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LABOUR LOSSES REFORM GAINS

Labour suffered heavy losses across Sheffield and Barnsley in last week’s local elections as Reform UK and the Green Party made major gains in a dramatic reshaping of South Yorkshire politics.

Across Sheffield, 28 of the council’s 84 seats were up for election, with North Sheffield emerging as a key battleground for political change.

In both Stocksbridge & Upper Don and East Ecclesfield wards, Reform UK took two seats from Labour in what many party activists described as a political earthquake for the city.

New Reform councillor for Stocksbridge, John Hesketh told Look Local “I’m delighted to be elected and this is a positive message for Reform across the land.”

John, a seasoned Greenbelt campaigner, said “My first job will be trying to protect the greenbelt, which is close to our heart, the battle is not over although the council has recommended Greenbelt land to be built on.

Transport links to this part of Sheffield are not good enough, the people here pay the same council tax as everyone else in Sheffield, yet don’t get the same return for it.”

One of the closest contests of the night came in West Ecclesfield, where Liberal Democrat councillor Mike Levery narrowly held onto his seat by just 18 votes. It is understood the Lib Dem camp initially believed they had lost the ward, but after a correction and recount, Coun Levery was confirmed the winner by the slimmest of margins.

Mike Levery told Look Local “Despite a close race, I’m delighted to have been returned as Councillor for the West Ecclesfield ward, and I will continue to serve our residents to the best of my ability.”

The wider picture across Sheffield proved equally bruising for Labour.

The party’s biggest casualty was Council Leader Tom Hunt, who lost his seat to Green Party candidate Andy Davies.

The Greens gained 10 seats across the city, while Reform surged from one councillor to 12 after winning 11 additional seats. Labour secured just three seats on the night, while the Liberal Democrats won five.

Despite the losses, Labour remains the largest party on Sheffield City Council with 25 councillors. The Liberal Democrats now hold 22 seats, the Greens have 19, and Reform UK has 12, leaving the authority under no overall control once again.

Political commentators described it as Labour’s worst local election performance in Sheffield for decades.

The picture in Barnsley proved even more dramatic. Labour’s 50year grip on the council came to an end after Reform UK won 41 seats to take control of the authority.

The local results mirrored a turbulent national picture, with Labour reportedly losing more than 1,400 councillors across the country. Reform UK made gains of a similar scale, while the Green Party added almost 400 councillors nationwide. The Conservatives also suffered significant losses, reportedly shedding nearly 600 seats.

Labour MP Marie Tidball said “These results show that the public do not think we have done enough…we haven’t offered enough hope or optimism for the future.”

One voter said “Labour’s controversial plans to build on greenbelt land and the damage being done to rural communities have not gone unnoticed and it's not just Sheffield and Barnsley, it's across the whole country.”

REFORM: John Hesketh (right) joins fellow Stocksbridge Ward Reform Councillor John Booker on the Sheffield City Council.

CLOSE CALL: Mike Levery, Lib Dems, held off Reform by just 18 votes to keep his seat in West Ecclesfield..

MARATHON TRIUMPH for Mum’s Osteoporosis Battle

A Penistone woman has completed the London Marathon in an impressive four hours and 38 minutes while raising thousands of pounds to support people living with osteoporosis – a condition that has deeply affected her mother’s life.

Kay Chadwick, 42, originally from Stocksbridge, took on the famous 26.2-mile challenge in aid of the Royal Osteoporosis Society after her mum, Lynn Wynn, 64, was diagnosed with osteoporosis in 2017.

Despite soaring temperatures on marathon day, Kay crossed the finish line at 3.16pm after setting off at 10.38am, smashing her target of completing the race in under five hours.

So far, she has raised an incredible £2,872 for the charity.

Lynn, a mother of five from Stocksbridge, has seen her bone density halve since her diagnosis and has suffered eight broken bones in her back. The condition has dramatically changed her day-to-day life, leaving her unable to eat normal-sized meals, raise her arms above her head, and causing trapped nerves in her leg.

Speaking before the marathon, Kay said: “It’s been hard watching my Mum suffer, but she has been so brave, and I’m so proud of how she’s dealing with it all. I just wanted to honour her with this and raise awareness for other sufferers.”

Determined not to let the condition stop her from staying active, Lynn became a Look Local deliverer and is well known around the ‘top-end’ of Stocksbridge on her weekly paper round.

Kay, a teaching assistant at Penistone St John’s, was cheered on in London by her husband Craig, while the couple’s three children stayed home with Grandma Lynn. The family have thanked everyone for their support throughout Kay’s fundraising journey and said they are “really proud” of her achievement.

Mayor’s Walk Challenge

Primary schools across South Yorkshire are being encouraged to sign up for this year’s Mayor’s Walk and Wheel Challenge, aimed at getting more children travelling actively to school.

The five-day challenge, running from May 18 to 22, encourages pupils to walk, wheel, scoot or cycle to school to help improve health, reduce congestion and cut pollution around school gates.

More than 170 schools and thousands of children are already taking part this year, following strong support across the region over the last two years.

The challenge is being delivered through a partnership between South Yorkshire Mayor-

al Combined Authority and Living Streets.

The first 100 schools to sign up will receive free classroom resources including activity packs, stickers and wall charts.

Schools taking part will also be entered into a prize draw to win bikes, scooters, a scooter pod and a cycling workshop led by South Yorkshire Active Lives Commissioner Ed Clancy.

South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard said the initiative is part of plans to make the region “the best place in the country for kids to walk, wheel and cycle”.

Families are also being encouraged to use “Park and Stride” schemes to help reduce traffic near schools.

Schools can sign up or find out more at www. southyorkshire-ca.gov. uk/explore_schoolwalk-wheel

MP listens to Steelworkers

Marie Tidball, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, held a roundtable discussion with local steelworkers, from Stocksbridge Speciality Steels, at the Venue, Stocksbridge, to listen to their ideas, concerns and questions. Local trade union representatives were also in attendance, from both the Stocksbridge and Rotherham SSUK sites.

On 15th April 2026, the Official Receiver announced a 5-week exclusivity period with the preferred bidder for Speciality Steels UK. Marie will be meeting with the preferred bidder

during this period in her capacity as local MP, to represent local steelworkers. Marie will use the information collected, at the roundtable discussion, from our local communities, to feed in directly to the preferred bidder during her meeting.

Marie Tidball MP said:

“We’re currently at a landmark moment for our steel site and steel communities. As your local MP, I’m meeting with the preferred bidder during this period of exclusivity with them and the Official Receiver. Before this meeting, I wanted to listen directly to workers at our Stocksbridge site about their ideas, insights, concerns and questions, so I can feed back to the preferred bidder, Official Receiver and government directly.

“I am so ambitious about our steel site – we’ve got a highly-skilled workforce, world-leading specialist production, and a unique training centre for apprentices on site. I know employees want to get back to sustained work, and for our sites to fully restart production as soon as possible.

“I want any new buyer to ensure our Stocksbridge site reaches its potential once again. As I have done from day one, I’ll continue to fight for our jobs, our site, and our steel communities. If any local steelworkers or families would like to get in touch, please contact me at marie. tidball.casework@parliament.uk.”

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WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED ABOUT GETTING PEOPLE INTO WORK IN THE “STEEL VALLEY”

By Sam Tarff, Chief Executive, STEP

For generations, steel has shaped Stocksbridge — its skyline, its rhythm, and an identity passed down through families. Like everyone in the town, we are hoping for a positive and lasting outcome on ownership and a confident future for speciality steel here. Alongside that, STEP has spent several years running employment support across Stocksbridge, Deepcar and the wider north of Sheffield, and we want to share what we have learned about the particular challenges this part of the city faces — and to help start a conversation with local partners about how we might work together more effectively in future.

The first challenge is geography. The “Steel Valley” and Upper Don sit at the edge of the city, with a public transport offer that, for all the work being done to improve it, is still a long way short of what most people need.

National research has found that, in small towns, having a car gives access to twenty-eight times more jobs within half an hour than public transport does. For young people starting out, parents juggling childcare, or anyone without independent travel, that gap is often the single biggest barrier to taking up opportunities elsewhere.

The second is what is available locally. Careers advice, training, employer connections,

mental health support and advice on benefits are spread thin and are often located some distance from where people live. Reaching them frequently requires the same transport that is itself the problem.

The third is how the local offer fits together. There are good people doing good work across schools, the Town Board, the town council, the voluntary sector, training providers and local businesses. What is harder is the connection between them — a shared picture of who is doing what, where the gaps are, and who is best placed to step in.

That is why we want to help start the conversation. Over the coming months, STEP will reach out to local partners to share what we have learned and to listen to what others are seeing. The aim is not for any one organisation to take ownership of this. It is to make sure that, between us, we give local people — and especially our young people — the most connected offer we can.

Stocksbridge has always been a steel town, and long may that continue. STEP is ready to play its part alongside others who feel the same way.

HOUSING PLANS ON DONATED GREEN SPACE

Residents in Penistone are continuing to raise concerns over a proposed housing development on Castle Lane, with campaigners warning it could lead to the loss of a long-standing local playing field.

The plans, which are currently open for public comment, have prompted strong local feeling about the future of the green space, which some residents say has been part of the community for around 60 years and was originally donated to Barnsley Council with the intention it would never be built on.

One resident, Michelle Cotterill, said: “We need to save our recreation ground in Penistone that has been there for at least 60 years. It was donated to Barnsley Council from Mrs Berry who stipulated that it would never be built on, and the council are now trying to build on it. So many people have objected and the community have tried to talk to councillors with questions with no joy. It’s disgusting, they need to leave our green space alone.”

Concerns have also been raised about the loss of informal outdoor space used by families and children, with residents warning it would reduce opportunities for community interaction and recreation.

The issue has also been raised with MP Marie Tidball, who confirmed she met with Barnsley Council planning officers in January to discuss the application and ensure residents’ views were heard.

She said she has urged Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council to consider delivering a new multi-use playground nearby if the development goes ahead, with funding provided by the developer. She has also called for a safe road crossing to be installed to allow children to access any new play facilities.

The MP stressed that, as a Member of Parliament, she does not sit on the planning committee and has no vote in the decision-making process. However, she confirmed she will be submitting a formal comment to the planning authority based on representations received from constituents, and will share that with anyone who has contacted her.

She also encouraged residents to make their views known directly to local decision-makers, advising that objections should be sent to Penistone West ward councillors ahead of the final decision. She noted that the ward’s representation may change following the local elections.

The planning application remains open for public comment until 14 May via Barnsley Council’s planning portal:

Barnsley Planning Application 2026/0002 A decision date has not yet been confirmed.

TUESDAY

THURSDAY - TEXAS HOLDEM POKER STARTS AT 8PM, WITH FREE SANDWICHES IN THE BREAK WEEKENDS - LIVE ENTERTAINMENT STARTS AT 8PM

NEW CHAPTER BEGINS AT OUGHTIBRIDGE’S COCK INN

A well-known Oughtibridge pub is looking ahead to an exciting new chapter after welcoming new landlords Les and Tracy earlier this year.

The experienced hospitality duo took over The Cock Inn in January and say they are looking forward to meeting both regular customers and new faces from across the community.

Les and Tracy bring 11 years of experience in the hospitality trade and are keen to continue building the pub’s reputation as a friendly local venue at the heart of village life.

Situated in the centre of Oughtibridge on the outskirts of Sheffield, The Cock Inn remains a popular spot for live sport, social gatherings and family meals.

The pub offers a traditional atmosphere along with regular entertainment and events, which

customers can keep up to date with through the venue’s Facebook page.

Food also remains a major attraction, with the pub currently promoting a two pub classics for one price deal available every day. Popular dishes include beer-battered fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and sausage and mash. Customers have already been praising the atmosphere and service at the venue.

One customer described it as “a great little local” with “friendly and helpful bar staff”, while another said: “Honestly love this pub. The staff are absolutely amazing… food is beautiful.”

Les and Tracy say they are excited for the months ahead and hope the community will continue supporting the pub as they settle into their new roles.

Professional Chef Free Event

A local kitchen showroom is inviting you to a special live cooking demonstration this month, offering visitors the chance to sample food, enjoy refreshments and pick up expert cooking tips.

Kitchen Connections will host the free event on Saturday 30 May from 11am to 4pm, with professional chef Tom Guise from AEG leading the demonstration.

Visitors will be able to see a range of modern kitchen appliances in action as Tom showcases different cooking techniques and explains how to get the best out of various oven and hob functions.

Free food and drink will be provided throughout the event, giving guests the chance to sample dishes prepared on the day while learning practical tips to take home.

The event is aimed at anyone considering a new kitchen, whether they are just beginning the design process or already have plans in place but are unsure which supplier to choose.

Kitchen Connections says it hopes the demonstration will help customers feel more confident about their options and inspire ideas for their own home projects.

Wayne Rayworth, owner, said “The event is a relaxed opportunity for people to drop in, ask questions and see how modern kitchen technology can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.”

Kindly let us know if you will be attending by emailing info@kitchenconnectionsltd.com.

MAY

WEDNESDAY

13 District Probus Club meet every second Wednesday of the month at Grenoside Community Hall. The next meeting is on the 13th of May, and we will be entertained by Mike Ogden enthralling us about Skyscrapers. Afterwards, some members attend Wortley Hall for lunch and drinks. For more information, please contact our secretary, Trevor Winslow 07966317258 or visit our website to look at our social calendar and visits.

THURSDAY

Christian Centre, Cedar Road, S36 1AS

Tuesday 27th January Tuesday 19th May 2026

10.15am - 11.45am

Drop in anytime for a coﬀee and cake - even fruit tea if you’d like one! Sponsored by TARA

WHAT’S ON

14 Chapeltown WI will meet at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church when Catherine Taggart will speak about Yorkshires unsung Heroes and Heroines. The competition is for memorabilia from a Yorkshire town. New members and visitors will be made welcome.

FRIDAY

15 Co ee morning St Saviours Mothers Union, st saviours church, Mortomley Lane, High Green 10 30am to 12 noon, homemade cakes, co ee/tea. All welcome. proceeds to charity. Come visit our lovely church.

SATURDAY

CUSTOM CAR SHOW

Car lovers, enthusiasts, and families are in for a real treat this spring as e Moor hosts a spectacular Custom Car Show on Sunday 24th May 2026, running from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

For one day only, e Moor will transform into a buzzing open-air showroom, showcasing over one hundred custom and modi ed vehicles. From immaculate restorations to powerful performance builds and head-turning designs, this is your chance to see some truly impressive cars up close.

To make it even more exciting, the cars on display will be split into themed groups:

High End Cars, Japanese Cars, Fast Fords, Yanks (American classics & muscle), Wild Cards – expect the unexpected!

ere really is something for everyone. More than just cars…

Alongside the incredible vehicle displays, visitors can enjoy a range of activities throughout the day:

Have a go on the racing car simulator and test your driving skills.

Get your photo taken with the cars – perfect for social sharing.

Live DJ bringing the atmosphere to e Moor

Prizes awarded for the best cars on display, celebrating standout builds and cra smanship.

Whether you’re a dedicated petrolhead or simply looking for a fun, free day out, the Custom Car Show o ers a brilliant mix of automotive culture, entertainment, and city-centre vibes. Plus, with shops, cafés, and restaurants just steps away, it’s easy to make a full day of it. Bring your friends, bring the family, and don’t forget your camera.

early start) at Rural Lane Car Park, o Worrall Road. FREE. www. walc.epizy.com

16 She eld Model Railex by Neepsend Model Railway Society. Grenoside Community Centre, S35 8PR Entry Fees: Adults £8, Children £2 14 layouts plus trade and demos and on-site ‘Messroom cafe’

16 Crane Moor Methodist Church, together with Crane Moor Community Group, would like to invite you to join us on Saturday, 16th May, from 10.00 am until 12 Noon at our Spring Fayre. Come and mingle with friends old and new and enjoy the usual bacon sandwich and maybe a cake or two. There will be the ever-popular plant stall, tombola, ra e, cakes and mystery gift stall and others.

16 Bullhouse Chapel is open every Saturday from Easter until the end of September for quiet re ection or to learn about the history of this 334 year old Independent Chapel from 1pm until 4pm. Our usual Christian worship on Sunday 10th will be at 2.30pm.

SUNDAY

16 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners – Dawn Chorus Walk with John and Anne Robinson. It’s John Robinson’s legendary early morning bird walk. Their singing will greet a brand new day and we will welcome numerous migrant species to our neighbourhood. No dogs please, meet at 5am (a very

17 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - ‘Commoners Muck-In’ - This is our regular 4-weekly day of active conservation work. During the summer it is mostly bracken that keeps us occupied because it threatens to shade out the young shoots of heather and bilberry. We also have an area newly-cleared of brambles last winter which will continue to need attention, so it stays away. Check www.walc. epizy.com

17 Table Top Sale - Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre - Sunday 17th May, Open To Buyers 10.00 am to 1.00 pm.

17 She eld Model Railex by Neepsend Model Railway Society. Grenoside Community Centre, S35 8PR Entry Fees: Adults £8, Children £2 14 layouts plus trade and demos and on-site ‘Messroom cafe’

17 Bullhouse Chapel Christian worship on will be at 2.30pm.

WEDNESDAY

20 “BOLSTERSTONE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HERITAGE GROUP Wednesday 20th May at 7.30pm “JUST ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL” Jheri Bryant talks about bricks from antiquity to modern day.” We meet in the hall at Christ Church on Manchester Road in Stocksbridge, and the talk is also available on Zoom (members only) - contact bahgmembership@gmail.com for the link.. There is a small entry charge: Members £2 Non-members £4. Annual membership £7 All welcome.”

SATURDAY

23 Follow the trail round Oughtibridge to visit artists and makers in 7 locations. From 10 until 4 with the plant sale on the Millennium Green at 11. Maps and quiz sheets available online or from venues. Free to take part and prizes to be won.

JUNE

SUNDAY

14 Wadsley and Loxley Commoners - This is our regular 4-weekly

On LISTINGS

day of active conservation work. During the summer it is mostly bracken that keeps us occupied because it threatens to shade out the young shoots of heather and bilberry. We also have an area newly-cleared of brambles last winter which will continue to need attention, so it stays away. Check on www.walc.epizy.com

SATURDAY

ONGOING

MONDAYS

Men’s Activity and Games Session Stocksbridge Community Leisure Centre Monday afternoons 1-30pm to 3-30pm Cost £1 (includes free refreshments) Activities will include a range from Badminton, Table Tennis, Indoor Curling, Dominoes, Card and Board Games, Quiz Contact Andy Walker 07723 506423 for further information.

Millhouse Green Male Voice Choir practise on Monday evenings (7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.) at Millhouse Green Institute, Manchester Road, Millhouse Green. If you want to join us, come on Monday 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

Baby and Toddler group at the

Christian Centre, Cedar Road S36 1AS. Mondays during term-time 9.30 - 11.30 am. Drop in anytime.

In Loving Memory of Christina ‘Margaret’ Brown

7/12/38 - 20/4/26

Beloved Wife of the late John. Special Mum to Phil, Helen and Jane. Devoted Nan to Sarah, Louise, Harriet and Isabelle.

“Our memories will be cherished and you will be forever in our hearts.”

Funeral service to be held on Friday 22nd May, 12.30pm at Grenoside Crematorium, South Chapel, followed by a celebration of her life at Tankersley Manor in the Manor Suite.

Family owers only. Dress bright. Donations welcome for Parkinsons UK.

BETHEL

Peacefully after a long illness, on March 23rd, Allen, aged 84 years.

Dearly loved Husband of Janet, a much loved Dad and Grandad.

Service at St. Mary’s Church, Bolsterstone on Tuesday May 19th at 12.00 noon followed by private cremation.

Family flowers only please but donations if desired for Alzheimer’s Society, c/o Dyson Funeral Service, New Road, Deepcar. Tel 01142 883169

Betty HEPPLESTON (née Parsons)

Formerly of Townend Lane, Deepcar. Passed away 3 December 2025 in The Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital aged 95.

Beloved Wife of the late Colin and much loved Mum of Matthew and Janette, Nana, Aunt and friend

A service to celebrate the life of Betty will be held at St Mary’s Church, Bolsterstone on Thursday 11 June at 2:30pm. Family flowers only please.

All enquiries to TW Birks & Son, 100 Manchester Rd, Deepcar, S36 2RE. Tel 0114 2885555

DONCASTER AIRPORT SAVED AFTER UNION CAMPAIGN

Doncaster Airport has been saved following a campaign by unions, workers and politicians.

e facility had been in doubt a er Reform-led Doncaster Council broke its promise to provide a £57 million loan for upgrades the airport.

But at a council meeting today [Monday], the councillors approved the loan a er all.

Sarah Barnes, GMB Organiser, said: “It’s a massive relief - both personally and for everyone South Yorkshire - that the airport project hasn’t been killed.

“ anks to pressure from workers, unions and politicians, Reform has executed a screeching U-turn and will no longer cancel the £57 million loan.

“ is is a huge victory for the people of Doncaster.”

READY TO ROLL? TRY PÉTANQUE

Ingbirchworth Pétanque Club, near Penistone, welcomes new members and beginners to try the popular French game, also known as boules, this summer.

e friendly, village-based club meets at its local terrain on ursdays at 1pm and Sundays at 10am. Players of all ages and abilities are invited to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and meet new people in a relaxed environment.

Pétanque involves throwing metal boules close to a target ball. It’s easy to learn but still o ers a competitive challenge. e club emphasises community spirit alongside the game.

No experience is needed, and equipment is provided for beginners. Interested individuals can email ingbirchworth.petanque@gmail. com or nd the club on Facebook by searching “Ingbirchworth Pétanque Club.”

Sovereignty of Silence

In the cradle of the mountains, where the clouds lean down to whisper to the pines, we pitched our small, ivory-colored sanctuary. Andrew, carrying a quiet and fragile dignity in every movement, seemed transformed by the altitude. The illness that usually tethers him to the heavy reality of rest felt distant here, like a mist clearing under the sun. We spent the afternoon tucked inside, surrounded by the scent of cedar and the soft hum of the wilderness.

The drizzle began as a soft percussion against the canvas of our tent, a gentle rhythm that made everything feel infinitely more intimate. I wrapped a thick, hand-knitted wool blanket around his shoulders and set up the small copper stove. As the water began to whistle, I brewed a pot of spiced tea for myself and a warm, nourishing soup for him. I added a sprig of fresh mint to his mug, a tiny detail that made him smile. As I handed it over, our fingers brushed—his touch was weathered and slightly unsteady, yet there was a grounded strength in it. We sat at the tent’s opening, watching the world turn into a blurred watercolor of greys and emerald greens, sharing a silence that felt more profound than any conversation.

When the rain finally softened into a fine, shimmering spray, we stepped out for a stroll. The earth was fragrant, smelling of pine needles and rebirth. Andrew moved slowly, his wooden cane syncing with the rhythm of my heartbeat as we crunched over fallen leaves. I didn’t hurry him; in his presence, time felt like it had finally stopped its relentless ticking. Under the canopy of a weeping willow, he paused, his breath hitching slightly before he recited a few lines of poetry. His voice, gravelly yet melodic, turned the cool air into a living stanza. In that moment, the true beauty wasn’t just the fog rolling over the peaks, but the way his eyes lit up as he found the perfect word to describe the soul’s resilience.

As dusk settled, we built a small, crackling fire that hissed whenever a stray droplet hit the embers. I roasted some marshmallows until they were golden and gooey, passing them to him on a long twig like a childhood peace offering. The orange glow danced across his face, softening the lines of pain that usually lingered there. We shared a simple, rustic meal under the vast, emerging stars, the warmth of the fire warding off the mountain chill. He spoke of life not as a series of events, but as a collection of echoes—and I realised I was witnessing one of his most cherished ones.

Before the fire turned to white ash, he looked at me, the firelight reflecting in his steady gaze, and whispered, “Hina, they say the body may falter, but the spirit merely waits for the right company to soar. Thank you for being my wings tonight.” I tucked the edge of his blanket tighter against the wind, realising that the most beautiful stories aren’t written in the strength of youth, but in the quiet, poetic devotion of two friends watching the rain in the wild.

Hina Gondal

FLOOD PROTECTION - UPPER DON

On 26/3/2026 Look Local (LL. Issue 1418) reported that the Upper Don Valley Flood Protection Scheme will receive £2.169 million. Proposals for phase 3 of the scheme affect Coronation Park in Oughtibridge.

Arup was the company tasked by Sheffield City Council (SCC) with designing Sheffield’s flood

Local Opinion

protection schemes and drafting recommendations. On 29/9/2016, Arup held a public consultation event in Oughtibridge, to inform locals and seek feedback on flood protection proposals. At the event, I spent about an hour questioning the engineer from Arup (ADAM); he informed me that the proposal for Coronation Park would involve felling all the riverside trees in the park (over 15 mature trees) and replacing them with an embankment. This had not been communicated in any of the information that had been presented to the public – including the information on display at the event and that on the flood protection website (floodprotectionsheffield.com) had communicated that. The website simply stated “SOME TREE LOSS MAY BE REQUIRED, but we would minimise impacts and identify opportunities to OFFSET THESE WITH WIDER TREE PLANTING… where possible.”

From the proposals, it appeared that the large, majestic beech trees that line the riverbank immediately up river of the footbridge that is opposite Middlewood Tavern would need to be felled. See LL Issues 1415 & 1424, online).

On 3/10/2016, Bradfield Parish Council (BPC) held a public meeting in Oughtibridge, for Parish Councillors to present information about proposals for flood prevention and get feedback. Councillor MIRIAM CATES (BPC. Conservative) stated that Arup and SCC had advised BPC that the proposed embankment for Coronation Park would be 3m tall and 4m wide on top, to allow for a footpath. Cllr Cates said the slope of the embankment would have a maximum gradient of “approximately one in three”, meaning that a width of 22m would be needed beside the river to accommodate the embankment. The embankment would be approximately as wide as the black pines that would be felled are tall. That would significantly diminish the area of level ground within the park –a park which had become increasingly popular, as large areas of land in Oughtibridge and further up river had been developed or were earmarked for development (hundreds of new homes).

Cllr Cates stated that when the river reached peak flow, the proposals for the park aimed to reduce the river level downstream by approximately 7cm. She said that a proposal for the sports ground (on the opposite side of the river) aimed to achieve similar reduction in river level. Adam had said that even a 14cm reduction - which the low defence planned for Winn Gardens could achieve - was not much of a reduction. The implication was that a reduction of 7cm was insignificant. Adam said there would not be enough money to go ahead with all proposals and that consultation feedback form a questionnaire would be used to assess public support or opposition for each proposal.

The Upper Don Valley Flood Protection Scheme was one of six flood protection schemes that SCC planned to fund by making a bid for £83 million of government grant. Each Scheme covered a different part of Sheffield’s river network and each consists of a number of proposed projects (Coronation Park being one).

In 2016, there were several such consultation events, each in a different part of the city. At the Hillsbourough event (at SWFC), I met an African named Dr Godwin Ekebuisi - SCC’s flood prevention Programme Manager. Dr Ekebuisi informed me that access to grant funding was conditional on SCC being able to provide evidence that it had consulted with the public about proposals. Worryingly, Dr Ekebuisi informed that his flood protection team is part of the SCC Highways Department. At the time, the SCC Head of Highway Maintenance was STEVE ROBINSON,

notorious for a range of serious wrongs, over many years, including a works programme that included the illegal and unnecessary felling of thousands of Sheffield’s mature street trees (see LL issues 1293, 1299 & 1381).

On 28/10/2016, The Star reported that Cllr Lodge (SCC Cabinet Member for the Environment) had said “We have had over 700 responses to the consultation and over 90 per cent of respondents agree with our suggestions to protect communities from flooding.”

To give some idea of what the questionnaire was like, question 1 was “Do you agree with the objectives of the Sheffield Flood Protection Programme?” Objectives: “Protect our communities; Grow our economy; Transform our waterways”. You had to select one of the following answers: Strongly Agree / Agree / Neither agree nor disagree / Disagree / Strongly Disagree.

At the time, SCC was well known for its use of dodgy questionnaires, misrepresentation and misuse of statistics to mislead and deceive. The sham household felling survey for street trees was one example (LL issue 1421). Inadequate research methodology is a hallmark of SCC questionnaires (see those associated with the town hall tree plaque are a more recent example [LL issue 1405]). Sample bias and the use of leading questions were and remain a problem. As was the case with the household felling survey for street trees, at the time the flood protection questionnaires were live, all that SCC (and Arup) had to show the public were a range of vague ideas, amounting to nothing more than a list of options – no technical drawings, artistic impressions or technical specifications. The monetary value of trees and the range of valuable ecosystem services that they provide to the neighbourhood and communities had not been assessed (see LL issues 1220 & 1397). In short, the flood protection questionnaires amounted to nothing more than another sham ‘consultation’.

To give an example of monetary values, the collective amenity value of the five mature lime trees that were wrongly felled on Rustlings Road, in November 2016, was £83,655, as assessed using the Capital Asset Value for Amenity Trees method (you can buy over 1,500 amenity trees for that!).

The flood protection website informed that “urban water management” to “slow the flow” is considered and that sustainable drainage systems (SuDs) are one technique that can be used to “control rainwater in built-up areas …and minimise flows to underground sewers and rivers”. However, at the Oughtibridge event, Adam had informed me that SuDs were not part of Arup’s remit and that SuDs were only being considered for the Three Brooks Scheme (Manor, Manor Park, Darnall, Arbourthorne and Norfolk Park - wards held by members of SCC’s Labour Cabinet at the time).

Trees are usually a key component of any SuD system but, at the SCC Highway Trees Advisory Forum, Mr Robinson belittled their contribution, stating that hard engineering options are more effective (see LL issues 1272 & 1309).

An i-Tree assessment, commissioned by SCC, completed by Treeconomics in autumn 2017 (see LL issue 1273), reported that Sheffield’s 3,775,667 urban trees reduce surface water run-off by 491,173 cubic metres per annum (the equivalent of more than 196 Olympic-sized swimming pools): an ecosystem service worth £744,789. A later i-Tree assessment report from Treeconomics, dated November 2019 (commissioned by the Sheffield Street Tree Strategy Development Group), reported that Sheffield’s 35,108 street trees reduce surface water run-off by 10,415 cubic metres per annum (the equivalent of more than four Olympic-sized

swimming pools): a service worth £18,039.

On 25/4/2026, I submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Act, to the Environment Agency (EA), to discover more about SCC’s flood protection plans. I received a response (from Simon Parkinson - YOR Area Customers and Engagement Team) on 6/5/2026. You can view the full response online, at https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/ (search for ‘Sheffield Flood’).

Selected extracts from the EA response: “… the third phase of the Upper Don scheme… is currently on hold prior to the development of a potential business case. There are no final designs or even a preferred option at this stage, with no certainty the third phase will be delivered.

In 2023 the council completed the construction of their first phase of the Upper Don scheme which covered the river Loxley. They are now working to deliver the second phase which will cover the Neepsend area of Sheffield. This is currently at business case approval stage. If approved, it is not expected that construction of the scheme will be completed until 2030 at the earliest.

The £2.169m referenced in the newspaper article is time limited. WITH THE THIRD PHASE OF THE UPPER DON SCHEME CURRENTLY ON HOLD IT IS NOT ELIGIBLE TO MAKE USE OF THIS FUNDING. The £2.169m of funding will be used to help deliver the second phase of the Upper Don scheme…

At some point into the future, I understand that the council are expecting to restart their investigations in the third phase of the Upper Don scheme… Arup have produced a feasibility study for the Upper Don scheme before it was split into phases… No further reporting has been produced for the third phase of the scheme.

As the scheme has not progressed to business case stage there are no designs or even a preferred option to share with you. If the council want to request funding from the EA to deliver the third phase of the scheme they would need to submit a business case to us, which is expected to take a number of years to produce. The high-level ideas that were shared back in 2016 are no guarantee of what a final design could look like, which would now need to consider Biodiversity Net Gain.” David Long (Arboriculturist & Urban Forester) S35

TO ABYSS CENTRAL

I am the space that walks between you Not a void! You are the void!

That conjures me to this space! Of your dreamt of need, want, desire!

A birthing formless void, a trial to create Without a means to any pretense politic

You are the Politic Central, Destroying love with a complicate!

A complicate you created from your body politic Jealousy levelled your sense to destroy Fame n infamy’s look-a-likes

Their agony, opinions voices!

Andrew Dancer

UNIVERSITY STAFF ‘PREPARED’ TO TAKE STRIKE ACTION

Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) staff have backed strike action over proposed job cuts, work conditions and pension contribution changes, writes Victoria Scheer for BBC Yorkshire.

The University and College Union (UCU) said the ballot reflected members’ opposition to what they describe as a “managed decline” strategy that would worsen working conditions and undermine the quality of student learning.

SHU said it was “disappointed” by the news but said in the event of any strikes it would “do everything possible” to minimise the impact on students.

It said that to date it had been able to make “significant savings” without the need for any compulsory redundancies.

The university employs around 4,000 members of staff, split evenly between academic and professional services.

The UCU previously claimed 130 jobs could go as part of attempts to save almost £27m, which it said could lead to a higher work load for existing staff.

It said it wants the university’s executive board to enter “meaningful negotiation”, adding: “UCU

members are prepared to take substantial strike action to obtain a better deal for academic and research staff, and secure a better future for the university and its students.”

‘Stable future’

SHU said like other universities it had to make “some tough decisions” due to the financial challenges experienced across the sector.

“With the overall financial picture for universities likely to be challenging for some time, it is clear that failing to take action would undermine the university’s long-term financial sustainability,” a spokesperson said.

“We are focused on securing a stable future for Sheffield Hallam, while continuing to support our students, staff and wider community.”

Staff at SHU have taken part in strike action several times in recent years, including in 2024 and 2025.

Similarly, staff at the University of Sheffield (UoS) have also gone on strike multiple times, mainly over pay, pensions, workloads and redundancies.

Members are currently taking part in industrial action until 14 May, external.

SHOP COULD LOSE LICENCE OVER ILLEGAL CIGARETTES

A Sheffield shop could lose its licence over the sale of counterfeit cigarettes and vapes, writes Julia Armstrong, Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Trading Standards called for a review following the discovery that Super Booze on Middlewood Road in Hillsborough was selling cheap, counterfeit and illegal cigarettes and vapes.

A report said the goods were “suspected to have been smuggled or illegally imported as they are not permitted to be sold in the UK and should not be stocked in wholesale or retail premises for supply”.

A review will take place at a meeting of Sheffield City Council’s licensing sub-committee on 11 May.

Trading Standards said officers inspected the shop on 5 February and found 51 packs of illegal cigarettes and 18 packs of illegal hand-rolling tobacco hidden under a shelving unit.

Twenty illegal vapes were also seized, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The report said: “Dealers in cheap and illicit tobacco products reap the financial benefits of supplying cheap cigarettes and tobacco at the expense of legitimate retailers by providing unfair competition to shops selling the genuine tax paid products.

“This may lead to honest retailers closing down and causing local economies to suffer.

“The supply of illicit and counterfeit tobacco products costs the taxpayer over £2.5bn per year in lost revenue.”

Licence holder Colette Goode wrote to Trading Standards that she had been off work for six months and was unaware of the issues until she got notice of the licensing review.

Goode said she thought the store was being responsibly managed up to that point and immediately acted to sack shop staff for misconduct.

She apologised, took full responsibility as licence holder and said she had resumed direct oversight to ensure all licensing conditions were being met.

HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF LOCAL BUS SERVICES

People across South Yorkshire are being urged to help shape the future of local bus services as plans move forward to bring the network back under public control.

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has launched a public survey asking residents, passengers, businesses and community groups for their views on how buses can be improved across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield. More than 1,000 people have already taken part in the consultation, which runs until May 17, with feedback helping to shape the first phase of changes expected from September 2027.

The move will see South Yorkshire buses gradually return to public control for the first time since the 1980s, with the authority taking responsibility for routes, timetables, fares and service standards.

Key priorities highlighted include improving links to hospitals, employment sites, schools, colleges, town centres and shopping areas, and making services better coordinated.

MIDHOPE’S HIDDEN ALTAR AND FAMOUS PRIEST LOCAL HISTORY UNEARTHED

By Steve Moxon

Midhope Chapel’s medieval stone altar, lost for centuries until 1978, was no sooner found than moved to Penistone Church, where it remains. Why it’s not in its historic home no-one can say. Records seem to have disappeared between dioceses and archives. Enquiries go round in a circle.

Discovered during restoration work, its five crosses -- one carved into each of the four corners and the centre -- was altar standard.

A huge, thick slab that must weigh an (old) ton or two, yet somehow it had been hidden within the south wall of the church near the windowsill there.

Why, has only one explanation. Come the Reformation in England from the 1530s/40s it would have been regarded as idolatrous: celebrating a blood sacrifice in the Catholic Mass. Stone altars were deconsecrated, replaced by plain wooden communion tables, symbolising a shared supper as part of communal worship and preaching. In fact, there is explicit instruction to remove them in several Old Testament books, so was it radical or conservative?

buyer was Anthony Morewood of the Oaks, Bradfield, who bought Alfreton and its Hall, becoming High Sheriff of Derbyshire.

The transfer was described as to a puritan merchant, which is accurate certainly as regards the wider Morewood family. Sons routinely were apprenticed to the Grocers’ Company in London and became highly successful international merchants, moving in puritan circles, supporting ministers espousing such views, going on to be critics of Charles I and active Parliamentarians in the Civil War.

The hiding of the altar presumably was just ahead of this purchase. In line with the new ownership, in 1625 Midhope got a staunchly puritan new curate, Samuel Newman (16021663), for whom the church hierarchy was the enemy. Hitherto Heptonstall’s schoolmaster and belonging to a circle of renegade visiting preachers in western Yorkshire, Newman spent a full decade at Midhope, before a very brief move to Woodkirk. He was pressured by the Bishop’s officials for ‘serving the cure without a licence’ – an especial requirement for a sermoniser far & wide – then referred to the top church court, the High Commission.

Major employment destinations including the Advanced Manufacturing Park, Armthorpe and Hoyland have been identified as areas where improved transport links are needed.

South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard said the changes represent a “once in a generation” opportunity to create a bus network that works better for local communities.

He said improvements would be introduced gradually between 2027 and 2029, with passengers expected to see clearer information, simpler ticketing and improved reliability standards early in the process.

Plans also include the introduction of a new publicly owned bus fleet, with at least 70 per cent of vehicles expected to be fully electric.

Residents can take part in the survey by visiting [South Yorkshire bus survey](https://www. southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/improving-bus-services?utm_source=chatgpt.com).

Midhope’s parent church at Ecclesfield had four stone altars, all still in use post-Reformation. The Rev Tim Gill points out it was a century on, when the Puritans came to power in the 1640s, that Reformation vandalism was at its peak and came here. The stained glass was smashed – remnants since imaginatively re-used in a beautiful large window opposite the entrance – and in 1642 an oak communion table was substituted for the main altar, which is now set, face-up, underneath. Another altar stone was simply leaning against the wall in the north transept; recently placed on a new support structure. A further one is in the floor of St Catherine’s chapel, having long been converted into a tombstone. Thankfully, they weren’t broken up and buried, as befell many elsewhere.

Midhope’s likewise was probably left in use for a good while, the chapel being so remote from the authorities. It was built by the Barnbys shortly after they acquired Midhope Hall and manor in 1354. Later, as staunch Catholics, they were dubbed recusants, sustaining hefty fines. In 1622, as soon as Thomas Barnby came of age, he was forced to sell. The

Following added disciplinary action in 1638, and censure by Archbishop Neile, Newman had had enough. Never mind his own victimisation, he was disgusted at the religious persecutions by Archbishop Laud, who returned towards Catholic doctrine, prosecuting (even in Star Chamber) those who flouted his insistence on strict ceremony. Newman emigrated to New England, where he was a Congregationalist minister.

Famously in the USA, he wrote the enormously important bible for Bible study, Newman’s Concordance. Albeit the Bible had been widely available in English translation for decades, for it to be of proper use to the masses – to truly democratise it – a guide and index was needed. A compendium aimed at ordinary folk. Two previous efforts by others were poor. Newman’s was considered definitive, and remained in print for 250 years from first publication (actually in London) in 1643.

As an early key figure in the US church, was there ever a more influential person to have emerged from (or via) our locale? Yet who had heard of him?

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FOOTPATH RUNNERS IMPRESS OVER ULTRAMARATHON DISTANCES

Penistone Footpath runner Steve Sanders took on the extraordinary task of the Transvulcania Ultramarathon in La Palma, covering 45 miles and over 14,000 feet of ascent. Steve finished 756th in an impressive 14 hours and 43 minutes.

Also covering a mammoth distance was Joanne Boreham who participated in ‘The Lap’, navigating around the famous Lake Windermere in the Lake District. Joanne covered the 47 mile, 8530ft ascent route in a brilliant 15 hours and 43 minutes.

Brent Carlin and Dave Lovatt took on a distance event a little closer to home in the Bradwell Half - a 17.5 mile race taking in Cave Dale, Win Hill and Lose Hill in the Peak District. Brent was 4th overall in 2:54:16 whilst Dave finished 12th in 3:35:02.

On bank holiday Monday, George Parr, Damian Kilpin and Martyn Goodwin competed in the Coiners Fell Race near Hebden Bridge. George finished fourth in 54:27, whilst Damian was 12th and Martyn 67th.

At the Ripon 10 mile race, Richard Cottam stormed home in 1 hour and 45 seconds to take fourth place,

followed by clubmates Martin Ball, Lee Storey and Kim Rogers.

As the spring marathon season continues, Carl Matthewman ventured to Leeds to partake in the Rob Burrows marathon, clocking a time of 4:56:56.

Covering the half marathon distance, Michael Nicholson ran a time of 1:41:11 in the Great Bristol Half Marathon.

At the Maltby memorial race, Ian Neville was the first MV60 finisher, whilst Susie Braddock was first FV60.

Nichola McNally was the sole Penistone runner at the hilly Holymoorside 10k, finishing 35th in 45:26.

At the weekend’s Parkrun events, there was a first gender place for Jade Crosby at Waverley Lakes. Jade also equalled the female course record of 20:49 and Dawn Godley scored the highest percentage score of the day with 81.03%, which is the 3rd highest in the event’s short history. There was a second place for Sean Pitt also at Waverley Lakes and Heather Simpson at Barnsley. Third place for Richard Cottam at

Glossop. Dan Cooper did his 200th parkrun at Concord. Andrew Taylor volunteered for the 250th time at parkrun events.

At the club’s annual awards evening, a number of individuals were recognised for their efforts and achievements over the last 12 months.

George Parr and Suzanne McGill took home the male and female club championship trophies respectively. George also claimed the male fell championship and Suzanne was additionally named the female fell and cross country champion. The male cross country championship was won by Ian Neville and the road one was won by James Mumford, whilst Jade Crosby claimed the female road championship.

Barnsley parkrun 13, Ian Neville 20:53; 22, Simon Pike 21:56; 31, Martyn Goodwin 23:39; 32, Heather Simpson 23:42; 69, Alan Knox 26:04; 111, Sue Hall 28:06; 118, Paul Sammon 28:54; 127, Joanne Sammon 29:20; 152, Laura Bartholomew 30:39; 170 Kate Rushforth 31:24; 186, Hannah Sammon 32:16; 236, Ray Brown 36:15

STEEL CITY CUP

A teenage Sheffield motorsport star is helping bring the city’s business community together once again as the Steel City Cup returns this summer in support of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Rising racing driver Rowan Campbell-Pilling is behind the popular karting competition, which will see teams from businesses across Yorkshire battle it out at Parkwood Karting in Neepsend throughout June.

The last Steel City Cup, held in 2024, attracted more than 20 teams and raised thousands of pounds for the charity. Companies including Gripple, Mattress Online, Cobra Sport Exhausts, Irwin Mitchell and H Harrold & Sons all reached the final stages.

Defending champions H Harrold & Sons are set to return this year hoping to retain the trophy. Director Harry Harrold said the event offers businesses “a fantastic opportunity to be part of

something different” while supporting an important local cause.

Teams of four will compete in qualifying rounds featuring a 20-minute session to determine grid positions before taking part in a one hour and 40-minute endurance race around the 400m circuit. The fastest teams will then progress to a grand final in September.

Rowan, who is currently competing in the 2026 GB3 Championship with Xcel Motorsport, said he was excited to see the competition return.

The Sheffield teenager has been an ambassador for the children’s hospital charity since 2022 and has helped raise around £30,000 for the cause. Funds raised help provide specialist equipment and improved facilities for young patients and families.

Businesses interested in entering the Steel City Cup can RSVP via Rory.CP@outlook. com while spaces remain available.

BLADERUNNERS CONTINUE GOOD FORM

Bladerunners I continued to build their winning record with a 1 game all split against the Leeds Locos. Game one witnessed an excellent pitching duel between the Bladerunners’ Thomas Spradling and Locos’ Anthony Munoz, with the Leeds side edging out a close 2-0 win. The Bladerunners got the bats working, however, as they roared back to life in game two. Another excellent outing on the mound from Nestor Martinez (seven strikeouts) was supported by scoring in all five innings as the Bladerunners secured a dominant 15-8 victory.

The team remains joint first in the BBF Division 3 North ahead of next weekend’s matchup against the Hull Scorpions.

Team 2 Vs University of Sheffield Hornets Sheffield Bladerunners II – 6

University of Sheffield Hornets – 13

Originally Scheduled was the first home game of the season against Durham Spartans, this had to be rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances. However, with Team II without an opponent, The Baseball team for the University of Sheffield, The Hornets, stepped up for a friendly game. The Hornets closing off

a highly successful BUCS season, finishing 1 point away from the BUCS Playoffs, and with many of the team graduating and moving on from their academic studies, as well as providing an opportunity for some developing players of the team to compete, it was a perfect opportunity to advance Sheffield’s Baseball Scene.

The Hornets brought their A-game, with Star Pitcher Kazuhiro Ito dominating the Hornets defense from the mound until; Centre Fielder, Ben Green, capitalized on a Hit by Pitch ultimately resulting in the first run scored during this dominance. The Bladerunners were able to keep the Hornets at bay through patient and extremely strong defensive plays spearheaded by Third Baseman Will Harris and First Baseman Oli Knight, to keep the Hornets from gaining too high a lead.

Following the Pitching change by the Hornets, The Bladerunners, led by Scott Lingrell, were able to rally and battle back and begin to close the gap. Unfortunately, the time ran out for the Bladerunners, an extremely strong outing for both teams ended with a 13-6 defeat for the Bladerunners II at the hands of the University of Sheffield Hornets.

VOLUNTEERS WEEK

High Green Harriers are a running club based in S35 but also realise the importance of volunteering so others can enjoy events.

Sheffield Bladerunners III – 10

Long Eaton Storm Chasers – 15

Sheffield Bladerunners III – 13

Manchester Donuts - 14

In the first outing of Sheffield Bladerunners III, classed as a Home game, however due to time constraints, had to be played in Newark. For many of the Team it was their first outing as a Bladerunner, and though both games ended in losses for the Bladerunners, they put up a strong effort holding Long Eaton to a win of only 5 runs and Manchester to 1.

Against Long Eaton, The Bladerunners held strong defensively, strike outs achieved by Pitchers Jamie Fowler and Hugh Kirby, as well as precision throwing from Third Baseman, Chris Dixon, provided a tough defensive challenge for the Stormchasers, while strong plate appearances and base running kept the Bladerunners from falling too far behind.

Nipping at Long Eaton’s Heels, The Bladerunners finished losing 15-10.

Following the break, the Bladerunners faced Manchester, in a very even back and forth game, Manchester barely able to squeeze a 14-13 victory over the Bladerunners. Jasmine Duncan at Second Base saving further runs by catching a fly ball, and the Pitching combination of Chris Dixon and Toby Steadman putting the pressure on Manchester for hits.

A strong start to the Season for the Sheffield Bladerunners III, maintaining strong defenses and a powerful offence, this team of mainly new players show a lot of promise and are fired up for the season ahead of them.

Next Games

The Sheffield Bladerunners return to the field on Sunday 17th May. Once again, all 3 teams will be in action. Sheffield Bladerunners I travel to Manchester to face the Manchester Bees in a Double header. Sheffield Bladerunners III travel to Newark to face the Newark Nationals in a Double header. Meanwhile, Sheffield Bladerunners II will be at Home welcoming the Leeds Locos II in a double header, this game will be at the Forge Valley Field at Forge Valley School, First pitch will be at 2pm, all are welcome to come watch an afternoon of Baseball at no charge.

MISSED OPPORTUNITY FOR POMONA SHEFFIELD

FC 5–1 POMONA FC

A frustrating afternoon for Pomona, with the final scoreline failing to reflect the balance of play or the number of chances created throughout the match.

Credit must go to Sheffield FC, who were well organised and clinical when it mattered most, taking their opportunities effectively to secure the win.

Pomona started brightly, moving the ball well and causing problems out wide. Their positive approach was rewarded with the opening goal following a well-worked corner routine. Simon Hawley delivered an inviting cross which evaded everyone — including the goalkeeper — before finding the top corner to give Pomona a deserved 1–0 lead.

However, Pomona gradually lost their shape and allowed Sheffield back into the game. Had Pomona managed to reach half-time still ahead, the mentality and momentum heading into the second half may have looked very different. Instead, the game swung decisively early after the restart.

A controversial goal — one that may well have warranted a VAR review — combined with a couple of costly mistakes, saw Sheffield punish Pomona quickly and take control of the contest.

On the back of national volunteering week Chris and Jayne from HGH headed to concord parkrun and helped so everyone running could enjoy the free weekly running event.

Unfortunately, Sheffield responded almost immediately with a speculative effort that found the net and shifted the momentum in their favour.

Park run is for everyone to enjoy you will never be lonely at a park run it’s the perfect place to make new friendships,bring a brolly though as its very often a Saturday soaking.

Despite the setback, Pomona continued to create opportunities during the first half. Simon Yeadon was a constant threat down the right flank, dangerous balls were delivered into the box, Stephen Logan forced a save with a wellstruck effort, and Adam Littlewood produced an impressive driving run through midfield.

Even then, Pomona continued to create enough chances to stay in the game. Simon Bonnett and Jason Allsebrook both saw efforts saved, while Pete Hoult, Michael Hayes, and Adam Littlewood all fired over the bar from promising positions. James Illingworth also missed a clear opportunity when through on goal, while several dangerous deliveries flashed across the face of goal without a finishing touch.

Ultimately, Pomona were left to rue missed opportunities, while Sheffield proved ruthless in front of goal.

Attention now turns to the final two matches of the season, both against last season’s champions, Kiveton Park.

Team 3 vs Long Eaton & Manchester

TREBLE WINNING WEEKEND

Stocksbridge Cricket Club’s first and second teams both maintained their perfect starts to the season with hard-fought victories in testing early-season conditions.

Pledwick 1st XI 155-9 (Andy Hibbert 3-29, Joe Hibbert 2-33, Jake Vickers 2-50)

Stocksbridge 1st XI 158-6 (Jake Vickers 37*, Joe Hibbert 35, James Tevendale 31)

Stocksbridge win by 4 wickets

At Lucas Wheels – Bracken Moor, the 1st XI overcame league newcomers Pledwick by four wickets in a low-scoring but tense encounter, while the 2nd XI also kept their 100% record intact with a dramatic win at Darfield in a top-of-the-table clash.

In the 1st XI fixture, Stocksbridge were asked to bowl first after losing the toss on a misty afternoon. The decision paid immediate dividends when Andy Hibbert struck with the very first ball, removing the dangerous Eastlake thanks to a superb one-handed catch from Jack Murfin.

Pledwick recovered to build a useful partnership, but disciplined bowling from Joe Hibbert and Chris Lowe kept the

scoring in check. Lowe claimed one wicket while Joe Hibbert took two, and wickets continued to fall at regular intervals as Stocksbridge tightened their grip on the innings.

Andy Hibbert returned to claim further key wickets, including top scorer Marshall for 70, while Jake Vickers also chipped in with two wickets. A sharp run-out from James Tevendale on the final ball saw Pledwick bowled out for 155-9 (later adjusted with penalty runs).

Stocksbridge’s reply, however, did not go smoothly. Early wickets left them struggling at 18-2 before Joe Hibbert (35) and Tevendale (31) rebuilt with an attacking partnership. But when both fell in quick succession, the chase became nervy at 103-6.

Captain Andy Hirst and vice-captain Jake Vickers then steadied the innings with an unbeaten 55-run stand. Hirst anchored while Vickers provided the firepower, striking several boundaries and hitting the winning runs to seal victory on 158-6.

The result makes it four wins from four for the 1st XI, who now travel to Whiston Forge next week.

Darfield 2nd XI 182 all out (J Taylor 3-13, R Cogger 3-40, J Musgrove 3-38)

Stocksbridge 2nd XI 183-8 (A Siddall 39, P Tawade 26, J Goddard 24)

Stocksbridge win by 2 wickets

At Darfield, the 2nd XI also secured a thrilling win, chasing 182 to win by just two wickets in a fluctuating contest. Bowlers Joe Taylor, Rowan Cogger, John Musgrove and Joe Goddard each took three wickets as Darfield were bowled out for 182.

In reply, Ant Siddall top-scored with 39, while Parag Tawade added 26 and Joe Goddard 24. Despite a middle-order wobble, skipper Chris Thwaites (12*) and Rowan Cogger (4*) guided Stocksbridge home with five overs remaining.

It was a more difficult chase than expected, but the 2nd XI also remain unbeaten with four wins from four ahead of next week’s home fixture against Doncaster Town.

On Sunday , the Sunday XI completed the perfect weekend for the Green Army, with a comprehensive victory over Parkhead. Captain Murfin led the way with 60 runs, with Joe Johnson starring with the ball with 3 wickets!

TIGERS BEAT CHAMPIONS

SHEFFIELD opened their home league campaign with a tenacious 52-38 victory over defending champions Ipswich.

Quite remarkably, the contest opened with eight straight shared races leaving the scores at 24-24 at the halfway point, but the Tigers clicked into gear in the second half with five heat advantages in the final seven races proving to be the difference.

In Heat Eight, it was the visitors who looked set to finally break the deadlock as they sat on a 5-1, but a smart mid-race move from Rising Star Luke Killeen on former Tiger Jason Edwards saw him go second which also encouraged Anders Rowe to wind it on and grab third.

Sheffield did then take the lead as Leon Flint got amongst the points ahead of the previously unbeaten Chris Holder with a 5-1 in Heat Nine.

That was immediately followed by another when Jack Holder powered his way through the Witches to join Anders Rowe out front in Heat 10.

The visitors struck back with a maximum of their own in Heat 11 before Chris Holder’s winning run continued whilst Killeen steamed under Edwards on bend three for a 4-2 to go six up.

That lead was extended to ten points in Heat 13; Jack Holder was away and gone whilst Josh Pickering produced a sublime move to go from last to second on bends three and four of the opening lap.

A second successive race win for Leon Flint officially clinched the win with a race to spare after Killeen cleared the track following an opening lap spill.

But with Jye Etheridge already withdrawn with a wrist injury sustained in an awkward Heat Seven spill, the Tigers were then dealt another blow in Heat 15.

A very tight bend two saw paid maximum man Chris Holder and Ipswich skipper Danny King both hit the deck hard; the Sheffield man unable to take his place in the re-run as a precaution with a neck injury.

Captain Pickering was called into the line-up and he took the chequered flag in a final 5-1 of the night after Jack Holder also charged underneath former team-mate Tobiasz Musielak in a thrilling finale.

Said Pickering: “It was a tough night.

“They hit the ground running and definitely made it hard for us with all those shared heats.

“Ipswich are a strong side with the way they’re built and we were up against tough opposition.

“But credit to the track staff; they had a little bit more dirt to play with tonight and it probably suited me.

“Once we get a few home meetings on the bounce and get the starts exactly how we want them, and the track, I feel we can be a force to be reckoned with once again.”

Sheffield are back on home shale next Thursday (May 14, 7.30pm) when they entertain British Speedway newcomers Northampton.

ROWE

SHEFFIELD 52: Chris Holder 11+1, Josh Pickering 11+1, Jack Holder 10+3, Anders Rowe 7+2, Leon Flint 6, Luke Killeen 5+1, Jye Etheridge 2.

IPSWICH 38: Danny King 11+2, Tobiasz Musielak 8, Richard Lawson 5+2, Scott Nicholls 5, Tom Brennan 5, Jason Edwards 4+1, Daniel Klima 0.

SHEFFIELD boss Simon Stead feels Thursday’s 14 point home victory over champions Ipswich was “a long time coming.”

The Tigers opened their ROWE Motor Oil Premiership account for the season with a 52-38 win over the Witches in their first home league fixture of the year.

Going into the contest, the Steel City side may have only managed one win in five in all competitions - but had clocked at least 41 points in each outing.

Stead was thrilled to see his team finally come away on the right side of the scoreline, and whilst there may have been knocks for Chris Holder and Jye Etheridge, he insists there are plenty of plus points for his riders to build on when they host newcomers Northampton this Thursday (May 14, 7.30pm).

“It was a result that has kind of felt like it’s been a long time coming,” Stead said.

“I’ve said it on a couple of occasions, whilst the results haven’t been with us, our overall performance levels have been good.

“I think had it not been for the home loss against Leicester, a lot more people would’ve seen it that way also and they’d have agreed it had been quite a solid little start with plenty to build on.

“Thursday we had a better contribution from down at reserve and that probably made the difference.

“But minus the spills for Chris and Jye, I think there were positives from all of the lads, particularly the way they managed to turn the screw in the second half of the meeting.”

Jake Vickers top scored with 37 no.

Photo: Ian Revitt