCES NEW HOMETOWN TITLE BOUT

Sheffield will see ace Smith take on Fernandez for the European title at 140lbs at Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday 28th September 2024. Smith (16-0 12 KOs) can add another belt to his collection in his fourth headline fight in his Steel City backyard. Last time out, the 27 year old underlined his World title credentials with by landing a sickening fight round body shot to knock out former World title challenger Jose Zepeda.

‘Thunder’ continues to tread the traditional route of collecting all the belts, and can add the Euro strap

to the English, British and Commonwealth crowns by beating Fernandez (26-2 22 KOs), the Spaniard who is unbeaten in his last three fights since teaming up with star trainer Ismael Salas.

“The English, British and Commonwealth are all on my mantelpiece, so this fight is about completing the domestic collection before moving on to World titles,” said Smith.

“Azim chose to vacate the European Title rather than face me, but Jon Fernandez is game to fight anyone. He hits very hard and put on a really strong performance against Rivera who is a

class operator. “I don’t underestimate him, but the best Dalton Smith beats him in spectacular fashion and that’s what I’ll be looking to do, making it three showreel stoppages in a row. After this it’s all about securing that World Title shot as I feel ready.”

“I am very happy that the fight has finally been announced,” said Fernandez. “It’s definitely a great opportunity for my career that I plan to take advantage of. I will prepare for this fight in Las Vegas like the last three fights with Ismael Salas. We know it will be a tough fight, a war, so we

will prepare for it. I hope to make all the fans enjoy the fight.”

Tickets available now from www. utilitaarenasheffield.co.uk

Max of 8 tickets per person

Under 14’s to be accompanied by an adult

Please note that no football shirts, club or country sporting attire or flags are allowed - club tops cannot be covered please do not bring to the event as this will prevent your entry to the venue.

17/7/1955 Disneyland is dedicated and opened by Walt Disney in Anaheim, California.

18/7/1925 Adolf Hitler publishes his personal manifesto Mein Kampf.

19/7/1553 Lady Jane Grey is replaced by Mary I of England as Queen of England after only nine days of reign.

20/7/1903 The Ford Motor Company ships its first car.

Crossword Clues

Clothes (11) 11) Stalk (4)

12) Cancelled (8)

13) Lucky moggy (5, 3)

15) Unassuming (4)

16) Last trip (5, 6)

18) Of the shore (8)

19) Sea eagle (4)

Last Week’s Solution across: 7) Hike, 8) Ulterior, 9) Odd, 10) Idol, 11) View, 13) Herein, 14) Silent, 15) Daring, 18) Rueful, 20) Anon, 21) Oath, 22) Pin, 24) Magnesia, 25) Plug DoWN: 1) Middle, 2) Vet, 3) Burden, 4) Styles, 5) Traveller, 6) Govern, 12) Beginning, 16) Annual, 17) Glossy, 18) Ritual, 19) Unique, 23) Apt To sponsor our weekly Time Out page call our Sales Team on 0114

Havoc (6)

Boring tool (3)

A man tried to sell me a coffin today... I said: “That’s the last thing I need.”

My ex left me because, according to her, I’ll never amount to anything. 15 years later, I have one thing to say to her. Lucky guess.

I threw a party for all the workers who helped build my house. The door guy showed up late... ...but he really knew how to make an entrance.

I asked my wife to rate my listening skills and she said, “You’re an 8 on a scale of 10.” I still don’t get why she wanted me to urinate on a skeleton.

What do you call it when a pig loses its memory? Hamnesia.

I just saw my wife walk by with her sexiest underwear on, which can only mean one thing. It’s laundry day.

Why doesn’t any man need more than one rooster?

A cock a dude’ll do.

Man: “Doctor I feel like a supermarket” Doctor: “How long have you felt like this?” Man: “Ever since I was Lidl.”

I recently took an airline to court after my luggage didn’t turn up... I lost my case.

1. In which country did the sport of Badminton originate?

2. In the British Honours System, which award is higher in ranking? The Victoria Cross or the George Cross?

3. In which year did the USA enter World War II?

4. In Scrabble, how many points is the letter K worth?

21/7/356BC The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is destroyed by arson.

22/7/2005 Jean Charles de Menezes is killed by police as the hunt begins for the London Bombers responsible for the 7 July 2005 London bombings and the 21 July 2005 London bombings. 23/7/1986 In London Prince Andrew, Duke of York marries Sarah Ferguson at Westminster Abbey.

5. True or false, Swede Anders Celsius invented the Celsius temperate scale?

6. The Duffer Brothers created which Netflix series starring Winona Ryder and Finn Wolfhard?

7. St Anthony of Padua is the patron saint of what?

8. How many feet are in a fathom?

9. Which British theoretical physicist and author who died in 2018 said ‘Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet’?

10. Prue Leith, Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood served as judges on which British TV show?

Get in a spin as Crystal Peaks Record Fair returns

THE sound of great music is returning to Crystal Peaks as the centre hosts its latest CD and Record Fair. Presented by AA Record Fairs, the free event will be held at the award-winning Sheffield shopping centre from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, July 20.

“We are very pleased to be welcoming this extremely popular musical event to Crystal Peaks again,” said centre manager Lee Greenwood.

“We know from experience that the fair appeals to vinyl collectors and people who love their classic albums and there will once again be a great range to browse through.”

For more information about Crystal Peaks and all forthcoming events simply visit crystalpeakscentre.com

Christmas Market Break Christmas Market Break

News, Information and Advice

vIOlENCE REdUCTION fUNd

Community groups across the county will benefit from nearly £340,000 of funding from South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard to deliver projects that are aimed at preventing young people from becoming involved in violence.

This is the latest round of the Violence Reduction Fund which has so far seen nearly 200 organisations across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham, and Sheffield receive over £2.3 million of funding from the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) since it was established in 2019. Mayor Oliver Coppard has recently taken over the functions of the Police and Crime Commissioner, which includes the VRU and chairing the Serious Violence Reduction Executive Board.

The Violence Reduction Fund focuses on supporting community-led projects working with young people aged between four and 25 to reduce and prevent violence by providing a range of initiatives to help them develop skills and strengths to reduce their risk of developing offending behaviours and becoming involved in serious violence. In this year’s grant round, 19 organisations will receive funding to develop and deliver projects across communities. Projects supported include Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services, Dinnington Community Boxing Club, Cricket Arena in Darnall, and Doncaster MIND.

The supported projects will deliver a range of interventions to support young people, from diversionary sporting activities such as boxing, cricket, and football; to educational workshops on community safety, anti-social behaviour, violence prevention, and mental health support; and therapeutic wellbeing support for young people suffering from trauma.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “Serious violence destroys lives and rips apart communities. But everyone has the right to feel safe

and secure, wherever they are in South Yorkshire. “As Mayor, I’m particularly committed to making sure we are giving the next generation of young people the chance to grow up in a place where they don’t feel the fear of violence; of breaking the cycles of that violence. That’s why I’ve made tackling knife crime a priority. And it’s why I’m so pleased to be able to announce support for 19 organisations working directly with young people across South Yorkshire. Those organisations are helping to provide positive role models, mental health support and activities that divert young people from crime and violence. I look forward to seeing their work first hand and working with them to give young people across South Yorkshire every opportunity to live their best lives.”

The funded organisations are:

• Barnsley FC Community Trust (Barnsley)

• The Youth Association (Barnsley)

• Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Service (Barnsley)

• Doncaster MIND (Doncaster)

• Doncaster Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Service (Doncaster)

• Worth Unlimited (Doncaster)

• Club Doncaster Community Sports and Education Foundation (Doncaster)

• Jade Youth and Community (Rotherham)

• Dinnington Community Boxing Group (Rotherham)

• Our Community Matters (Rotherham)

• Cricket Arena (Sheffield)

• Sheffield Music School (Sheffield)

• Olympia Wellbeing Academy (Sheffield)

• Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme (Sheffield)

• ReconnectEd (Sheffield)

• Mums United (Sheffield)

• Grow (Sheffield)

• Young Women’s Housing Project (Sheffield)

• The Family Works (South Yorkshire-wide)

ROsE GaRdEN CafE pROGREss

Structural engineers have confirmed that scaffolding, which is currently propping up the roof on the Rose Garden Café in Graves Park, can now be removed.

This means that the Rose Garden Café Partnership – a group that has been put together to take forward refurbishment and restoration works on the beloved community café – can now push forward plans to reopen the café’s internal seating area more fully. In the meantime, an architect and design team will be appointed to further progress the restoration and refurbishment.

Although scaffolding propping the roof can be reduced, the structural engineer’s report has advised that support for the café’s front wall must remain in place and that the wall should eventually be taken down and rebuilt to ensure safe use of the building. The Partnership has stated it was vital to establish the cause of the lean in order to progress with the restoration and refurbishment, as understanding how to stabilise the front wall was needed before funding can be applied for.

Councillor Richard Williams, Chair of the Charity Trustee Subcommittee at Sheffield City Council, said: “I am delighted at the important progress that has been made towards the restoration and refurbishment of our beloved Rose Garden Café in Graves Park. We know how important this asset is to the local community, so to now be able to move forward with plans and soon reopen the café more fully to allow for seated customers, is great news.” Chris Hallam, Chair of the Rose Garden Café Partnership, commented:

“I am extremely proud of the work that’s been undertaken by the members of the Partnership to get to this significant milestone. It really shows what can be achieved when community organisations and Sheffield City Council agree to work together in different ways.”

The Partnership says their ‘priority is now to reopen the café’s internal seating and catering as soon as possible’. Next steps will also include creating a cost plan for the full restoration and applying for funding. Following a structural survey on the building in July 2022, the Rose Garden Café in Sheffield’s Graves Park was closed due to concerns about the building stability. Since then, considerable steps have been taken to developing a strategy for the restoration and refurbishment of the building including the establishment of the Rose Garden Café Partnership, made up of representatives from Friends of Graves Park, Save the Rose Garden Café Campaign and Sheffield City Council. More than 1500 residents have also been able to have their say on the restoration, thanks to a public consultation that took place in Spring. Feedback from the consultation will be used to complete the design brief for architects ahead of restoration works. The Partnership also continue to fundraise to support work on the café, as other funding streams are explored. To date, they have raised more than £10,700 and continue to host fundraising walks and other activities to raise money.

You can donate to the Rose Garden Café cause via the Friends of Graves Park Just Giving fundraising page

HOMElEssNEss pROjECT

The Homewards programme led by HRH the Prince of Wales and The Royal Foundation to demonstrate that together it is possible to end homelessness is today marking a year of progress.

Sheffield was represented alongside its fellow five flagship locations at a special event in Lambeth, London, to mark the anniversary on Thursday 11 July.

Over the past year, Homewards has been working with Sheffield and other areas to form coalitions which will drive the project forward locally on a trajectory to end homelessness. Each Homewards flagship location will deliver its own innovative housing project, designed to meet local needs and test new ways to unlock homes at scale. In its first year, Homewards has built the foundations for success across those locations by bringing together six Coalitions, featuring hundreds of individuals and organisations from the public, private and third sectors.

In Sheffield, homelessness has been an increasing issue in recent years.

Homewards Sheffield intends to explore how to prevent young people and families from experiencing homelessness and drive greater access to housing with grassroots community groups at the heart of that work.

Sheffield City Council has played a big part locally alongside 63 organisations and

individuals as part of that Homewards coalition, which has already begun ensuring individuals with lived experience of homelessness are embedded in every part of the programme. The local project has been working with landlords to unlock an initial 33 three and four-bedroom properties for families on the brink of or experiencing homelessness in Sheffield to use. In March this year (2024), Sheffield hosted HRH The Prince of Wales, who attended a roundtable event and met with partner organisations, Sheffield City Council representatives, community groups and Sheffield residents who had themselves experienced homelessness at some time in their life.

Cllr Douglas Johnson, Chair of the Sheffield City Council Housing Committee, said: “Ending homelessness in Sheffield is a real ambition for us as a Council. Nationally, we know homelessness is still a huge problem. Here in Sheffield, we want to see the issue brought to an end. Working with Homewards has so far allowed both us and all partners involved in this work to think differently, critically and to look at how we can act to end homelessness. We look forward to continuing that in Homewards’ second year, and achieving more for those vulnerable members of our society who need that extra support.”

blOOd dONORs NEEdEd!

Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are calling on film fans in Sheffield to be ‘heroes’ by becoming blood donors in an exciting collaboration between NHS Blood and Transplant and Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine movie. The actors star in an NHS video where they explain that while Deadpool & Wolverine features plenty of fake blood, it is real blood that is needed to save lives – and urge viewers to book an appointment to donate. The video will be shared on social media and shown in cinemas with the tagline: ‘Be the giving type’, encouraging people to come together and also nods to the movie uniting the two Marvel characters for the first time. It is hoped that the collaboration with Deadpool & Wolverine will reach people who may not have considered blood donation, particularly younger people and people of Black heritage who are especially needed. In the video Hugh explains that it takes only one hour to save three lives before he and Ryan engage in the type of humorous banter which Deadpool is known for. Ryan closes the video by urging viewers to book an appointment to donate

before the pair make a tongue-in-cheek apology.

Mark Chambers, Director of Donor Experience for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: ““Deadpool saves the day, but blood donors save lives. We hope film fans in Sheffield will be inspired to become a hero in their own story by giving blood. Right now, the NHS needs more young people to become the donors of the future. And we urgently need more donors of Black heritage to help patients who need ethnically matched blood. Giving blood is quick and easy and each donation saves up to three lives. Please register today and book an appointment to donate. After all, not all heroes wear capes and saving lives is more impressive than any superpower out there.” Sheffield Donor Centre in Church Street has plenty of appointments available over the coming weeks. A DHSC spokesperson said: “Blood donors are real-life superheroes, and we’re so grateful to everyone who can step forward and help save lives. ” Register today and book an appointment to donate via the GiveBloodNHS app or at www.blood.co.uk

We are located in Dover, Kent and looking for someone to join our team in the Fire Test Laboratory carrying out fire tests to BS and CE approval.

You must have some knowledge of structural engineering. The job will involve reading all requirements for each type of test and being able to remember those reports. You will be working with a team of people who will also be carrying out fire tests.

The hours of work will be 40 hours per week but if the tests overlap there will be overtime on top. It is a permanent position for the right person.

You must be able to drive as there is no public transport to our factory.

If interested, please send your CV to:

D.U.L. Laboratories Ltd

Envirograf House, Barfrestone, Dover CT15 7JG

Home Farm Park is the perfect place for those looking for a quiet getaway or holiday home ownership in a secluded location in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside.

Offering the best of coast and country, this tranquil holiday park near Skegness opened for business in 2020 and offers lodge and cottage holidays as well as the opportunity to own your own holiday home in a stunning setting. Say hello to spacious plots, manicured grounds and quiet getaways at Home Farm Park.

It is located just a mile from the picturesque market town of Burgh-le-Marsh and only five miles from the bustling seaside resort of Skegness. So, you’re close enough to enjoy all that this resort has to offer while being far enough away to avoid all the hustle and bustle, should you prefer the quiet life. And, of course, you’re only a stone’s throw from hundreds of square miles of beautiful Lincolnshire countryside, should you fancy exploring.

Home Farm Park is also a great option for those looking for a fishing holidays near Skegness, with a well-stocked lake that represents a challenge for fishermen of all abilities.

Set timeS Revealed foR tRamlineS feStival 2024

Set times for Tramlines Festival, Sheffield’s biggest party, have been revealed, giving festival goers the chance to plan ahead for when their favourite acts will appear before arriving on the 40,000 capacity greenfield site at Hillsborough Park from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th July.

The easiest way for Tramliners to find out who is playing when is to download the official festival app. Search for ‘Tramlines Festival’ in App stores on iPhone and Android to get a ton of info that will soon also include a site map, food, merch, and the all-important ability to build a personalised schedule, complete with clash finder to make missing a band a thing of the past. Simply put, the Tramlines Festival App is your very own pocket-genie.

Over 100 acts are scheduled to appear at Tramlines 2024 across five stages, featuring a smorgasbord of comedy and music from rock and pop to indie and hip hop and spoken word to jazz. While the headliners are always a big draw - Paolo Nutini, Jamie T, Snow Patrol, The Charlatans, Holly Humberstone and Yard Act – be sure to spend time discovering why Tramlines won the 2023 UK Festival Award for ‘Best Festival for Emerging Talent’ and scout out some of the best new grassroots talents, including Apply To Play winner Hannah Rowe, Harvey Jay Dodgson, Minds Idle, Darla Jade and Tinxshe.

With so much to discover at Tramlines including the weird and wonderful programming of The Open Arms pub, a jam-packed schedule of activities at the family-friendly area Into The Trees, vintage clothes stores as well as new and improved food and drink traders, the 16th edition is set to be one hell of a party.

Weekend tickets have now sold out so the only way to be part of the Tramlines 16th birthday bash is to buy a Day ticket for your favourite day - or days! - from £45 + booking fee, from www.tramlines.org.uk.

Tramlines Festival 2024 Set Times

Friday 26th July

The Sarah Nulty Main Stage

Paolo Nutini - 20:15 - 22:15

Bombay Bicycle Club 18:15 - 19:15

Sophie Ellis-Bextor - 16:45 - 17:30

Miles Kane - 15:30 - 16:15

Coach Party - 14:30 - 15:00

The View (Special Guests) - 13:15

- 14:00

Bedroom High Club - 12:15- 12:45

T’Other Stage

The Charlatans - 20:30 - 22:00

Soft Play - 18:30 - 19:30

Dylan John Thomas - 17:00 - 17:45

Mitch Santiago - 16:00 - 16:30

Matilda Shakes - 15:00 - 15:30

Lucy Beaumont - 14:00 - 14:30

Justin Moorhouse - 13:35 - 13:55

Andy Askins - 13:10 - 13:30

Harry Stachini - 12:45 - 13:05

Andre Vincent - 12:20 - 12:40

Compared by Phil Ellis

The Leadmill

The Mysterines - 19:15 - 20:00

Corella - 17:30 - 18:15

Been Stellar - 16:15 - 16:45

Mary in the Junkyard - 15:0015:30

Cameron Hayes - 14:00 - 14:30

Harriet Rose - 12:50 - 13:20

Abs - 12:00 - 12:30

Saturday 27th July

The Sarah Nulty Main Stage

Jamie T - 20:45 - 22:15

Tom Grennan - 18:45 - 19:45

The Snuts - 17:00 - 17:45

Sprints - 15:45 - 16:15

Nieve Ella - 14:45 - 15:15

Everly Pregnant Brothers - 13:15 - 14:15

The Leadmill Studio Orchestra12:15 - 12:45

T’Other Stage

Holly Humberstone - 20:45 - 21:45

Annie Mac - 18:45 - 19:45

Jazzy - 17:15 - 18:00

Coco - 16:00 - 16:30

Otis Mensah - 15:00 - 15:30

Angelos Epithemiou - 14:1014:40

Olivia Lee - 13:45 - 14:05

Scott Bennett - 13:20 - 13:40

Nina Gilligan - 12:55 - 13:15

Joe McTernan - 12:35 - 12:55

Compared by Emmanual Sonubi

The Leadmill

PEACE - 19:45 - 20:30

English Teacher - 18:00 - 18:45

Cucamaras - 16:30 - 17:00

Balancing Act - 15:15 - 15:45

Harvey Jay Dodgson - 14:1514:45

Minds Idle - 12:50 - 13:20

City Parking - 12:00 - 12:30

Sunday 28th July

The Sarah Nulty Main Stage

Snow Patrol - 19:45- 21:15

The Human League - 17:45 - 18:45

Example - 16:00 - 16:45

Flowerovlove - 14:45 - 15:15

Maximo Park (Special Guests)13:30 - 14:15

Phillipa Zawe - 12:30 - 13:00

T’Other Stag

Yard Act - 20:00 - 21:00

The Pigeon Detectives - 18:0019:00

Antony Szmierek - 16:45 - 17:15

NewDad - 15:45 - 16:15

Creeping Jean - 14:45 - 15:15

Jon Richardson - 13:40 - 14:10

Andrew Maxwell - 13:25 - 13:40

Jojo Sutherland - 13:05 - 13:20

Danny McLoughlin - 12:45 - 13:00

Jack Gleadow - 12:25 - 12:40

Compared by Matt Reed

The Leadmill

The Magic Gang - 18:4519:30

Willie J Healey - 17:00 - 17:45

86TVs - 15:30 - 16:00

Folly Group - 14:15 - 14:45

Lime Garden - 13:00 - 13:30

Static Lives - 12:00 - 12:30

For all stage set times and lineups, download the Tramlines Festival App or visit www. tramlines.org.uk

BORN IN THE

GRacIE

TUESDAY

Coronation Street:

Dee-Dee discovers some important information about Lauren’s whereabouts. Betsy continues to exploit Carla by doing little work and demanding an early lunch. Nina is happy Roy is back home and fusses over him. She later suggests that he spend a few days at Cathy’s in Scarborough. Leanne continues to try and convince Amy to join the Institute. Meanwhile, Leanne is tempted by Rowan’s sinister business opportunity when he proposes she invest £40k into the Institute. Will Nick Tilsley agree to Leanne’s shady deal? Toyah is determined to expose Rowan. Betsy tells Beth she wants to be involved in her illegal activities or she will report her to boss Carla. Left with no option, Beth reluctantly shows Betsy how to set the counterfeit labels onto the knockoff t-shirts while alone in the factory. Dylan is pleased when Stu agrees to give him a trial shift at Speed Daal

Emmerdale:

When Matty hears that Samson has finally admitted the truth about the ‘stabbing’ in the Hide, the relief is immense. But as Matty returns to his cell, he learns to his horror that he’s not out of the woods yet as transphobic Robbo is waiting for him. Rose worries that she’s messed everything up by trying to kiss Will who tells his wife Kim it’s time his ex packs her bags. Liam’s in the Woolie enjoying a flirt with Chas. Is their romance starting up again? Vanessa struggles to hide her jealousy as her BFF Rhona has a laugh with her newfound bezzie, Mandy. Liam runs into his ex in the cafe. It’s the first time they’ve laid eyes on each other since Ella’s dark childhood secret – that she killed her friend – was exposed. Tom continues to make Belle feel terrible for having had a termination, and pushes on with his plan to get her as far away from her loving family as possible…

Eastenders:

Anna has been taken to hospital after the spiking incident at Peggy’s that left her in a deadly situation. Can Freddie convince Anna to tell the police about what happened? George is brooding about his broken relationship with Elaine. Realising that Yolande is right, George approaches Elaine and tells her they need to make a firm date for their wedding! Cindy struggles with the events of the last few days and is shell shocked when Ian hits her with another massive bombshell. Trying again with Lauren, Peter apologises sincerely for saying the wrong thing and he asks if he can move in with her. What will she say?

MERCURYH LIDAYS

luxury

Fully

FOOTBALLR UNDUP

UNITED MAKE DOUBLE SIGNING

United’s attacking options have been bolstered with the signing of an experienced international striker.

Kieffer Moore has penned a three-year deal with the Blades to become Chris Wilder’s third signing of the summer after an undisclosed fee was agreed with AFC Bournemouth.

Capped 43 times by Wales, Moore joins the likes of Jamie Shackleton and Sam McCallum in committing himself to United’s re-build after

completing a medical.

Moore started last season in the Premier League with Bournemouth, before helping to fire Ipswich Town back to the top flight with a successful loan switch which saw the 31-yearold net seven times from 14 starts.

Boss Wilder said: “I have been an admirer of Kieffer’s abilities for some time, and our persistence and hard work on this deal has paid off.

“There was a real desire from all parties to get this done and I am thrilled to have Kieffer as part

NAThANIEL ChALOBAh SIGNS FOR WEDNESDAy

The Owls have signed Nathaniel Chalobah on a permanent transfer.

The defensive midfielder brings a wealth of experience to S6 having represented a raft of clubs during his career to date.

Rising through the academy ranks of Premier League giants Chelsea – captaining the FA Youth Cupwinning team of 2012 – he became one of Blues’ youngest ever first team substitutes at the age of just 15.

After signing a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge, Chalobah set off on a loan route from London, enjoying temporary spells with Watford, Nottingham Forest, Middlesbrough, Burnley, Reading and Napoli in Italy.

He debuted for Napoli in the Europa League against Legia Warsaw.

Permanent moves followed to Watford, Fulham and West Brom, during which Chalobah clocked up 145 games.

The 29-year-old is also decorated on the international stage having played for England from Under-16 level all the way to the senior team, posting two appearances shy of a century in total.

Chalobah becomes Wednesday’s ninth signing of a busy summer window and joins the squad for the latter part of our pre-season training camp at St George’s Park.

of our project going forward.

“He’s well known to the staff here, especially Alan Knill and Jack Lester who have worked with him at close quarters with Wales. Kieffer has all the tools required to succeed as a Blade. He’s strong and robust but also athletic for a player of his size and his goal record at this level over the years is impressive.

“You don’t have to look far to see his impact in this division. His goals helped Bournemouth and most recently Ipswich to the

Premier League. He is a proven operator whose experience will complement some of the young strikers coming through here.”

On his move back to South Yorkshire, Moore remarked: “Everything fits perfectly in what I want from a club and their ambition matches mine. When you get a chance to join a great club like this, you always want to take that opportunity. I’m very familiar with the area and it is always nice to come back to places where you’ve experienced

MILLERS FINALISE LOAN MOVE FOR ATTACKER hUNGBO

Rotherham United are delighted to confirm the loan capture of attacker Joseph Hungbo, arrives on a deal until the end of the 2024/25 campaign from German 2. Bundesliga outfit FC Nürnberg.

The deal – which is subject to ratification from the FA, EFL and international clearance – sees the 24-yearold arrive as Steve Evans’ 11th signing of the summer transfer window.

The London-born operator began his career with local side Hillyfielders FC before his talents were spotted by Crystal Palace in 2009. Joining at U9 level, he remained with the Eagles for a decade, signing a two-year scholarship in 2016 and going on to skipper the U18.

His displays in the Academy ranks at Selhurst Park saw him rewarded with his professional deal in 2018, where he went on to further his footballing development with Margate, which saw him make nine appearances during a loan spell in 2019.

He departed Palace that summer and signed for Watford, where he was a regular for the U23s and used as part of the Hornets’ matchday squad in the Premier League, making his debut in the Emirates FA Cup against Tranmere Rovers.

Another loan move followed in November 2020, where he made six appearances for National League outfit Aldershot Town on a short-term deal, before returning to Hertfordshire in January 2021.

His development continued with another switch away from Vicarage Road, this time north of the border with Scottish Premiership side Ross County for the 2021/22 campaign. He was a standout performer for the Staggies, scoring seven times in 33 appearances and earned himself the Young Player and Players’ Young Player of the Year awards following the end of the campaign. A real eye for goal, he also got his hands on the club and league Goal of the Season trophies after scoring a brilliant free kick against Dundde.

Back with his parent club at the start of their 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign, he made a further nine appearances before completing a temporary switch to Huddersfield Town, scoring three times in 14 appearances, helping the Terriers secure their second tier status.

success, it will help me settle in as well. I have fond memories of both Rotherham and Barnsley, so for me to come back to the area is something I’m looking forward to.

“I’ll buy into everything the gaffer says, we’ve had some good conversations already and although these decisions take some thinking about, once I spoke to the manager I made my decision.

“I’ve always wanted to be somewhere where I’m playing regularly, so not doing that at Bournemouth was hard, last season I wanted to go and make an impact by playing some football and thankfully I had

a fantastic time with Ipswich.

“I want to bring that experience and knowhow to the group and add to what is already here.”

United have also fought off fierce competition from a number of clubs to land the services of an exciting attacking player on a long-term deal.

Callum O’Hare, formerly of Coventry City, has penned a four-yearcontract at Bramall Lane and arrives on a free transfer, with the deal concluded shortly after it was confirmed that Wales international Kieffer Moore had also become a Blade on Monday. And, understandably,

OWEN BAILEy ExTENDS

ROVERS STAy

Rovers are delighted to confirm that Owen Bailey has signed a new contract with the club.

The versatile midfielder - who was an ever-present for Rovers in his first season at the club - penned a new three-year deal with the option of a further 12 months during the training camp in Portugal as the club seeks to plan for the future with their top performers.

“I’m really pleased to get it done,” the 25-year-old said. “When the gaffer first pulled me in to tell me it was something the club wanted to do, I was really keen to get it done straight away.

“It’s a nice feeling to come back from Portugal with it and I’m excited for the start of the season.

“The gaffer didn’t need to sell the club muchI’ve loved my time here and last season, while it didn’t start great, turned into a decent season. It’s something we can definitely build on going into next season.

“I’m just really happy. I think it’s a club that really suits me. The way I play, I think the fans bought into what I’m about and the gaffer and the staff are obviously a big part of that.

“It’s just a good place to play football really. The stadium is great, the fans are great and the lads are a pleasure to be around. It was a no-brainer for me.”

Former Newcastle United Academy product Bailey joined Rovers in the summer of 2023 after departing Gateshead and went on to make 59 appearances last term, scoring three goals.

Playing much of the first half of the campaign at centre back, he switched into his more natural midfield position at the turn of the year and played a key role in the incredible run of form at the end of the season.

Rovers manager Grant McCann said: “Bails is a very important part of what we’re trying to do. I think he had a tremendous breakthrough season last year and for us to get him tied down to what is effectively a four-year contract is great business for us.”

Chris Wilder is delighted with the double swoop and commented: “Like Kieffer, Callum is another player who has been on our radar for some time. I don’t think there is a club in the Championship, and certainly some teams in the Premier League, who wouldn’t relish the opportunity to work with Callum - quite simply he is a talented individual and we are thrilled he wanted to take the next stage of his career with us.

“Our punters will know a lot about Callum, he has performed well against us for Coventry in the past and I know they will have seen attributes which fit with what they expect a Sheffield United player to be like.

“I’ve spoken at length about the type of players we want here going forward and about getting the culture right. Callum ticks boxes with what we are looking for

and we, as a staff, can’t wait to get working with him.”

The player himself echoed the sentiments of his new boss, as he looks ahead to life at S2. He added: “I am buzzing to be here. It is a big club; I had some interest from some other teams and other leagues but I just thought that this was the right step in my career so I can’t wait to go out there now and play.

“I have a lot of time for the players, fans and coaches at Coventry, they have been a big part of my life and my career, but I just felt that it was the right time to move on.

“I met Chris Wilder in Birmingham and from there I obviously knew what a top man he was. He kept in touch and since then the conversations kept flowing and I knew he was definitely the right person to work under.”

ChARLIE MCNEILL SEALS WEDNESDAy MOVE!

Charlie McNeill has joined the Owls on a permanent transfer.

The 20-year-old striker left Premier League giants Manchester United last month and heads over the Pennines to Hillsborough, becoming the Owls eighth summer signing.

After rising through the academy ranks at Old Trafford, McNeill moved across Manchester to City, where he earned a stellar reputation at youth level in front of goal.

That prompted United to re-sign the frontman for a reported £750,000.

McNeill continued his prolific pedigree, scoring 24 goals in 21 appearances for the Under-18s, and was part of the Red Devils side that lifted the FA Youth Cup in 2022 alongside the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.

Current United manager Erik ten Hag handed the Greater Manchester product a senior debut in September of the same year against Real Sociedad in the Europa League.

Loan spells with Newport and Stevenage followed before being recalled by United last January.

TRAVEL IN COMFORT ANd ST

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