The Mercury - Issue 1660

Page 1


The Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

RAIL ON TRACK TO IMPROVE SERVICES IN SY

The transformation of rail services across South Yorkshire and the North is getting on track as South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard and Secretary of State for Transport

Heidi Alexander met in Sheffield recently (22nd January) to officially sign the Northern Powerhouse Rail compact.

The agreement outlines how the Government and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) will work together to deliver South Yorkshire’s share of the £45billion Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) investment for the North announced last week.

Through NPR, South Yorkshire will benefit from:

• Electrification and upgrades on the LeedsSheffield routes with ambitions for four fast trains an hour (in Phase 1 of NPR).

• Improvements to increase capacity at Sheffield station, enabling more direct services and longer trains to run across the region (also in Phase 1)

• Improved cross-Pennine links between Sheffield and Manchester (Phase 3)

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said:

“Northern Powerhouse Rail is a massive commitment from the government to the future of South Yorkshire, finally giving us the prospect of better, faster, more reliable connections between here and our neighbours in Leeds and

Manchester. But it also means we can kick start the work on the further expansion of tour tram network, and make real progress towards the development of Rotherham Station.

“These are all big steps for all of us who use public transport across the North, particularly here, because South Yorkshire is at the very front of the queue when it comes to delivery.”

Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said: “Today, I’ve strengthened this Government’s clear and unwavering commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail by signing an agreement with Mayor Coppard on the next steps for transforming connectivity in South

Yorkshire. With Sheffield at the heart of the first phase of our plans for NPR, we will deliver more frequent, reliable services to Leeds, expand capacity at Sheffield station and invest in a new Rotherham station while supporting Sheffield’s tram-train extension – helping support thousands of new homes and jobs. By providing early clarity on scope and phasing, we are giving South Yorkshire the certainty it needs to plan ahead and unlock the full economic and social benefits for its people.

“Together, we are getting on with the job to deliver the modern transport network the North has deserved for so long.”

Last week’s national announcement on Northern Powerhouse Rail

confirmed that NPR trains will serve the planned new station at Rotherham Gateway – which took another step forward this month after the Department for Transport approved funding for the project to progress to a Full Business Case.

In addition, the Compact signed today outlines that expansion of the tram train network in South Yorkshire will be explored as part of the joint development work on Sheffield station’s capacity – with £7.5 million confirmed for feasibility studies into new routes.

The Mayor and Secretary of State were joined at the agreement signing by Leaders from South Yorkshire’s local authorities.

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CAST THEATRE IN DONCASTER WELCOMES CELEBRATED NEW DIRECTOR

Doncaster’s premier arts venue, Cast, has this week announced the appointment of James Blakey as its new Director, marking a significant moment in the organisation’s future and reaffirming its commitment to ambitious theatre rooted in community, collaboration and social impact. A nationally recognised theatre director and engagement specialist, James is not a stranger to Cast or to Doncaster. He previously directed The Doncastrian Chalk Circle at Cast in 2022 as part

of the National Theatre’s Public Acts programme, a landmark community production featuring more than 100 local performers; and created The Lockdown Affinity Group, working closely with communities across Doncaster during the pandemic.

Andrew Burdon, the Chair of the Board at Cast said:

“James is an exceptional leader whose work is driven by a deep belief in the power of theatre to bring people together and to create meaningful change. His national experience, combined with his

genuine understanding of Doncaster and its communities, makes him the right person to lead Cast into its next chapter. We are incredibly excited about what lies ahead under his direction.”

James Blakey said: Cast is a theatre that matters enormously to artists, communities and audiences in Doncaster and beyond. I’ve seen firsthand the creativity, pride, care and ambition that exists within the building and across the city. It’s a huge honour to be invited to join this fantastic team and to lead an organisation that I care

deeply about. I can’t wait to get started. James brings extensive experience from across the UK’s cultural sector. He is currently Head of Engagement at Factory International, where he has overseen pioneering forms of community engagement, ambitious participatory productions and programmes of public curation that empower residents to shape programming, governance and access at scale. He has also held senior roles with the National Theatre as Senior Associate Director of Public Acts, a nationwide programme

28/1/1958 - The Lego company patents the design of its Lego bricks, still compatible with bricks produced today.

29/1/1856 - Queen Victoria institutes the Victoria Cross.

30/1/1969 - The Beatles’ last public performance, on the roof of Apple Records in London.

31/1/1990 - The first McDonald’s in the Soviet

dedicated to creating extraordinary acts of theatre and community through deep partnership working between theatres and third-sector organisations. James also served as Associate Artistic Director of Slung Low and was a founding director of interactive performance company, Oscar Mike. Alongside his leadership roles, James is a highly respected director and theatremaker, specialising in participatory practice and shared authorship. His productions bring together professional

artists and first-time performers of all ages and backgrounds, creating large-scale, ambitious work that reflects the communities it is made with. His appointment signals Cast’s continued ambition to be a theatre of national significance with Doncaster at its heart. James succeeds Deborah Rees, whose nine-year tenure saw Cast establish itself as one of the North’s leading producing and presenting theatres, with a strong reputation for community engagement and high-quality programming.

Crossword Clues

ACROSS

4) Doubter (7)

8) Guide (6)

9) Jeer (7)

10) Notecase (6)

11) Fate (6)

12) Bran tub (5, 3)

18) Very modern (2, 2, 4)

20) Wise phrase (6)

21) Road (6)

22) Pupil (7)

23) Chastity (6)

24) Publicise (7)

1) Animosity (3, 4)

2) Erroneous belief (7)

3) Tall salading (6)

5) Nutcase (8)

6) District (6)

7) Small measures (6)

13) Fried cake (8)

14) Spicy sausage (7)

15) Commercial undertaking (7)

16) Wine crust (6)

17) Crown (6)

19) Choice (6)

Last Week’s Solution ACROSS: 7) Code, 8) Euphoria, 9) Ram, 10) Celt, 11) Sage, 13) Menial, 14) Natter, 15) Stigma, 18) Cocoon, 20) Silo, 21) Chef, 22) Dim, 24) Superior, 25) Onus DOWN: 1) Voyage, 2) Wee, 3) Cereal, 4) Spot on, 5) Joss stick, 6) Jingle, 12) Kid gloves, 16) Trip up, 17) Arctic, 18) Cherry, 19) Odious, 23) Toy

Union opens in Moscow.

1/2/1893 - Thomas A. Edison finishes construction of the first motion picture studio.

2/2/1887 - In Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania the first Groundhog Day is observed.

3/2/1959 - A plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa kills Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper.

I can’t find my ‘Gone In 60 seconds’ DVD. It was here a minute ago.

Instead of water, I accidentally put RedBull in the the back of my coffee maker this morning. I was halfway to work before I realized I forgot my car.

My son might not be the best roofer in the world. But he is up there.

I built a model of Mount Everest and my son asked, “Is it to scale?” I replied, “No…” “It’s to look at.”

An old lady walked into the bank and asked me if I could help her check her balance. So I pushed her over.

I saw my ex girlfriend standing on the other end of the museum hall, but I was too self conscious to go say hello. There was just too much history between us.

Whenever my artist girlfriend is sad I let her draw things on my body.

I gave her a shoulder to crayon.

My wife told me I had to stop acting like a flamingo. I had to put my foot down.

Midwives deserve a lot of respect... They really help people out.

I just found out that Aaargghhh is not a real word. I can’t tell you how angry I am at this.

Today I spotted an albino Dalmatian.It was the least I could do for him.

I went for an interview. They said, “Can you perform under pressure?” I said “I’m not sure about that but I can have a good crack at Bohemian Rhapsody”.

1. Which American folklore creature, also known as ‘Sasquatch’ is said to inhabit the forests of North America?

2. What is the name of the Queen’s daughter?

3. The book ‘Hogwarts Classics’ is a spinoff from which book series?

4. ‘The Greatest Show’ is a song performed in which musical?

5. Ron Wayne joined Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in founding which company in April 1976?

6. Generally, what colour are Bourbon biscuits?

7. The story of the ‘Clash of the Titans’ comes from which mythology?

8. Which actress voices the Frozen character Princess Anna as an adult?

9. Which multi-spindle spinning frame, one of the key developments of the industrialisation of textile manufacturing, was invented in 1765 in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire?

10. Which British society formed in 1870 provides help for people in crisis, both in the UK and overseas?

News, Information and Advice

sheffield-based charity fights slavery cqc report on services

“Your time, your money, your sanity, your freedom.” These are the words used by a modern slavery survivor to describe labour exploitation in the UK today.

Modern slavery affects up to 130,000 people at any one time in the UK, and occurs when a person is forced, tricked, or coerced into working for free or for drastically reduced wages so that others can profit. The number of people affected by modern slavery is on the increases, and Sheffield based anti-slavery charity Causeway, which supports survivors across its safe houses and outreach services in South Yorkshire, has launched a new initiative aimed at helping people recognise the signs of exploitation and understand where to seek help. The organisation’s new online Labour Exploitation Risk Checker is an anonymous questionnaire designed to help people identify potential exploitation in their own lives or in the lives of others. This risk checker, as well as another made by Causeway to identify criminal and sexual exploitation, was developed with the help of people with lived-experience of exploitation, whose insight will help others understand their situation and find the right support.

One man who helped developed the risk checker, said: “People think modern slavery doesn’t happen in the UK or that it doesn’t happen to British nationals. When I used to see posters and information, I would think that’s not me, that doesn’t apply to me. But slowly you start to realise you’re being coerced, your friends and family are being threatened, you’re having things taken from you and being controlled and followed. Being involved with lived-experience projects means I have the opportunity to share my insight into what happens. It starts with your time and then your money and then your sanity and then your freedom.”

Labour exploitation is the type of modern slavery most reported in the UK, with latest figures showing that over 6,000 people, most of them male, accessed support in 2024. It happens to

both British and foreign nationals, and can occur in any industry, but is most likely to happen in sectors associated with low wages, low skills and high turnovers of staff such as hospitality, agriculture, and construction.

Whilst criminals make millions from exploiting vulnerable people, the wider public shoulders the financial burden.

Anti-slavery charity

Unseen estimates the annual cost of policing trafficking gangs and providing victim support, including NHS care in the UK, at £60 billion pounds

Dr Matthew Young of said: “Labour exploitation comes in a variety of forms, but at its heart, it involves someone working for free or extremely low wages, due to fear of reprisals from their abuser.

At its most extreme, it can see people being forced to work up to 19 hours a day, day in, day out, for years on end, for free, whilst being threatened with, or subjected to, extreme violence or emotional abuse.

The most mainstream form, however, is people working in legitimate roles and businesses, but who are having their wages stolen under the guise of paying back a never-ending debt, usually to a bogus agency who tricked them.”

Causeway regularly hears from individuals who report working 16-hour days for 30 days straight, only to receive the equivalent of £1 per hour. This is a particular problem in the care sector. The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority reported a 400% surge in abuse allegations after care workers were added to the Health and Care Worker Visa Scheme shortage occupation list. Similarly, the Modern Slavery Helpline saw a 606% rise in social care casework in 2022, largely due to rogue agencies charging illegal recruitment fees and trapping workers in debt bondage. Sande came to the UK from Africa after responding to an employment agency advertising roles in care homes. She was tricked into paying large fees that were then taken from her wages, leaving her in poverty. She is now being supported by Causeway. You can read her story below.

Sande’s story

Sande* was encouraged by a company in Zimbabwe to apply for a UK working visa for a job in the care sector. She left home with high hopes for a fresh start.

“At first, I liked it,” said Sande. “It was a peaceful place with welcoming people. I started work as a healthcare assistant and would leave home at five am to catch the bus, then come home around 10pm. I used to work every day as I was not permitted a day off.”

After working long hours for 30 days straight, Sande was paid just £441. From this, she needed to pay for her rent, bills, food, travel, clothes and toiletries. Sande quickly fell behind on her rent and accrued more ‘debt’ with the agency. “When I told my sponsor that I ran out of money, he transferred money for my bus ticket. And each time he transferred money, he added it to my spreadsheet. He said I owed him money for the lawyer’s fee, solicitor’s fee, and admin fee when processing my visa.” It wasn’t long before Sande felt exhausted and ill by her relentless shifts, and anxious about her debts.

Sande was also threatened with having her visa cancelled and being made homeless. Like many people who arrive in the UK with a working visa, Sande’s work permit was tied to her employer, who can revoke it at any moment – leaving Sande, and thousands like her, vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Sande was relying on the support of local charities at this point to survive.

On hearing her story, they referred her for modern slavery support, where she has since been receiving outreach support from Causeway. Relief came in the form of a police raid on the agency after a tipoff about the exploitation of its workers. She was referred to Causeway’s safe houses for modern slavery survivors.

angling award for power co

A successful ‘catch’ for fishing safety, Northern Powergrid has been recognised by the Angling Trust for its commitment to helping educate anglers and members of the public about the dangers of fishing near overhead electricity lines.

Powering the lives of 8 million people across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, Northern Powergrid’s ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ campaign targets anglers to share education messaging to stay away from overhead power lines when fishing, to make sure their next catch isn’t deadly. Through its partnership with the Angling Trust, Northern Powergrid reminds anglers that if their equipment comes into contact, or too close with overhead power lines, it can cause horrific burn injuries or even death – with power lines on wooden poles carrying voltages up to 132,000 volts.

Working together, the Angling Trust and Northern Powergrid is a perfect catch to reel in anglers and ensure they know how to stay safe if they’re fishing near the electricity network.

And now, the safety team has reeled in their reward, being awarded a Certificate of Excellence and trophy for their commitment to angling safety and support of the work of the Angling Trust.

Jamie Cook, CEO of the Angling Trust, said: “We are delighted to shine a light on Northern Powergrid for its vital safety initiative, which thanks to their support and expertise, has enhanced our ability to warn anglers of the dangers of fishing near power lines.

“Look Up It’s Live! is a simple but hugely important message and Northern Powergrid is leading the way in their industry to ensure that safety messaging gets out to grass roots anglers with our help.”

Sheffield City Council has welcomed the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) report following its recent assessment of Adult Social Care services.

Adult Social Care received an overall ‘Requires Improvement’ rating, meaning that some areas were rated good and in some areas there is room for improvement. This places Sheffield in the middle of the pack nationally, with several strengths and some challenges highlighted by inspectors. The Council’s vision is about putting people at the heart of what it does, and Adult Social Care will now focus on publishing its targeted improvement plan, with the aim of making at least a 7% improvement in its next assessment which would mean a ‘Good’ rating. Inspectors reported that Sheffield’s ‘Living the life you want to live’ strategy was embedded in improvements and developments. Their findings included strong corporate governance structures and good performance data, equity of access and outcomes and this was complemented by pockets of good practice and innovation which are driving change. They also reported that there were delays in carrying out assessments and reviews of people’s care and support needs.

Councillor Angela Argenzio, Chair of the Adult Health and Social Care Committee at Sheffield City Council

said: “This outcome reflects the difference that we’re making to people’s lives in Sheffield. We’re clear on what we need to do to make improvements in some areas, as highlighted in the report. The teams delivering adult social care are determined, hard-working and committed and we are so grateful to them for the services that they deliver to our residents every day. Their approach to new and innovative ways of working is transforming services. They are managing hospital discharges so that people can return home from hospital as soon as they are medically fit and promoting singlehanded care to help people stay well and independent at home for longer is progressing well. Introducing new technology to enhance and support care packages in the home is planned next year. Whilst it’s reassuring to us that the report didn’t say anything that surprised us, it has validated the plans that we already have in place to transform areas of adult social care that need to be better; including a stronger prevention offer to help people live independently for longer. We will continue to support them and continue to innovate, improve and work hard.

mp visits new headquarters

Sheffield MP Olivia Blake took time out of her busy schedule to give her support to the development of a brand-new national facility in Hillsborough that will provide vital life-changing care and support to individuals and families living with long-term medical conditions.

The Labour politician, who represents Sheffield Hallam, was given a tour of the Sheffield-based, national charity, Support Dogs’ new national centre of excellence. Support Dogs provides life-changing care for autistic children and adults living with epilepsy or a physical disability, via the power of specialist assistance dogs. The new centre, Elsworth House on Herries Road South in Hillsborough, is undergoing refurbishment and a £5m fundraising drive is underway to transform the former vacant office and warehouse into a ground-breaking beacon of excellence in the training of assistance dogs.

Ms Blake met with the charity’s chief executive, Rita Howson, who told her all about Support Dogs’ plans to expand and support even more

First established in 1865, Eric Eyre has personally looked after families in the local communities of Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham since 1955.

Operating from branches in High Green and Sheffield Lane Top we offer a bespoke funeral service upholding traditional values whilst progressing to cater for modern, personalised customer requirements.

A selection of the services we provide: • Professional and sympathetic funeral arrangements in our office or in the comfort of your own home

people with challenging medical conditions, as well as the wider community through its educational and outreach sessions. The charity, founded in Sheffield in 1992, has for the past 20 years been based in small offices on Brightside Lane. The limitations of that small unit had restricted its plans for growth. As more than 29,000 people accessed Support Dogs’ online application pages last year, the move was made to help meet the unacceptable demand for its services.

The new, custom-built HQ will have space to help more people and develop community services and education services via a Community Heartspace, while also ensuring that the charity’s dogs have the training, and welfare spaces they need to thrive. Support Dogs saves the NHS around £35m in health and social costs annually, with this estimated to rise to £100m once the new centre is up and running. It currently employs 49 people and creation of the project will create 55 more roles.

To find out more about the charity’s work, please visit www. supportdogs.org.uk

City of Doncaster Council Cracks Down on Smoking in Enclosed Spaces

Following a recent prosecution, City of Doncaster Council is reminding the public that it is against the law to smoke in any enclosed workplace or public building and that being caught in the act could lead to a fine being imposed.

Under national legislation, smoking is strictly prohibited in work premises that are used by more than one person, as it can expose others to the harmful effects of second-hand, and even third-hand, smoke. This restriction applies not only to office spaces and buildings, but to licensed taxis and other private hire vehicles as well.

A prosecution was recently made on these grounds in Doncaster, when a local taxi driver was spotted smoking in his cab by the council’s dedicated environmental enforcement officers. This is reckless behaviour under any circumstances as — even if there is nobody else in the vehicle at the time — pollution and toxic residue from tobacco fumes can still seep into interior surfaces, including carpets and car seats. It is then slowly released back into the air over time, posing a continued risk for others who may enter the vehicle at a later date. This is referred to as third-hand smoke.

A standard Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £50 was issued to the taxi driver in this instance. However, that amount subsequently increased when the individual failed to pay their original fine. Following court proceedings, they have now been ordered to pay a total of £446.05.

Speaking about this, Glyn Jones, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Housing and Safer Communities at City of Doncaster Council, said: “As demonstrated by our recent prosecution case, this is an issue that we take very seriously. Smoking carries obvious health risks for those who are actively involved, but when done in an enclosed workplace or in a public building it can also have an impact on others.

“That is why we strongly enforce the smoke free legislation, and vigilantly look out for those who flout it. With that said, if our officers do see anybody breaking the law here, either during a routine patrol or as part of ongoing investigations, then they will take action.”

Rachael Leslie, Executive Director of Public Health in Doncaster, added: “Residents have the right to live healthy lives and should be able to go about their business in workplaces and publicly accessible buildings without having to worry about putting their health at risk. Among other things, this means ensuring that they aren’t exposed to the harmful effects of second or third-hand smoke.

“We’d like to take this opportunity to remind the public that there is ample support and out there in Doncaster for smokers who would like to take their first step towards quitting, and would encourage people to make use of these readily available resources.”

Those looking to stop smoking can access free advice by calling 0800612001 or 03306601166. Alternatively, they can also visit the online NHS Yorkshire Smokefree Service or contact their local stop smoking service.

Meanwhile, anyone concerned about a young person’s smoking, vaping or any other aspect of their health, can speak to the team at Doncaster’s young person’s Zone 5-19 Health and Wellbeing service on 0300 0218997.

HAVE yOUR SAy ON £4m PLAN TO ImPROVE ROTHERHAm PLACES

Residents across Rotherham are being invited to help shape a £4m programme aimed at improving public spaces and celebrating the borough’s heritage.

Following consultation and feedback from residents, the Our Places Fund, backed by £2m from Rotherham Council and £2m from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, will deliver measures set to breathe new life into public spaces, enhance safety and maintain infrastructure across the borough.

Funds have already been committed to Maltby and Swinton as part of Phase One. Maltby High Street is set for a facelift with new paving, green spaces and better signage, while Swinton will see improvements to the public spaces at Swinton Precinct. These changes build on wider regeneration in Swinton, which has already delivered a new library, refurbished Civic Hall and café, and 49 new homes.

Phase Two will focus on several key areas:

• Swallownest will benefit from public space improvements around Mason Avenue and Gray Avenue in response to resident concerns around anti-social behaviour. Work could include removing overgrown shrubbery, creating new pathways, repairing and repainting railings, and additional lighting.

• In Rawmarsh, various locations across High Street and Haugh Road in Rawmarsh and Broad Street in Parkgate will benefit from public space improvements. This could include new seating and fencing.

• Honouring Rotherham’s history and heritage, areas around cenotaphs, memorials and monuments will be enhanced in Greasbrough, Dinnington, Treeton, Wentworth and Thrybergh.

A series of drop-in events will give people the chance to share their views on the proposals:

• Wentworth - Thursday 22 January, 3pm - 6pm, Wentworth Mechanics Institute

• Dinnington - Monday 26 January, 3pm – 6pm, St Leonard’s Church

• Treeton - Tuesday 27 January, 3pm - 6pm, Treeton Village Community & Resource Centre

• Thrybergh – Wednesday 28 January, 3pm – 6pm, Thrybergh Parish Hall

• Greasbrough - Thursday 29 January, 3:30pm –6:30pm, Greasbrough Library

• Rawmarsh and Parkgate – Wednesday 4 February, 3pm – 6pm, Rawmarsh High St Centre

• Swallownest - Thursday 5 February, 3pm - 6pm, Aston-Cum-Aughton Parish Hall

Residents can also review the suggested improvements and take part in the consultation online until the 12th February at www.rotherham. gov.uk/consultations.

Councillor Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council said: “We promised residents that we’d invest in our places, and this latest stage of proposals sets out where improvements are set to be made. People tell us they want cleaner, safer, more welcoming places to live, and these improvements will make a genuine difference to day-to- day life.

“In public consultation last year, we heard how residents wanted us to prioritise war memorials and places marking our heritage in order to boost their pride in our communities, so it’s good to be able to propose five such sites in this latest stage of the work. We are looking forward to hearing feedback through the consultation before plans are confirmed and can be delivered.”

Paper copies of the consultation survey can also be requested by emailing info@rotherham.gov.uk or by calling 01709 254444.

Grab the shell suit, throw on those leg warmers and travel back in time to the electric, eclectic 80’s!

A decade of classic songs classic movies and timeless memories.

Re-live the soundtrack of a generation and cut footloose as 80s The Decade! Brings you a cocktail of the BEST 80’s music and movie soundtracks of all time.

Reminisce on the good old days with chart hits including ‘Club Tropicana’, ‘Rio’, ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’, ‘Relax’, ‘Little Respect’ to name a few!

Grab the popcorn and sing

along to the unforgettable classics from ‘Back to the Future’, ‘Footloose’, ‘Top Gun’, ‘Dirty Dancing’ and more! This really is the dream 80’s mix tape!

This is the ultimate decade; this is the ultimate party!

Tickets for February 2026 are £23.65 each (Concessions £21.65 each), which include a 65p per ticket booking fee.

Available now from www. penistoneparamount.co.uk

The sound of music returns to Crystal Peaks as the centre hosts the first of its 2026 CD and Record Fairs this February.

Presented by AA Record Fairs, the free event will be held at the award-winning Sheffield shopping centre from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, February 14.

“Our Record Fairs always prove extremely popular and we are very pleased to be them back for

2026,” said centre manager Lee Greenwood.

“It’s a great day for all vinyl collectors and people who love their classic albums.”

The second Record Fair of the year will be held at the centre on Saturday, April 11.

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

of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises known as beNIFeR, UNIT 5, 49 cARLIsLe sTReeT, sheFFIeLd, s4 7LJ

I intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities:

Sale by retail of alcohol (ON & OFF sales)

Sunday - Thursday 14:00 - 00:30

Friday - Saturday 14:00 - 04:30

The provision of late night refreshment (indoors)

Monday to Thursday 23:00 - 01:00

Friday - Saturday 23:00 - 05:00

Provision of regulated entertainment, namely; playing of recorded music (indoors):

Monday - Thursday 14:00 - 01:00

Friday - Saturday 14:00 - 05:00

Hours open to the public:

Monday - Thursday 14:00 - 01:00

Friday - Saturday 14:00 - 05:00

Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to The Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by Wednesday 18th February 2026.

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details & to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service.

Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application that carries an unlimited fine date: 21st January 2026

The Licensing Act 2003 section 34

Notice is hereby given that I: PhILIP LINLey

Have made an application under Section 34 of the Licensing Act 2003 to vary a Premises Licence for the Premises known as The wobbLy dAggeR, 290-292 soUTh RoAd, sheFFIeLd s6 3Te, The details of the variation are as follows:

1) To extend the seating area

2) To install additional toilet/disabled toilet

3) To change the hours for sale by retail of alcohol for consumption ON & OFF the premises:

Monday - Sunday 12:00 - 23:00

Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 20th February 2026

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details and to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing General Section. Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for this offence is unlimited

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

hIgh cARe cARgo LTd oF

24 hIghLow vIew, bRINswoRTh, RoTheRhAM s60 5Jd is applying to change an existing Licence as follows:

to keep an extra 1 goods vehicles & 0 trailers at the Operating Centre at: JUNcTIoN 31 secURe PARKINg, MANsFIeLd RoAd, AsToN, sheFFIeLd s26 2bs

Owners or Occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 Days of this Notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice.

A Guide to making Representations is available at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/a-guide-to-makingrepresentations-objections-and-complaintsgoods-vehicle-operator-licence.

TUESDAY

Coronation Street:

Sam clocks a tracksuit top in Will’s bag and begins to piece the real story together. What lengths will Megan go to keep Sam quiet? Roy is shocked when he is approached by a man who introduces himself as Mal and reveals he is Alice’s husband. Bernie takes her grief over Billy’s death out on Dev and lashes out at him with hurtful comments. Abi warns Jodie that Carl is bad news and suggests she stay away from him. Abi is worried when she finds Kevin asleep in a customer’s car. Maggie drops Leanne in it by telling Alya about Leanne’s recent proposal to buy her out of The Rovers. Alya is furious to realise that Leanne intended to sell her share of Speed Daal without telling her.

Emmerdale:

Graham pays a surprise visit to Rhona at the vets’ surgery. Will Graham have an excuse for suddenly going off the radar again? Joe and Kim both have big questions to ask as they process Graham’s shocking return. DS Walsh gives Paddy some information on the ongoing investigation into Ray’s murder. She reveals that the police are eager to speak to Celia about Ray’s death – unaware that she’s also dead. Walsh appears to be on the wrong track for now, which is good news for the other suspects in the case. Laurel hopes that relations between her and Arthur have improved, but she’s unaware that he’s hiding a large envelope of Ray’s cash. Victoria is also in a bad place after killing John in Corriedale. With Ray and Celia finally out of the picture, Rhona urges her family to start a new chapter.

Eastenders:

Mark pretends to Vicki that he’s back to support her during Joel’s trial but later brings Phil in on the real story. What is Mark hiding – and why does he confide in Phil? Julie returns home, Mark reveals all about Phil’s plan with Nigel, hoping that it will keep his uncle in Walford. Will Mark succeed at keeping Phil close? Aware of Jasmine’s plan to leave Walford, Patrick puts blame on Kat for driving his granddaughter away by forcing her to help free Zoe. George decides that he should tell Elaine about Nicola’s pregnancy, so he asks to meet up with his ex-wife for a drink. Elaine is shocked to find herself on the front page of the Walford Gazette. Knowing that it was Ian’s doing, Elaine chooses to retaliate, but things soon spiral out of control. Elaine resolves to go up against Ian for Councillor Barker’s position. Who will come out on top?

MERCURYH LIDAYS

luxury

Fully

FOOTBALLR UNDUP

Chris Wilder was visibly delighted following Saturday’s home success over high flying Ipswich Town, with the Blades boss feeling his side were full value for the three points.

Speaking in the immediate aftermath of the 3-1 win, courtesy of goals from Callum O’Hare, Andre Brooks and Patrick Bamford, the manager was ecstatic to round off a testing week with another maximum at S2

He remarked: “I thought we were outstanding from the off. It has been a tough week, a really tough week, you probably saw pre-match how I was feeling, bit of noise around the place at the moment, always seems to be reaction to everything, it is a never a controlled opinion of where we are at.

“It has been a really difficult week, but

that hasn’t been from above. The board and Steve (Bettis) have been brilliant in terms of looking to support what we need to do and that has been difficult too, getting deals over the line, then the fixture list throws us up one of the top sides in the division.

“They’ve been building for a few years, they were good in the Premier League last season, were unfortunate to drop out and are on a roll after a slow start. The perception would have been of a comfortable away win, and a few things have poked the bear a little bit. The stadium was edgy and spikey, but we played well. Tactically we got it absolutely spot on and that isn’t just me, there are a lot of us involved in that.”

Wilder added: “We’ve produced performances like this against Birmingham, Stoke at

home and away and Leicester, this isn’t a one off. We went toe-totoe with a very decent side and I believe we deserved the win.

“We are trying to set the standard, some are playing catch-up, Sydie (Peck) was outstanding and has been a huge miss, Tom Davies hasn’t played any football (of late) and Blaster has had 13 months out and has been a bit leggy, but he’s put his hand up and exposed himself from a footballing point of view.

“I’ve got an unbelievable amount of respect for Kieran McKenna, he’s an unbelievable young coach, but we got everything spot on, even towards the end, the changes we made as a group of coaches, getting the press right and managing the game was brilliant for us.”

BAnnAn wAnts to leAve sAYs Boss

Captain Barry Bannan is set to depart Sheffield Wednesday, as confirmed by manager Henrik Pedersen, following the midfielder’s farewell ovation in the team’s recent defeat to Bristol City—likely his final appearance for the club.

Bannan has been widely linked with a move to Millwall, though Pedersen mentioned he was unsure whether a medical had been scheduled with the Lions for the Scotland international.

The 36-year-old has made 435 league appearances for the Owls over more than ten years, during which the club has been in administration since October.

In their latest match at Ashton Gate, he was substituted in the 91st minute of the 2-0 loss. Fans from both sides, teammates, and opponents applauded him as he left the pitch, and he later returned after full-time to acknowledge the traveling supporters.

MccAnn

BBC Radio Sheffield, “What I can say is that Barry wants to leave the club after the whole situation, and Barry and his representatives are in discussions with the club to find a solution. Barry has made this decision, and I have a lot of respect for him and for the process, but of course, I’m not happy that he’s leaving.”

“You could feel Barry’s emotion from him to the team, and theirs to him—it was an emotional scene,” Pedersen said. “I told him, ‘I’ll miss you a lot’—as a player, captain, and friend. It will be tough, but we still have a fantastic dressing room with many young, eager players who are ready to give their all for the club.”

could hear the fans singing about Barry, and they wanted to give him a memorable send-off as thanks for the last ten years.

Barry has been not only a superb player but also a fantastic captain and leader during difficult times. He has meant a lot to all of us.”

The manager also revealed Bannan had discussed his intentions with teammates earlier in the week, describing it as a “difficult” moment.

Throughout the match, the Owls supporters showed their admiration, chanting “There’s only one Barry Bannan” repeatedly. Pedersen added, “You

Additionally, Pedersen confirmed the club had received an offer for Swedish midfielder Svante Ingelsson but rejected it, deeming it “not good enough” for his quality.

UrGes ‘qUiet’ rovers to find tHeir voice to cUt oUt errors

Grant McCann says his players cannot afford to be quiet and must find their voices to ensure Rovers cease conceding cheap goals. McCann felt a lack of communication among his players led to Rovers conceding the third goal in the remarkable 3-3

Millers end 8 GAMe losinG streAK

Rotherham finally broke their eightmatch losing streak but remain deeply embroiled in League One relegation trouble after a 1-1 draw with AFC Wimbledon. Matt Hamshaw’s team appeared set to secure only their second league victory since November, with Zak Jules giving them the lead early in the second half.

However, Marcus Browne’s header in the 82nd minute salvaged

a point for Wimbledon.

The Millers started strongly, creating early chances.

The best opportunity fell to Kian Spence, whose volley from Marvin Kaleta’s cross was saved brilliantly by Dons goalkeeper Nathan Bishop. Bishop was called into action again early in the second half, tipping Sam Nombe’s powerful shot over the bar.

Rotherham’s pressure paid off in the 50th minute when Jules

scored from close range after Kaleta delivered a sharp cross across the box. They nearly doubled their lead shortly after, but Ar’Jany Martha— who is hoping to feature for Curacao in the upcoming World

Cup—was twice denied by courageous blocks. Although Rotherham seemed to be in control, Wimbledon equalized in the 82nd minute when Browne headed in Steve Seddon’s cross, earning them a valuable point.

Henrik Pedersen told draw with Wigan Athletic which saw the visitors fight back from a threegoal deficit.

“The third goal is just clear miscommunication,” he said. “Nobody is speaking in the box and this is something that’s been our Achilles heel this season. We’re such a quiet group.

“Owen Moxon just walks right into the box. He’s been on the edge of the box all game but that time he just walked in and no one said anything about it. The ball just lands on his head.

“They have to speak. It’s as simple as that. If they don’t speak, we’re just going to keep

conceding goals. “It’s just an everyday thing. It’s not going to happen overnight. It’s about the organisers, the leaders and the ones who are quiet. They all need to come to the party.

“They have to take the responsibility in those moments. We can’t run on the pitch and put players into position.

“We set them up as best as we can but teams will always do something that we probably haven’t seen them do before and that’s where you need a bit of calmness, experience and leadership on the pitch to just see those moments out.”

McCann expects to add

another centre back to his squad early next week and is confident the player in question will add those elements to the group.

He said: “Hopefully it’s for situations like that where he will show what he’s all about. It’s another voice in the building, another leader, an organiser. Someone who’s won promotions and know what it takes which is going to be hugely beneficial for us.”

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